8 Things I Miss About Growing Up In Rome

Did you grow up in Rome New York? I did, and there's plenty I miss from my childhood. Here's a few things that come right to my mind immediately. 

***Please note when you read this the author of this post grew up in Rome during the 90's.***

1) Watching The Revere Sign Dance At Night

I remember when I was real little being able to see the Revere sign at night. You'd be able to watch Paul Revere on the horse for hours. It's been a long time now since the sign was turned on.

2) Going To The Saint John’s Festival On East Dominick Street

I remember each and every summer begging my Dad to take me for a ride aboard the Parachuter Ferris wheel. It was always my favorite ride, besides the Musical Express. I also always loved chowing down on the fried dough, and watching the fireworks from my Grandmothers home.

3) Playing In The Backyard And Looking Up Every Time Planes Flew To Griffiss

I remember watching planes fly very low, and they were very loud. It was always so much fun watching planes come and go from my backyard. In 1999, I remember selling water and soda with my Dad for people heading to Griffiss for Woodstock 99.

4) Taking Trips To The Dairy Queen

Who didn’t love the Rome Dairy Queen? I remember begging my parents to take us there. I also remember having our car breakdown outside in the parking lot and getting multiple ice creams. At least Nicky Doodles is a great replacement for Dairy Queen in Rome.

5) Shopping At Great American

Remember when Great American was open in Rome? Currently Chestnut Commons is on the grounds where this store was. I remember eating lunch one time when I was real small there. I can still see the booth in my dreams today.

6) Riding My Bike To Fort Stanwix

Growing up I would ride my bike everywhere. Can you imagine how much time I spent at the Fort as a kid? I bet I've been there longer than some of the residents who lived there. The Fort is still there today, but I can't tell you the last time I was there.

7) Christmas Tree Lighting At The Fort

I know this will sound wrong to say, but, the Fort Stanwix visitor center killed Christmas in my childhood. The building is beautiful, and the history is amazing too. However, Rome used to make a big deal about the tree lighting at this location. They would ship in a tree, and fly Santa in on a helicopter. I understand the city still has a tree lighting up the road, but it's not the same.

8) Getting Ice Cream At Boyz From Italy When It Was Located On Erie Blvd

Do you remember the massive ice cream place on Erie Blvd where the present day Dicastro's Brick Oven sits? I remember going here a ton growing up. Currently you can get some great pizza at Dicastro's in this location.