Flower City Has Sprung
Cheap Eats and Things to do in the ROC
Alright, it doesn’t totally feel like spring, but we are going to have to call it close enough. If I have to sit inside for another day there is a good chance I will either combust or proceed to drink more than I already do. Having lived in Rochester for my entire 22 year shenanigan-filled life, I thought it was my given Rochesterian right to tell you all about a few of the damn cool places in this town, as well as a few places to grab a quick bite to eat.
Places to Check out:
Located right off of Route 65, Mendon Ponds is just a quick fifteen-minute drive down the road from SJFC. The park has a little beach where you can hang out, grill up some grub, and play some Kan-Jam. A sweet little getaway that keeps your wallet in mind is a no brainer.
Now, here me out, I understand baseball is not the most interesting sport unless you play it but its not just about the game, it’s about the experience. Frontier Field is widely known as one of the most beautiful AAA stadiums in the United States. And who can say no to funnel cake? Not this guy. By the way, $12 gets you a ticket in the 100 levels. This is an easy home run for any college kid.
The Rochester Public Market has been standing strong since 1905. Don’t think of this, as just a place to get your produce, there is so much more to it than that. There are all kinds of vendors, cafes, not to mention a brewery and a distillery. This is an absolute must for any college kid living in Rochester.
While this is not an actual place to go to it is still a great alternative to fast food. Perfect for grabbing a quick bite to eat before hitting the town. On a Saturday night these bad boys are all over the place. They have no problem throwing some pulled pork on your cheeseburger. Try it, I am telling you it is a great quick meal.
Zach’s Fast Five:
Texas Blues BBQ- Located right on Monroe and they deliver. This place does some damn good sandwiches at a very reasonable price. One of their platters is called the “Stuff Yo Face”. Do it.
Orb’s Restaurant- You can find this gem right in the South Wedge. Orb’s is a local restaurant specializing in meatballs. This place has a great atmosphere with a solid craft beer list to boot.
Bay Creek Paddling Center- If you have never tried kayaking and have always thought it would be a cool thing to do, this is the place. You and your friends can paddle your way down the very calm, relaxing, Irondequoit Creek. This is the lazy river of Rochester.
Pittsford Pub and Grille- Sick of The Back Nine? This is right down the road from SJFC located in the Village of Pittsford. This has been my local bar even before it was purchased by a new owner and has been renovated. They have a new craft beer list and an improved menu that looks too good to miss out on.
Festivals in Rochester- Rochester is known for its festivals. The Lilac Festival, Canal Days, and The International Jazz Festival are all Rochester stand by’s. I invite you to check them out and see what all the hype is about.
I hope this was a helpful guide to ease you through the end of the semester. Go out and explore!
Zach is a senior studying Media Management at St. John Fisher College. He loves to hike, fish, and try different craft brews with his buddies. You can find him in the Mac Lab, outside playing catch, or working at Black Button Distilling as the Social Media and Marketing Coordinator.
