10 Things to do in Syracuse That You Shouldn't Miss

Founded in 1914, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park is home to more than 700 animals representing 275 species, many of them endangered or threatened in the wild. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), we are among only 236 zoos and aquariums in the nation proven to meet the highest standards of animal care, conservation and guest experience. We are dedicated to connecting people to the natural world by providing engaging experiences, exceptional animal welfare, and unparalleled conservation education. The zoo is co-operated by Onondaga County Parks and the Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo with the mission to provide guests “the best day ever,” ensuring experiences that excite, memories that endure, and knowledge that inspires world wildlife conservation.

The Erie Canal Museum houses the National Register 1850 Syracuse Weighlock Building, the only structure of its kind in the United States. The unique building where canal cargo was once weighed is the Museum's most important artifact and a centerpiece for interpretation of Erie Canal history. The Museum shows visitors 200 years of Erie Canal history through interactive displays, hands-on exhibits, a full-size replica canal boat, narrative audio tracks and original artifacts. The gift shop offers historic maps, books for children and adults, T-shirts, Canal-inspired toys and more. Admission is by reservation with a suggested $10 donation per party. Hours are Monday-Saturday 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. with the exception of major holidays. Free parking in Visitor Center spaces in lot on Erie Boulevard East.

The Anglers Association of Onondaga is a not for profit organization with fish and wildlife as the main attraction. Webster pond is a small sanctuary located in the city of Syracuse NY at 2004 Valley Dr. Volunteers operate the pond by opening the establishment so that the public can donate and feed the wildlife. The pond is open year around, opening at approximately 9AM-9PM We also have other activities such as a Junior fishing program for ages 7 to 15. Summer and fall concerts sponsored by outside venders and much more. UPDATE: Please note: a new non- profit group was formed to assist the Anglers Association in applying for grants, as they don't have the qualifications. In addition, we will help with maintenance, projects, and fundraising. The non-profit "Friends Of Wildlife" was started by Chad Norton and friends. All funds raised by this corporation will go directly to Webster Pond unless otherwise noted . Please make all trail donations payable to: Friends of Wildlife. for more information or to make a donation please call 315-727-2922

The Great New York State Fair is America's first and oldest state fair. It is a massive music festival, with more than 500 free performances over 13 days, highlighted by the daily shows by national touring acts on the Chevy Court stage. It features one of the largest midways, with approximately 90 rides and many games. The Fair is a food festival, with more than 200 vendors offering everything from the standard to unique and crazy food creations. Signature foods include the cup of perfectly chilled chocolate or white milk at the Rainbow Milk Bar, the $1 baked potato or sweet potato with all the fixings, and the sausage sandwich with peppers and onions that every politician absolutely must have before leaving. Animals of all kinds. Jugglers, characters, and all types of street entertainment. Fine arts. You can witness the miracle of birth in the Dairy Cow Birthing Center. Sample for free and buy some of the best foods made in New York State. And so much more.

Destiny USA is a 2.4 million square foot tourist destination in Syracuse, NY that includes a strong mix of luxury outlet tenants, restaurants and entertainment. New brands are continuing to open to create a unique and dynamic consumer shopping experience. A stunning three-story glass atrium provides perfect weather year round. Oxford Economics has projected an annual visitation rate of over 29 million visitors from throughout the U.S. and Canada. Destiny USA is expected to be the second most visited shopping center in the country, according to Travel and Leisure magazine. It is the largest LEED Gold certified retail commercial building in the world.