There have been at least a couple of days without rain, temperatures have been in the 80s and clouds have been sparse. To many Binghamton residents, that means the Apocalypse is coming, but many students recognize this event as spring taking its hold on the Southern Tier and with the warm weather comes new activities.
There’s a strong desire to break out of the routine of indoor dwelling. Whether it is taking in America’s favorite pastime, viewing local art or star gazing, the City of Binghamton offers different outdoor options when it comes to planning your spring nights.
After months of being limited to indoor spectator sports, students may desire to trek past the Downtown bars and head to the NYSEG Stadium. As host to the Binghamton Mets the NYSEG Stadium, located on Henry Street, is a place to take in some baseball, beer and food.
Your student ID will get you a ticket for just $4, which accommodates any student living on a budget.
A cheap ticket means more money for beer. Tuesday and Thursday home games are “two for one” nights at the B-Mets stadium, getting you two beers for $5.
At a recent “Thirsty Thursday” game, Justin Smith, a senior human development major, said a B-Mets game was the perfect way to break up his studying.
“I’m here at the game because I really need a break,” he said. “I’ve been studying so much and the B-Mets game is just what I need.”
Right down the street from the Mad Moose Saloon, the stadium may be the perfect place to start your night Downtown.
Baseball may not be your cup of tea though. Maybe you are interested in taking advantage of the clear Binghamton nights to gaze at the stars. Kopernik Observatory may be just what you are looking for on a nice night.
On a Friday night, you can learn how to identify constellations and planets for only $3. Kopernik, located in Vestal, gives students a chance to learn something while enjoying the new season.
Little did Maria Murphy know that a walk down State Street one spring night would change her view of Binghamton. Attending the First Friday Art Walk for the first time last spring, Murphy, a senior political science major, said that it was something other than getting wasted in the Downtown area.
“It’s nice because I usually just go Downtown to go to the bars,” she said. “[First Friday] gives people another reason to go there.”
Walking down State Street, you can check out a variety of galleries and restaurants opening their doors for this event. After attending First Friday, Murphy said she really enjoyed the new experience.
Though First Friday is a monthly event, the weather is now ideal to take in the showcase of art from the Binghamton area.
“It’s a good spring activity,” Murphy said. “It’s nice to just walk around and see what Binghamton has to offer.”
If you are living in Binghamton this summer, your outdoor options will grow. As the weather warms up a bit more, after Memorial Day, State Street will close off a section for Live at Five. This weekly event features live bands, drinking and food.