Many struggle with the constant boredom Corry seems to possess. Though I have faced this problem one too many times, I have compiled a list of local activities I seem to resort to anytime I’m feeling stuck. Grab a friend and a snack and complete my bucket list from less exhilarating to most.
10. Plaza parking lot
Such a universal experience that Corry teens take part in at least once every two weeks. Preferably done late at night with a car load of people. This option is good for last resorts and will save any friend hangout. Baja blasts, mcchickens, quesadillas, good music, and sitting in a deserted parking lot under the bright golden arches will elevate anyone’s Friday night.
9. Mead Park
Oh the magical forest of Corry… Mead Park. While sometimes unsafe and lackluster, these woods still can be a party. From a dirty lake with no fish in it and hidden hiking trails where I have found burnt crosses, you can always find someone up to no good at this park. Continuing the vast selection of activities you have a booming baseball court, vintage slides, and even a new public restroom (that is probably destroyed at this point). But hey, go out and still get in touch with nature! It’s good for the soul.
8. Riding the Corry loop
Unexpectedly riding the local public transportation is an absolute thrill. If you’re running on a budget, this activity is for you. It only takes four quarters to be transported into the real world. Pretend to be in a major city sightseeing or you’re commuting to your professional job but in reality you don’t have a car and you’re trying to escape the heat in the summer with the polarizing air condition. When you’re on the bus, too, make sure to have a little photo shoot to capture the moment of your exciting times. This is also a perfect place to start your adventure because there are several of the stops on this list.
7. Thursday in the Park
Although another park has entered the list… It is not Mead Park. This booming hot spot is what we call City Park. Every Thursday during the summer you can find some niche little band performing under the gazebo. The whole event is honestly so wholesome everyone as a community coming together to spotlight local artists is truly small town living. Personally, “Knuckle Down” is my favorite band who plays every summer. Starting the first week of June, bring your lawn chair and a blanket and enjoy a performance of a lifetime.
6. First Fridays
Moving along with the day of the week theme is First Fridays. Take a trip downtown to the crowded streets where you can find numerous food trucks, performers, and deals within the local shops. #Supportlocalbusinesses. The down side to this excursion is the possibility to see a lot of people you know that you don’t want to see.
5. Slushie run to Co Fair
#5 spot has such a special place in my heart. Walking or driving with a group of friends to get blue rasp slushies in the middle of the night is just one of those coming-of-age scenes. For attire, wear comfy pajama pants and a baggy hoodie to blend in with the locals. This activity is also perfect for people watching. You can do this at any time of the day, although around midnight-1:00 am is prime time for seeing people (backpackers) on the go. The mystery is all part of the fun. Who are these people? Where are they going? Why are they up this late? You and your friends can make some pretty fun backstories on these Corry residents, but please be careful and interact with them as little as possible.
4. Pizza Hut
The amount of bonding that would occur between me and my friends at that sunken back table is something that has fundamentally shaped me into the person I am today. The endless gossip, service, and food I will cherish forever. The love and laughter we filled at that quaint pizza joint will linger for years to come.
3. Corry Thrift Store
My all time favorite hobby… thrifting. Located on Center Street are two ma and pa thrift stores. You would think because Corry is such a small town there would be little selection, but in this case this is an advantage. Unlike Erie thrifts, these stores are not over-picked by teenage girls with a tote bag and docs. The only competition at the Corry thrifts are old people and Joseph Johnston. In addition, the prices are good and I found the majority of my grandpa sweaters there. Though one of the stores downtown during the $5 to go bags rip you off by folding the clothes big to fit less clothes in the bag, thrifting is a must if you’re bored.
2. Bike Trail Bridge Water Hole
This place was THE SPOT back in the day. This location is a little underground and takes some effort to get there but the adventure is worth it. Start your journey at the beginning of the bike trail and walk until you reach wooden rails. Hop over them and continue your descent down (following trail) through the vegetation until you reach the bottom. Once there, take a dip in the water. Though usually very cold and it might have cement run off from the concrete plant that feeds into the stream, other than that it is a prime secret location. This waterfront is also perfect for picnics and cooling off in the blazing summer sun. I don’t recommend going at night because I got very paranoid that we were trespassing.
1. Walmart run
The epitome of Corry teenage life is of course Walmart. With its exotic radiance and endless aisles, you will surely need to debrief after this trip. Make a full lap around the 182,000 square foot warehouse and discover what you really don’t need. That’s the whole appeal of it. Get food or LEGO, browse the Halloween section, and then check out at the self checkout where you’re doomed to see people you know. Remember to snap a pic in the security screen, too. I also recommend for this activity to go late at night because it will for sure add to the experience.
