When it comes to exploring Central New York, there’s always an adventure waiting for you, especially when you’re traveling with the whole family! We invite you to discover and appreciate CNY’s vibrant culture and personality by exploring its destinations through an artistic lens. And don’t worry if you don’t see yourself as an art expert – you’ll be surprised at the different art forms that exist in our world! You’ll get a taste of performing arts, culinary arts, natural art, visual arts, and arts and science.
So, if you think art isn’t for you, check out this weekend of activities – it may just change your mind!
Be sure to check out cnyarts.org/events for events happening during the weekend of your visit!
Friday: Syracuse and Oswego
Start your day with an exciting visit the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, which hosts a wide array of animals from across the globe. Experience the Diversity of Birds aviary, Wildlife Trail, Helga Beck Asian Elephant Preserve, or the only Giant Pacific Octopus exhibit in CNY! As you explore the meticulously designed habitats, you’ll witness the zoo’s commitment to conservation and education, gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting our planet’s precious biodiversity.
For lunch, head over to Apizza Regionale for a delicious slice of pizza! This pizzeria approaches their craft with an emphasis on capturing Italy’s finest, and ingredients are sourced only from the finest regional growers and producers in NY state, as well as from Italy itself. Whether you’re a pizza connoisseur or simply seeking a taste of Italy, Apizza Regionale promises a truly authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
Before heading to Oswego, stop by the Syracuse Stage to see what’s playing on the main stage. The mission of this theatre is to tell stories that engage, entertain and inspire us to see life beyond our own experience – so you know you’re in for something special. If there happens to be an afternoon show or you have time to stay in Syracuse a bit longer before starting the next leg of your journey, we encourage you to settle in and enjoy some performance theater! But if not, no worries – this itinerary will bring you back to the Syracuse area by the end of the weekend!
Make your way to beautiful Oswego, where you’ll check into the Best Western Plus Oswego Hotel and Conference Center. The hotel sits right on the Oswego River, giving many of the rooms a balcony view overlooking both Oswego Harbor and Lake Ontario.
Once you’ve had time to settle into your accommodations and freshen up, walk or drive to dinner at GS Steamers Bar & Grill, where you’re in for bold flavors and good times! Right on the waterfront of Lake Ontario, GS Steamers features an eclectic American menu served in a beautiful setting! Sit on the patio and enjoy the view along with your meal and one of their classic cocktails.
Saturday: Oswego and Auburn
You’ll be exploring the artistic gems of two CNY cities today, so be sure to start your day with a nourishing breakfast at your hotel.
Then, head over to the Children’s Museum of Oswego and prepare for a day filled with laughter, exploration and the joy of discovery! Each of the colorful exhibits are carefully curated to cater to various age groups and interests, ensuring that every child will find something to spark their curiosity. Climb to the top while learning about local weather in the Cloud Climber, sail from island to island at the interactive Water Table or travel inside the recycling process and learn about protecting our environment at the Novelis exhibit.
With sparked imaginations and enlightened minds, reflect on your experience at the Children’s Museum as you make your way to Auburn – a delicious lunch awaits on the other side!
Café 108 serves as a sanctuary for those seeking a moment of respite and culinary delight. Created as a community space for the Auburn Public Theater, the café provides healthy and delicious food while creating affordable access to the arts. All profits are given to the theater, ensuring the non-profit hub of the arts continues to thrive. Come and enjoy the lovingly curated food in a warm and cozy atmosphere while securing the future for artists and the community.
Your next stop after lunch is to the Schweinfurth Memorial Art Center. With a strong belief in public access to the arts, the Schweinfurth Memorial Art Center offers a variety of exhibits that provide creative opportunities and transformational experiences through the arts for everyone. Whether you choose to visit the wonderfully crafted exhibits or take part in offered classes such as improvised scrap quilting and watercolor, the Schweinfurth Memorial Art Center provides a captivating experience for all who attend.
Check into the Hilton Garden Inn Auburn and take some time to unwind and recharge before your evening festivities.
When you’re ready for dinner, make your way to The Refinery (located in the Hilton Garden Inn) for creative cocktails and modern fare including soups and salads, pasta, seafood, sandwiches and burgers, and delicious cuts of steak. Feel like staying in? The Refinery delivers room service!
See what’s playing at the Auburn Public Theater, which has served as a hub for theater, art, music, education and creative expression since it was founded in 2005. The performance programs have helped enrich the social, cultural and economic growth of the region through its affordable access to live performance, cinema, arts education and various community events. Art is viewed as a common experience that should be enjoyed by all, and the non-profit organization upholds their goal to provide entertainment to all ages.
Sunday: Syracuse
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading back to Syracuse, where your first stop will be the Museum of Science & Technology, (or MOST, as it is also known).
Liven up your vacation in both a fun and educational way by taking a trip through the variety of experiences the museum has to offer. At MOST, you can experience hands-on science and technology exhibits in a fun and educational environment. With exhibits such as the Dino Zone, Build & Play, Telecommunications Lab, Flight & Space and more, everybody will find something that suits their interests.
If you’re looking for a quality, welcoming dining experience, Pastabilities is a must visit! The team here pours their heart and soul into their food, making everything from scratch. The restaurant features seasonal menus that include a full range of their pastas, sauces, salads and the famous Stretch Bread from their bakery across the street, Pasta’s Daily Bread – also worth a visit!
Get your fill of the local community with a visit to Armory Square. Originally starting as a busy industrial district, Armory Square now serves as a home for shopping, entertainment and nightlife. The district features dozens of local favorite restaurants, bars, coffee houses, boutiques and night clubs.