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.
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.
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.