Brown & Bigelow

Going green takes on a completely different meaning when referring to the Syracuse Irish Festival. This high-spirited event offers a unique taste of Ireland through music, dance, song, culture and children's activities. Over the course of this two day event usually held in September, visitors can hear great Irish bands, see some truly amazing exhibits and taste some of the country's most delectable food–not to mention sample some of its best ales. Held in Clinton Square, this event is a celebration of the Irish that the whole family will love.

Syracuse's nickname as “The Salt City” is just one of the stories you'll uncover when you visit the Salt Museum. The facility was built with timbers from an actual 19th century salt warehouse. The venue explains how in the mid-1800s, “boiling blocks” were used to boil salt water and evaporate the brine which left the salt behind. Syracuse went on to become the national leader in the production of salt, and the museum traces the many aspects of this unique area history. Visitors can see artifacts and attractions like wooden barrels, kettles, a saltworkers “neighborhood” and a full-scale reproduction boiling block.

The love the two of you share is something that's unmistakably natural. Celebrate that natural wonder, along with the many other wonders that inhabit the Museum of Science and Technology. This venue is a favorite of kids of all ages and features the opportunity to explore science and nature through a variety of interactive exhibits, planetarium shows and various other science exhibits. While you're here in Syracuse for a romantic date, the two of you can enjoy an eye-popping science-themed feature at the IMAX Omnitheater.

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.