Tips for Traveling with Kids in Syracuse, New York, United States
1. Rosamond Gifford Zoo
Home to over 700 animals, this zoo offers a fun and educational experience for kids. With indoor and outdoor exhibits, it's a great option for all weather conditions.
- Animal Variety: Wide range of exotic and local animals to see.
- Indoor-Outdoor Experience: Offers both indoor and outdoor exhibits, ensuring fun regardless of the weather.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs to enhance children's understanding of animals and their habitats.
2. Syracuse Children's Zoo at Burnet Park
A smaller, more interactive zoo perfect for younger kids. The petting zoo and playground make it a fun and hands-on experience.
- Interactive Experience: Offers a petting zoo, allowing children to interact with animals.
- Size: Smaller in size compared to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, making it easier for young kids to explore.
- Playground: Features a playground within the zoo area, providing additional fun for children.
3. Syracuse University Carousel
A classic carousel located on Syracuse University campus. It's a fun, nostalgic activity for kids of all ages.
- Nostalgia: An old-fashioned carousel with classic horses and chariots.
- Campus Atmosphere: Located on Syracuse University campus, offering a unique college town experience.
- Affordability: Rides are reasonably priced, making it an affordable family activity.
4. Syracuse OnCenter Complex
Hosts a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, such as ice shows, circuses, and children's theater performances.
- Family-Friendly Events: Hosts numerous family-friendly events, providing a wide range of entertainment options.
- Central Location: Conveniently located in downtown Syracuse, making it easy to access other attractions and dining options.
- Event Schedule: Check the OnCenter Complex website for upcoming events to plan your visit accordingly.
5. Salt Museum
An interactive museum that teaches kids about salt's history, production, and importance. It includes a playground for added fun.
- Interactive Exhibits: Features hands-on exhibits to engage children in learning.
- Playground: Includes a playground, making it a fun and educational outing for kids.
- Unique Focus: One of the few museums focused specifically on salt, offering a unique learning opportunity.
6. Syracuse University's Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST)
An interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits and regular shows. It caters to kids of all ages.
- Hands-On Exhibits: Offers numerous interactive exhibits that encourage children to explore and learn.
- Age Range: Caters to a wide age range, ensuring there's something for every child in the family.
- Regular Shows: Features regular shows on various scientific topics, providing additional learning opportunities.
7. Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms
A historical museum showcasing the work of the famous Stickley furniture design family. While primarily for adults, it offers guided tours suitable for older children.
- Historical Significance: Showcases the work of a significant American furniture design family.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours for a more informative experience, although they may be better suited for older children.
- Gardens and Grounds: Features beautiful gardens and grounds, offering a scenic backdrop for the tour.
8. Syracuse's Clinton Square
A downtown park with a carousel, ice skating rink (winter), and regular events, making it a great family-friendly destination.
- Variety of Activities: Offers various activities like the carousel, ice skating, and events throughout the year.
- Central Location: Located in downtown Syracuse, providing easy access to other attractions and dining options.
- Community Events: Regularly hosts community events, such as farmers markets and festivals.
9. Syracuse Peace Council's Earthship
An off-grid, sustainable home that showcases renewable energy systems. It offers tours that educate kids about environmentalism and sustainability.
- Sustainability Education: Provides an education on renewable energy systems and sustainable living.
- Off-Grid Home: Showcases a fully functioning off-grid home, providing a unique learning experience.
- Tours: Offers guided tours for a more informative and engaging visit.
10. Syracuse's Skate Parks
Great for older kids who enjoy skating or BMX. There are several parks throughout the city, offering various terrains and challenges.
- Variety of Terrain: Offers different types of terrain and obstacles to cater to various skating styles.
- Location: Located throughout the city, ensuring easy access for locals and visitors alike.
- Suitable for Older Kids: Best suited for older kids who enjoy skating or BMX.
11. Onondaga County Parks
A system of parks offering activities like hiking, fishing, picnicking, and ice skating. The parks cater to families looking for outdoor recreation.
- Outdoor Recreation: Offers various outdoor activities for families to enjoy.
- Location: Located throughout Onondaga County, ensuring easy access for locals and visitors.
- Seasonal Activities: Offers activities suitable for different seasons, such as hiking in the summer and ice skating in the winter.
12. Syracuse's Community Centers
Community centers offer recreational activities like swimming, sports facilities, and arts & crafts workshops. They cater to families seeking affordable fun.
- Recreational Activities: Offers various recreational activities for families to enjoy.
- Affordability: Provides affordable activities for families on a budget.
- Location: Located throughout the city, ensuring easy access for locals and visitors alike.
13. Syracuse's Public Libraries
Public libraries offer story hours, summer reading programs, and computer access. They cater to families seeking educational activities.
- Educational Activities: Offers various educational activities for children, such as story hours and summer reading programs.
- Computer Access: Provides computer access for research and learning purposes.
- Central Location: Located throughout the city, ensuring easy access for locals and visitors alike.
14. Syracuse's Local Parks
Local parks offer playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas. They cater to families seeking outdoor activities.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers various outdoor activities for families to enjoy.
- Central Location: Located throughout the city, ensuring easy access for locals and visitors alike.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Provides a welcoming and safe environment for families to enjoy their time together.
15. Syracuse's Farmers Markets
Farmers markets offer fresh produce, local goods, and food vendors. They cater to families seeking healthy food options.
- Healthy Food Options: Offers fresh, locally sourced produce and goods.
- Community Atmosphere: Provides a vibrant, community-oriented atmosphere.
- Seasonal Availability: Operates during the growing season and offers a variety of products based on what's in season.