Bored in Binghamton - 8 Pandemic Friendly Things To Do

Cassidy

Tired of studying all day? Not sure how to keep yourself occupied in the midst of this pandemic? Well, Broome County has more to offer than you might think! Here's a list of 8 things to do in the Binghamton area, and beyond.

1. Vestal Rail Trail: Walk, run, bike, or blade the Vestal Rail Trail! The trail has two paved paths to choose from, so grab some friends and get moving.

2. Broome County Humane Society: Missing your pets from back home? Visit the BCHS to play with the rescued dogs and cats, and maybe even take one home.

3. Ross Park Zoo: De-stress at the Ross Park Zoo. Open from 10 am - 3 pm daily.

4. The Cider Mill: Fall is quickly approaching, and what better way to celebrate than grabbing a donut and some hot cider at The Cider Mill.

5. Apple Picking & Pumpkin Patches: Speaking of fall, take some time to visit one of Broome County's local farms and join in the fall festivities. Here are a few to choose from - Binghamton NY Pumpkin Farm, Lone Maple Farm, Jackson's Pumpkin Farm, Stoughton Farm.

6. Kopernik Observatory & Science Center: Love stargazing? The Kopernik Observatory & Science Center is open to the public every Friday evening regardless of sky conditions. Student admission is only $4.00.

7. Roberson Museum and Science Center: Open Wednesday - Sunday. Aside from general viewing, the Roberson Museum and Science Center also hosts monthly events. Check out their website to see if any spark your interest.

8. Sunsets: There's nothing like a good ole' sunset drive. My personal favorite spot is up on Ridge Road near Tracy Creek. Jump in your car and get chasing those sunsets!

If you're feeling a little more adventurous or have extra time to kill here are a few ideas a little farther away:

1. Ithaca Farmers Market: Go get some greens and other goodies at the Ithaca Farmers Market. Located - you guessed it - in Ithaca, and open Saturdays/Sundays. Bring your mask!

2. Watkins Glen State Park: About an hour and a half drive northwest, located at the base of Seneca Lake. This state park will leave you speechless... definitely worth the drive.

3. Finger Lakes National Forest: This one's for my nature lovers. Finger Lakes National Forest has countless trails to choose from, many of which allow you to set up camp right along the trail if you'd like to turn your trip into a weekend getaway.

I hope these options help you to get out there and try something new!