This New York City Is An Underrated Gem For Nature Lovers
Most known for its steel jungle, the Big Apple, New York is full of natural wonders, which encompass a unique configuration of lakes, often associated with small towns along the shores. Colloquially known as the Finger Lakes, for that is what they resemble, Skaneateles, Otisco, and Oneida, sometimes referred to as the “Thumb of the Finger Lakes," are within 30 minutes of Syracuse. Hidden in the north-central part of the Empire, Syracuse is an unlikely gem for nature lovers in the Finger Lakes Region, on the shores of a "regular" lake, Onondaga Lake.
Boasting a ton of town greens and state parks around, New York's thirteenth largest city by population is a perfect day trip, a weekend getaway, or even a lifetime in a cozy spot on Onondaga Lake's southern shore. The seasonal dress change in the outdoors matches the city's dynamic feel, appealing to nature lovers like no other in the Empire. Weaving some of the state's richest history, this Finger Lakes city is connected via the Erie Canalway Trail to the Old Erie Canal State Historic Park. Feel at home instantly while discovering Syracuse's beauty and attractions like a local.
Overview for Nature Lovers
Wrapped in the beauty of the Finger Lakes, Syracuse awaits to be discovered along with its cosmopolitan glam, rich history, and vibrant culture. The excitement is often found in nature, just a quick drive away to waterfalls and gorges through the nearby state parks. Offering both popular and off-the-beaten-path trails, Thorndon Park, for instance, is not your ordinary green paradise amid the skyscrapers but part of the city's thriving music and art scenes.
Many enjoy the area's favorable grape-growing conditions, so hiking can take various forms, from cliff climbing at Clark Reservation State Park to wine trailing through the Finger Lakes Wine Country. A college town at heart, Syracuse's youthful vibe resonated through hip cafes, lively entertainment, and delicious dining for after the outdoors, with its bevy of museums telling of the multifaceted city's passion for sharing knowledge and heritage that accumulated today.
Pratt Falls and Onondaga Lake Park
South of town, past Three Falls Woods, Pratt Falls Park is a dog-friendly hiking area with a 137-foot cascade, picnic spots, and an archery range. Comprised of upper and lower falls formed by retreating glaciers, the staircase blends in seamlessly to climb and reflect in the mist about how it was the 1796 site of the first mill operation in the county.
Directly across, north of downtown, Onondaga Lake Park is a hidden oasis to reconnect with nature along the lake's northern shore. For a rejuvenating retreat from the daily grind, take a hike along the lush trails and unwind in captivating lake views. The adventurous can glide across the calm waters of Onondaga Lake in a kayak with rentals available, hike the trails, and visit the salt museum.
Thornden Park
Telling of the city's immediate need for green, Thornden Park is a hidden gem at the heart. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, it offers a soothing escape from the hustle, with peaceful trails, picnic spots, and an amphitheater for live entertainment and community gatherings.
The active enjoy a basketball court, a playground, and a pool. Perfect for nature lovers to unwind, the couples can stroll through a rose garden and catch an outdoor performance at Thornden Park Amphitheater, including concerts and theater productions in a natural setting.
Green Lakes State Park
Green Lakes State Park features a lovely 18-hole golf course designed by professional golfer Robert Trent Jones and trail walking. Filled with natural beauty and lots of wildlife, the flora encompasses Whispering Pines and maple trees, while the nearby old-growth forest trees are over 225 years old. The active can hike around the glacial Green Lake onto Round Lake via an under-three-mile trail in the surroundings of the upland forest.
Out of some 600 National Natural Landmarks in the National Registry, 27 are located within the Empire, including Round Lake and the 100 acres surrounding it. The turquoise marvel is mineral-rich, and both are very deep meromictic lakes. With high potential for evidence of ancient plant and animal life, or basically untouched, it must stay that way with no outside boats and only glass-bottom boat rides available for tourists.
The Erie Canal
The fantastic Erie Canal Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone in the region. Housed within the only remaining weighlock building, it takes guests on an intriguing journey through the past-to-present impact of the canal system. A memorable boat ride offers a firsthand experience for families with a unique perspective of the iconic waterway.
Soak in the scenic beauty and historical significance along the leisurely trails for biking and walking that connect to other charming towns and parks, with inviting spots for picnics to relax in picturesque views. The remarkable feat of engineering embraces you within stunning landscapes with wildlife while connecting visitors to the city's cultural heritage.
Other Parks
Just west of the Erie Canal Museum, meet friendly animals at Rosamond Gifford Zoo, which features elephants, penguins, and other wildlife over a 43-acre territory with an aviary. Have a special event to commemorate? Franklin Park is a small city park with a fountain, statue, and gardens, popular for special-occasion photography. North at Long Branch Park, between the lake and Seneca River, offers a sheltered area with walking trails, a ball field, and a 100-ft. sledding hill, plus summer events with beautiful bridge views overlooking Maple Bay.
Syracuse bursts with unique and captivating attractions, which are often nature-centric. Take your pick and explore on your own, or join a guided nature walk. Just south, past the intimate Clark Reservation State Park, Jamesville Beach Park is a favorite local getaway to the pristine reservoir, with a guarded beach for swimming, plus creek fishing, fitness trails, and disc golf. Destiny USA is a popular mall on the shore of the huge lake to the north, just a few blocks from NBT Bank Stadium, a family-friendly, nearly 11,000-seat baseball stadium, home of the Triple-A Syracuse Chiefs.
Dining
Hungry yet? Among the many notable culinary spots, nothing beats Delmonico's for Italian cuisine, a chain serving steak, classic entrees, and cocktails in a traditional setting. Mother's Cupboard is a charming roadside shack, serving massive breakfasts, including a jumbo frittata, plus fried fish that will surely get you through the day.
Conveniently on the northeastern lakeshore, Sharkey's Bar and Grill hits the spot with American food for an evening in friendly company with TVs, frequent live music, plus outdoor beach volleyball. Meanwhile, the families can hop off to the nearby Hollywood Theatre, a favorite local pastime, with discounted tickets for second-run films, including 3D, and concessions.
The Arts, Museums, and Other Attractions
Experience the city's rich tapestry of arts through studios and local galleries. The Everson Museum of Art displays famous American paintings, sculptures, and drawings in an I.M. Pei-designed building. Many cultural attractions center around the lake's southern shore, including the kid-friendly Museum of Science & Technology and E.M. Mills Rose Garden. Families love WonderWorks Destiny, which has over one hundred interactive science exhibits, laser tag, a ropes course, and a 6D motion ride.
Syracuse is surprisingly alive in the winter months, probably avoiding the jitters over fun pursuits for the entire family. Boasting attendance of over 8.88 million visitors, New York State Fairgrounds hosts holiday markets with local artisans. From outdoor sleigh rides in frosty scenery to shopping in the festive getup, warm up with a hot beverage at Biscotti Cafe & Pastry Shop and a treat from Sweet on Chocolate.
While its big city glam is unmistakable, Syracuse also has qualities typical of a small college town. Rich in charm and authenticity, it only takes a sidestep off the beaten path to discover the natural allure of this captivating city. Striking the perfect balance between serene and cosmopolitan, explore around and let the city embrace you with beauty, history, and culture.
From historical journeys along the Erie Canal to a vibrant culinary scene to recharge, the cozy factor plays in for an unforgettable experience no matter the time of year. Bursting with opportunities for families to discover the beauty of Syracuse, its understated natural vibe is even more perfect for those seeking to reconnect with nature and their loved ones or find inner peace.
