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The Erie Canal Museum traces history back to the mid-1800s when “weigh-lock” buildings were located along the length of the canal, and used to determine the toll that passing boats had to pay to get through the area between Albany and Buffalo. This museum is a National Register Landmark weigh lock building that features several interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations as well as actual artifacts that all tell the detailed story of how tolls were originally calculated.

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.

A face can portray many emotions. That concept is stretched to great effect at the Museum of International Masks and Puppets. The Open Hand Theater is located in a newly renovated castle in the heart of Syracuse, and this proves to be the perfect setting in which to hear about the various cultures, stories and personalities that come alive thanks to the artistry of puppetry. As critics have echoed, Puppet Theater is ridiculous yet sublime!