7 Best Winter Activities in Syracuse

It’s no secret that Syracuse experiences all four seasons to the extreme, but the winter weather doesn’t slow us down. Snowy days simply open the door to a whole new lineup of seasonal fun. From outdoor adventures to cozy indoor attractions, there’s no shortage of winter activities in Syracuse. Here are some of our favorite ways to embrace the colder months.

1. Onondaga County Parks

The Syracuse region is in proximity to several county parks. Bring your own snowshoes for a trek at Beaver Lake Nature Center or search for critters on a nature walk at Baltimore Woods Nature Center. Looking for a more low-key outdoor experience, make a reservation for a horse-drawn sleigh or wagon ride at Highland Forest. This is the perfect opportunity to get the kids outside, even in the colder months. 

2. The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (The MOST)

Spend a winter day at The MOST, where learning feels more like play. Kids can climb the pollination wall in the World of Pollinators exhibit, learn about fossils and geography in the Earth Science Discovery Cave, or stargaze in the planetarium and brand-new digital theater. If you haven't visited in a while, the kiddos will be amazed by the permanent Dino Zone exhibit, sponsored by Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital, featuring life-sized, lifelike dinosaurs that are sure to wow visitors of all ages. 

3. Rosamond Gifford Zoo

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo gives you the option to visit with animals indoors or step outside to see those that thrive in the cold climate. Highlights include the Asian elephant exhibit, a wing of primates and an enclosure home to winter-loving snow leopards. You won't be disappointed no matter what time of year you visit. Need to keep the family occupied throughout the Winter Break? Stay up to date with the School Break Zoo Camps that give kids the opportunities to explore the zoo, play games, make craft projects and so much more.

4. Hit the Slopes

Ski season is in full swing in Central New York. Labrador Mountain or Song Mountain offer a variety of trails for all skill levels, plus lessons for beginners. For family-friendly winter fun, head west to Skaneateles Ski Hill in Marietta for day passes to ski or sled. Prefer tubing? Camillus Ski Park is a must-visit for a full day of downhill excitement. 

5. Museums

Syracuse’s museums make it easy to stay warm while exploring history, art, and culture. Step aboard a canal boat replica at the Erie Canal Museum, learn about the region’s role in the Underground Railroad at the Onondaga Historical Association, or admire inspiring collections at the Everson Museum of Art. There’s something for every interest and every age.

6. City Activities

There's still family fun happening every day in Syracuse! Get outside for some ice skating at Clinton Square Ice Rink or head inside for some skate time at Sunnycrest Ice Rink. Be sure to check out the Parks & Rec Facebook page for the weekly schedule of pop-up snowshoe rental events, spread out across various city parks each week. 

7. Destiny USA

Check out a variety of options available at Destiny USA. Take the kids to WonderWorks and test your balance on the world's largest indoor suspended ropes course at the Canyon Climb, race around an indoor track at RPM Raceway, or go bowling at Apex Entertainment. As a bonus, check out all of these places and more with their Winter Fun Pass! 

Now that you have so many choices for winter activities in Syracuse, what will you choose to do first? Don’t forget to tag #VisitSyr in your photos on social media to share your adventures!