UC Campus Offers Food, Fun

This summer, University of Cincinnati students are trading in their textbooks for Frisbees as an array of new activities and events unfold in addition to the usual favorites.

UC’s campus has restaurants that offer everything from Mexican to Thai.

“I usually go up to restaurants on Calhoun: Chipotle, Penn Station, Spicy Pickle … the good stuff,” said Rob Buchheit, a fifth-year digital design student.

New restaurants are opening up this summer, as well. Five Guys Burgers and Fries is scheduled to open June 16 below University Park Apartments.

Chick-fil-A, Burger King and a sushi restaurant are expected to arrive on campus this fall.

Coffee shops are also popular with students as a place to mingle inside a uniquely decorated and diverse atmosphere.

“Taza’s a great one to go to,” said Anthony DelaRose, a second-year Japanese and creative writing student.  “Every second Wednesday they do open mic, and it’s pretty versatile. All types of artists come out.”

Other student favorites include Sitwell’s on Ludlow Avenue and Baba Budan’s on McMicken Avenue.

Burnett Woods is a great place for students to enjoy some fresh air.  

“Just don’t swim in the lake,” said UC student Brad Short.

The Cincinnati Art Museum in Eden Park is a great place for students to whet their artistic appetite. Not only does it contain originals from legendary artists like Van Gogh, but it offers free admission.

Garry Winogrand’s street photography exhibit “Women are Beautiful” opened May 30 and will be on display until Aug. 23.  Sculptor Bessie Potter Vonnoh’s gallery featuring sculptures of women and children opened June 6 and will be on display through Sept. 6.

Another hidden gem is Eden Park’s Krohn Conservatory.  It is hosting a butterfly exhibit through June 21, which includes species from all over the world. It cost $6 to get into the exhibit, but admission to the conservatory is free.

Cincinnati’s music scene is erupting this summer at popular venues online like The Mad Hatter, Bogarts and Bunk Spot.

Downtown, Fountain Square hosts their Indie Summer Music Series every Friday during the summer with the best of the Tri-State’s local music, which has free admission.

The largest musical event for the summer will be Cincinnati’s Midpoint Music Festival Sept. 24 to Sept. 26. It will host 250 bands from across the country, and even a few international acts, on 15 different stages.