5 Things to Do in Central New York That Don’t Break the Bank

Summers are fun, so much to do, high school graduations, weddings and family vacations. But after a while it becomes expensive.

If you are looking to do something fun this weekend that isn't going to cost an arm and a leg, here are 5 ideas that will prove to be fun, but won't break the bank.

1.  Go to the Park

We have beautiful parks in our "own backyard."  Two of my favorites are picturesque Proctor Park in Utica, and Sherrillbrook Park in New Hartford.  Maybe you'd like to bring your dog along with you. You can fill out an application so you and your best friend are welcomed, only at Sherrillbrook Dog Park.  There is pricing for New Hartford residents and non-residents.

2.  Go Fishing

I love fishing!  Fishing is quiet, relaxing and if you are having a good day, your dinner can be free!  Some of my favorite local fishing areas are nationally known Oneida Lake or Black Lake in Northern New York.  Black Lake is famous for bass and pike.  Take a cooler for beer and snacks and get fishing. Salmon River is not to be missed either.

3.  Go to the Beach

We have some beautiful beaches and lakes around us.  Delta Lake State Park in Rome, Glimmerglass State Park in Cooperstown or Green Lake State Park in Syracuse, where the water is a beautiful shade of green, something which I have never seen...it's green, and it's not algae.

4. Go on A Bike Ride

If you like to bike, we have many bike paths in our area too.  How about the Canalway Trail in Rome.  This beautiful trail runs alongside the canal.  If you really want to challenge yourself consider Delta Lake loop. The steep hills will really give you a great workout. New to our area are bike rentals throughout the cities of Utica and Rome.

5, Dinner on the Move

Traveling dinner parties are fun and inexpensive because you are only responsible for one portion of the dinner.  Appetizers at one house, dinner at the next and dessert at the last house.  It's a good time and you get to enjoy a 3-course meal and mingle with friends...but you will need 3 friends.