Just because you’re not going somewhere tropical loaded with beaches, drinks, and hangovers doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time. I’ve rounded up 5 of the best things to do in the area so you can feel refreshed and ready to haul to finish off the spring semester strong.
1. Attend the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 19th
Did you know that Buffalo has the number on celebration for St. Patty’s Day in the country?! Boston rings in number 3- the funny part is that Boston wrote an article about it on how they were surprised that they weren’t the best city. Although it may not scream spring break when it’s still snowing here, if you drink enough Beer you could certainly pretend. If not, you definiely nailed the boozy part of Spring Break. Take pride in being in the best city for St. Patricks!
2. Take a trip to Toronto, Canada
You can say you went to another country and it’s totally legit. Hop over the border, maybe even make a stop at Niagara Falls if you’ve never been, and take that 1.5-2 hour drive in the six. There’s so much to do and its like a cleaner version of New York City. Check out the CN tower, grab some poutine, stroll through the Royal Ontario Museum, or take a tour of the Steamwhistle Brewery. If you’re like me, you can just eat all day. Toronto’s got all of the best food! Follow @tastetoronto on Instagram for foodie pics that’ll make your mouth water. Also, everybody is totally crushing on Canada, it’s free national parks, and Justin Trudeau. It’s the perfect place to be!
3. Attend a Paint Nite Session
Spring Break doesn’t have to be about drinking and partying, it can be a time to do things you always put off to do things that pay the bill. I love to paint and I’ve gone to the session once and I had so much fun. I was also impressed with how with the right guidance everyone has some painterly skills. I painted the prettiest elephant that happened to fit right in with the theme of my room. In Buffalo, the location changes which keeps it exciting. When I went, it was at the expo and I got some blue drink and a sushi burrito! If you look now, you may be able to snag a session for $25!
4. Explore the gorges Ithaca
See what I did there? Ithaca is known for having beautiful gorges. Only a few hours from Buffalo, make a day trip on a nice sunny day(if we get one) and visit Watkins Glen State Park where you can see beautiful waterfalls, grab some Instagram shots #hikingfordays, and if you have friends at Cornell or Ithaca, you can even visit them!
5. Treat yo self
You deserve a break and you got one so go make the most of it! Do something that makes you happy! For me, I like to go out to eat, have a wine night with my friends, read at Barnes & Noble, and I like to try new classes whether its kickboxing or paint nite. Next on my list is aerial yoga and salsa dancing. I’ve also been dying for a new look, I want some balayage up in here. Groupon has some mega deals for the salon, massages, and food so don’t let cost deter you… there’s always a way. Buffalo may not be the prettiest but for such a cheap city we have amazing food, people, and all of the shops, gyms, and events possible. Get your shopping on and head over to the outlets in Buffalo or over the border!
If you’re bummed you didn’t get to go away, use this time to plan a trip for the summer. Plan out your budget, your limit, your interests, and a work plan. It’s totally possible! May you enjoy your Spring Break wherever you are!