Red Dragons in the Wild: A SUNY Cortland Student Itinerary

Calling all SUNY Cortland students! There’s way more to Cortland than life on campus, and this two-day itinerary was put together by former Red Dragon Cassie Williams to help you experience it. Spend a weekend exploring downtown Cortland and beyond, with local food, art, history and a few spots you may not know are here.

Looking for even more things to do near SUNY Cortland? Head to Red Dragon Central for local eats, events, live music, outdoor adventures and more ways to explore your college town.

AM: Fuel up with a Long Island-style bagel or smoothie bowl and a signature latte at New York Bagel, where sandwiches are playfully named after Cortland’s own streets. Wander next door and you’ll find the Cortland Arts Connect McNeil Gallery, where local art fills the walls. It’s the perfect way to start your weekend - good coffee, creative bites, and the cozy charm of downtown Cortland.

Noon: Head to the historic Cortland Corset Building and dive into Cortland’s creative side. Explore Cinch Art Space, filled with one-of-a-kind, locally made pieces and gifts, then pop into Pottery Works Cortland to watch artists at the wheel or sign up to get your hands dirty in a ceramics class.

PM: Wrap up the day at The Ake Gallery for a comedy show or open mic night. Enjoy an evening of laughs, live performance, and local talent- and if you’re feeling bold, step up to the mic and become part of Cortland’s creative story.

AM: Step into another era at the 1890 House Museum. This Gilded Age mansion is full of Victorian charm, ornate woodwork, and dramatic details that feel straight out of a Bridgerton scene, making it the perfect spot for history lovers and architecture admirers alike.

Noon: Known for their outstanding sandwiches and local flavor, M&D Deli is the perfect spot for a satisfying lunch between adventures. Afterward, visit Forged from Ashe Studios to meet local makers, browse handmade pieces, and, if time allows, try a stained-glass workshop for a colorful, hands-on keepsake from your downtown weekend.

PM: Head over to local favorite Paddy’s Pub for a relaxed drink and give their legendary smashburgers a try! Cap off your weekend with a musical performance or exhibit at the Center for the Arts of Homer, where creativity and community shine in a truly special setting.

Two days down, plenty of Cortland left to discover. Whether you're looking for somewhere new to eat, something to do with friends or an excuse to get off campus for the afternoon, there's more waiting beyond this itinerary. Check out Red Dragon Central for more things to do around SUNY Cortland and keep exploring the community you call home while you're here.

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