We’re entering the final weeks of winter and as spring approaches, so does the urge to return outdoors and do something beyond hibernating in your room and waiting for the snow to pass. To give you a head start on planning your spring engagement activities, we have a few suggestions on ways to get off campus and into opportunities around the community.

Get involved in outdoor community service projects

It’s never a bad time to help someone in need and the spring is an even better time to do service that requires going outdoors. With the Chancellor’s revitalized challenge for 15,000 additional hours of community service from our campus, it’s the perfect time to do some research into opportunities to lend a hand locally. Stop by the Office of Community and Engagement to learn more about how you can get out and active off campus.

Sign up for an Exploring More opportunity

Exploring More is a new program to increase students’ accessibility and opportunity to engage in off-campus experiences. The program offers dynamic opportunities to sightsee, travel, shop and explore major cities and Outdoor Adventure opportunities. Exploring More programing is organized through a united effort of cross-campus partners including the Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs, Barnes Center at The Arch, Office of Student Activities and the Center for International Services. Check out the Exploring More webpage to review new trip opportunities, details and contact information for questions and accommodations.

Be among the greats

For all you sports fans out there, did you know there is are two halls of fame nearby? The International Boxing Hall of Fame is located in Canastota, New York, roughly 30 minutes from campus. Visitors can stop through and learn about a number of boxing legends like Oscar De La Hoya and the late Muhammad Ali.

If boxing isn’t your thing, maybe baseball is? The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is just under two hours away in Cooperstown, New York. Visitors can browse through the history and evolution of America’s pastime while learning about individual players and their influence on the game of baseball.

Bring out your inner child at the Museum of Play

You’re never too old to have fun! Rochester’s Strong Museum of Play has roughly 100,000 square feet of engaging and interactive exhibits for all ages. From the butterfly gardens to their Peanuts and Play Display, the Strong Museum of Play is a space to simultaneously tap into your curiosity and playful sides. It’s also only 90 miles from campus in downtown Rochester, New York.

Visit the local Farmer’s Market

A classic favorite, the Central New York (CNY) Regional Market is open year-round. Located next to the Regional Transportation Center, the CNY Regional Market brings local produce and responsibly-raised animal product vendors together every weekend. Additionally, local artisans frequent the market to sell handmade crafts and goods. The CNY Regional Market is a perfect place to begin your off-campus adventures this spring!