A Syracuse summer weekend has a little of everything: classic county fairs, a great zoo, and hands-on science, all easy to reach. Here are three ways to spend a Saturday with the family.
1. Spend the day at a county fair
Central New York's county fairs mostly run earlier in the summer, but the Chenango County Fair in Norwich (August 12 to 16) is a classic drivable option to the south.is a classic day trip to the south, with harness racing, agricultural exhibits, grandstand events, and a full midway. If your weekend lands earlier, the Otsego County Fair in Morris (August 4 to 9) brings the same relaxed country-fair feel, and later in the month the Herkimer County Fair in Frankfort (August 18 to 23), about 50 minutes east, keeps the season going.
Find a fair near you at FindYourFair.com.
2. Visit the Rosamond Gifford Zoo
Up in Burnet Park, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is a compact, walkable zoo that's ideal for a half-day with kids. You'll find elephants, penguins, big cats, and a well-loved schedule of animal encounters, all at a reasonable price. The hilltop setting comes with a nice view of the city, too.
3. Get hands-on at the MOST
Downtown in historic Armory Square, the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (everyone just calls it the MOST) is three floors of buttons to push and things to build, plus a planetarium and a big-screen theater. It's the go-to spot when you want the kids learning without them realizing it.
One great Syracuse weekend
Three stops, one memorable Saturday. Time it right and a county fair can anchor the whole day. Find the fair nearest you at FindYourFair.com.