Explore the Wild and Vibrant Side of Syracuse, NY

For travelers looking to experience the best of nature and culture, Syracuse, NY offers a unique blend that captures both. With its rich history and diverse population, this upstate city boasts plenty of opportunities to explore while also observing local flora and fauna.

To start your adventure in nature, head over to Onondaga Lake Park (106 Lake Drive), an oasis through which you can traverse miles of trails on foot or by bike. This park is home to numerous species including bald eagles and blue herons. The nearby Salt Museum (106 Lake Drive) offers visitors a glimpse into the citys salty past.

Another spot worth visiting is Green Lakes State Park (7900 Green Lakes Road). Its two glacial lakes offer stunning views while their turquoise hue comes from high levels of calcium carbonate making it highly alkaline but safe for swimming. The surrounding forest houses oakhickory trees and hemlock groves where deer roam free.

If youre interested in exploring the wild side of urban life, make your way over to Inner Harbor (300 West Kirkpatrick Street). Once considered polluted waters have been transformed into a thriving ecosystem teeming with fish such as bass or catfish that attracts birdlife like ospreys overhead.

For those who want a taste of Syracuses culture scene mixed together with wildlife observation visit Everson Museum sculpture garden(401 Harrison St) While perusing outdoor sculptures from iconic artists such as Auguste Rodin you might catch sight squirrels scavenging acorns between bronze legs or be beset by butterflies hovering around flowers blooming throughout springtime .

Finally, dont forget about Thornden Park Conservancy(1 Thornden Park Dr)! A true green space gem located right next to Syracuse University campus . Take time amidst Japanese gardens , walk down Shakespearean rose arches surrounded by fragrant blooms that could attract honey bees, and even glimpse redtailed hawks overhead.

Whether youre interested in historical sites, vibrant art scenes, or wildlife observation, Syracuse offers plenty to explore. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure like no other!

Facts:

The Great Lakes Seaway Trail runs through Onondaga Lake Park with a distance of 518 miles.

Green Lakes State Park is home to the green lakes which are among the rarest glacial features on earth.

Inner Harbors restoration project was launched back in 2001 under President Clinton with a budget of $17 million dollars to help revitalize this beautiful space .

The Everson Museum Sculpture Garden is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as it houses works by renowned artists such as Auguste Rodin and Alexander Calder .

Thornden Park Conservancy not only showcases arts and sculptures but also has tennis courts available for sport enthusiasts.

Websites:

Onondaga County Parks www.onondagacountyparks.com

Green Lakes State Park https://parks.ny.gov/parks/172/details.aspx

Everson Museum sculpture garden https://everson.org/explore/sculpturegardenoverview

Thornden Park Conservancy https://www.thorndenpark.org/

Twitter handles:

Onondaga County Parks @OnonCoParks

New York State Parks & Historic Sites@NYstateparks