Five Places To Check Out for ‘Cuse Newbies
Moving to a new city is stressful, that’s a given. If you’re moving to a new city for college, that’s even more stressful. You’re young, you don’t know many (if any) other people yet and you’re surrounded by unfamiliar territory.
Syracuse is a city that’s full of opportunities to explore, whether that be gorgeous nature trails, new and diverse restaurants or interesting shops. Check out the list below to get more acquainted with your new city!
Rise N Shine Diner
Arguably one of the trendiest eateries in Syracuse, this diner offers deliciously bizarre takes on classic diner items. M&M pancakes, a large variety of eggs Benedict and Mochi waffles (dubbed “Moffles”) are just a few meals on their menu. If this is your first year in Syracuse, you’re just in time for the diner’s new second location on Westcott Street—a short drive and about a 15-20 minute walk from campus.
The Sound Garden
Do you like music? If you do, please go here—you won’t be disappointed in this record store’s vast collection of CDs & vinyl. From popular music to the most eclectic of genres, The Sound Garden offers something for everyone. They also carry a huge used movie and TV series collection along with posters, stickers, magnets and other trinkets. The store is considered a Syracuse staple, and is located in Armory Square—a popular shopping and eating district downtown about a 5-10 minute drive from campus. 
Clark Reservation State Park
This one’s for the nature lovers. Located on the outskirts of Jamesville, a Syracuse suburb, this beautiful spot is great for a hike during all seasons. There are multiple trails within the site, ranging from simple to challenging. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, you can hike down to beautiful body of water that lies at the base of the park. The park is about a 20 minute drive from campus. Wear good hiking shoes!
XO Taco
This new campus staple is a must for taco lovers. About a 5-10 minute drive from SU, XO Taco sits right on the outside of campus. It’s a big favorite among students—it’s modern, Instagram-able interior is just one reason it draws a big crowd. If tacos aren’t your thing, still give this place a try. XO Taco offers many other dishes aside from tacos, like their “howlito” (a chock-full vegetarian burrito complete with French fries) and their Macho fries, complete with mouth-watering queso, lime and cilantro. The fries here are in a category of their own—exquisitely seasoned and fresh out of the frier. A single side of fries nearly takes up an entire table, so they’re a perfect appetizer to share.
Recess Coffee
An SU staple, this café is nestled in the heart of the Westcott neighborhood. Set in the bottom half of a two-family house, Recess offers classic coffee favorites, along with an array of tasty sandwiches and baked goods to munch on. You can also buy your favorite Recess coffee beans at the café if you want to take the caffeine rush home. Recess is about a 30 second walk to Rise N Shine Diner, so grab that latte and go get some Moffles!
