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.
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.
Nature and history intertwine to create something special at the Camillus Erie Canal Park. This 300-acre park is located between Albany and Buffalo, at the midpoint of the Erie Canal. The expansive area features seven miles of trails that are used for hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding in the warmer months of the year and snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in the winter. Also, don't miss the chance to stop into Sim's Store Museum which is a replica of an actual canal-side store that can be found in the center of the park.