If  there's one thing we love about life in the Northeast, it’s the four seasons. Which, obviously, means winter must come. But we’re here to tell you those few months of colder days aren’t only bearable...they're actually a lot of fun for college students. Check out these five reasons why we love this time of year in Upstate New York:

The outdoor activity

From downhill skiing to snowboarding, there’s a lot to do on the nearby slopes (like at Hunter Mountain, for example, just a little more than an hour away from Siena). If you’re looking for something a little calmer, take a casual hike at Thatcher State Park or snowshoe its gorgeous trails. There's also the Empire State Plaza Ice Rink, which is open through March and has free ice skating.

...And the indoor activity

Remember those hot summer days when you felt guilty every time you wanted to do something inside? Now's the time to do them. The Capital Region has plenty of things to do inside that will keep you active (and warm). There’s Guptill’s (the largest indoor roller skating rink in the world), trampoline parks (like Sky Zone) and very cool indoor rock climbing gyms. This winter, Saints are warming up in our two-story student, faculty, and staff fitness center!

The winter festivities

Wintertime in Upstate New York means a plethora of festivals. Whether you're interested in the Lake George Winter Carnival, there is something for everyone. More interested in the grub? We've got you covered: celebrate Chowderfest, and chow down at the Mac-N-Cheese Bowl.

The attitude around here

Volunteer opportunities abound here during the winter, and as cheesy as it may sound, we love how our surrounding communities are so into giving and service this time of year. Our Saints can often be found serving in locations like Jamaica or Mexico, or working at a soup kitchen in Philadelphia. During the spring break, they pack their bags for annual Habitat for Humanity trips across the west coast. 

The beauty of it all

There’s a serenity about winter that is truly one-of-a-kind—the silence as the snow falls, its beautiful white blanket covering our campus. Sure, some days you may have to drive a little slower or bundle up a bit more, but winter is the best time to reflect and appreciate the solitude. And remember: you’re never too old to make a snowman.

Interested to see for yourself?

We've told you what we love about winter in Upstate New York, but you should see for yourself! Visit us for one of our winter campus tours or Accepted Saints Week.