Lonely? Here's How You Can Make Friends in CNY

Considering much of CNY is typically rural, it can be hard to meet new friends. But when technology rules our lives, how do you meet new people outside of social media, online video games, and dating apps?

Whether most of your college friends have moved away, you've moved, or you're just looking to meet some new people, there are a few options around Central New York.

This is where the importance of "third places" is essential. A "third place" is a place that isn't home and isn't your place of work. But sometimes this isn't easy. I can't be the only one who's gone to a bar to have some fun but then just end up sitting on my phone the whole time.

Reddit user u/eatingclubgirl suggests the Syracuse Eating Club as a way to meet people:

"Syracuse Eating Club is a great way to meet people. we host at least 2 foodie events a month at local restaurants and venues. Things like dinners, brunch, wine pairings, etc. I'm 25F myself and started this organization a few years ago. Please feel free to DM me with any questions.
We are on Instagram, Facebook Group, and here is our website: www.TheEatingClub.co
We're doing a brunch this Sunday if you wanna join!"

Of course, there are plenty of breweries/taprooms in the area to try as well. Woodland brewery is a good place to try, and if you have kids but can't find a babysitter, Woodland brewery features a family-friendly atmosphere.

Another option in Syracuse is "Nectar Espresso Bar & Vintages" where every Thursday they have knitting and crochet, and you can enjoy drinks and baked goods while you do it if that's your kind of thing.

If Dungeons & Dragons or other role-playing games are more your styles, "Legacy Gaming Company" in Syracuse has regular events. "From the Vault" in Liverpool is also a great option.

If you want something a bit closer to Utica, there are adult kickball and volleyball available. "Adirondack Sports Complex" also offers adult soccer leagues throughout the year.

Of course, Reddit and Facebook are great places to look for a good third place. Even if you are looking for a way to connect with people unplugged, they can be a great resource to find places to do so.

Small On The Map. Big On The Fun! The 10 Best Small Towns in Upstate New York

Chuck D'Imperio has written books that cover a whole range of Upstate New York topics including the famous foods of Upstate New York, the graves of many famous people buried in the region, a chronicle of many of the well-known (and off the grid) homes in the state, a book that tells the story of the smaller unknown museums of the region, and several more. Because of his extensive travels over the last ten years, he has listed his ten favorite small towns that he likes to stop and visit at, explore, and relax in, during his many miles on the backroads and byways of Upstate New York.

Putter Around at These Fun Family Upstate New York Mini Golf Courses

There is something quite magical about a miniature golf course. We loved them as kids, and now, years later, we love taking our own kids and grandkids to them! Such a nostalgic part of summer vacations from the past to the present. These 14 great Upstate New York mini golf courses, spread all over the region, are the place where are youthful memories still live on.