Lovers of the outdoors will not want to miss the chance to experience Beaver Lake Nature Center. Located a short 15-minute drive northwest of Syracuse in Baldwinsville, the center features 9 miles of trails that offer the opportunity to see over 200 species of birds and over 800 varieties of plants. Also, the 200-acre glacial lake is a true wonder to behold. During the warmer months, you can choose to get a closer look at the lake's natural beauty by exploring from a canoe.
Fans of fun and recreation on the water will most definitely want to splash in to Onondaga Lake for some wet and wild fun. This includes fishing, swimming, jet skiing, paddle boating and other water sports. Several seasonal events take place around the lake every year.
The call of the wild is heard loud and clear the minute you set foot in Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park. This incredible 36-acre zoo houses nearly 1,000 animals in some truly impressive natural habitats and attractions. Among the many exotic birds, lions, tigers and monkeys, the zoo is best known for its widely recognized Humboldt Penguin Breeding Program.
Just because you're a nature lover doesn't mean that the sun has to be shining in order for you to appreciate the world's beauty. Actually, when the sun goes down, it's the perfect time to look heavenward and admire the natural beauty of the stars and planets. Happily, you won't have to strain your neck when you look up to admire all that celestial beauty when you visit the Silverman Planetarium. The facility offers various programs and presentations that allow you to take in the beauty and majesty of the final frontier.
The Sunset Park Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities that will please the avid nature lover. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, hayrides and much more as you set up camp in this scenic and beautiful area of upstate New York. There is also a large recreation hall and various other specially planned activities that the whole family will enjoy. So whether you are camping out for the weekend or plan to stay much longer, you will enjoy everything about your stay at Sunset Park Campgrounds.
Syracuse's Thornden Park offers a little something for everyone. If you are ready to either watch or be a part of the big football game, the park features an impressive multipurpose athletic field that's perfectly suited for football, soccer or lacrosse. There are also four tennis courts and a swimming pool. The smaller kids will love the more traditional swings, slides, seesaws and climbing bars. Or, if you prefer, you can just sit outdoors and admire the beautifully maintained rose garden.