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Spend time at a park

There are many nearby parks that are great for a walk, a picnic or playing sports. Two of the most popular are and , both offering beautiful natural scenery. Confluence Park, where the Susquehanna and Chenango rivers meet, is an excellent spot to relax on a bench and enjoy the river views. Recreation Park has a playground, an antique carousel, a baseball field and a swimming pool that’s open during the summer.

Attend a festival

Several annual festivals take place in Binghamton during all seasons of the year. Some of the most popular include , , , and . These events offer the perfect opportunity to connect with the local community and have some fun!

Dine at the many downtown restaurants

Downtown Binghamton has many delicious restaurants that are great for a night out with friends or family! Some of my favorites are , , , and . Even better, these restaurants all participate in !

Watch a pro sports game

Binghamton is home to two exciting professional sports teams that bring the community together! The hockey team play in the , while the , a beloved minor-league baseball team, play at Mirabito Stadium. Go have fun at a sports game and support the local teams!

Get some fall goodies at The Cider Mill

Craving fresh apples, cider or yummy donuts? has you covered! Not only do they have everything apple, they also have a where you can enjoy comedies, dramas and musicals. Experience it for yourself!

Watch the stars at Kopernik

is a public observatory located in Vestal. They offer many programs you can participate in to explore science. You can get a great look at the sky and the stars through their telescopes! One of my former professors told me this is the best place to watch the sunset in the Binghamton area!

See the animals at Ross Park Zoo

Did you know Binghamton is home to the 5th oldest zoo in the nation? The historic has a diverse range of animals, including a red panda, snow leopard and arctic fox! If you’re an animal lover, there is no better way to spend your day than exploring this historic locale!

Go skating at the SUNY Broome Ice Center

I didn’t always know this, but the has open skating! My friends and I discovered this last year, and we had the best time skating together! We had plenty of falls – and even more laughs! Be sure to visit their website for the schedule!

Take a yoga or pilates class

If you’re looking for a great way to stay active and de-stress, try a yoga or pilates class! I have personally enjoyed hot pilates sessions at in downtown Binghamton. The studio is very welcoming to college students and even offers a student package for unlimited classes throughout a semester!

Embrace your creativity at a painting class

Have you ever participated in a painting class just for fun? Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned artist, you should definitely check out the variety of classes offered at in downtown Binghamton! It’s a fun, creative and relaxing activity to enjoy with friends or family. You can even stop by during their open hours, pick out a ceramic piece and start painting on the spot!

Catch a movie

Binghamton has many movie theaters where you can catch a film and eat some popcorn! The two closest theaters to campus are and , both just a short drive away. Whether you’re planning a fun night out with friends or a relaxing solo escape, it is enjoyable to just sit back and watch a movie!

Enjoy some delicious ice cream

Ice cream is the secret to happiness! Two of my favorite local ice cream shops that serve homemade flavors are and . Each shop offers delicious creations that will make your day a little sweeter!

Game-on at an arcade

What’s more fun than an arcade? Unwind with entertaining games and the thrill of winning prizes! and have a wide range of games, offering fun for everyone! Grab your friends and go have a great time!

Read at the Broome County Public Library

The offers an abundance of books for you to borrow and read! The library also hosts many fun and relaxing events like reiki, yoga and coloring clubs. It is a favorite spot for students looking for a peaceful or quiet place to study!

Go thrifting

Thrift shopping is the perfect way to discover one-of-a-kind items for unbeatable prices! The Binghamton area has many thrift stores, including , and . Not only can you score great deals, but you can also give back to the community by donating your old clothes and unused items to these stores!

Bounce around at Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Trampoline parks are the best place to have fun while staying active! With features like foam pits and dodgeball courts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy – no matter your age! If you want to jump around and do some tricks, head over to in Vestal!

Enjoy a cup of coffee

Are you a coffee drinker? Or a tea lover like me? Either way, you’re in luck. There are many places nearby that serve delicious drinks, no matter what you prefer! Some of my favorites are , , and . Of course, I can’t leave out the iconic Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks Coffee! Many of these spots are also great places to study or relax!

Emma Young is an intern for the Office of Media and Public Relations, and a junior majoring in English with a minor in education. She is interested in pursuing a career in public relations. In her free time, she enjoys baking, reading and writing.