Despite the fact that spring officially started March 20, it seems that the weather has only just begun to reflect the season. There have been glimpses of warm weather in Rochester and UR students are welcoming the change.
There are plenty of things to do outside and places to go. For those wondering how to spend their sun-filled days, here are a few activities that are sure to have you enjoying the spring weather, both off and on campus.
Take Advantage of The Quad: Now that the grass is actually visible, it is great to go out on the quads to enjoy the warmth. Some students do this by grabbing a book from Rush Rhees or the campus bookstore and heading out to the academic quad, blanket in tow.
Others make use of the grassy expanses as a location for working on homework or studying for upcoming exams. Musicians with guitars can be seen sitting beneath the shady trees while their peers swing in hammocks and dine outside.
The time for outdoor sports and games has also arrived, and Frisbee has suddenly become a prevalent pastime for those looking to have a little fun and relieve some stress. We’ve been stuck inside for months, so why not switch up our routines by enjoying the great outdoors.
Go for a Run or a Bike Ride: Highland Park is a striking, 150-acre park with multiple paths perfect for running or biking. It is less than a mile away from campus, about a 15-minute walk. For something even closer, there is Fauver Stadium’s outdoor track as well as the trails along the river that provide a beautiful view.
With swimsuit season quickly approaching, everyone wants to get back in shape for the summer and the gym may be fuller than usual. Luckily, there are many ways to stay in shape that don’t require an ID swipe.
Visit the Public Market: The Public Market has been around since 1905. It is on 280 North Union St. and is open from 6am to 1pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays and 5am to 3pm on Saturdays. Although the market is open year round, it is more enjoyable in nice weather.
Students who go to the Public Market can buy fresh produce and specially crafted trinkets. The market is having a Community Garage Sale on April 27 and May 4, where UR students will be able to find all kinds of treasures and deals.
The Public Market is also having an event for all the foodies. The “Food Truck Rodeo” brings a host of food stands together at the end of each month April-October; the next one will be on April 30.
Grab Food Off-Campus: There are quite a few food establishments that are within a short walking distance from campus. On Mt. Hope Ave., Cold Stone is a good place to get ice cream, and there’s Yotality for all the fro-yo lovers. The Distillery is a delicious place for sit-down food, Pellegrino’s has great subs, and of course, Chipotle has amazing everything.
For those willing to make a slightly farther jaunt, Dinosaur BBQ – located on Court St. – is famous for everything meat, a Rochester staple for sure and a great place to eat after a river-side walk in the sun.
Head to the Lilac Festival: The Lilac Festival takes place May 9-18 at the end of the semester. The festival is open from 10:30am to 8:30pm every day with multiple events, running throughout the course of the week.
There is the Time Warner Cable News Lilac Parade on Saturday May 10., a wine and chocolate tasting on Tuesday the 13th, and the Highland Hospital Run on Sunday the 18th. Besides the major events that are occurring during this festival, there are craft and food shopping available throughout the week.
There is no end to the list of spring activities that UR students can pursue. If you are searching for something to do instead of being cooped up in your dorm room, head outside and see what you can find. There are many ways to enjoy these warm spring days leading up to the end of the semester.
Kluzniak is a member of the class of 2017.
