This month, Family Times is introducing a new feature, Explore CNY, which will highlight some of the family-friendly activities in local towns.
Our first stop is Baldwinsville.
Located about 20 minutes north of Syracuse, it is home to parks, u-pick farms and historical sites.
Parks and Nature Centers
Beaver Lake Nature Center
Beaver Lake Nature Center’s nine trails wind through wetlands, meadows, a bog and more (and they are open year-round).
Where: 8477 E. Mud Lake Road.
More information: onondagacountyparks.com/parks/beaver-lake-nature-center.
Community Park
Community Park’s newest addition, an accessible playground, opened in the fall. Families can also take a walk on one of its nature trails or spend some time on the water (there is a kayak launch at the park).
Where: Lions Parkway.
More information: www.baldwinsville.org/about/parks.
Lysander Park
Lysander Park’s grounds include pickleball courts (rental equipment is available), a playground, a 0.75-mile trail, a life-size checkerboard, and a spray park, which has 24 features.
Where: Smokey Hollow Road.
More information: townoflysander.org/departments/parks-and-recreation.
Farms
Abbott Farms
During a visit to Abbott Farms, families can pick their own strawberries, cherries, raspberries, blueberries, apples and pumpkins (depending on the time of year) or attend one of its family-friendly festivals.
Where: 3275 Cold Springs Road.
More information: abbottfarms.com.
Reeves Farms
Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, Reeves Farms offers u-pick strawberries and blueberries during the summer months.
Where: 1220 W. Genesee Road.
More information: reevesfarms.com.
Sports
Hickory Hill Golf Center
Families can play a round of mini golf (the course includes water and a cave), then grab some homemade ice cream.
Where: 3451 State Route 31.
More information: hickoryhillgolfcourse.com/amenities/mini-golf.
Three Rivers Athletic Complex
Three Rivers Athletic Complex offers open skate sessions – and it houses a pro shop and the Overtime Sports Bar & Grill.
Where: 2725 W. Entry Road.
More information: threeriversathletics.org.
Museums and Historical Sites
Erie Canal and Lock 24
A trip to Baldwinsville wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Erie Canal and Lock 24 (the latter opened in 1910 and is still operational today).
Where: Water St.
More information: discovertheeriecanal.com/communities/Baldwinsville.
Shacksboro Schoolhouse Museum
Are you interested in history? Learn more about Baldwinsville at the Shacksboro Schoolhouse Museum (fun fact: the building dates back to 1879).
Where: 46 Canton St.
More information: shacksboromuseum.com.
Entertainment
Paper Mill Island
The outdoor amphitheater hosts numerous concerts and festivals. Upcoming events include: Seneca River Days (June 9-10) and a performance by the Zac Brown Tribute Band (June 23).
Where: 136 Spensieri Ave.
More information: senecariverdays.com.
Read the June issue of Family Times to see what town we feature next!
Check out the full May issue below!
