Father's Day is a special occasion dedicated to honoring the incredible fathers and father figures in our lives. If you're looking for the perfect way to celebrate Father's Day in Onondaga County you're in luck! The Greater Syracuse region offers a diverse range of experiences to suit every type of dad and create lasting memories for all ages. Let's explore some of the best adventures to make this Father's Day a remarkable one for your dad!

The History Buff & Art Dad

Syracuse has no shortage of history, and there's no better place to immerse the man of the hour than with the rich industrial, architectural, agricultural and cultural exhibitions at the renowned Onondaga Historical Association (OHA) and Museum in downtown Syracuse. Experience the extensive collections and travel back in time with Dad at the OHA, where you can explore everything from Syracuse China Company's 140-year-old saga to the city's unique Underground Railroad history. 

 The Everson Museum of Art permanent collection boasts nearly 11,000 modern and contemporary pieces, including ceramics, paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos and more. Limited exhibitions on view now like Doug Muir Coming Home. The museum shop is stocked with pottery and ceramics by local artists, framed prints, jewelry and more to complement your visit. Make this year’s Syracuse Father’s Day about connecting with Dad in a way that enriches the whole family.

The Golfing Dad

It’s Tee Time: Head to the greens FORE an awesome day on the golf course. Onondaga County offers amazing golf courses with terrific amenities. Treat dad and let him enjoy 18 holes with the boys, or make it a family affair and spend the day practicing your putt and long drive. Check out these options to the perfect golf course in Onondaga County. The Pompey Club in Jamesville is an 18-hole championship golf course overlooking Butternut Creek Valley. This club house is a member of the United States Golf Association as well as the Syracuse District Golf Association (SDGA). Or you and Dad can put your skills to the test at Drumlin’s Country Club. After playing 18-holes on their challenging yes scenic course, dip into the Bistro to enjoy casual dining and drinks where both indoor and outdoor seating are available.

The Craft Brew Dad

If there's one thing you can't go wrong with on Father's Day, it's an ice-cold beer. Luckily Syracuse has enough local, craft and microbreweries around town for Pops to sample as many cold pints as he'd like. Stop into Middle Ages Brewing Company and give Dad the freedom to pick from a wide variety of delicious IPAs, sessions, lagers, stouts, pales ales, fruit beers, wheat beers, sour beers, blonde ales, red ales and more. And if you're sticking around the downtown Syracuse area, stop by Meir’s Creek Brewery at the Inner Harbor, The Eastwood Brewery on James Street or Talking Cursive for a refreshing pint or two.

Give Dad a taste of what some other local breweries are pouring — pop into Willow Rock Brewing Company for a mix of seasonal flavors, test batches, and specialty brews (including Congress lager), wander over to Buried Acorn Brewing for barrel-aged sours and farmhouse beers, or bounce over to Beak & Skiff for hard cider and spirits. Head to Heritage Hill Brewhouse for delicious food, lawn games and home-made pints. There's a brewery for every dad out there.

The Adventurous Dad

Labrador Hollow Unique Area is located on the outskirts of Tully, Apulia, and Truxton, NY making it a beautiful 20 minute drive outside the city limits. Offering over 1,000 acres of natural lands, beautiful waters, diverse animal habitats, and rare plant life, this is the perfect outdoor adventure for you and dad. Even the dog can go! Green Lakes State Park: Grab your bikes and hit one of the many trails at Green Lakes State Park! And afterwards, head to the beach and enjoy a refreshing swim or picnic by the picturesque views of the green and blue waters.

The Foodie Dad

If you find it too tough to pull the grill master away from the backyard or patio, elevate your typical BBQ by stopping into Liehs & Steigerwald butcher shop and deli or check out Lombardi’s Imports to grab some of their one-of-a-kind meats, sausages, hot dogs, salads, burgers, kabobs, cutlets, spedies and more. On the east side? Grab some fresh meats at Side Hill Farmers in Manlius and kick off Dad's special day with a prime gift of locally-raised beef, pork, lamb and poultry. Not only will Dad be happy to indulge, but the entire family will thank you too.

Interested in skipping the grilling for this year’s special occasion? Treat Dad to a Father’s Day Brunch in Syracuse, NY and show him the ultimate Sunday Funday. Syracuse’s brunch scene is diverse and ranges across all types of cuisine. Tacos to loaded fries and burgers, you can satisfy any craving dad may have.

The Fisherman Dad

If your dad is a fishing enthusiast, head to Oneida Lake, one of the region's premier fishing destinations. Spend quality time together while casting your lines, and even catch some bass, walleye, or perch. There's plenty more fishing spots throughout Onondaga County, such as Onondaga Lake Parkway, Skaneateles, and Green Lakes to name a few.

Looking for other ways to celebrate Father’s Day in Syracuse? Check out these fun things to do in Syracuse and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional ideas. Treat dad to a weekend away and check out hotels in Syracuse for the weekend to make the most of your trip to Onondaga County. 

Happy Father’s Day!

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