Romanticizing Oxford, Ohio

By Kaitlin McDowell

KAITLIN MCDOWELL / UP Blog Writer

Oxford, Ohio — home to many bars, minimal restaurant chains and no local shopping center. It’s easy to catch yourself daydreaming about life beyond the small bubble of Oxford, where we’re confined to practically a street or two of stores and restaurants, and just one grocery store.

It’s hard not to reminisce about favorite restaurants from home or specialty grocers like Trader Joe’s, but don’t spend too much time dwelling on what we don’t have. You might overlook all the things that make this college town feel truly special.

At what other point in our lives will we live with or within walking distance of practically all our best friends? Sure, there’s no mall or Target superstore nearby, but who needs that when your best friend, a walk in the sun and a free can of Poppi (from the vending machine at Fridge and Pantry) are just a few minutes away?

Oxford is full of activities that may not be available to us after college, so I implore everyone to look around and take advantage of this small-town bubble for the next four years or so.

The new Oxford trails that stretch as far as five miles around the city are perfect for hot girl walks. While beautiful all year, these paths can’t be beat in the fall, when red and orange trees line the trail and leaves crunch underfoot.

Sushi lovers, Oxford has you covered. Every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, Sushi King offers half-off rolls—something you can only find in a college town. Grab your friends and catch up over delicious sushi at a great price.

In the mood for a sweet treat? Oxford exclusive Spring Street Treats serves up countless combinations of ice cream desserts and releases new flavors every few months.

Oxford does have its fair share of Starbucks, but they can’t beat the charm of local coffee shop Kofenya. Whether prepping for finals or just catching up on reading, Kofenya is the place to enjoy specialty coffee and maybe a pastry. Filled with cozy couches and large tables, it’s easy to lose track of time.

One thing Oxford has been lacking for years is a workout studio. Morning classes like CorePower or Solidcore can be great mood boosters. But this past month, Oxford opened its first fitness studio—Fitness on High—which offers pilates, yoga and more. Start your Saturday with a good sweat, then walk a little farther down High Street for a coffee from Kofenya, RedLife or Fridge and Pantry.

Another Saturday tradition is the Oxford Farmers Market. Known for its pastries, the market runs every Saturday morning and features vendors from all around Oxford. You’ll find local produce, a coffee cart and even handcrafted jewelry and gifts.

A hidden gem in Oxford is the pottery studio You’re Fired! — a creative space that’s often overlooked but worth discovering. Feeling crafty? You’re Fired has everything from mugs and plates to bowls. Find some inspiration online and spend the day creating your own one-of-a-kind piece.

These are only a few of the fun things to do around Oxford, but the real point is to take advantage of these four years of living with your best friends—because they fly by.

Our dreams of big cities and far-off places can wait. They won’t compare to the memories made in our small college town. As the days grow warmer, sit outside, watch the sunset and soak up every moment.