If you’re looking for a chill-yet-fun day out with friends in the winter months, Beaver County and beyond have several places that might just spark your interest. Some hidden gems are perfect for a free afternoon and will be worth your time, as well as city outings. Here are just a few of the local favorites:
- Promise Blend Café: Located only three and a half miles from campus, Promise Blend is a staple coffee shop offering seasonal drinks and curated trinkets. With their delectable drinks and comfy seating, it’s a sure success for a wintery day.
- Oram’s Donut Shop: Need I say more? This donut shop has been around for nearly ninety years and has been named Best in State by Food & Wine magazine. With its many flavors, there is something for everyone.
- Crazy Thai: Want a break from studying? Right on the edge of downtown Beaver Falls is a favorite spot for delicious pad thai and fried rice. Don’t forget to order the handmade crab rangoon!
- Brighton Hot Dog Shoppe: If you ever find yourself with a free morning, stop by the Chippewa location Hot Dog Shoppe for breakfast. Going on a Tuesday or Thursday? Better yet, get their 79-cent pancakes. This cute diner offers delicious food at a low cost (a college student’s best friend).
- A stroll in the cities of Beaver or Columbiana: Whether looking for boutique shopping, a haircut, or a meal, both Beaver, PA, and Columbiana, OH, have it all. Take an afternoon to walk the streets of the old-fashioned towns and enjoy the Christmas vibes, both within 20-30 minutes from campus.
- A Pittsburgh Day Trip: The Rink at PPG Place is the first on the bucket list. Surrounded by the city of Pittsburgh and host to the city's giant Christmas tree, this ice-skating rink is an incredible experience. After that, visit the Peoples Gas Holiday Market, a daily event from mid-November until Christmas Eve. To finish the day, try out the Burgatory, a restaurant only located in western PA.
- Thrifting: Ann’s Consignment, Salvation Army, Humane Society Thrift Store — all of these are fun options you've got to see for yourself. Visit Salvation Army on Wednesdays for their dollar deals and keep an eye on the discount days at the Humane Society!
By Grace Forton ‘29
Opinions expressed in the Geneva Blog are those of its contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions or official position of the College. The Geneva Blog is a place for faculty and contributing writers to express points of view, academic insights, and contribute to national conversations to spark thought, conversation, and the pursuit of truth, in line with our philosophy as a Christian, liberal arts institution.
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