The Tiny Joys of Syracuse That Keep Students Going
Those little campus moments that make the cold worth it.
BY Mackenzie Penrod ★ October 2nd, 2026
Photo Credit: Leah Sullivan
Cold weather is a familiar part of life in Syracuse, NY. When attending the University, you make a pact with yourself to endure the icy winds and feet of snow, that can make even a short trip across campus feel like a challenge. Due to relentless winter storms and endless academic assignments, Syracuse students have learned to adapt and find happiness in the small moments.
People's Place: During my first week at Syracuse, my primary goal was to find the best local coffee shop. Almost immediately, I fell in love with People's Place. This small student-run cafe operating below Hendrick's Chapel serves up my go-to Iced Chai before an early morning class. Besides how delicious their drinks are, the price is even better. As a college student, I'm not one to willingly spend over six dollars on a drink, and People's Place understands that. "One of my favorite joys on campus is the $1.50 large hot chocolate from People's Place," says Lily Grace Davis, a student at SU. As Lily perfectly puts it, "There's just something so warm and nostalgic about it, and of course, it's so cheap."
Collegetown Bagels: Few things make a freezing Syracuse morning better than stepping inside Collegetown Bagels and ordering something delicious. Whenever I need a break from the dining hall (which, let's face it, is quite often) CTB is one of my favorite places to go. Offering a huge selection of bagel and cream cheese varieties, drinks and more, Collegetown Bagels is always a welcoming meal. Especially during those chilly fall mornings, I can always find a moment of joy and happiness in chatting with friends over a bagel.
Sunsets over the Promenade: Something I've noticed during my time here at Syracuse is just how beautiful our campus is, and how the nature surrounding us amplifies that. Recently, I've had the pleasure of witnessing some incredible sunsets over the Promenade, right outside of Schine. As the colder months move closer, the hues of the setting sun have intensified, creating some of the most spectacular sunsets I've ever seen. Even if the icy winds are sending snow through the air, and the cold is turning my nose red, I'll always stop (or at least slow down) to admire the view.
College life can move quickly; the winters will remain cold, the assignments will continue to pile up, and it can be easy to overlook the moments that bring us happiness. But by slowing down for some of these small joys, Syracuse students can find warmth even on the coldest of days.
Edited by Kiera Miller