George F. Hildebrandt

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.

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.

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.

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.