CNY Summer Guide 2025: The Best of Upstate New York

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For those looking for cultural exploration, the city of Rochester, NY unveils a surprising collection of captivating experiences that blend big city inspiration and small city affordability. Walk in the footsteps of visionaries like Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass. Play your way through the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, and games. Stroll the historic Erie Canal, sip local craft beverages, and savor a city where creativity blooms in every season. Learn more at visitrochester.com.

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Outdoor Fun & Adventure in Wayne County

Finger Lakes Region ~ Lake Ontario ~ Erie Canal Enjoy boating, fishing, biking, hiking and so much more! Home to Chimney Bluffs State Park, Montezuma Audubon Center, plus many attractions, including the Lake Ontario Wine Trail.

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®I LOVE NEW YORK is a registered trademark and service mark of the New York State Department of Economic Development; used with permission.

Explore. Discover.

Plan your Summer Adventure in the Enchanted Mountains of Western New York!

Relax in the wilderness at Allegany State Park,, the largest state park in NYS. Camp or boat at Onoville Marina Park,, NYS’s largest inland marina.

Take photos and touch sculptures at Griffis Sculpture Park,, one of the largest sculpture parks in the world.

Hike amongst the world’s largest outcropping of quartz conglomerate in the world at Rock City Park..

Visit EnchantedMountains.com/Summer to plan your trip!

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26 E. Cenesee St. • Auburn 24 E. Genesee St. • Baldwinsville * 307 W. Manlius St. • East Syracuse * 3606 W. Genesee St. • Fairmount * 160 S. Second St. • Fulton 100 Grand Ave. • Syracuse 489 James St. • Syracuse * 408 Oswego Rd. • Liverpool * 8440 Oswego Rd. • Clay 105 W. Seneca St. • Manlius 500 N. Main St. • North Syracuse * 5864 Thompson Rd. • DeWitt 330 Costello Parkway • Minoa * 1601 W. Genesee St. • Syracuse * 100 Matty Ave. • Mattydale 1805 South Ave. • Syracuse 820 Wolf St. • Syracuse 65 E. Bridge St. • Oswego

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* 120 Black River Blvd. • Rome * 1547 State St. • Watertown * 222 N. Massey St. • Watertown

1502 Genesee St. • Utica 13 River St. • Cortland 16 E. Main St. • Trumansburg 120 E. 4th St. • Watkins Glen * 133 N. Exchange St. • Geneva 8313 US Route 11 • Cicero * 502 Lenox Ave. • Oneida * 3 Henderson St. • NY Mills 8007 Rt. 31 • Bridgeport 59 Central Ave. • Ilion * 416 Velasko Rd, • Western Lights 3901 S. Salina St. • Syracuse * 2685 Erie Drive • Weedsport

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thANNUAL EDITION

31

SUMMER & FALL GUIDE The Best of Upstate New York

Contents 14 Where to Go, What to See 18 Feature Stories 24 Antiques 46 Calendar of Events

EXCLUSIVE

feature stories

54-55 Upstate New York Map 105 Index to Advertisers

Regions 50 Oswego 60 Fulton 64 Pulaski/Sandy Creek 67 Jefferson County 71 Onondaga County 77 Oneida Lake

81 Fair Haven, Sodus Bay & Wolcott 87 Finger Lakes 96 Cortland 99 Adirondacks 101 Madison County

Waterside Dining Alfresco in Upstate New York Fun When There’s No Sun The Eleanor D: Reminder of a Bygone Way of Life on Lake Ontario Take Your Crew to the Zoo Feel the Adrenaline Rush! Go for a Skydiving Expedition Events to Celebrate Erie Canal’s Bicentennial Visiting Oswego? Try These Activities Exploring Local Theme Parks Get Your Green On and Head Over to Tipp Hill Nifty and Thrifty Clothing Here, It’s Christmas All Year Round

WWW.CNYSUMMER.COM WWW.CNYFALL.COM

Lake Ontario, near Rudy’s Lakeside Drive-In in Oswego.

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

13

Where to Go!

AUTOMOTIVE nAUTO DEALERS

Longley Dodge....................................63

nAUTO PARTS

Warren’s Auto Parts & More................64

nAUTO REPAIR

All Car Care.........................................72 Car Shop, The.....................................58 Ken’s Body Shop.................................58 Torbitt’s Service Center.......................57 Vashaw’s Collision Service..................59

nTRAILER

Jim’s Trailer World...............................84

EXPLORE Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce..................................29 Cape Vincent Chamber of Commerce..................................17 Cattaraugus County Tourism...............11 City of Oswego ...................................53 Clayton Chamber of Commerce..........70 Clifton Springs Chamber of Commerce..................................88 CNY Arts..............................................31 Cortland Arts Connects.......................98 Cortland County Convention & Visitor’s Center...............................97 Discover Downtown Syracuse.............74 DiscoverUpstateNY.com.....................31 Greater Oswego/Fulton Chamber of Commerce).................50 Fair Haven Chamber of Commerce.....82 Fulton County........................................8 Henderson Harbor...............................68

NYS Parks and Recreation................108 Orleans County......................................4 Oswego County Tourism.......................9 St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce..................................30 Skaneateles Area Chamber of Commerce..................................90 Visit Rochester......................................5 Visit Sackets Harbor............................68 Wayne County Tourism.......................10

nBLACKSMITH

British Blacksmith, The........................72

nHELICOPTER TOURS

B.A.C. Helicopters...............................31

nSKYDIVING

Skydive the Falls.................................41

nTOURS

Sip Back & Relax Tours.......................91

WATER & RECREATION

nBOATING, MARINAS & PONTOON

RENTALS 43 North Marina...................................79 Brewerton Boatyard.............................78 Burt Goodnough’s Marina East...........65 Greater Lakes EZ-Dock.......................41 Greene Point Marina...........................65 Reiter’s Marina, Inc..............................64 Skaneateles Marina.............................89 Smith Boys..........................................95 Sutter’s Marina....................................91

HOME AND GARDEN

Brookfield Renewable Energy.............79 Together for Youth (Formerly Berkshire).......................41

nAIRPORT

Watertown International Airport...........67

nCOMMUNITY CENTER

Jewish Community Center (JCC)........73

nINSURANCE / FINANCING

Canale Insurance & Accounting..........52 Compass Federal Credit Union...........56 Eastern Shore Insurance Agency........63 Mirabito Financial Group.....................60 Oswego County Mutual Insurance (OCMIC)......................106

Builders First Source...........................73 Burke’s Home Center..........................57 Lasnicki Landscaping..........................77 Ontario Orchards.................................59 White’s Lumber....................................64

14

Total Fire Protection............................74

911 Generators....................................33

nELECTRICAL

Scriba Electric......................................57

nPROPANE

Johnston’s Gas....................................60

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

Finger Lakes Boating Museum............87

nRAFTING / KAYAKING

Adirondack Center for Loon ..............100 Adventure Calls Outfitters....................48 nTOURS Camillus Erie Canal Park.....................72

nWATER PARKS

Splash Indoor Water Park Resort..........7 Water Safari Resort.............................99

SERVICES & ORGANIZATIONS

nFIRE PROTECTION nGENERATORS

nMUSEUM

nHEALTH-RELATED

Associated Dental Arts........................58 Brewerton Pharmacy ..........................77

Crouse Hospital...................................16 Elemental Management Group............26

nHONEY

Syracuse Honey..................................35

nLAUNDROMAT

Colonial Laundromat...........................12

nPLACE OF WORSHIP

Christ the Good Shepherd ..................59

nPORT

Port of Oswego Authority.....................56

nREAL ESTATE

Century 21 Galloway ..........................52 Peters Realty / Simeon Dewitt.............58

nTAXI

Fulton Taxi...........................................63

TRAVEL Canalview Travel.................................61

What to See!

WHERE TO GO nBOXING CLUB

OBC Athletic & Boxing.........................51

nATTRACTIONS Rolling Hills Asylum.............................47 Salt Sanctuary.....................................49 Sonnenberg Gardens..........................90 nBOWLING

Lakeview Lanes...................................61

nFAIRS & FESTIVALS

Cortland Arts Off Main Festival............98 Gem & Mineral Society of Syracuse.....................................72 Harborfest............................................51 Hastings Lions Club Apple Fest..........79 Madison County Fair.........................101 New York State Fair, The......................3 NYS Woodsmen’s Field Days.............47 Ol’ Factory Soaps/ Lavender Festival...........................81 Oswego County Fair............................27 Oswego Pumpkin Fest........................50 Polish Festival.....................................47

nGOLFING

Tee Time CNY.....................................60

nMUSEUMS

Children’s Museum of Oswego............51 CNY Living History Center...................96

Cortland County Historical Museum ...98 Finger Lakes Boating Museum............89 Granger Homestead & Carriage Museum...........................91 H. Lee White Marine Museum & Gift Store.....................................56 Herschell Carrousel.............................47 Madison County Historical Society....101 Rochester Museum & Science Center...............................28 Seneca Falls Historical Society...........89 Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum..........83 Stickley Museum, The.........................73 Ward O’Hara Museum.........................92

nMUSIC

Earlville Opera House, The.................33 Gauger Estate, The.............................62 Rhonda Vincent Concert at Sodus Bay Lighthouse...............................84 Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum..........83

nRAILROAD EXPERIENCE

Arcade & Attica Railroad.....................39

nTHEATER

Mimi’s Drive-In.....................................61

nPIZZA

Paulanjo’s Pizza..................................65

nRESTAURANT / PUBS

Burger King..........................................56 Cosentino’s Ristorante........................92 Doug’s Fish Fry...................................90 Elderberry Pond Restaurant................92

Antique Shops Antique World & Flea Market...............24 Bull Farm Antiques, The .....................25 Court Street Antiques..........................24 Geneva Antique Co-op........................24 Left Bank, The.....................................25 LW Emporium .....................................83 Pandora’s Barn....................................24 Port City Co-Op...................................25 Wild Goose Chase Antiques................25

nCHEESE

Adam’s Cheese Shop..........................68 Muranda Cheese.................................91

nFURNITURE

Painfull Acres Amish Furniture............67 Martin’s Amish Furniture......................85

nZOOS

JP Animal Adventure.............................6 Old McDonald’s Farm..........................68 Seneca Park Zoo.................................41 Utica Zoo.............................................49

Burnap’s Farm Market.........................80 Paul’s Big M.........................................57 Oak Hill Bulk Foods.............................86

Eleven Waters Restaurant (Marriott Hotel)................................74 Mill House Market / Rainbow Shores.............................65 Nolan’s on the Lake.............................86 Rudy’s Lakeside Drive-In.....................50

WHERE TO STAY

nPOTTERY

Lukacs Pottery Studio..........................84 Wizard of Clay Pottery.........................93 Specialty Shops Christmas Store of New York (Evolve for the Home)..................................86 Friendship Thrift Shop.........................65 Longs Cards & Books..........................90 Main Street Emporium.........................82 Nest Egg Country Store, The..............49 Olde Country Store and More, The.....89 Olde Homer House..............................98 Reakes Country Goods.......................98 Regenerations.....................................91 Sodus Feeds & Artisan’s Co-Op..........84 Woman Made Products.......................93

Canandaigua Records Exchange........90

nTOYS

Unique Toy Shop.................................92

Twin Oaks Campground......................49

nHOTELS

nBED & BREAKFAST

1897 Beekman B&B............................90 Burnap’s B&B......................................80 Red Fox Run B&B.............................100

nCAMPGROUND

Ontario Orchards.................................59 Sharp’s Bulk Foods ............................69

nRECORDS

nGROCERIES

Cortland Repertory Theatre...................2 REV Theatre, The................................33

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK nDINER

WHERE TO SHOP

Camp Arey...........................................88 Camp Good Days & Special Times.....39 Hejamada Campground......................89 Pinehurst Cottages..............................69 Ridge Campgrounds, The...................29

Tailwater Lodge...................................48 Christy’s Motel...................................101 Martin’s Tide Sides Bay House...........81 Tru by Hilton........................................73

nRESORTS & RETREATS

Apple Country Retreat.........................71 Broadwell Hospitality Group..................7

nRV PARK

Brennan Beach .................................107

nWINERIES

Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery...............93 Sip Back & Relax Tours.......................91 Tug Hill Estate Vineyard......................67 Weis Vinyard.......................................89

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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17

Travel the World WITHOUT LEAVING NEW YORK STATE

It’s possible to travel to Mexico, Rome, Amsterdam, Cuba, Copenhagen, Poland and other communities with international names, right here in New York state

By Margaret McCormick

D

oes your itinerary this season call for international travel?

That’s wonderful. Relax and enjoy the journey. Soak up the food and culture. Take a lot of photos.

Will your travel be limited to local day trips and overnights? There’s nothing wrong with that. While you’re figuring out where to go and what to do, consider that it’s possible to travel to Mexico, Rome, Amsterdam, Cuba, Copenhagen, Poland and other communities with international names, right here in New York state.

Have you ever wondered how these places got their names? You’re not alone. There is no one-size-fits all answer.

Anne E. Mosher, an associate professor of geography and the environment at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University, is a passionate scholar of “toponomy,’’ the study of place names,

18

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

their origins and their meaning.

She said some communities were given their names by founders because they reminded them of their country of origin. This is the case with the Finger Lakes town of Naples, for example, noted for grape-growing and wine production and the nearby town of Italy and Italy Valley area in Yates County.

“It looks like Tuscany in the fall,’’ Mosher said.

And it was fashionable for a time for founders to want to connect their communities to the history of the ancient Greek and Roman empires (think Troy, Utica, Rome and Syracuse) and pay tribute to Old World figures (such as Romulus, Cicero, Cato, Ovid, Brutus and Junius), Mosher added.

“It was part of a fad that went on from probably around 1810 to around 1840. You can also see this reflected in the architecture of the buildings

constructed at that time,’’ Mosher said, noting styles like Greek Revival and Classical Revival.

International names were also seen by founders as giving communities in remote outposts more cachet with investors and would-be inhabitants, Mosher explained. (Consider Syracuse, which went through many name changes, including Bogardus Corners, Cossitt’s Corners and Corinth, before founders settled on Syracuse, after the ancient Italian town of Siracusa on the coast of Sicily.)

Following is a list of communities that take their names from international cities and countries.

The list is a sampling of some of the more familiar names and is not intended to be complete. Population figures are approximate, based on U.S. Census Bureau figures.

Amsterdam (Montgomery County) Population: 18,093

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: The city

of Amsterdam was named in honor of early Dutch settlers. The Erie Canal and Mohawk River contributed to Amsterdam’s development as a manufacturing hub

more in the late 19th and early 20th century. The carpet industry thrived there, as did companies that produced linseed oil, knitwear, brooms and buttons.

Athens (Greene County) Population: 3,916

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: If you

can’t get to Greece (the country) this season, you could visit the Catskills/Hudson River town (and village) of Athens. The town was once a “bustling port for ship building, brick making and ice harvesting on the Hudson

River,’’ according to the Great Northern Catskills of Greene County tourism website. Attractions include the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, one of two remaining lighthouses on the Hudson River. It dates to the 1870s.

Belfast (Allegany County) Population: 1,637

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Belfast,

originally named Orrinsburg, is named for the city of Belfast, Ireland. The Southern Tier town is home to the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame. The BKBHOF honors bare knuckle boxers past and

present and is housed in the onetime training barns of legendary boxer John L. Sullivan. Other points of interest in the Belfast area include Allen Lake State Forest and Coyle Hill State Forest.

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

19

Cairo (Greene County) Population: 6,644

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Cairo is a rural community south of Albany and west of the Hudson River, in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains. The town is home to the world’s largest fossil forest,

according to a study published in 2019. The fossil forest is believed to date back 385 million years.

The town of Cairo also contains a hamlet named Cairo and is named for the Egyptian city of Cairo.

Bethlehem

WELCOME TO BETHLEHEM

(Albany County) Population: 35,034 WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: This Beth-

lehem, south of Albany, is bordered by more than seven miles of the Hudson River. The town takes its name from the biblical Bethlehem and is said to offer something for everyone, especially recreational activities, like swimming, boating and hiking. It’s close to downtown Albany.

Copenhagen (Lewis County) Population: 723 WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Copen-

hagen is a village in the town of Denmark. You can’t make this stuff up. It was known as Mungers Mills until 1807, when villagers elected to change the name to

Cuba (Allegany County)

Population: 3,126

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Cuba

has a long history of dairy farming and cheese production. At one time, the area was home to numerous small cheese producers. Until recently, Cuba Cheese was produced at the Great Lakes

20

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

Cheese plant in Cuba. Production was moved to nearby Franklinville in 2024. The Cuba Cheese Shoppe and the Cuba Cheese Museum (in the restored Palmer Opera House) are noteworthy destinations.

Copenhagen. The village was the snowiest place in the U.S. this year (270 inches). Bring a snowmobile if you visit in winter. In summer and fall, take a hike at the Tug Hill State Forest.

Greece (Monroe County)

Population: 96,694

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: The town

of Greece is a Rochester suburb with easy access to Lake Ontario.

The town was originally called Northampton, but the name was changed to Greece in 1822, in honor of the Greek Revolution

of 1821. The town experienced a population boom following World War II, thanks to the presence of the Kodak Company. Popular attractions include Seabreeze Amusement Park and the Seneca Park Zoo.

Jerusalem (Yates County) Population: 4,405 WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: The

Italy (Yates County)

Population: 1,045

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Yes,

friends, this hilly agriculture community about 25 miles south of Canandaigua takes its name from the country of Italy.

It’s quiet and rural with lovely scenery, especially the sweeping views of the Finger Lakes countryside from Italy Hill. This picturesque corner of Yates County is home to the Italy Hill State Forest, Hi Tor Wildlife Management Area and the Bristol Hills Branch of the Finger Lakes Trail System.

Yates County town of Jerusalem is named for the city of Jerusalem, in Israel, one of the oldest cities in the world. The Finger Lakes version is on the west branch of Y-shaped Keuka Lake. It’s home to wineries and restaurants and offers numerous recreation opportunities (biking, boating, skiing, hiking, etc.)

Lisbon (St. Lawrence County) Population: 4,233 WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Lisbon

might or might not take its name from a more famous Lisbon, the capital of Portugal.

The town and village are on the St. Lawrence River and the Lisbon Beach and Campground is a magnet in the summertime, drawing folks for weekends or the entire season on the river.

Lyons (Wayne County) Population: 5,568

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Lyons, on the Erie Canal, was originally known as The Forks, until it was renamed Lyons (after Lyon, the city in France).

Lyons has small town character and is known for its annual Peppermint

Days Festival (July 18-20). The event celebrates the town’s past as a major grower of peppermint and producer of peppermint oil. Attractions include the historic Ohmann Theater and the Peppermint Museum.

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

21

Rotterdam (Schenectady County) Population: 30,523

adise for outdoor enthusiRotterdam has grown from a asts. Attractions include the sparsely populated farmPlotter Kill Nature Preserve, ing community to a large a 632-acre site with three suburb of Schenectady. The spectacular waterfalls and town is considered a parmiles of hiking trails.

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR:

Peru (Clinton County)

Mexico (Oswego County)

Population: 6,772

Population: 5,293

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Peru was named for its views of the striking Adirondack Mountains and surrounding countryside, which early residents said resembled the scenery of Peru, South America. Peru, near Lake Champlain, is an all-season destination for outdoor activities. Step back in time and learn about rural agriculture life at the Babbie Rural and Farm Learning Museum.

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Some

would say that Mexico is known as the home of Grandma Brown’s Beans (not currently in production). Others would say it’s notable for its parks, including Mexico Point State Park, historic village district and apple farms, including Behling Orchards and Appledale Orchards.

Madrid (St. Lawrence County) Population: 1,835 WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Ma-

drid (pronounced MAD-rid) was one of four towns established when the county was formed in 1802. It takes its name from the Spanish city of Madrid. The area is known for its natural scenery and opportunities for outdoor recreation in all seasons.

Naples (Ontario County) Population: 2,417

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Naples, at the southern end of Canandaigua Lake, lives up to its billing as “The Grape Pie Capital of the World.’’

Naples is both a town and a village and is the headquarters for several

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

wineries and a distillery. It’s nestled in a valley and is noted for its scenic beauty. The annual Grape Festival, held at the end of September, celebrates all things grape-y good and draws tons of visitors to the area.

Galway (Saratoga County)

Population: 3,523

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: You might think that Galway takes its name from the city of the same name in Ireland. In fact, the town was originally named New Galloway, after the Scottish

town of Galloway. The name was later shortened to Galway.

The town is home to Galway Lake, a privately owned, member-operated lake. Motor craft are not permitted on the lake.

Troy (Rensselaer County) Population: 50,607

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR:

Troy, named after the legendary Greek city of the same name, was one of the wealthiest cities in the U.S. at the turn of the 20th century. Its well-preserved Victorian architecture has served as a backdrop for movies and

Rome (Oneida County)

TV shows, including “Age of Innocence.’’ Troy is the historical home of national symbol “Uncle Sam.’’ During the war of 1812, business owner Samuel Wilson, who shipped meat to soldiers stamped “U.S. Beef,’’ was nicknamed Uncle Sam.

Warsaw (Wyoming County)

Population: 32,127

Population: 5,317

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: At one time, the city of Rome produced an estimated 10% of the copper used in the U.S., which earned it the name the “Copper City.’’ The ever-popular Revere Ware stainless steel and copper cookware was originally made in Rome. Popular attractions include the Fort Stanwix National Monument and the Capitol Theatre, a restored 1920s movie house that offers films, concerts and other live events.

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: Warsaw might

or might not have been named for the city of the same name in Poland. Like Syracuse, Warsaw was once a major hub of salt production in the U.S. At one time, about a dozen different companies in the town produced and shipped salt. Agriculture plays a major role in the local economy today, especially dairy farming and maple and apple production.

Poland (Herkimer County) Population: 602

WHAT IT’S KNOWN FOR: The village northeast of Utica and south of the Adirondack Park was once a stop on the Herkimer, Newport and Poland

Railway. It shares a border with the town of Russia, which inspired the name Poland. Just as it is in Europe, the village is southwest of Russia.

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

23

Have you tried local antiquing?

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2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

27

LET YOUR CURIOSITY

RUN WILD The RMSC Museum & Science Center and Strasenburgh Planetarium are located on a 13-acre campus just minutes from downtown Rochester, NY

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2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

31

WATERSIDE DINING ALFRESCO IN UPSTATE NEW YORK

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

W

hy not go out to eat at a restaurant with outdoor seating options overlooking the water?

Numerous restaurants in the region offer great food and gorgeous views of waterways.

Here are some of the options to visit this season:

■ BARADO’S ON THE WATER in Brewerton is a popular destination along Oneida Lake. It serves a variety of dishes, including fried calamari, southern fried chicken legs and sausage puffs. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday www.facebook.com/Barados. on.the.Water

■ RUDY’S LAKESIDE DRIVE-IN in Oswego) is a local gem with stunning views of Lake Ontario and casual dining on fresh seafood, burgers and chicken. www.facebook.com/rudyslakesidedrivein

■ ROOFTOP CABANA BAR on Lake George offers views of Lake George along with seafood, sandwiches, salads and pizzas. https://surfsideonthelake.com

■ GS STEAMERS also in Oswego serves salad, seafood, steaks, sandwiches and pizza, along with views of Lake Ontario. The restaurant takes reservations. https://gssteamers.com ■ WATERFRONT GRILLE in Herkimer overlooks the Mohawk River. View boats drifting by while dining on pasta, steak, chicken, veal and more. https://waterfrontgrille.net ■ The decks at HARPOON EDDIE’S in Sylvan Beach serve up seafood on a sandy beach along Oneida Lake. www.harpooneddies.com ■ SKIPPER’S LANDING in Wolcott overlooks Sodus Bay and serves seafood, wraps, pasta and beef. Those arriving via boat can dock at the restaurant’s private marina during their meal. www.skipperslanding.com 32

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

■ TWISTED RAIL BREWING in Honeoye provides a terrace above Honeoye Lake and serves small batch brews, “bar food” and flatbread pizza, along with a few unusual options like deep fried green beans and, as a soft pretzel accompaniment, beer cheese. www.twistedrailbrewing.com ■ CHANNELSIDE RESTAURANT in Clayton provides views of the St. Lawrence River and a menu including salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood and pasta. https://thechannelside.com ■ GENESEE BREW HOUSE in Rochester seats guests on the rooftop for views of the Genesee River. In addition to brews, enjoy salads, flatbreads, sandwiches, burgers and entrees. www.geneseebeer.com/brewhouse ■ WOLFFY’S GRILL AND MARINA in Seneca Falls) won a FLX Finest award in 2022. Its views of Cayuga Lake from the patio are unmatched. Dine on

soup, salad, sandwiches, burgers and entrees. There’s even a “Little Wolffy’s” menu for the kids. www.wolffysgrill.com ■ CASTAWAYS ON THE LAKE in Webster provides guests with patio dining overlooking Lake Ontario. Seafood, salads, steaks, chicken, pastas and entrees are all on the menu. www.castawaysonthelake.com ■ DOCKSIDERS PUB in Hilton serves pub-style food with patio seating available that overlooks Braddock Bay. Try the “Anchor Plate” that offers choice of meat served over two sides and topped with your choice of meat hot sauce and onions. There’s also woodfired pizza and Buffalo chicken pierogies, served with a side of blue cheese. https://docksiderspub.com ■ GILLIGAN’S GALLEY in Kent overlooks Point Breeze on Lake Ontario and serves burgers, baskets, sandwiches, soups, salads and wraps. Don’t miss Taco Tuesdays! www.facebook.com/profile. php/?id=100084816338751 ■ PLAYER WATERFRONT EATERY in Lake George was renovated 11 years ago and rebranded last year, shifting from a sports bar to a restaurant. On the open terrace, enjoy views of Lake George while selecting from a menu of seafood, sandwiches, beef and entrees. www.playerswaterfronteatery.com

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2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

33

MORE RAINY-DAY OPTIONS

FUN WHEN THERE’S NO SUN Try these rainy-day activities for the whole family

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

R

ainy days don’t have to spoil your quest for family fun.

Try these ideas for a family-friendly outing.

■ THE MILTON J. RUBENSTEIN MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY in Syracuse encourages hands-on engagement through its STEM-oriented exhibits. Check the website for the planetarium and movie schedules and other special events. www.most.org

■ THE NATIONAL BASEBALL HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM in Cooperstown) chronicles America’s pastime through artifacts and exhibits from baseball’s beginnings through current times. https://baseballhall.org ■ JELL-O MUSEUM in Le Roy is as quirky and irresistible as the gelatin dessert itself. Learn all about Jell-O lore in the museum and pick up a few branded items from the gift shop.

Downstairs, there’s also “On the Road,” a transportation exhibit. www.jellogallery.org

■ CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF OSWEGO and the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum in Buffalo welcome young children to play and learn among inter■ THE ALL THINGS OZ MUSEUM in active exhibits and playgrounds.

Chittenango features about 1,400 artihttps://cmoo.org facts from The Wizard of Oz, including https://exploreandmore.org film props and costumes. www.Allthingsoz.org ■ THE STRONG NATIONAL MUSEUM OF PLAY in Rochester not only chron■ THE WARD W. O’HARA AGRICULTURicles humanity’s toys and games AL & COUNTRY LIVING MUSEUM in Auburn but also involves visitors in play. In is perhaps not the best for very young addition, explore the butterfly garden, children. However, its copious artifacts climb the high ropes or low ropes and displays and free admission make course, ride the zipline and create in it a good choice. the play lab. https://wardwoharaagriculturalwww.museumofplay.org museum.org ■ AJ READ SCIENCE DISCOVERY Center in Oneonta is on a SUNY campus, but it is open to the public.

With exhibits geared towards grades 3-5, the center offers 80 interactive experiences. https://suny.oneonta.edu/science-outreach-activities/science-discovery-center 34

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

■ DESTINY USA in Syracuse offers 17 family fun venues. Find ways to jump, hop and move for young children through teens and adults, including Billy Beez, 5 Wits, Amazing Mirror Maze, WonderWorks, Laser Tag, Escape the Mystery Room and Zero Latency. www.destinyusa.com

Going to the movies is always a safe bet for a rainy day. However, why not explore a historic, non-chain, community theater?

Try Ohmann Theatre (https:// ohmanntheatre.com, Lyons), Manlius Theatre (www.atomtickets.com/theaters/manlius-art-cinema/4432), Strand Theatre (www. facebook.com/pages/The%20 Strand%20Theatre%20Old%20 Forge%20NY/195896617124156, Old Forge), Colonia Theatre (www. thecoloniatheatre.com/, Norwich), Palace Theatre (https:// corningpalacetheatre.com, Corning), Callicoon Theatre (https://thecallicoontheater.com), Hamilton Theatre (www.hamiltontheater.net), Palace Theatre (www.facebook.com/lppalace/, Lake Placid), North Park Theatre (https://northparktheatre. org/, Buffalo) and Aurora Theatre (https://theauroratheatre.com/, East Aurora).

An oldie but a goodie, bowling at a local bowling alley can provide an afternoon of entertainment.

Ask about bumper bowling for any little kids in your party to avoid the frustration of perpetual gutter balls.

Check out Lakeview Lanes (https://lakeviewbowling.com, Fulton), The Village Lanes (www. facebook.com/thevillagelanesofEsyracuse, East Syracuse), Rainbow Lanes (www.facebook.com/RainbowLanesNY/, Weedsport) Star Lite Lanes (www.starlitelanesny. com/, Auburn)Ideal Bowling Center (https://www.facebook.com/ idealbowling, Endicott), Tonawanda Bowling Center (https:// tonawandabowling.net), Wolcott Lanes (https://wolcottlanes. com, Newark), Doug Kent’s Rose Bowl Lanes (www.dkrbl.com, Newark) Sunset Bowl (https:// bowlatsunset.com, Waterloo), Flamingo Lanes (https://www. flamingobowlcny.com, Liverpool) and Sunset Lanes (www.facebook.com/sunsetlanesbowling, Rochester).

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The Eleanor D was built in 1948 from World War II surplus steel and weighed 40 tons.

The Eleanor D REMINDER OF A BYGONE WAY OF LIFE ON LAKE ONTARIO

By Tom and Jerry Caraccioli

I

n February of 1958, during a particularly harsh Oswego winter, the boat of commercial fishermen William S. Cahill Sr. and his son, future mayor of the Port City, William S. Cahill Jr., broke from its mooring and sank.

“The Jackie was docked on the eastside of the Oswego River with steel cables,” William S. Cahill III recalled from the story his dad told him. “Back then, fishermen would have ice saws in order to cut through the ice around the boat in the winter. If you didn’t, the cables wouldn’t be able to withstand the weight of the boat and ice. It was a particularly bad winter and they didn’t keep up with sawing the ice. The cables snapped and the boat was blown east towards what is now the nuclear plants where it ultimately crashed and sank.”

As commercial fishermen, the

36

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

Cahills needed a replacement for the upcoming fishing season on Lake Ontario.

“That spring, my grandfather and father went to Erie, Pennsylvania and purchased a 10-year-old Great Lakes fish tug — the Eleanor D,” Cahill III explained. “At that time, my grandfather retired from being captain of the boat and my dad became captain.”

According to custom or superstition, fishermen, sailors and boatsmen will tell you it’s bad luck to change the name of a boat. The original builder named his vessel after the First Lady of the United States Eleanor D. Roosevelt.

The Cahills found no reason to tempt fate.

The 42-foot, all steel Eleanor D was built on Lake Erie in 1948 with ¾-inch sheet metal surplus from World War II, which was what they used to make tanks. Powered by a Detroit

diesel engine, the Cahills fished the 40-ton vessel from 1958-78 where they patrolled the waters of Lake Ontario and provided residents of Oswego, surrounding local communities and even residents of New York City and Philadelphia with trout, whitefish, perch, bass, chubs and sturgeon.

Until 1978, the future Oswego mayor would rise every day at 4:30 a.m., drink his coffee, leave the house by 5 a.m. and the Oswego Harbor by 5:30 a.m. on the Eleanor D for five and sometimes six, days a week from March until January.

“The crew would set up prep areas on the way out,” Cahill III explained.

“When the fish came in, that’s when the work started. In the early days, they didn’t have winches on the boat to pull in the nets. They would set their nets, marked by buoys, and then go back one or two days later and pull

The Jackie was the Cahills’ second Lake Ontario fishing tug before purchasing the Eleanor D in 1958.

Future Mayor of Oswego William S. Cahill Jr.

the nets in by hand. As technology progressed, they got winches to pull in the nets. In the 1960s, my dad got into trolling — pulling the nets behind the boat. The biggest one-day catch he ever had was 2,000 pounds of yellow perch. After the catch the crew would transfer the fish from the nets to big containers the whole way in. When they got to the dock the fish were transferred from the boat to the market where they were packed in ice and shipped the next day.”

For the life of a commercial fisherman, especially during the season, days off were scarce.

“Most of the time, my dad would get home for dinner at 5 p.m., which was already a 12-hour day, eat, head back down to the market to ice the fish or repair nets until 10, 11 or midnight and then get up and do it again, five days a week,” Cahill III said while

Oswego’s future Mayor, William S. Cahill Jr. spent hours repairing nets after a full day of fishing Lake Ontario.

marveling at the memory of how hard his late father worked. “Sunday was always cleaning day at the market, really making sure everything was cleaned up for the coming week. He really only had one day off per week.”

Today, the Eleanor D has been on display at the H. Lee White Maritime Museum in Oswego since 2004 where it was stabilized, repaired and restored.

The Cahills donated it to the museum with the goal of creating an attraction that provides opportunities for interested tourists, students and citizens to take a trip back in time and learn about the last U.S. commercial fishing boat to fish the waters of Lake Ontario.

Cahill III, a 27-year teacher in the Fulton City School District, puts the history of Great Lakes fishermen like his grandfather and father into perspective hoping today’s youth will remember the way life used to be in

Oswego and America’s pastoral communities.

“Post World War II, 51% of all Americans were farmers,” he explained. “Oswego was loaded with farmers. Today, farmers represent less than 1% of the population in America.

There also are very few commercial fishermen on the Great Lakes compared to generations ago. It really is a way of life that is bygone.”

And the Eleanor D sits at the H. Lee White Maritime Museum to remind us of those days.

TOM AND JERRY CARACCIOLI are freelance writers originally from Oswego, who have co-authored three books: “STRIKING SILVER: The Untold Story of America’s Forgotten Hockey Team,” “BOYCOTT: Stolen Dreams of the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games” and “Ice Breakers.”

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

37

Photo courtesy of Rosamond Gifford Zoo

TAKE YOUR CREW TO THE

Zoo

Have a wild time at the region’s zoos

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

G

oing to the zoo isn’t just for eagles, mountain lions, Canada lynx, third grade field trips. Support grey wolves and more, while learning conservation and learn about about the state’s ecosystem. animals at your local zoo. https://zoonewyork.org Here are some zoos you should check out this season: ■ ROSAMOND GIFFORD ZOO at Burnet Park in Syracuse has been ranked by the Association of Zoos & Aquari■ ZOO NEW YORK in Watertown is a Path Through History site, so expect ums as among the top 10% of North American zoos. With more than 700 a little more culture than the average zoo. Its 32 acres are home to examples animals from among 216 species, the of New York’s native species and some zoo’s variety offers visitors a unique experience in Upstate. that once were native to the Empire www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org State. View black bears, wolverines,

■ ROSS PARK ZOO in Binghamton is America’s fifth zoo, founded in 1875.

Experience leopards, red pandas, African penguins, a Children’s Zoo, rare red wolves and more. www.rossparkzoo.org ■ THE PRESERVE AT ANIMAL ADVENTURE in Harpursville, near Binghamton, provides guests with a drive-through, self-guided experience on 100 acres.

The three-mile, safari-style experience is divided into regions: grassland, scrub brush and forests displaying the

MAKE YOUR ZOO DAY SUCCESSFUL • Review the venue’s website and social media page before you go to look at what’s allowed in, such as strollers and food and to check for any special events.

• Bring along sunscreen, widebrimmed hats and sunglasses. Most zoos have numerous outside exhibits.

• Follow all the zoo rules for your safety and the safety of the animals.

38

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

• Realize that not all animals will be on display during your visit. Illness, rest times, weather and more can mean that some animals will not be in the public part of their enclosures.

• Ask zoo personnel about the animals in their area. They love to share facts and stories about the animals in their care.

• Go on any zoo tour available or

sign up for a special activity.

• Stop by the snack shop and gift shop during your visit to help support the zoo. Their conservation work is important to support species survival so that future generations can know these animals too.

• If you take photos to post to social media, tag the zoo so your friends and family can see where you had a great day.

■ SENECA PARK ZOO in Rochester stewards the care of African lions, olive baboons, African elephants, North American river otters, lake sturgeon, ■ UTICA ZOO in Utica will host Dino meerkats, lemurs, snow leopards and Discovery all summer, with more than Bornean orangutans, among many 20 animatronic dinosaur figures and more species.

Jurassic-style landscaping as their https://senecaparkzoo.org backdrop. Dino Discovery is free with regular zoo admission. That’s in addi■ BAILIWICK RANCH & ANIMAL PARK tion to its usual exhibits. in the Catskill exhibits more than 30 www.uticazoo.org domestic and wild animals, including Bengal tigers, North American black ■ OLD MCDONALD’S FARM in Sackbears, Syrian brown bears, American ets Harbor cares for more than 1,000 bison, zebras, alpacas, African crested animals, including farm animals, cam- porcupines, dromedary camels, torels and reindeer. Visit with 200 friendly toises, emus, parrots, red kangaroos farm animals, take a 25 minute hayride and more. to feed the cows and pigs, jump on the www.bailiwickranch.com giant bounce pad and zoom down the kids’ zip line. Old McDonald’s Farm is ■ FORT RICKY DISCOVERY ZOO in all hands-on, from feeding the huge Rome specializes in helping guests get cows, to petting and walking amongst upclose to animals with a petting zoo dozens of goats, and even visiting for deer. The “maternity ward” allows the special reindeer! In the fall, Old guests to pet pygmy goats. The zoo McDonald’s Farm offers a 10-acre corn includes plenty of wet and dry play maze and pumpkin patch. areas as well. www.oldmcdonaldhasafarm.com, https://fortrickey.com animals native to these regions. www.theanimaladventurepreserve.com

Animal being fed by a visitor at the Preserve at Animal Adventure in Harpursville, near Binghamton.

TIME

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FEEL THE ADRENALINE RUSH! GO FOR A SKYDIVING EXPEDITION Several companies across Upstate New York offer the experience of a lifetime — starting roughly at $275

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

I

magine peering down at the ground far below and then stepping out of the plane at 10,000 feet, freefalling toward Earth.

What a rush!

About 500,000 Americans feel the thrill of skydiving for the first time every year, according to the United States Parachute Association.

In general, beginning skydivers typically jump tandem, harnessed to an experienced instructor. Ground instruction takes 30 to 60 minutes.

You can schedule the dive sooner and it’s the least expensive option. However, you’re not as independent. The instructor is in control of the parachute you share and it’s more like you’re along for the ride. You may be allowed to open the chute when the instructor says, but that’s not required if you feel more comfortable.

Instructor-assisted deployment involves several hours of training on the ground and on about the sixth jump, you can freefall. The parachute is yours to control.

Accelerated freefall sky diving requires the most training. Instructors jump with you and hold on during freefall and you open your own chute.

This is the most expensive way to go skydiving.

The following facilities offer skydiving opportunities:

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

■ ROCHESTER SKYDIVERS Perry-Warsaw Airport, 6522 State Route 20A, Perry, https://rochesterskydivers.com

■ JUST JUMP SKYDIVING Lt. Warren Eaton Airport, 6390 State Highway 12, Norwich www.justjumpskydiving.com)

■ WESTERN NEW YORK SKYDIVING Pine Hill Airport, 4906 Pine Hill Road, Albion www.wnyskydiving.com

Plan for an amazing experience.

Thoroughly research the guide companies you’re interested in. Talk with a few to find the one that is best for you, which may not necessarily be the least expensive. Discuss any “hidden” fees to avoid unpleasant surprises later. Most companies start at around $275 for a tandem jump. Photography and videography are extra. But some start with very low rates and charge separately for the cost of the flight.

Ask about group rates if you can enlist friends to come with you.

Follow all of the rules and general advice. The instructors offer these for your safety and comfort.

When researching skydiving companies, ask about the company’s USPA rating.

The USPA is a nonprofit membership organization in the industry.

Participation in the USPA is voluntary.

Consumers can report problems to the USPA so that those looking for a skydiving organization can see where various companies rank. The USPA site also lists their member organizations by location and amenities. Consumers can check company rating by registering for free at www.uspa.org.

■ SKYDIVE THE FALLS Windsor Shear Airport 1698 Braley Road, Youngstown www.skydivethefalls.com ■ SKYDIVE CNY Whitsford’s Airport, 3027 Ditmar Road, Weedsport www.skydivecny.com ■ SKYDIVE SENECA LAKE Ovid Airport, 2562 Parish Road, Ovid www.skydivesenecalake.com ■ SKYDIVE THE RANCH Gardiner Airport, 55 Sand Hill Road, Gardiner https://skydivetheranch.com) ■ SKYDIVE SARATOGA Heber Airport, 288 Brownville Road, Gansevoort https://saratogaskydive.com)

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2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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Boats on Erie Canal, Clinton Square, downtown Syracuse, circa 1880.

200 YEARS OF ERIE CANAL A myriad special events are planned to celebrate bicentennial or Erie Canal

By Stefan Yablonski

A

defining feature of New York’s history and development is turning 200 years old this year — happy birthday to the Erie Canal.

Cayuga County is ready to welcome history enthusiasts eager to honor this milestone, according to Noah Howard, public relations manager, Cayuga County Office of Tourism.

To commemorate this historic occasion, they have launched a dedicated Erie Canal Bicentennial section on TourCayuga.com.

One of the most anticipated highlights of the bicentennial celebrations is the arrival of the Seneca Chief, a fullscale replica of Gov. DeWitt Clinton’s historic packet boat, Howard said.

Built by the Buffalo Maritime Center, the Seneca Chief will embark on a 28-port commemorative voyage, retracing the original journey that marked the Erie Canal’s grand opening in 1825.

The vessel will stop in Cayuga

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

County (Weedsport) on Oct. 2, offering a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to witness this living history event firsthand.

As excitement builds for this oncein-a-lifetime bicentennial celebration, the Cayuga County Office of Tourism encourages everyone to stay updated by visiting TourCayuga.com for event details, historical insights and ways to get involved.

Other highlights include: • Canal History Blog Series — Delving into the canal’s profound impact on Cayuga County and beyond.

• Bicentennial Photo Gallery — A visual journey through the canal’s past and present.

• Bicentennial Canal Photo Contest — An invitation for photographers of all skill levels to capture the beauty of the canal and submit their best shots.

• Downloadable Canal Bicentennial Explorer’s Guide — A comprehensive

guide to key sites, attractions and experiences along the canal in Cayuga County.

• Exclusive Erie Canal Bicentennial Poster — A beautifully designed poster

by David Owens Illustration, celebrating the historic waterway.

• Canal Bicentennial Events Calendar — A continually updated listing of celebrations.

ERIE CANAL’S IMMEDIATE IMPACT “The canal was so important because it radically transformed the speed and expense of transportation across New York state, reducing a journey of one month from Buffalo to New York City to roughly one week and reducing the price of that journey to about 10% what it had been before the canal,” said Derrick Pratt, director of education and public programs Erie

Unidentified photo of canal with harnessed horses in foreground in Lockport

Canal Museum.

This resulted in an explosion of growth along the canal’s banks as well as in the regions it connected, the Great Lakes Basin and New York City, with farms and factories springing up to take advantage of the economic advantages offered by the canal, he added.

“It also allowed for the rapid spread of information and new movements took off along the canal ranging from abolition and women’s rights to Mormonism,” Pratt said. “The impacts of all of these transformations can still be felt in many ways, the majority of people in Upstate New York still live within 25 miles of the canal and even our food is influenced by it. For instance the salt potato has its origins in Syracuse salt boiling fields, which boomed as a result of the canal’s opening.”

“Perhaps the biggest though is the voyage of the Erie Canal Boat Seneca

Chief, a full-sized replica of the first canal boat that has been produced by the Buffalo Maritime Center, which will travel from Buffalo to New York in October, stopping at many canal towns,” Pratt said. “Here at the museum we are offering a number of free lectures on canal history, as well as our Beers, Bikes and Barges cycling tours, which guide cyclists through the history of several canal towns and end with a complimentary drink at a local brewery or bar.”

The museum is open seven days a week all year round (some holidays excluded) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Most of the year the museum is free with a $12 recommended donation, though from mid-November to mid-January it has mandatory admission for its Gingerbread Gallery.

The Erie Canal Museum, located in Downtown Syracuse (318 Erie Blvd. E.), engages the public in the story of the Erie Canal’s transformative impacts on

peoples and places in the past, present and future.

“We are stewards and interpreters of Erie Canal related materials and heritage,” Pratt said. “The museum is housed in the 1850 National Register Weighlock Building, the last remaining structure of its kind.”

The museum building once housed the offices of weighmasters and New York State Barge Canal Engineers.

The Erie Canal Museum is celebrating more than 50 years as the official museum of the Erie Canal by sharing its historic photograph and manuscript collections on New York Heritage Digital Collections.

The canal system is listed as a national historic landmark.

THREE ERIE CANALS Craig Williams is a volunteer at 2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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Then-NYS Gov. Clinton in October 1825 traveled aboard the Seneca Chief from Buffalo to New York Harbor, where he ceremonially poured a barrel of Lake Erie water into the Atlantic, symbolizing a “Wedding of the Waters” in early November of that year.

The Canal Society of New York State.

The nonprofit operates a facility in Port Byron on the Thruway.

“It is the bicentennial; there are basically three Erie canals,” Williams said. “There is the original that we are celebrating its completion in 2025, the 200th anniversary. And then there is the canal from the mid-19th century — an example of that is the canal lock at the Thruway stop.

“And the canal is still around today, the third generation the barge canal — you have it at Lock 8 right there in Oswego.”

The society’s big project is replica canal boat the Lois McClure, a fullscale, 88-foot long canal boat that had gone up and down the New York state waterways for the last 20 years but has been retired. It has been donated to the canal society, he said.

The Lois McClure is a replica of the type of canal schooner that was built beginning around 1862, known as the “1862-class canal schooner.”

The replica was designed based on shipwrecks found in Lake Cham44

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plain. It was built in 2002 by a team of shipwrights and volunteers at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum in Vergennes, Vermont. The museum shifted its focus and decided it was time to retire the McClure.

The Lois McClure was donated to the Canal Society of New York State in October 2023.

“We are going to bring it to the park and put it in our section of the original Erie Canal,” Williams said.

“The project is to get the canal boat, which is right now on land at Fox Ridge, New York, near Montezuma, and hopefully in the next month or so we will put it on a trailer and — believe it or not — bring it down the New York State Thruway. That will be something to see. We’ll bring it to the park where it will be permanently berthed to give people a sense of just how large these canal boats were in the 19th century.

That’s our big bicentennial project.

“The park on the Thruway, we probably get the most diverse audience of any canal just because it is the Thruway. We get people from all over

the world who have heard about the Erie Canal. The cache certainly attracts a great many visitors to the park and to other canal sites throughout the canal corridor.”

The Canal Society of New York State was founded in 1956. It is a volunteer organization for canal advocates interested in education about and preservation of New York’s 200-plus years of canal history. Among other activities, the society maintains a Heritage Park in Port Byron, where the Lois McClure will ultimately continue its educational mission as a land-based exhibit within a section of the Enlarged Erie Canal in the park.

The Heritage Park is accessible directly off the Thruway (I-90) between Waterloo (Exit 41) and Weedsport (Exit 40) heading eastbound. Driving west, get off at Weedsport and take Route 31 to the Heritage Park in Port Byron. The dog-friendly park is open daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. May-October.

“We work cooperatively with the Erie Canal Museum in Syracuse,” Williams said.

Opening of The Erie Canal — an engraving of aprint by Howard Pyle.

HOW IT GOT STARTED In the first decade of the 1800s, a movement began to grow, advocating for state and federal funding of an artificial waterway between the Hudson River and the Great Lakes.

Eventually, DeWitt Clinton arose as the leader of this movement. In 1817, the State Legislature narrowly approved the construction of the canal and shortly thereafter Clinton was elected governor. At the time, the canal became known as the “Clinton Ditch.”

As Gov. Clinton was celebrating in New York City, a smaller ceremony was also occurring in Rome, where the first shovelful of dirt on the Erie Canal was turned.

Work was completed in October 1825 and a grand celebration took place across the state as Clinton traveled aboard the Seneca Chief from Buffalo to New York Harbor, where he ceremonially poured a barrel of Lake Erie water into the Atlantic, symbolizing a “Wedding of the Waters” in early November.

The Erie Canal stretches from Albany to Buffalo. Pick any part of the Erie Canal to enjoy by the canalside trails or on the canal itself with one of the many tour boat companies traversing its waters, including tours originating in Camillus (www. eriecanalcamillus.com/boat. htm) or Herkimer (https:// eriecanalcruises.com).

Wander into any of the small towns dotting the canal to try a new restaurant, buy ice cream cones or iced coffee and check out unique shops.

The Erie Canal once ran through Clinton Square in the heart of downtown Syracuse.

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Your guide to events across Upstate New York!

Entertainment Guide 2025 We strongly urge contacting the venue while making plans to attend an event for the most up-to-date information.

This calendar was compiled in May 2025.

JUNE WEDNESDAYS and FRIDAYS Elbridge. Time Out to Fish. Individuals and small groups with special needs, senior citizens, grandparents and grandchildren and veterans and their families can enjoy a session of catch & release fishing. Bait, tackle and rods are provided. A fishing license is not required.

Advanced registration and prepayment required. No event July 4. 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. $5.

Free for people who are not fishing, including chaperones assisting persons with special needs or grandparents. Carpenter’s Brook Fish Hatchery, 1672 Route 321. 315-451-6249. reservations@ongov.net.

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

TUESDAYS

THURSDAYS

Syracuse. Downtown Farmers Market Lunchtime Live! Music Series. Enjoy a free music performance from a unique artist weekly from June 10 through Oct. 14. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free. 161 W. Genesee St. https:// downtownsyracuse.com/events/signature/ downtown-farmers-market.

Blossvale. Vienna Farmers Market. Produce and artisan vendors, cookouts, food trucks and a variety of live music. Rain or shine. EBT and SNAP benefits accepted and worth double their face value for produce. 2 to 6:30 p.m. Free.

North Bay Firemen’s Field, 2040 Route 49. www. facebook.com/ViennaFarmersMarketNY.

WEDNESDAYS

Clayton. Clayton Farmer’s Market. Peruse local seasonal goods, crafts, prepared food and other vendors’ wares. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mary Street at Village Park Circle. 1000islands-www.1000islands-clayton.com/farmersmarket.

315-686-3771. info@1000islands-clayton.com.

Oswego. Oswego Summer Sunset Concert Series. Beginning on June 25 through Aug. 20 (no concert on July 23). Jazz, big band and more. Bring your own seating. 7:30 p.m. Free.

Breitbeck Park. Breitbeck Park, 70 W. 5th St. Watertown. Watertown Farm & Craft Market.

Vendors, produce and live music. 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free. 317 Washington St.

Oswego. Oswego Farmers Market. Peruse local wares from area farms and other vendors. 4 to 8 p.m. Free. West First Street. www. oswegony.org

POLISH FESTIVAL Clinton Square Syracuse, NY. 68th Annual Syracuse Polish Festival will be held June 20-22, 2025 This project was made possible with funds from the County of Onondaga through the Tier Three Support Program administered by CNY Arts.

Party under the sky…

See you there !!!

AUGUST 15, 16 & 17, 2025 BOONVILLE-ONEIDA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS Gates Open Daily at 8 AM Rain or Shine

NYS

WOODSMEN’S FIELD

Plenty of FREE Parking Available • Community-Wide Events Sorry ... No Pets Allowed

Photos by Rich Eaton

DAYS

NYS WOODSMEN’S FIELD DAYS, INC. P.O. BOX 123, BOONVILLE, NY 13309 • www.WoodsmensFieldDays.com

(315) 942-4593

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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UPSTATE NEW YORK Oswego. Oswego Summer Concert Series. Beginning on June 26 and running through August 21 (no concert on July 24.) 6 to 9 p.m. Free.

Veteran’s Stage, Veterans Memorial Park, Water Street.

One Destination.

Endless Experiences.

Fishing adventures and family fun await at our scenic destination on the world-famous Salmon River.

Sylvan Beach. Classic Car Cruise. Free to participate and to show. 5 to 8 p.m. Sylvan Beach Park. https://sylvanbeachny.com/events.

FRIDAYS Oswego. Market Square Concert Series. Beginning on June 27 and running through Aug. 22.) Free. 6 to 9 p.m.

JUNE

Geneva. The Sebastians. Experience the artistry of five-time Grammy Award winner Cecile McLorin Salvant, hailed by The New York Times as “the finest jazz singer to emerge in the last decade,” accompanied by virtuoso pianist Sullivan Fortner, in an intimate duo performance. 7:30 p.m. $40. 24 Park Place. www. genevamusicfestival.com. 315-326-1951. admin@genevamusicfestival.com.

1

Nedrow. Summer Solstice Concert: All My Relations. The Syracuse Community Choir and Onondaga Nation gathers for a concert celebrating the 40th anniversary season that honors the interconnectedness of all living beings. 6 p.m. $5 to $30. Onondaga Nation School, Route 11A. 315-428-8151.

Solvay. Bones East Concert. Bones East, full trombone ensemble (25+ trombones), will perform a family friendly concert with popular songs to include Blue Skies, When or Where, Nessus Dorma and more.

2 p.m. Free, donations accepted. St. Cecilia’s Church, 1001 Woods Road.

607-591-4930.

Weedsport. Dennis Goethal. 1 p.m. Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company, 8931 N. Seneca St. https://en-gb.facebook.com/LunkenheimerCraftBrewingCompany.

JUNE

4

Syracuse. John “Papa” Gross. Funk, rock, jazz and blues.

7 p.m. $30+ 443 Burnet Ave. https://443socialclub.com.

JUNE

Canandaigua. Benson Boone. Benson Boone had a Platinum-certified 2024 debut album Fireworks & Rollerblades, and his song “Beautiful Things” was the most streamed song in the world in 2024. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

5

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

• 2 Great Locations to Choose from: • Letchworth State Park or • Salmon River in Pulaski • Class II/III Water = Great Fun

UPSTATE NEW YORK Syracuse. Chris Trapper. Roots-driven pop vocalist and guitarist. 7 p.m. $25+ 443 Burnet Ave. https://443socialclub.com. 315-876-0568. julie@443socialclub.com.

Bouckville/Madison. Antique Show. The show includes more than 2,000 dealers among 13 show areas with inventories of antiques, vintage collectibles, and more. Food trucks vendors available. Check the website for sale sites. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. Route 20 between Bouckville and Madison. www.madison-bouckville.com.

Chittenango. Oz-Stravaganza. Presented by the International L. Frank Baum & All Things Oz Historical Foundation, the festival theme this year is “Ease on Down the Wicked Road,” celebrating the musical The Wiz. The event includes fireworks, parade, crafters, vendors, amusement rides, food, special guests, live music, free programming, Munchkin Mile kids’ run, writing contest, coloring contest, silent auctions, Oz authors and artists, games and more. Free. 219 Genesee St. 315-687-7772. www.oz-stravaganza.com.

big

Clayton. The Brit Pack: The Ultimate British Music Experience. 7:30 p.m. $35+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets.

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Oswego

West First Street in Oswego, seen from the Rooftop Lounge restaurant.

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

Open Tues-Sun, located at 7 W Bridge Street Oswego

www.cmoo.org • 315-216-6387

OSWEGO HARBORFEST JULY 24–27, 2025 30+ music performances and attractions

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at er

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Children’s Parade & Entertainment

at t h e

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2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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VISITING OSWEGO? TRY THESE ACTIVITIES

By Stefan Yablonski The West Pierhead Lighthouse

O

swego has a beautiful waterfront; many parks afford a panoramic view of Lake Ontario.

Here’s what you should check if you’re visiting or revisiting the city:

MUSICAL CONCERTS

• Sunset Concert Series at Breitbeck Park. Enjoy jazz, big band and more at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays in June and July (except July 23); at 7 p.m. in August. Bring lawn chairs or THE FORT blankets.

Four forts have stood watch over ■ Summer Concert Series at the mouth of the Oswego River, startVeterans’ Stage June 26 – Aug. 21. ing with one built by the British in 1755 Thursdays (except July 24) Constellaand including the present Fort Ontario, tion sponsors a concert from 6-9 p.m. constructed by Americans starting in ■ Oswego Market Street Square 1839.

Concert Series June 27 – Aug. 22. Fridays (except July 25) Oswego County 1 E. Fourth St. Tourism sponsors a concert 6-9 p.m.

Phone: 315-343-4711 Near the fort is The Safe Haven Holocaust Refugee Shelter Museum — dedicated to keeping alive the stories of 982 refugees from World War II who were allowed into America as “guests” of the president. They were housed at Fort Ontario from August 1944 until February 1946.

22 Barbara Donahue Drive Phone: 315-342-3003 May 1 to Columbus Day Open 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Thursday – Tuesday.

LIGHTHOUSE TOURS The West Pierhead Lighthouse is an active aid to navigation. It stands at the end of a 2,000-foot-long breakwater, extending one-half mile out onto Lake Ontario.

The H. Lee White Maritime Museum offers tours to the lighthouse June 20 through September. For information: 315-342-0480 or http://hlwmm. org.

The museum located along Oswe-

go River is home to one of the remaining tugs that participated in the landings at Normandy during World War II. It can be visited along with many other historical maritime items.

RACING Oswego Speedway is home of International Classic Weekend for Supermodifieds, small block supers and 350 supermodifieds. Held on Labor Day weekend, it’s the crown jewel of the local racing season.

Races are held throughout the summer. For information: oswegospeedway.com Super Dirt Week Oct. 6-11, “racing’s biggest party” takes place at Oswego Speedway. For information: superdirtweek.com

FESTIVALS ■ Porchfest, Sept. 21. Stroll through the city’s westside neighborhoods and parks while listening to a variety of musical performances in an open air setting from noon to 6 p.m.

For information: Porchfest.com ■ CNY Pumpkin Festival Oct. 4-5.

The Accounting Standard ■ Bookkeeping ■ Sales Tax ■ Payroll Small Business Consultant ■ Tax Preparation ■ Small Business Consultant Quickbooks Pro Advisor ■ Quickbooks Pro Advisor

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Oswego County’s #1 Real Estate Agency.

315) 343-4456

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Services) 234(formerly E. AlbanyComputer Street Accounting (315) 343-4456

Oswego NY 13126

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

(315) 342-2111

www.Century21Galloway.com

335 West 1st St. Suite 1B Oswego NY 13126

Each office is independently owned and operated.

Sponsored by Oswego YMCA. Held in Washington Square Park, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Includes amusements and activities for children and families, live music, food and beverages and craft vendors. For information: oswegoymca.org ■ Paddlefest July 19. Canoers and kayakers paddle through a portion of the historic Erie Canal. Participants launch in Minetto for a 5.5-mile trip or Fulton’s Indian Point, for a 13-mile trip.

Both paths end at Wright’s Landing.

For registration (required) and information: hlwmm.org ■ Oswego Harborfest July 24-27.

From some of the best fireworks in the world to bands from different genres, Harborfest has it all. Most festivities take place in Breitbeck Park. East Park is the Jazz and Blues celebrations.

The midway is on Lake Street. More festivities can be found at Veterans Memorial Park and the River Walk. The world famous Grucci Fireworks display is held Saturday night.

,

Welcome to Oswego, New York Where Family Meets Community.

I ON T A TY LOR Wher e WATERFRONT EXP G BEAU Meets BREATHTAKIN

OSWEGONY.ORG

Downtown Living

O S W E G O N Y.O RG

Be in the heart of it all with views of the water — Oswego River and Lake Ontario — shopping, dining, outdoor recreation, including riverwalk trails. Young professionals, empty nesters, families — hundreds make their home right in Downtown Oswego.

The downtown living offers a variety of options to suit everyone's specific needs. And the living spaces themselves, from modern apartments and condos to spacious lofts in historic buildings, are beautifully distinctive.

OTHER THINGS YOU SHOULD NOT MISS: ■ Oswego Farmers’ Market

AN K YOUJune 12 to Oct. 9

HE FOLLOWING FOR OF PHOTOS IN THIS Presented by Oswego-Fulton CHURE:

wego County Tourism Office Chamber of Commerce, on West

Entertainment

First Street, it’s held Thursdays from 4-8 p.m. Visitors can find fresh produce, baked goods, arts and crafts and more.

The Oswego area bolsters a wide vareity of events yearround from festivals, world-class fishing, movie theater & a drive-in theater, several music and performing arts groups, races and derbies, museums and historical sites, bustling night life and accommodations available in walking distance to attractions. There is something for every individual and family to choose from.

Where URBA Meets EXCEPTI

■ Oswego Independence Day Celebration July 6

Expanding Community

The parade begins at 1 p.m.

Downtown block party on West First Street following the parade with music, food, time capsule dedication and more.

Festivities conclude with fireworks over the river at 9:45 p.m.

Our community is always expanding, creating new activities for you and your family. Places for business to grow and thrive. Elected officals that push for clean streets, and better quality of life for its citizens and visitors.

A Year-Round Destination of Fun!

■ Sunsets at Breitbeck Park Breitbeck Park is one of the best places to just stand and look out over the expanse of Lake Ontario. The sunsets here are second to none in their beauty.

OSWEGONY.ORG

Oswego, New York is a waterfront community located on the Southeastern shore of Lake Ontario and along the Oswego River. The city is embarking on a transformation to build upon its strengths to embrace our rich history, natural assets, and promotes the development and restoration of healthy, vibrant neighborhoods surrounding Oswego’s downtown.

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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WELCOME TO

Upstate New York

THOUGH THE PRECISE BOUNDARY IS UP for debate, Upstate New York

with the Dutch founding Fort Orange (present-day Albany) in 1624, the land generally refers to the geographic was ceded from the indigenous tribes region north of and excluding the of the region. By the end of the AmerNew York City metropolitan area. It ican Revolutionary War, the land had includes the cities of Albany, Buffalo, all but been ceded over to European Syracuse, and Rochester. settlers in the formation of New York Before European colonization, and the United States.

Upstate New York was populated by The 1825 opening of the Erie Canal several Native American tribes and the across upstate transformed the econhome to the Six Nations. Beginning

omy, greatly increasing movement of goods across the state and ushering in a hotbed of manufacturing to the region during the Second Industrial Revolution.

Due to the vast swathes of ariable rural land, Upstate New York is home to a strong agricultural industry, known for its dairy, maple syrup, apples, and wine.

FAIR H

SODUS BAY

CANANDAIGUA

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

HAVEN

BREWERTON

ONEIDA

AUBURN

UTICA

CAZENOVIA

CORTLAND

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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OSWEGO claytonoperahouse.com. 315-686-2200.

Chittenango. Oz-Stravaganza. See June 6.

Oswego. City of Oswego Independence Day Celebration. Parade from Oswego High School to Fort Ontario along Bridge Street in Oswego, block party on West First Street. There will be a time capsule presentation in the afternoon during the block party. Vendors, family fun, and entertainment from John McConnell from 4 to 6:30 p.m. and Off the Record from 7 to 9:30 p.m. with fireworks to follow. 1 to 10 p.m. Downtown.

Fairport. Canal Days. The art festival includes a chicken BBQ, live music, children’s activities, and more than 200 artisans in a juried art show.

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; 6/8 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free to attend. 6 N. Main St. www.fairportcanaldays. com. 585-377-6010. info@fairportcanaldays. com.

Syracuse. Taste of Syracuse. CNY’s summer kickoff, Taste of Syracuse has operated downtown for more than 25 years. Celebrate local food, business, music and more from Clinton Square to the Chase Building. $2 samples from a variety of local restaurants and live music on three stages. Clinton Square. https://events. visitsyracuse.com Waterloo. Forever Seger. Must be 21 years or older to attend event. 8 p.m. $32+. del Lago Resort & Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https:// dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

JUNE

7

Syracuse. Taste of Syracuse. See June 6.

Waterloo. The World’s Most Ridiculous Trivia Game Show. Must be 21 years or older

Free

1063

Whopper® With Purchase of Adult Combo Meal Offer valid only at the following Burger King® restaurants: 187 State Route 104, Oswego, NY 204 South Second St., Fulton, NY

Expires: 12/31/25 Expires: 6/30/25

Bouckville/Madison. Antique Show. See June 6.

Adult Combo Meal purchase required. One Free Whopper sandwich per customer. Not valid with any other coupons or offers. Valid only where received, and at participating Burger King® restaurants operated by Carrols LLC, until 6/30/25. Void where prohibited or if reproduced, altered, sold or transferred. No substitutions. Tax Extra. Cash value 1/100c. Not valid on digital or delivery orders. TM & © 2024 BKC LLC.

PADDLEFEST July 19th Sign Up Now

to attend event. 8 p.m. $44+. del Lago Resort & Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https://dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

Cortland. 34th Annual Cortland County Water Festival. Educational, water-related activities and displays, including horse drawn tours of the waterworks. Kids can also play games, get their faces painted, blow bubbles, join the duck races, and play the Water Wizard game. Cortland County Soil & Water Conservation District’s mascot Ronny Raindrop® will be there. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. City of Cortland Waterworks, Broadway Ave. brandan.aschmutat@cortlandswcd.org. 607-756-5991.

Cortland. Pet Fair. Vendors, entertainment, food trucks and demonstrations. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. Cortland County Fair Grounds, 4301 Fairground Dr. Grab Fido and bring the whole fur family down to the Cortland County Fairgrounds for a free Pet Fair! Shop pet goodies and meet local groomers, vets and kennels.

Enjoy and afternoon of pets on parade, face painting, best dog tricks, and pony rides, just to name a few of the festivies.

Sackets Harbor. Live at the Bandstand Music Festival. Fourth annual festival includes McKinley James, Baklava Express and Bruce

The Port of oswego Means Business For Your Business!

Museum & Gift Shop 1–5 P.M. DAILY JULY & AUGUST 10–5 P.M.

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Lighthouse Tours June - September hlwmm.org W. 1st St. Pier Oswego, NY 315.342.0480

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

OSWEGO Katz Band. Food trucks, beer trucks and vendors. Bring your own seating. 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Free. Sackets Harbor Sentinel Bandstand, 304 West Main Street. https://visitsacketsharbor. com.

JUNE

8

Bouckville/Madison. Antique Show. See June 6.

Chittenango. Oz-Stravaganza.

See June 6.

Fairport. Canal Days. See June 7.

Syracuse. Syracuse Chamber Orchestra Concert: “Serenades, Nocturnes, and Other Night Music.” Concert will feature music by Mozart, Dvorak, Schubert, Borodin, and Karlowicz. 3 p.m. Free. Park Central Presbyterian Church, 504 E. Fayette St. 484-318-1009.

Syracuse. Count Blastula. Blast Off Sunday.

1 p.m. $10+ 443 Burnet Ave. https://443socialclub.com. 315-876-0568.

Syracuse. Tony Trischka. 7 p.m. $30+ 443 Burnet Ave. https://443socialclub.com. 315876-0568.

Weedsport. Jess Novak and also Tom Chick.

1 p.m. Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company, 8931 N. Seneca St. https://en-gb.facebook. com/LunkenheimerCraftBrewingCompany.

Scriba ELECTRIC INC.

JUNE

Canandaigua. Megan Moroney.

Am I OK? Tour. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

12

Cazenovia. Friends of Lorenzo Garden Gala.

Join the Friends of Lorenzo in celebrating 42 years of support for the restoration and ongoing maintenance of the 1914 Ellen Shipman-designed-garden at Lorenzo. Cocktails, appetizers, raffles, Mansion tours, and more. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. $50 to $60. Lorenzo State Historic Site, 17 Rippleton Road. www.friendsoflorenzo. org. 315-655-3200.

Oswego. Oswego Pro-Am. Weigh-in in Oswego. Launch points are in Oswego, Little Salmon, or Port Ontario. www.oswegoproam.com.

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315 342-2887 • Open 7 AM - 9 PM Daily 2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

57

OSWEGO Syracuse. 2025 New York State Blues Festival. This world-class gathering brings musicians and fans from around the world to celebrate a rich American art form. On-site RV parking, hotel deals, great vendors and more. Chevy Court at the NYS Fair Grounds, 581 State Fair Blvd. Free. 818-212-9489. www. nysbluesfest.com.

SENIOR CITIZEN HOUSING Applications Now Being Accepted. 62+ No Smoking!

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JUNE

13 2200.

Clayton. Michael Cavanaugh. 7:30 p.m. $65+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets. claytonoperahouse.com. 315-686-

Oswego. Oswego Pro-Am. See July 12.

Syracuse. 2025 New York State Blues Festival. See June 12.

Waterloo. Ginuwine. Must be 21 years or older to attend event. 8 p.m. $37+. del Lago Resort & Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https://dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

Verona. The Righteous Brothers. Lovin’ Feelin’ Farewell Tour. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 800-771-7711.

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JUNE

14

com.

Aurora. The Healers with Jim Van Arsdale. 6 p.m. Camp Gregory, 1803 Lake Rd. www.jimvanarsdale.

King Ferr y. Destination After Dark.

Award-winning wines, local craft beers, live music, and food. 6 to 9 p.m. Treleaven Wines, 658 Lake Rd. https://treleavenwines.com.

Palmyra. Finger Lakes Country Music Festival. Rain or shine. Bring your own seating.

4:30 p.m. $55. Wayne County Fairgrounds, W. Jackson St. www.fingerlakescountrymusicfestival.com.

Syracuse. 2025 New York State Blues Festival. See June 12.

Verona. Lights Out. A tribute to Frankie Valli.

8 p.m. Admission TBA. Turning Stone Resort

100 Rochester St. Fulton, NY 13069 315-598-4700

SPRINGBROOK APTs

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

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OSWEGO Casino, 5218 Patrick Road. www.turningstone. com. 800-771-7711.

Wolcott. Strawberry Festival. Celebrate the season’s harvest with strawberry shortcake, food, vendors, music, parade and live entertainment. Northup Park, New Hartford Street.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100091211472482

JUNE

15

Port Byron. Harmonic Dirt. 5 to 9 p.m. Potters Farm to Fork, 1951 State Route 31.

Geneva. Summer Concert at Rose Hill Mansion. Bring a picnic dinner, lawn chairs or a blanket and enjoy an evening of music. 5 to 7 p.m. Free. 3373 Route 96 A. 315-789-3848. rosehill@historicgeneva.org.

Syracuse. Nachos & Blancos. 7 p.m. $10 443 Burnet Ave. https://443socialclub.com. 315876-0568.

Weedsport. Bri & Me. 1 p.m. Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company, 8931 N. Seneca St. https://en-gb.facebook.com/LunkenheimerCraftBrewingCompany.

JUNE

Oswego. Shakespeare in the Park: Othello. Rain date is June 18. 5:30.

Veteran’s Stage, Veterans Memorial Park, Water Street.

17

Fair Haven. Patrick Young Music: Brandon’s Pub + Grille. Syracuse-born Young is an accomplished singer/guitarist performing a wide range of covers from classic rock to country to popular songs of today. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Brandon’s Pub + Grille, 559 Main St.

18

STATE-OF-THE-ART REPAIR FACILITY

Central New York Pumpkin Festival The CNY Pumpkin Festival returns to Washington Square Park from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 4, and Sunday, Oct. 5. It includes kid’s activities, amusements, food, beverage and marketplace vendors and all the fall favorites including apples, pumpkins and more!

JUNE

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8:00am & 10:30am

Rev. John Leo Oduor, Parochial Vicar ctgs@syrdio.org † www.ChristTheGoodShepherd.org Facebook.com/ChristTheGoodShepherdOswegoNY

“ Visit Our In House Bakery”

4:30pm

Sunday Mass

Sunday Mass Newman Center 6:30pm

Air conditioned and handicap accessible.

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www.OntarioOrchards.com ‡ 315-343-6328 2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

59

Fulton

Canal Landing, Fulton.

Aurora. Rachel Beverly. Rachel Beverly is a Cortland-bred musician and songwriter based out of Ithaca, NY. Pure, yet gutsy, vocals come from a heartfelt desire to bring her audience a fresh new twist to songs. 6 p.m. Free. Wells College Golf Course, 170 Main St.

Rochester. 39th Annual Harborfest. Celebrate summer’s launch with family-oriented activities, lighthouse tours, car show, beach volleyball tournament, food and beverage vendors and live entertainment. Free. Ontario Beach, 50 Beach Ave. www.ontariobeachentertainment. org/harborfest. 585-820-4068. vanrochester@ gmail.com

Fair Haven. Third Friday. Live music, art, shopping, demonstrations, food, and fun in downtown Fair Haven. 4 to 7 p.m. fairhavenny. org.

Summer Hill. The Stifftones. 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Summerhill Brewing, LLC, 14408 State Route 90.

JUNE

20

Where Goals Meet Guidance, Navigate with Confidence.

Syracuse. Syracuse Polish Festival. The three-day family-friendly celebration of Polish culture, heritage, and traditions will mark its 69th anniversary. Hands-on arts and crafts, games, live entertainment and food. Free.

Clinton Square, N. Clinton St. & W. Genesee St. www.facebook.com/syracusepolishfest/?t=1746035341.

Syracuse. Vance Gilbert. R&B/folk/jazz musician. 7 p.m. $25+. 443 Burnet Ave. https://443socialclub.com. 315-876-0568.

JULIE@443socialclub.com.

Waterloo. The Gaslight Anthem. Must be 21 years or older to attend event. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. del Lago Resort & Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https://dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

Weedsport. UnParallel Band. 6 p.m. Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company, 8931 N. Seneca St. https://en-gb.facebook.com/LunkenheimerCraftBrewingCompany.

Contact Our Team Today!

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60

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

FORMERLY KNOWN AS FULTON DRIVING RANGE.

Golf Coaching • Youth Golf Party • Tee Time Venue Rental • Tee Time Youth Clinic

Owners: Greg Callen and Kristen Aluzzi.

1977 State Route 48 North, Fulton

Since 1937

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(Just south of Battle Island State Park Golf Course)

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www.johnstonspropane.com

JUNE

Auburn. Royal Carriage Rides with Princess. Experience “Real Magic in Every Moment” as you and your loved ones take enchanting horse-drawn carriage rides with a real life princess. Wear your favorite princess dress and bring your cameras and autograph books to meet a princess at unique, immersive, and professional character experience in CNY. June 21 Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella & Tiana; June 22 Rapunzel, Asha & Ariel. Each ticket includes: up to foru to five guests for (one) ride with the designated carriage princess around the park (at least one adult must accompany children); the whole group gets to meet and greet with two additional princesses; autographed photo of the carriage ride princess; digital access to posed photos in front of the carriage; and access to add-ons, including face painting, crowning ceremonies and more. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. $120/four to five guests. Hoopes Park 100 S. Herman Ave. 315-464-0776.

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner

21

Mimi’s Drive-In Route 481 N. • Fulton • 593-7400 7 DAYS A WEEK

Summer's here but your next winter escape starts now!

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Choice of Two Daily Specials -----------------Including----------------• Prime Rib ......................................20.99 • Seafood Platter..............................20.99 Shrimp, Fish, Scallops and Clams

• Fresh Haddock Dinner..................15.49 FAST SERVICE • AMPLE PARKING • FRESH COFFEE Sun.–Mon. 7 a.m.–3 p.m.

Tues.–Sat. 7 a.m.–8 p.m.

Canandaigua. Goose. Goose is an American rock band known for its genre-blending sound, improvisational live performances, and dedicated fan base. 7:30 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

Clayton. Ann Hampton Callaway: Finding Beauty. 8 p.m. Tickets TBA. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets. claytonoperahouse.com. 315-686-2200.

Fair Haven. Caleb Liber. Solo, acoustic musician playing ‘90s music. 7 p.m. Brandon’s Pub + Grille, 559 Main St. Rochester. 39th Annual Harborfest. See June 20.

Syracuse. Syracuse Polish Festival. See June 20.

Waterloo. Miss Pat. Must be 21 years or older to attend event. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. del Lago Resort & Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https:// dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

PARTY AT the YARD YOUR SUMMER / FALL FUN DESTINATION

JUNE

Cazenovia. Spiked Apple Hard Cider 5K Run. Walk or run through the landscape of Critz Farms. Critz Farms includes approximately 350 acres of land 3.5 miles south of scenic Route 20. The race will benefit Cazenovia Preservation Foundation.

This race is timed and scored by J3 Timing. 10 a.m. to 12 noon. $59.79 to participate. Critz Farms, 3232 Rippleton Road. www.critzfarms. com. 315-662-3355.

22

Port Byron. Reflections Classic Rock. Live music. 5 p.m. Potters Farm to Fork, 1951 State Route 31.

Rochester. 39th Annual Harborfest. See June 20.

Syracuse. Syracuse Polish Festival. See June 20.

• The Yard • Outside Entertainment Thurs. – Sat. • Outside Bar • Special Concert Series • Fundraisers • Full Restaurant & Bar • Available for Graduations, Reunions & more

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LETS PLAY MINIGOLF 723 W. BROADWAY, FULTON, NY | (315) 593-8070 2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

61

FULTON

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2025EVENTS atTHEGLODGE Livemusic•Localvendors• Camping•Familyfun

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Stopbyourseasonalroadside standforfreshblooms,veggies, andmicrogreens.

TheGaugerHouse Bed&Breakfast Acozy,art-filledfarmhouse offeringprivaterooms,homecookedmeals,andapeaceful Upstateretreat.

Weedsport. Virgil’s Lantern. 1 p.m. Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company, 8931 N Seneca St. https://en-gb.facebook.com/LunkenheimerCraftBrewingCompany.

Verona. Counting Crows. The Complete Sweets! Tour. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Road. www. turningstone.com. 800-771-7711.

JUNE

Clayton. Clayton Community Band. 7 p.m. $8+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https:// tickets.claytonoperahouse.com. 315-686-2200.

24

Syracuse. Strawberry Social. Enjoy strawberry treats on the library lawn, peruse the used book sale, enjoy sidewalk chalk, listen to live music and register for summer reading programs for children and adults. Soule Branch Library, 101 Springfield Road. 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Free. 315-435-5320.

JUNE

25

King Ferry. Levi Gangi. 6 p.m.

Bright Leaf Vineyard, 1250 Clearview Rd.

Syracuse. Curtis Salgado. Blues musician. 7 p.m. $30+ 443 Burnet Ave. https://443socialclub.com. 315-876-0568.

JUNE

Auburn. Total Recall. Part of the EPIC Summer Series every Thursday. $5 parking (season passes available). 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Free. Emerson Park, 6877 E Lake Road.

26

Clayton. Hotel California. 7:30 p.m. $45+.

Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets.claytonoperahouse.com. 315686-2200.

Syracuse. Dave Novak Five. SAMMY-winning vocalists. 7 p.m. $15+ 443 Burnet Ave. https://443socialclub.com. 315-876-0568.

JULIE@443socialclub.com.

JUNE

Waterloo. Jackyl. Must be 21 years or older to attend event. 8 p.m.

Admission TBA. del Lago Resort & Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https://dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

27 JUNE

WWW.GAUGERESTATEOFMIND.COM

Clayton. Kristin Key. 7:30 p.m. $25+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets. claytonoperahouse.com. 315-686-2200.

28

Lake George. Adirondack Wine & Food Festi-

62

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

val. Have the opportunity to experience 120+ of New York’s wineries, craft beverage makers, artisan food producers, food trucks, crafters, and more. $29+. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Festival Commons at Charles R. Wood Park, 17 Elizabeth Little Boulevard. 518-284-3516.

Waterloo. Pop 2000 World Tour with Chris Kirpatrick. Must be 21 years or older to attend event. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. del Lago Resort & Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https://dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

JUNE

Canandaigua. James Taylor and His All-star Band with special guest Tiny Habits. As a recording and touring artist, James has performed for more than 50 years. 7:30 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

29

Lake George. Adirondack Wine & Food Festival. See July 28.

Syracuse. Kevin Hart: Acting My Age. Emmyand Grammy-nominated Kevin Hart received the Kennedy Center’s annual Mark Twain Prize for American Comedy in 2024 and was the 25th recipient and the youngest honoree to date. 7 p.m. Admission TBA. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 760 S. State St. www.oncenter.org.

Syracuse. The Beach Boys. 3 p.m. Admission TBA. Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview, 490 Restoration Way. https://thebeachboys. com.

JULY MONDAYS THROUGH SATURDAYS Auburn. Barnum. Combining the razzle-dazzle of Broadway with the magic of the circus, Barnum tracks the rise of Phineas Taylor Barnum as he and his wife, Charity, create “the greatest show on earth.” Barnum is a Tony Award-winning musical with something for audiences of all ages. Rated PG. The show runs July 9-July 26. Varying times; check the website. $82-86.

The Rev Theatre Company, The Merry-GoRound Playhouse, 6877 E. Lake Rd. https:// therevtheatre.com.

TUESDAYS Syracuse. Downtown Farmers Market Lunchtime Live! Music Series. Enjoy a free music performance from a unique artist weekly through October 14. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free. 161 W. Genesee St. https://downtownsyracuse.com.

FULTON WEDNESDAYS Oswego. Oswego Summer Sunset Concert Series. Runs through Aug. 20 (no concert on July 23.) Jazz, big band, and more. Bring your own seating. 7:30 p.m. Free. Breitbeck Park.

Breitbeck Park, 70 W. 5th St. Sylvan Beach. Concert Series. Weather dependent. Bring your own seating. July 2: Loose Gravel; July 9: The Shylocks Blues; July 16: Easy Money Big Band; July 23: Nelson Brothers; July 30: Rose Thorne. 6 to 8 p.m. Free. 1203 Main St. https://sylvanbeachny.com/events.

Watertown. Watertown Farm & Craft Market.

Vendors, produce and live music. 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free. 317 Washington St.

and a variety of live music. Rain or shine. EBT and SNAP benefits accepted and worth double their face value for produce. 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Free. North Bay Firemen’s Field, 2040 Route 49. www.facebook.com/ViennaFarmersMarketNY.

THURSDAYS

Clayton. Clayton Farmer’s Market. Peruse local seasonal goods, crafts, prepared food and other vendors’ wares. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mary Street at Village Park Circle. 1000islands-www.1000islands-clayton.com/farmersmarket. www.facebook.com/Claytonnyfarmersmarket.

315-686-3771.

Auburn. EPIC Summer Series. 7/10 Johnny Bender; 7/17 Cruise Control; 7/24 Sophistafunk; 7/31. Infinity $5 parking (season passes available). 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Free. Emerson Park, 6877 E. Lake Rd. Blossvale. Vienna Farmers Market. Produce and artisan vendors, cookouts, food trucks

Outlaw Weekend Fulton. Outlaw Weekend. Oct. 2, 3 and 4. The racing season comes to an exciting close at Fulton Speedway with the 39th Neivel Precision Plumbing Outlaw 200 Weekend. Three days of racing with multiple classes with the Outlaw 200 on Oct. 4. www.fultonspeedway.com.

FULTON TAXI SERVICE

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2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

63

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WATERTOWN

945 JAMES ST

SCAN TO SHOP ONLINE

64

3704 STATE RT 13

71 DEPOT ST

231 N RUTLAND ST

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

25 S. Jefferson St., Pulaski NY 13142

PULASKI / SANDY CREEK Oswego. Oswego Farmers Market. Peruse local wares from area farms and other vendors. 4 to 8 p.m. Free. West First Street. www.oswegony. org.

Oswego. Oswego Summer Concert Series. Running through Aug. 21 (no concert on July 24.) 6 to 9 p.m. Free. Veteran’s Stage, Veterans Memorial Park, Water Street.

Sylvan Beach. Classic Car Cruise. Free to participate and to show. 5 to 8 p.m. Sylvan Beach Park. https://sylvanbeachny.com/events.

Oswego. Market Square Concert Series. Runs through August 22 (no concert on July 25.) Free. 6 to 9 p.m.

SATURDAYS Fair Haven. Saturday Night Band Concert. Features patriotic music, classic instrumentals, and marching ballads from the Red Creek American Legion Band. Red Creek-Fair Haven Rotary Club concession stand.

7 p.m. Village Bandstand, Central Park, 14523 Cayuga St.

1

LLC

CERTIFIED MARINE MECHANIC & BOAT REPAIRS

FRIDAYS

JULY

Greene Point Marina & Mobile Home Park

Syracuse. Lil’ Ed & the Blues Imperials. Blues music. 7 p.m. $30+ 443 Burnet Ave. https://443socialclub.com. 315876-0568.

MARINE STORE PARTS & ACCESSORIES NON-ETHANOL GAS | 90 OCTANE VALVTECT PONTOON BOAT RENTALS Sandy Pond T-Shirts, Koozies, Hats & Sunglasses Camping supplies - Groceries, beer & ice Great Waterfront Living — Mobile Home For Sales

Emergency Towing on Sandy Pond 206 Greene Point Rd., Mannsville, NY 13661 Just off Route 3 at the Oswego / Jefferson line Email: cheryl@gpmarina.com or cathy@gpmarina.com

315-387-3513 www.gpmarina.com

Ticonderoga. Best 4th in the North Celebration. Free. Bicentennial Park, 137 Montcalm St.

BURT GOODNOUGH’S MARINA

2 LOCATIONS

3255 Main Street Mexico, NY 13114 315-963-7887 3914 Rome Rd Pulaski, NY 13142 315-298-3380

Friendship Thrift Shoppe

HUGE BARN SALE JUNE 17TH THRU LABOR DAY! Thursday-Sunday 10-3

PLUS SO MUCH MORE! SEE WEBSITE @ BGMARINA.COM

315-387-5894 • bgmarina2@gmail.com 9245 State Route 3 •Sandy Creek, NY

Rainbow Shores

“Volunteers Extending A Helping Hand”

6046 S. Main St., Sandy Creek

(315) 387-6673

Offering Quality Used Clothing and Household Items at Low Cost!

Open Monday thru Friday 9 am to 4 pm Saturday 9 am to 1 pm

Follow us on Facebook

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

65

MAKE YOUR DAY IN THE SUN THE BEST DAY OF THE SEASON

Enchanted Forest Water Safari in Old Forge.

EXPLORING LOCAL THEME PARKS Ride the day away with your family and friends

• Review the park’s website to understand its ticket policy.

Some offer full or partial refunds or rain dates in case of bad weather. You could also spot discounts and coupons.

• Check out the park’s map to plan which attractions you want to do first or during lunchtime so you don’t have to wait as long in line.

• Bring along plenty of sunscreen. Reapply every two hours and also after toweling off.

“Sport” style sunscreen helps resist perspiration.

• Eat light all day to minimize feeling sick on rides. Steer clear of greasy foods or rich foods, like onion rings or ice cream cones if you’re prone to feeling queasy.

Take time to hydrate all day.

• Don’t force others to ride if they feel uncertain. It’s OK to skip a ride and do something else.

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

U

pstate New York features a number of theme parks, offering all sorts of fun activities for the family.

Here are some of them: ■ SEABREEZE AMUSEMENT PARK in Rochester includes both amusement rides and a water park. Its smaller size enables families to cover the whole park in a day without feeling rushed yet still have plenty to do. The park’s vintage charm adds to its appeal. https://seabreeze.com ■ SEABREEZE, ROSELAND WATERPARK in Canandaigua is a smaller park that’s doable in a day. Roseland is all about water with a wave pool, largesized kiddie water play area, raft rides, water balloon fight area and a variety of water slides. www.roselandwaterpark.com

plus go-karts, rock climbing, miniature golf, zipline, games and an arcade. It’s the state’s largest waterpark as well.

Area places of lodging offer getaway package deals. www.watersafari.com

■ ZOOM FLUME WATER PARK in East Durham has a variety of water features, including its namesake flume, a lazy or wild river ride, slides, water play area and a wave pool. https://zoomflume.com

■ SIX FLAGS operates theme parks in New York in Buffalo, Darien Center and Lake George. Designed for an overnight stay with on-site lodging, these parks include water rides, larger rides like full-sized coasters and an arcade. Plan a weekend getaway, as a day trip might not be long enough to do it all. Plus, the park hosts live evening entertainment. www.sixflags.com

■ CASCADES WATERPARK in Cortland is indoors, so bad weather can’t spoil your plans. Splash around in the wave pool, two waterslides, two play areas (one is for small children) and basketball court in a pool. Cascades also operates an outdoor pool. www.greekpeak.net/waterpark

■ SANTA’S WORKSHOP in North Pole is open year-round, operates small, carnival style rides. Some are size-restricted for smaller children.

The park’s Christmas theme makes it a ■ ENCHANTED FOREST WATER SAFARI must-do for Yuletide fans. in Old Forge boasts more than 50 rides, www.northpoleny.com 66

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

■ ROCKING HORSE RANCH RESORT in Highland is a good choice for families who want getaway with a variety of things to do, including indoor activity pool and mountain tubing. There is also horseback riding, laser tag, arcade games, shooting gallery, archery and group activities. www.rockinghorseranch.com

Jefferson County

Downtown Watertown.

Store Hours: Wednesday - Sunday: 10am - 4pm Closed Mon-Tues

on closed days call for an Appointment

315-767-2762

14739 County Route 62 Sackets Harbor, NY 13685 www.handcraftedamishfurniture.com

Check us out on Facebook or Instagram @tughillestate 315-376-4336 www.tughillvineyards.com

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

67

HENDERSON / HENDERSON HARBOR

Where Memories are Made for a Lifetime

EST.

1986

Old McDonald ’s S

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ARBOR, NEW

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Sports Fishing • Boating • Sailing • Great Cuisine Live Music • Lodging • Grand Sunsets

Made-to

fresh and squeaky cheese curd • Croghan bologna NY maple syrup • raw and local honey, etc.

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(we take online orders, and can ship anywhere in the U.S.)

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19 Main Street in Adams, between Gram’s Diner and Belloff’s @AdamsCheeseShop

Sackets Harbor New York Take a Taste of History Great food & harborside dining Full service marina & public docks Historic hotels and B & Bs Festivals & events year-round Sparkling Lake Ontario vistas NYS Historic Site Tours 1812 Bicentennial Trail

Spend the day, or spend the weekend...

VisitSacketsHarbor.com SacketsChamber.com 68

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

JEFFERSON COUNTY

JULY

Canandaigua. Red, White and Boom! The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Fans will celebrate America’s birthday with the RPO and enjoy stirring Sousa spectaculars, favorite toe-tappers, and inspiring anthems as the orchestra performs favorite red, white and blue melodies complete with fireworks. 8 p.m. Admission $10; $30 for four tickets. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

2

Clayton. Pure Prairie League. 7:30 p.m. $55+.

Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets.claytonoperahouse.com. 315686-2200.

Sandy Creek. Oswego County Fair. This year’s theme is “Barn in the USA.” The parade and fireworks are on July 2. Animals, crafts, talent shows and more highlight this year’s event.

Oswego County Fairgrounds, 291 Ellisburg St. http://oswegocountyfair.com.

Ticonderoga. Best 4th in the North Celebration. See July 1.

JULY

3

Sandy Creek. Oswego County Fair. See July 2.

Ticonderoga. Best 4th in the North Celebration. See July 1.

Sandy Creek. Oswego County Fair. See July 2.

Ticonderoga. Best 4th in the North Celebration. See July 1.

JULY

Red Creek. NY Lavender Festival.

Enjoy wine tasting and visiting with over 40 unique craft artisans, live music, family farm museum, 60’ labyrinth and Ol’factory Farm gift shop. Must purchase advance sale tickets for admission. Ol’factory Farm, 12973 Upton Road. www.olfactorysoaps. com.

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• Full line of deli meats and cheese • Stoltzfus Family Yogurt • Windchimes • Smoke Slab Bacon

• Over 100 different kinds of candy • Almond Butter, Butterscotch Peanut Butter, Chocolate Peanut Butter all made in the store

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(315) 482-9452

20683 Pinehurst Rd Alexandria Bay, NY www.pinehurstcottages.com

Try Some Real Country Goodness

• Great Lakes Cheese Curd • New York Aged Cheddar (4 to 12 years) • Fresh Baked Goods • Pure Local Maple Syrup • Pure Local Honey

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Canandaigua. The Beach Boys: The Sounds of Summer Tour. As The Beach Boys mark more than a half century of making music, the group continues to ride the crest of a wave unequalled

8220 Route 289 Belleville, NY 13611 Phone 315-846-5337

es! g a t t Motel o s!

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JULY

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ing “Somoenth ’t find you dry y” a d eve

Sandy Creek. Oswego County Fair. See July 2.

HARP’S

JULY

Fair Haven. 4th of July Celebration. Craft Fair 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Boat parade in Little Sodus Bay, 12 p.m. Chicken BBQ by the Wolcott Lions Club, 3 p.m. until sold out. Carnival by Insane Inflatables at the Church St. Field, 1 to 10 p.m., plus beer tent and food trucks. Free entertainment

by Dangerous Type 6 to 10 p.m. at the Church St. Pavilion. Electric Boat Parade in Little Sodus Bay 9:30 p.m. www.fairhaven4th.com.

Preble. Cortland County Independence Day Spectacular. Fireworks, live music, food vendors and family fun. $5 parking. 2. Free Admission. Dwyer Memorial Park, 6799 Little York Lake Road.

Sacket’s Harbor

OUR HOURS Summer Hours: Mon.–Fri. 8:30 to 6 October to April: Mon.–Thurs. 9 to 5 Fri. 9 to 6 • Sat. 9 to 5 Closed Sundays

Henderson Harbor

County Route 178 Rt. 75

BELLEVILLE R O Rt. 75 Hessell Rd Rt. 289 U T ELLISBURG E Rt. 87 3 South Landing Rd Rt. 22A

Sharp’s Bulk Foods County Route 193 To Sandy Creek

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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JEFFERSON COUNTY in America’s musical history. 5 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-6786938.

Fair Haven. Craft fair. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free.

Check for the complete schedule online. Village Hall, 14523 Cayuga St. www.fairhaven4th.com.

Geneva. Summer Concert at Rose Hill Mansion. Bring a picnic dinner, lawn chairs, or a blanket and enjoy an evening of music. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Free. 3373 Route 96A. 315-789-3848. rosehill@historicgeneva.org.

Red Creek. NY Lavender Festival. See July 6.

Sodus Point. Concert at The Lighthouse.

Rochester Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra. Bring your own seating. Vended food available. 2 to 4 p.m. Free. Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum, 7606 N Ontario St. www.sodusbaylighthouse.org.

Weedsport. Tom Chick. 1 p.m. Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company, 8931 N Seneca St. https://en-gb.facebook.com/LunkenheimerCraftBrewingCompany.

JULY

Syracuse. Annika Chambers & Paul DesLauriers. Duo performs the blues. Annika performs regularly at top Blues festivals across North and South America as well as Europe. 443 Burnet Ave. Syracuse. 315-876-0568.

8

JULY

Naples. “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown.” Charlie Brown and his friends ponder about life while they play baseball, celebrate friendship, and sing songs. This family-friendly performance is based on the comic strip “Peanuts” by Charles M. Schulz. $20. Bristol Valley Theater, 151 S. Main St. www.bvtnaples.org. 585-3746318. bvt@bvtnaples.org.

10

Syracuse. Sirsly. Soulful rock vocalists. 7 p.m. $30+ 443 Burnet Ave. https://443socialclub.

com. 315-876-0568. JULIE@443socialclub. com.

JULY

Clayton. The Syracuse Orchestra: Sidney T. Cox Memorial Concert.

7:30 p.m. $35+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets. claytonoperahouse.com. 315-686-2200.

11

J a m e s v i l l e . A u st i n J i m m y M u r p h y.

Award-winning singer/songwriter Austin Jimmy Murphy performs original blues, jazz, swing, country, and Americana. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Free. Heritage Hill Brewhouse, 3149 Sweet Road. https://heritagehillbrewery.com.

915-526-0719.

Naples. “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown.”

See July 10.

Skaneateles. Curbstone Festival & Sidewalk Sales. Sales of men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, shoes, jewelry, toys, home accessories and more, along with displays by area nonprofits. Strolling magicians/balloon artists perform throughout the weekend. Village of Skaneateles, 20 Genesee St. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

315-685-0552.

Sodus Point. Concert at The Lighthouse.

Finger Lakes Orchestra. Bring your own seating.

Vended food available. 7 p.m. Free. Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum, 7606 N Ontario St. www. sodusbaylighthouse.org.

Syracuse. Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen & More. Enjoy a live, multi-sensory concert by a Queen tribute band. 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. $33.95. The Palace Theatre, 2384 James St. 402-249-2445.

Syracuse. Candlelight: Rings and Dragons.

Experience the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical event in the glow of candlelight. Time TBA. $44.23. The Palace Theatre, 2384 James St. 402-249-2445.

Syracuse. Creed — Summer of ‘99 Tour. Hear

Creed, 3 Doors Down, and Mammoth WVH. 7 p.m. Admission TBA. Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview, 490 Restoration Way. Syracuse. Party in the Square. Party in the Square. Live music, food trucks, vendors. Pets welcome. All proceeds from this event and others go to support 727 Instrumental, Inc. 5 to 11 p.m. Free. Clinton Square, N. Clinton St. & W. Genesee St. www.727instrumental.org.

315-289-4064.

Verona. Jeff Dunham. Ventriloquist and comedian Dunham presents “Artificial Intelligence.”

8 p.m. Admission TBA. Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone. com. 800-771-7711.

Waterloo. Johnny Gill. Must be 21 years or older to attend event. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. del Lago Resort & Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https://dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

JULY

Canandaigua. Brad Paisley: Truck Still Works World Tour. Special guests Dylan Scott & Alexandra Kay. Brad Paisley has earned his place in country music history as one of the genre’s most talented and decorated male solo artists 7:30 p.m.

Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

12

Syracuse. The Gem and Mineral Society of Syracuse sponsors the 58th Annual Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show. It will include exhibition of mineral, fossils, crystals, jewelry demonstration, lectures by metaphysical practitioners. Activities for the entire family. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at NYS Fairgrounds, Center of Progress Building, 581 State Fair Blvd. $8 per person. free to children under 12. www.gmss.club Naples. “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown.”

See July 10.

Red Creek. NY Lavender Festival. See July 6.

Rochester. 57th Annual Corn Hill Arts Festival. Since 1969, the event has been an

Porch Music Fest Sackets Harbor. Sept. 13. Porch Music Fest.

Outdoor performances by local musicians on the porches of area residents and businesses to benefit charitable organizations. 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Free.

Porches around downtown Sackets Harbor. 315778-0156. shhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

Onondaga County Onondaga Lake, Liverpool. annual celebration of creativity, culture, and community in Rochester, NY’s historic Corn Hill neighborhood. Enjoy over 300 artists, live performances across four stages, and activities for all ages. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free. 133 S. Fitzhugh St. https://cornhillartsfestival.com. rachael@ archeratr.com. 585-857-0369.

Skaneateles. Curbstone Festival & Sidewalk Sales. See July 11.

Verona. The Wallflowers. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Road. www.turningstone.com. 800-771-7711.

315-748-3977

o

JULY

Canandaigua. HOZIER. Hozier finds harmony and melody in the midst of chaos. The GRAMMY Award-nominated Irish singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist tunes into raw blues spirit, unrestrained soul, rock energy, and folk eloquence.

13

8 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

Naples. “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown.”

See July 10.

2215 Lord’s Hill Rd. Tully, NY 13159

o

Red Creek. NY Lavender Festival. See July 6.

Rochester. 57th Annual Corn Hill Arts Festival. See July 12.

Syracuse. The Gem and Mineral Society of Syracuse sponsors the 58th Annual Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show. See July 12 entry.

JULY

14

Naples. “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown.” See July 10.

applecountryretreat.com 2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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All cAr cAre All cAr cAre AllService cAr cAre Auto & tire center Auto Service & tire Brakes • Tune-Ups • Alignments Oil & Lube Auto Service & tire•center center Brakes • Tune-Ups • Alignments • Oil & Lube Brakes • Tune-Ups • Alignments • Oil & Lube

Dave & Anita Bombard

Dave & Anita Bombard Gift certificates Gift certificates available! available!

Gift certificates Mondayavailable!

- Thursday: Mon-Fri Mon-Fri7:30 - 4:30 7:30am Fridays: 7:30am-7:30-3:30 -4:30pm 4:30pm

Dave & Anita Bombard

$8.00 per person Children under 12 with an adult get in free

(cash only at the door) $1 off with a food donation for Erin’s Angels

www.gmss.club

Minerals – Fossils – Crystals – Jewelry Demonstrations – Lectures Metaphysical Practitioners Geode Cracking Youth Area with a sluice and lots of activities Fun for the entire family

www.facebook.com/gemandmineralsyr/

BOAT TOURS ON THE CANAL Liz & Dave Beebe Camillus Erie Canal Park

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200

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May- Oct. Hours Wed. 12-4 pm Thurs. 12-4 pm Sat. 12-4 pm Sun. 12-4pm

5750 DeVoe Rd., Camillus • www.eriecanalcamillus.org

Syracuse. Styx & Kevin Cronin Band + Don Felder The Brotherhood of Rock Tour. 6:45.

Admission TBA. Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview, 490 Restoration Way.

JULY

Clayton. Martha Redbone. 7:30 p.m. $40+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets. claytonoperahouse.com. 315-686-2200.

16

Naples. “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown.”

See July 10.

JULY

17

Naples. “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown.” See July 10.

JULY

Canandaigua. 2025 Canandaigua Art & Music Festival. The festival showcases juried artists in many different mediums. It also includes demonstrations, local music acts and more. 12 noon. to 7 p.m. Downtown Shopping District, 115 S. Main St. www.downtowncanandaigua.com. 585396-0300.

18

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

Mon-Fri 7:30am -31 5684 RT.RT. Cicero 699-1200 5684 31 Cicero 315 699-1200 699-1200 5684 RT.4:30pm 31 Cicero(315) 315

5684 RT. 31 Cicero 315 699-1200 Blacksmithing Classes

Learn to forge hot iron No experience needed

Custom private events

Small classes Private parties 20 mins from Syracuse NY (315) 491-0127

Clayton. An Evening with Mark and Michelle Prentice. 7:30 p.m. Tickets TBA. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets. claytonoperahouse.com. 315-686-2200.

Naples. You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown.

See July 10.

Syracuse. Syracuse Nationals. The Syracuse Nationals is the largest car show in the Northeast. See cars from all over the US, and enjoy live music, food, and vendors. $20; $55 weekend pass; Free children 12 and younger.

New York State Fairgrounds, 581 State Fair Blvd.

908-938-1300.

TheBritishBlacksmith.com

3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

Sackets Harbor. 53rd Annual Can-Am Festival. The annual event commemorates the close relationship between Canada and the United States. Free attractions, live music and food vendors. Free. https://visitsacketsharbor.com/ events-festivals/can-am-festival.

Naples. You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown.

See July 10.

Syracuse. Syracuse Nationals. See July 18.

Verona. Mick Adams and the Stones: A Rolling Stones Tribute Show. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 800-771-7711.

JULY

Auburn. Alexander and Nodzo at the Downtown Auburn Market.

Live market and vendors. 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free. Auburn Public Theater, 8 Exchange St.

19

Canandaigua. 2025 Canandaigua Art & Music Festival. See July 18.

Canandaigua. Old Dominion: How Good Is That World Tour. Special Guest Redferrin.

Old Dominion’s skyscraping anthems and electrifying live shows have put the Multi-Platinum-selling band prominently at the forefront of country music. 7 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC,

JULY

20

Canandaigua. 2025 Canandaigua Art & Music Festival. See July 18.

Fair Haven. Third Friday. Live music, art, shopping, demonstrations, food, and fun in downtown Fair Haven. 4 to 7 p.m. fairhavenny.org.

Geneva. Summer Concert at Rose Hill Mansion. Bring a picnic dinner, lawn chairs, or a blanket and enjoy an evening of music. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Free. 3373 Route 96A. 315-789-3848. rosehill@historicgeneva.org.

ONONDAGA COUNTY Sackets Harbor. 53rd Annual Can-Am Festival. See July 19.

erahouse.com. 315-686-2200.

Syracuse. Syracuse Nationals. See July 18.

Oswego. Oswego Harborfest. The annual family-friendly festival features music at multiple locations, food and fun. Fireworks by the Grucci Brothers on July 26. Check the website for the complete schedule. Free. www.oswegoharborfest.com. 315-343-6858.

JULY

23 JULY

24

Syracuse. Barenaked Ladies: Last Summer On Earth Tour 2025. Also playing Sugar Ray and Fastball. 7 p.m. Admission TBA. Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview, 490 Restoration Way.

Clayton. Next Generation Leahy. 7:30 p.m. $40+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets.claytonop-

JULY

25

Oswego. Oswego Harborfest. See July 24.

Skaneateles. Skaneateles Antique and Classic Boat Show.

More than 80 antique and classic boats and motors will be on display in the water and on land, plus concerts, a boat parade, a photo-shoot cruise aboard the Judge Ben Wiles, children’s activities, demos, raffles and more. Awards presented in 35 categories, including

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2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

73

ONONDAGA COUNTY the highly coveted People’s Choice Award.

Organized by the Finger Lakes Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society and the Skaneateles Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation. M&T Bank is the presenting sponsor. Clift Park, Genesee St. 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.

Free 315-685-0552.

Syracuse. Party in the Square. Party in the Square. Live music, food trucks, vendors. Pets welcome. All proceeds from this event and

Syracuse’s favorite outdoor vibe is back!

Enjoy the Fun

Starting May 21st | 5–8 PM Great weather, good vibes & cool cocktails!

Food & drink specials all night Live music. Chill evenings. Delicious eats.

Opening act: The Barn Dogs — a favorite local band!

Join us on the opened patio and kick off summer the right way

74

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

We install, inspect, test, and maintain all of your fire and life safety systems and products.

• Fire Extinguishers • Fire Sprinkler System Fire Alarms • Emergency Exits Signs Kitchen Fire Suppression Systems Kitchen Hood and Duct Cleaning

www.tfp1.com • 315-295-9200 5 Adler Drive, E. Syracuse NY 13057

others go to support 727 Instrumental, Inc. 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Free. Clinton Square, N. Clinton St. & W. Genesee St. www.727instrumental.org.

315-289-4064.

Syracuse. Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival. The spectacular three-day showcase will feature around 140 artists and crafters representing multiple U.S. States, as well as artists from Canada and Mexico. Performing

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GET YOUR GREEN ON AND HEAD OVER TO TIPP HILL

Eight spots you need to check out this season in Tipperary Hill

By Mary Beth Roach

T

ipperary Hill, most often called Tipp Hill, might be a destination for celebrations marking St. Patrick’s Day in Syracuse. But this neighborhood offers so much to visitors all year round.

It’s an area with a rich mix of history, culture, music, nature, recreation, retail and restaurants.

Enjoy a nine-hole round of golf; take a dip in an outdoor public pool; meander through a lush arboretum; check out animals at a zoo; pick up some unique gift items or home goods; refuel at one or more of the local pubs and restaurants; or rest at a guest inn.

Tipperary Hill, named for County Tipperary in Ireland, came about with the construction of the Erie Canal through the western section of Syracuse. Many of those working to build the canal were Irish immigrants and they settled in this neighborhood.

Syracuse had installed the traditional red-over-green traffic light at Milton and Tompkins avenues. However, the youth of the neighborhood, upset that the British red was over the Ireland green, would throw stones, breaking the light. Finally, during the 1920s, the city relented and installed the unique traffic signal. In 1997, the Tipp Hill Memorial Park was dedicated on that corner, to celebrate the light and on its sign reads Céad Mile Fáilte, an Irish greeting that translates to “A Hundred Thousand Welcomes.” Nicknamed Stone Throwers Park, the space also has a sculpture of an Irish family, in which the father is explaining light legend to his family. The young boy in the sculpture might already know the story, evidenced by the slingshot in his back pocket!

1. THE ONE-OF-A-KIND TRAFFIC LIGHT

One of the biggest attractions on Tipp Hill is the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, with more than 700 animals, from poison dart frogs to pachyderms. According to its website, the Animal Health Center opened in 2022 and visitors can view treatment rooms, surgical suite,

It is home to the famous greenover-red traffic signal, said to be the only one of its kind in the United States. As legend has it, the city of

2. THE ROSAMOND GIFFORD ZOO

nursery/ICU, animal nutrition kitchen and a research lab. And if all these animals and other amenities aren’t entertaining enough, the zoo also offers special events throughout the summer, including Penguin Palooza on July 13; Canine Champions for Conservation Dog Shows, running Thursdays through Mondays from July 17 to Aug. 11; Brew at the Zoo on Aug. 1; and the Asian Elephant Extravaganza on Aug. 17. Before visiting the zoo, visit its website for more information and tips, www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

3. NEW ART Animal Health CenterOn Coleridge Avenue, near the Wilbur Avenue intersection, there is a bright new feature.

What was once a gray barren cement retaining wall has been transformed into bright artwork created by Tipp Hill resident and muralist Ally Walker.

4. BURNET PARK For recreation and family fun, visitors can enjoy the many amenities at Burnet Park, one of the jewels in 2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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the city of Syracuse Department of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs system. Among its attractions are a nine-hole golf course with beautiful views of the city from the clubhouse; an outdoor swimming pool; a playground; outdoor fitness equipment; a basketball court; open ball fields; and a roadway for walking. The road is open to vehicle traffic, but it is wide enough to accommodate both vehicles and pedestrians. The park can be entered from Avery Avenue or Coleridge Avenue. There is a picnic area at the Avery Avenue entrance.

featuring regional bands Thursdays through Saturdays through mid-August. For times and a complete lineup visit Coleman’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ColemansPub. The pub’s website is colemansirishpub.com.

Boasting a unique rooftop bar and restaurant is the Emerald Cocktail Kitchen, at 1333 W. Fayette St., owned by mother and daughter, Michele and Nora Roesch. It is located at the same location as the former George O’Dea’s, which was owned and operated by Michele’s father, Jerry. The website is: www.emeraldcocktailkitchen.com.

Other favorite spots include 7. UNIQUE RETAIL Nibsy’s Pub, at 201 Ulster St., which 5. JAMES PASS ARBORETUM opened in 1890 and is considered one Cashel House, 224 Tompkins St., of the oldest of Syracuse’s bars; The Nature lovers looking for a serene offers apparel, jewelry, pottery and Blarney Stone, at 314 Avery Ave., is experience can visit the 12-acre James more — most of which has been imPass Arboretum, which is bordered ported from Ireland. Originally opened home to the famous “Blarney Burger”; Wheeler’s Tavern at 415 Avery Ave.;

by Salisbury Road, Avery Avenue and

by Mary Jo and Winnie Coleman, it is Tompkins Street. The site is mainnow being run by Shelly Mahoney and Steve’s Restaurant, at 401 Milton Ave.; and Aurora Brewing Co. at 620 Ulster tained by the city of Syracuse Departher husband, Peter Heverin. Popular St. ment of Parks, Recreation & Youth Pro- items, according to Mahoney, include The sign outside might say Recess grams and boasts about 320 trees. To Guinness apparel, Inis fragrances, Belassist in identifying one or more of the leek pottery, Waterford crystal, woolen Coffee, but once inside the shop at 429 Ulster St., visitors will find a lot more trees there, visit the website: https:// goods in rich hues and Celtic jewelry. than just coffee — a variety of non-alsyracuseny.treekeepersoftware.com/ The store’s website is cashel-house. coholic and alcoholic beverages, even index.cfm?deviceWidth=1920. square.site. mimosas; pastries; bagels; burgers; The entrance to the Arboretum And at 118 Milton Ave., just a on Avery Avenue will soon be the site stone’s throw (pun intended) from the paninis; flatbread pizzas and more. for a monument dedicated to the two green-over-red light is BeeKind, owned Some summertime special drinks include lavender, cherry or blueberlaw enforcement officers, Onondaga by sisters Jillian Barrett and Jenna County deputy Michael Hoosock and Graf. It’s a small shop, but packed with ry lemonade. Plenty of comfortable seating and WiFi access. The website is Syracuse police officer Michael Jensen, all sorts of local goodies — gift items, Recesscoffee.com. who were killed in the line of duty in health and beauty products, jewelry, Those wishing to extend their stay April 2024. honey-related treats and their specialty — their homemade candles, the on Tipp Hill may opt to check out Ophelia’s Garden Inn at 400 Avery Ave. The favorite one among shoppers titled four-bedroom bed-and-breakfast is “Tipperary.”

The store’s website is 6. PARISH FESTIVALS open from early May through Novembeekindsyracuse.com. ber and is family-friendly. The location Two Tipp Hill parishes celebrate also offers views of Burnet Park and their respective heritages each sumPass Arboretum. Visit opheliasgardenmer with festivals.

8. REST, REFRESH, REFUEL inn.com for more information.

St. Patrick’s & St. Brigid’s Parish will hold its annual festival in the parkNow, with all this walking, golfing, ing lot of the church at 216 N. Lowell swimming and shopping, visitors Ave. on July 18 to 19, complete with might need some rest and refreshTRAFFIC AND PARKING TIPS Irish dancers, music, crafts, food and ments to refuel and Tipp Hill estabbeverages. lishments can certainly fill the bill.

Regarding traffic parking The church held its first mass And many offer outdoor seating in the on Tipp Hill, visitors should be on July 31, 1870. The building and summer months. aware of the number of one-way the parish have undergone several Coleman’s Irish Pub, at 100 S. streets in parts of the neighborchanges since then, including major Lowell Ave., was established in 1933 hood. Many establishments don’t renovations a few years ago and a link- and over the decades, it has expanded have parking lots or if they do, age with the St. Bridget’s Parish. The substantially. Patrons can find their fathey’re small. website is stpatricksandstbrigids.org vorite beverages, pub fare and a more There is on-street parking, St. John The Baptist Ukrainian extensive menu. There is also a small but visitors need to be aware of Catholic Church, at 207 Tompkins St., gift shop and even a leprechaun enthe odd-even parking rules. is celebrating its 125th anniversary and trance! The pub also hosts a Summer will hold its Ukrainian Festival from 4 Block Party, a series of musical events 76

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

to 10 p.m. on July 25 and from noon to 10 p.m. on July 26 in the church’s parking lot.

In addition to entertainment, Ukrainian food delicacies and crafts, the festival will offer tours of the magnificent interior of the church, showcasing the brilliant architecture and iconography. The gold in the iconostasis, which is between the nave and the altar, is 24k and the icons tell the story of their faith. Visit their website at stjohnbaptistuss.com for more information.

Oneida Lake Oneida Lake. arts, food, family activities. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free.

315-422-8284.

Waterloo. A Band of Brothers: A Tribute to the Allman Brothers. Must be 21 years or older to attend event. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. del Lago Resort & Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https:// dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

JULY

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Oswego. Oswego Harborfest. See July 24.

Skaneateles. Skaneateles Antique and Classic Boat Show. See July 25.

Syracuse. Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival.

See July 25.

Verona. Sam Hunt. Country vocalist performs live. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 800-771-7711.

JULY

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Oswego. Oswego Harborfest. See July 24.

Skaneateles. Skaneateles Antique and Classic Boat Show. See July 25.

Sodus Point. Concert at The Lighthouse. 47 South. Rock, country and blues. Bring your own seating. Vended food available. 2 p.m. Free.

Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum, 7606 N Ontario St. www.sodusbaylighthouse.org.

Syracuse. Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival.

See July 25.

JULY

Clayton. Taylor Hicks. 7:30 p.m. $50+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets. claytonoperahouse.com. 315-686-2200.

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Phelps. Sauerkraut Festival. Vendors, food, entertainment, activities and 5k and 20k race.

Check the website for the complete schedule and locations for various events. https:// phelpsny.com/sauerkraut-weekend.

AUGUST TUESDAYS Syracuse. Downtown Farmers Market Lunchtime Live! Music Series. Enjoy a free music performance from a unique artist weekly through October 14. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free. 161 W. Genesee St. https://downtownsyracuse.com/ events/signature/downtown-farmers-market.

Sylvan Beach. Concert Series. Weather dependent. Bring your own seating. August 6: Mood Swing; August 13: Fritz’s Polka Band; August 20: Monterey’s; August 27: Rhythm N Shoes. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Free. 1203 Main St. https://sylvanbeachny.com/events.

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ONEIDA LAKE WEDNESDAYS Oswego. Oswego Summer Sunset Concert Series. Runs through August 20. Jazz, big band, and more. Bring your own seating. 7:30 p.m. Free. Breitbeck Park. Breitbeck Park, 70 W. 5th St. Watertown. Watertown Farm & Craft Market.

Vendors, produce and live music. 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free. 317 Washington St.

THURSDAYS Auburn. EPIC Summer Series. 8/7 The Arena FT. Rock Athems; 8/14 Bonfire; 8/21 Diana Jacobs Band; 8/28 Mere Mortals. $5 parking (season passes available). 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Free.

Emerson Park, 6877 E. Lake Rd. Blossvale. Vienna Farmers Market. Produce and artisan vendors, cookouts, food trucks and a variety of live music. Rain or shine. EBT and SNAP benefits accepted and worth double their face value for produce. 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Free. North Bay Firemen’s Field, 2040 Route 49. www.facebook.com/ViennaFarmersMarketNY. Clayton. Clayton Farmer’s Market. Peruse local seasonal goods, crafts, prepared food and other vendors’ wares. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mary

Street at Village Park Circle. 1000islands-www.1000islands-clayton.com/farmersmarket. www.facebook.com/Claytonnyfarmersmarket.

315-686-3771. info@1000islands-clayton.com.

Oswego. Oswego Farmers Market. Peruse local wares from area farms and other vendors.

4 to 8 p.m. Free. West First Street. www.oswegony.org/explore/community-events-calendar/ ev-detail/oswego-farmers-market-2.

Oswego. Oswego Summer Concert Series.

Running through August 21. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Free. Veteran’s Stage, Veterans Memorial Park, Water Street.

Sylvan Beach. Classic Car Cruise. Free to participate and to show. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Sylvan Beach Park. https://sylvanbeachny. com/events.

American Legion Band. Red Creek-Fair Haven Rotary Club concession stand. 7 p.m. Village Bandstand, Central Park, 14523 Cayuga St.

AUG.

King Ferry. 30th Anniversary of the Wheat Harvest Festival. The parade starts at 11 a.m. followed by entertainment, food, crafts and kids’ activities. Genoa Historical Association, 920 NY-34B. genoahistorical@gmail.com.

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Locke. Country, Blues N’ Brews Fest. Live music and local beer. Limited camping reservations available. Rain or shine. 6 p.m. to Sunday at 4 p.m. Summerhill Brewing LLC, 14408 NY 90. simpletix.com https://en-gb.facebook.com/ Summerhill.brewing.

Phelps. Sauerkraut Festival. See Aug. 31.

FRIDAYS Oswego. Market Square Concert Series. Runs through August 22. Free. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

SATURDAYS Fair Haven. Saturday Night Band Concert.

Features patriotic music, classic instrumentals, and marching ballads from the Red Creek

Syracuse. Party in the Square. Party in the Square. Live music, food trucks, vendors. Pets welcome. All proceeds from this event and others go to support 727 Instrumental, Inc. 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Free. Clinton Square, N. Clinton St. & W. Genesee St. www.727instrumental.org.

315-289-4064.

Syracuse. Little Big Town: Summer Tour

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2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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FAIR HAVEN, SODUS BAY, WOLCOTT 2025. Hear Little Big Town, Wynonna Judd and Shelby Lynne. Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview, 490 Restoration Way. 7 p.m.

Admission TBA. Verona. The Black Crowes. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 800-771-7711.

Weedsport. Old Goats. 1 p.m. Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company, 8931 N Seneca St. https://en-gb.facebook.com/LunkenheimerCraftBrewingCompany.

AUG.

Canandaigua. The Killers. The Killers are a Las Vegas-based fourpiece who formed in 2002, featuring the talents of singer/keyboardist Brandon Flowers, drummer Ronnie Vannucci, guitarist Dave Keuning and bassist Mark Stoermer. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

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Geneva. 2025 Geneva Garlic Festival. Food demos, live music all day, local wine, beers, ciders, wine slushies and cider slushies, along with plenty of food. 50+ farms and vendors will be represented. $5; free fpor children 12 and younger. 41 Lakefront Hotel. www.gloriousgar-

licfestival.com.

lin St. 315-425-9068.

King Ferry. 30th Anniversary of the Wheat Harvest Festival. See Aug. 1.

Waterloo. Thunder from Down Under. Must be 21 years or older to attend event. 8 p.m.

Admission TBA. del Lago Resort & Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https://dellagoresort.com/ entertainment.

Locke. Country, Blues N’ Brews Fest. See Aug. 1.

Oswego. 13th Annual Atommik Invitational.

Premier fishing event with a high dollar payout. For information visit atommik.com.

Phelps. Sauerkraut Festival. See Aug. 31.

Sodus Point. Sodus Point Lighthouse Second-Annual Artisan & Fine Crafters Festival.

A juried art show featuring an array of artisans and their art for sale, along with signature cocktails, wines, and ciders from the Finger Lakes wineries and food from regional caterers.

9 a.m.; 5 p.m. on 8/3. Admission TBA. Sodus Bay Lighthouse & Museum grounds, 7606 N Ontario St. Syracuse. Family Film Series—”The Little Mermaid” (2023). See Aug. 2. Watch”The Little Mermaid” (2023 live action version) at the MOST at the National Grid ExploraDome. Buy tickets online or in person at show time. Movie tickets are in addition to MOST admission.

10:30 a.m. to 12 noon. $4 for MOST members; $6 for non-members (plus admission). Museum of Science & Technology (MOST), 500 S. Frank-

Burnap’s Farm Market & Garden Cafe

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Geneva. 2025 Geneva Garlic Festival. See Aug. 2.

Locke. Country, Blues N’ Brews Fest. See Aug. 1.

Phelps. Sauerkraut Festival. See Aug. 31.

Sodus Point. Sodus Point Lighthouse Second-Annual Artisan & Fine Crafters Festival.

See Aug. 2.

Syracuse. Family Film Series—”The Little Mermaid” (2023). See Aug. 2.

Weedsport. Simply Dave. 1 p.m. Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company, 8931 N Seneca St. https://en-gb.facebook.com/LunkenheimerCraftBrewingCompany.

Preble. Bill Knowlton’s Bluegrass Ramble Picnic. The oldest bluegrass festival in New York State, Bill Knowlton’s Bluegrass Ramble Picnic will include Gospel Way, Salmon Riv-

The Inn at Burnap’s

Garden-fresh produce, lunches, fresh baked goods, play yard for kids, and Pick-Your-Own fruits.

Come spend a relaxing day on the farm.

This 1876 Victorian-built house has been refurbished into a gorgeous inn, situated in the heart of apple country. Sitting on 120 acres of pristine orchards and vineyards, it overlooks Lake Ontario and is open to host overnight stays, weddings and custom events.

7277 Maple Ave. • Sodus, NY 315-483-4050 | burnapsfarm.com

7094 Lake Rd.•Sodus, NY 315-566-1024 | theinnatburnaps.com

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

Fair Haven, Sodus Bay& Wolcott Grounds at Sodus Point Lighthouse, located in Sodus Point.

WAKE UP IN MARTIN’S TIDESIDES BAY HOUSE RENTALS Three-Bedroom • Two Studios • Queen Size beds • Living area • Half-kitchen • Full bath • Boat slip & Rentals • Outdoor grill • Restaurant on site

7250 RT 14 SODUS POINT, NY 14555

(315) 483-9111 • www.martinstidesidesmarine.com

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FAIR HAVEN, SODUS BAY, WOLCOTT er Boys, The Orleans County Stringband, Acoustic Desserts, Atkinson Family, Lonesome Road Ramblers and more. Dwyer Memorial Park, 6799 Little York Lake Road. 315-457-6100. udmacon1@hotmail.com.

AUG.

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Auburn. My Buddy’s Band. Part of the EPIC Summer Series. $5 parking. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Free. Emerson Park, 6877 E. Lake Rd.

AUG.

AUG.

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Canandaigua. The Pageant of Steam. See Aug. 6.

Central Square. 32nd Annual Hurricane Harvey Event.

4:30 p.m. $30; Youths 6-18: $10;

Free ages 5 and younger. All ages: $40 member/$45 non-member.

Brewerton Speedway, 60 US Route 11. www.brewertonspeedway.com.

315-668-6906.

Clayton. Mandy Gonzalez: Broadway Star. 7:30 p.m. $70+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets.claytonoperahouse. com. 315-686-2200.

Canandaigua. The Pageant of Steam. Flea market, vendors, swap meet, auction, exhibits and demonstrations of vintage equipment and more. 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. $10; free children 12 and younger. Golf cart rentals available. https://nysteamengineassociation.com/pageant-of-steam.

Moravia. Fillmore Days. Live music, local craft beer, wine, food, artisan vendors and, of course, the bathtub races. The races are held in honor of Moravia native and former U.S. President Millard Fillmore, and refer to a legend that says he brought the first bathtub into the White House.

Free. Fillmore Glen, 1686 NY-38.

Clayton. Dave Mason: Let It Flow 2025 Tour. 7:30 p.m. $70+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets.claytonoperahouse. com. 315-686-2200.

Oswego. Super DIRT Week. See Aug. 6.

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Oswego. Super DIRT Week. Celebrate “Racing’s Biggest Party” as Oswego Speedway’s “Steel Palace” transforms into the “Clay Palace” for the week. www.oswegospeedway.com.

Oswego. Twelfth Night. Syracuse’s Shakespeare in the Park perform “Twelfth Night.” Rain date is August 13. 5:30 p.m. Veteran’s Stage, Veterans Memorial Park, Water Street.

FairHavenNY.org

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Canandaigua. The Pageant of Steam. See Aug. 6.

Canandaigua. Train Summer 2025. Performance with special guest Edwin McCain. Train is a multi-GRAMMY Award-winning, diamond-selling band from San Francisco that has had 14 songs on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart and 13 albums on the Billboard 200 chart. 7 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive.

585-678-6938.

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Concert by the Lighthouse Sodus Point. Concert at The Lighthouse.

Vended food available. 7 p.m. Free. Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum, 7606 N Ontario St. www.sodusbaylighthouse.org

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

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FAIR HAVEN, SODUS BAY, WOLCOTT Moravia. Bathtub Races. See Aug. 7.

Oswego. Super DIRT Week. See Aug. 6.

AUG.

Canandaigua. Bailey Zimmerman. New To Country Summer Tour with special guests Dylan Marlowe & Drew Baldridge 7:30 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

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Canandaigua. The Pageant of Steam. See Aug. 6.

Clayton. The Steeldrivers. 7:30 p.m. $40+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets.claytonoperahouse.com. 315-686-2200.

Moravia. Bathtub Races. See Aug. 7.

Oswego. Super DIRT Week. See Aug. 6.

Verona. Chicago. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 800-771-7711.

AUG.

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Bouckville/Madison. Antique Show. See June 6.

Sodus Bay Lighthouse & Museum History and Maritime Museum, Gardens, Tower View, Gift Shop & Wedding Venue 7606 N. Ontario Street Sodus Point, NY (315)-483-4936

Free Sunday • 2-4 pm Summer Concert Series July 6—Rochester Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra July 27—47 South Aug. 10­—Rhonda Vincent Aug. 31—Chris Wilson

2025 Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum 5k Run Saturday, July 5th

Fair Haven. Fair Haven PorchFest. One of the biggest single days in Fair Haven, this annual music event features dozens of area musicians performing live on porches throughout the village.

More than 30 acts, including full bands and solo performers in all genres of music, will keep you moving all day. 12 noon. Culminates with an exciting “All-Jam” at Sterling Cidery at 6 p.m. www.fairhavenny.org.

Oswego. Super DIRT Week. See Aug. 6.

Sodus Point. Concert at The Lighthouse. Rhonda Vincent, a Grammy-award winning bluegrass artist performs. Bring your own seating.

Vended food available. 2 p.m. Free. Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum, 7606 N Ontario St. www.sodusbaylighthouse.org.

AUG.

11 AUG.

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Bouckville/Madison. Antique Show. See June 6.

Oswego. Super DIRT Week. See Aug. 6.

Bouckville/Madison. Antique Show. See June 6.

LW EMPORIUM CO-OP Gifts, Antiques & Home Decor

The Feathered Nest Gift Shop

WhistleStop Antique Center

10 am-5 pm Tues thru Sun • Closed Mon 6355 Knickerbocker Road • off 104 in Ontario

315-524-8841 • www.lwemporium.com sales@lwemporium.com

Friday evening Concert July 11th, 6pm - 7:30pm Finger Lakes Orchestra Shipwreck Weekend July 11th, 12th, & 13th Friday evening Concert July 11th, 6pm - 7:30pm Finger Lakes Orchestra *Saturday, July 12th 1pm-3pm Speaker & Shipwreck Explorer - Jim Kennard at the Sodus Point at the Community Center *Sunday, July 13th- Chip Stevens, Shipwreck Painter 1pm-3pm at the Lighthouse 2025 Storytelling Series 6pm - 7:30pm a the Village Hall Tue, July 8thFur Trading at Sodus BayTom Sawtelle Tue, July 29th Karen ShughartLocal Author’s Murder Mystery Series

Thurs, Aug 14th Mora Motor Car Co.’s Electric Car-Steven Heald Wed, Aug 20th The History of Crescent Beach-Rosa Fox 2025 Sodus Point Lighthouse Artisan Festival Saturday & Sunday-August 2nd & 3rd at Lighthouse grounds 3rd Annual Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum Golf Tournament Monday, August 11th Beginning on May 23rd, The Lighthouse & Museum will be open

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday - 10am - 5pm Sunday 12-5pm and Monday, Holidays - 12pm - 5pm

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FAIR HAVEN, SODUS BAY, WOLCOTT

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Bouckville/Madison. Antique Show. See June 6.

Clayton. Tom Rush. 7:30 p.m. $30+. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. https://tickets.claytonoperahouse.com.

315-686-2200.

AUG.

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Bouckville/Madison. Antique Show. See June 6.

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Bouckville/Madison. Antique Show. See June 6.

Fair Haven. Third Friday. Live music, art, shopping, demonstrations, food, and fun in downtown Fair Haven. 4 to 7 p.m. fairhavenny.org.

AUG.

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Bouckville/Madison. Antique Show. See June 6.

Waterloo. The Struts: 10 Year Anniversary of Everybody Wants. Must be 21 years or older to attend event. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. del Lago Resort & Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https://dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

Landscape Trailers • Horse Trailers Enclosed Dump/Utility • Motorcycle Snowmobile/ATV • Hitches/Accessories Truck Caps

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Lukacs Pottery Studios Fine Arts and Crafts

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Port Byron. Reflections Classic Rock. Live music. 5 p.m. Potters Farm to Fork, 1951 NY-31.

Hours: Monday - Friday: 10am-6pm Saturdays: 9am-4pm Sundays: Closed

Find Us on Facebook: Sodus Feeds and Needs New

Website: sodusfeedsandneeds.com 7639 Ridge Road, Sodus, NY 14551

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

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Geneva. Summer Concert at Rose Hill Mansion. Bring a picnic dinner, lawn chairs, or a blanket and enjoy an evening of music. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Free. 3373 Route 96A. 315-789-3848. rosehill@historicgeneva.org.

CONTACT US AT 315-553-2264

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Syracuse. The Great New York State Fair. People from across New York State gather to celebrate New York State food, exhibits, entertainment, and fun. Hilby, the Skinny German Juggle Boy; Bandaloni the One-Man Band; and the Sea Lion Splash Show are among perennial entertainers at the Fair. Each year’s New York State Fair showcases numerous animals, hundreds of commercial attractions, scores of midway rides, and dozens of big-name entertainers,

AUG.

SODUS FEED STORE & ARTISAN CO-OP • Come SEE a full line of pet food & products for your fur babies, wild bird seed & feeders...PLUS...a 50 Vendor Artisans COOP w/primitives, antiques, housewares, jewelry, candles, artwork & unique gifts.

• Locally sourced beef, baked goods, jarred food items, apples, cheese, maple syrup, honey & MORE! • Not just a store, an experience! Located inside our 7000 sq ft. historic building which used to be the Normandy Inn. • Service with a Smile:)

AUG.

7060 State Rt. 14 | Sodus Point, NY 14555 315.483.4357 | lukacspottery.com

FAIR HAVEN, SODUS BAY, WOLCOTT free on two stages and local acts elsewhere around the 300-plus acre campus. Check the website for special discount and emphasis days and to find shuttles from various parts of the state. Scooter and wheelchair rental available. Monday through Thursday 9a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday through Sunday 9 a.m. to midnight with no entry or re-entry after 10 p.m. on any day. On Labor Day (Sept. 5) the Fairgrounds will fully close at 9 p.m. Buildings open daily Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. $12 parking; Admission: $8; free children 12 and younger and adults 65 and older. 581 State Fair Boulevard. https://nysfair.ny.gov.

AUG.

21

AUG.

Canandaigua. Melissa Ethridge & Indigo Girls: Yes We Are Tour.

Melissa Etheridge stormed onto the American rock scene in 1988 with the release of her critically acclaimed self-titled debut album, which led to an appearance on the 1989 Grammy Awards show. 7:30 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-6786938.

27

Syracuse. The Great New York State Fair.

See Aug. 20.

AUG.

28

Syracuse. The Great New York State Fair. See Aug. 20.

AUG.

Canandaigua. Heart. Heart is an American/Canadian rock band who formed in 1973 in Vancouver, BC. Heart effortlessly blends the sounds of ‘70s hard rock and acoustic rock, punk and even at times symphonic. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

29

Syracuse. The Great New York State Fair. See Aug. 20.

AUG.

Canandaigua. Sublime with special guests The Interrupters.

Sublime is the Long Beach, CA, reggae-punk/alternative rock trio. 7 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive.

585-678-6938.

22

Syracuse. The Great New York State Fair.

See Aug. 20.

AUG.

Canandaigua. Bonnie Raitt: Live 2025. The blues, R&B and rock artist performs with special guest Jimmie Vaughan & The Tilt-A-Whirl Band.

Bonnie Raitt is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose unique style blends blues, R&B, rock, and pop. 7:30 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

23

Fair Haven. Caleb Liber. Solo/acoustic musician playing ‘90s music. 7 p.m. Brandon’s Pub + Grille, 559 Main St. Fair Haven. Fair Haven Pirate Fest. Be a pirate for a day, as Captain Jack and his band of pirates invade Fair Haven for a family-friendly event that features a Pirate Parade down Main St., activities and vendors in Central Park, and pirate-themed fun for all ages the whole day long at many of the businesses and parks throughout the village. www.fairhavenny.org.

Sackets Harbor. Brew York Festival. Outdoor music, craft beer, and artisan food. https:// www.brew-york.com.

September Syracuse. The Great New York State Fair.

See Aug. 20.

Stop by and check out our 36,000 SQ FT Showroom! We have all styles of gifts, home décor, Amish-made furniture, and upholstery!

See more at Martinsamishfurniture.com

The Fingerlakes Largest Amish Furniture Outlet 315-539-8102 • 1138 St. Rte. 318, Waterloo, NY 2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

85

Evolve for the Home

The Christmas Store of New York

Oak Hill Family of Companies

AK HILL

BULK FOODS Specialty Food. Friendly Service.

Open 8am - 6pm Monday - Saturday 315-536-0836 3173 NY-14A, Penn Yan NY 14527

Choose unique ingredients to craft wholesome dishes your family and friends will love. We carry many traditional Amish foods & specialty items you can’t find elsewhere.

Oak Leaf Cafe & Bakery

7,000 sq.-ft. of Everything Christmas 315-937-8409 57 William St., Lyons, NY 14489

Minutes from Exit 42 on the NYS Thruway

www.evolveforthehome.com

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

Monday - Saturday, 7am - 4pm

Serving breakfast and lunch with the friendliest service!

Our bakery makes home-style baked goods & our renowned fry pies!

Purchase fresh roasted coffee in store and online! canopycoffeeroasters.com

The Finger Lakes

Skaneateles Lake.

HAMMONDSPORT ONE COOL LITTLE TOWN -TWO GREAT MUSEUMS! DU LE SE E SC HE E ON OU R SIT

Over 100 Boats on Display & Daily Cruises on Beautiful Keuka Lake!

OPEN DAILY: 10AM - 5PM • FLBM.ORG

82 3 1 PLEAS ANT V A LLE Y R D, HA MMONDSP OR T , NY 148 4 0

FREE FOR KID A D M IS SI 6 & U NO N FR EE D ER

S

Historic Aircraft, Vintage Motorcycles with Lots of Family Fun & Learning!

OPEN DAILY: 9AM - 5PM • CURTISSMUSEUM.ORG

8419 STATE RO UTE 54, HAMMO N DSPO RT, N Y 14840

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

87

THE FINGER LAKES Oswego. Budweiser International Classic Weekend. The Steel Palace comes to life for the last asphalt races of the season culminating in the Budweiser International Classic 200.

Weekend racing also includes Super Stocks and the New York State Compact Championship on August 29 and the Whelen Modified Tour on August 30. Oswego Speedway, 300 E. Albany St. www.oswegospeedway.com.

Sodus Point. Concert at The Lighthouse. Chris Wilson, performing folk, country and pop. Bring your own seating.

Vended food available. 2 p.m. Free. Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum, 7606 N Ontario St. www. sodusbaylighthouse.org.

Syracuse. The Great New York State Fair.

See Aug. 20.

Syracuse. The Great New York State Fair.

See Aug. 20.

AUG.

Canandaigua. The Black Keys. No Rain, No Flowers Tour 8. p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585-678-6938.

30

Oswego. Budweiser International Classic Weekend. See Aug. 29.

Syracuse. The Great New York State Fair.

See Aug. 20.

AUG.

31

Oswego. Budweiser International Classic Weekend. See Aug. 29.

SEPTEMBER TUESDAYS Syracuse. Downtown Farmers Market Lunchtime Live! Music Series. Enjoy a free music performance from a unique artist weekly through October 14. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free. 161 W. Genesee St. https://downtownsyracuse.com/

events/signature/downtown-farmers-market.

WEDNESDAYS Watertown. Watertown Farm & Craft Market.

Vendors, produce and live music. 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free. 317 Washington St.

THURSDAYS Blossvale. Vienna Farmers Market. Produce and artisan vendors, cookouts, food trucks and a variety of live music. Rain or shine. EBT and SNAP benefits accepted and worth double their face value for produce. 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Free. North Bay Firemen’s Field, 2040 Route 49. www.facebook.com/ViennaFarmersMarketNY. Clayton. Clayton Farmer’s Market. Peruse local seasonal goods, crafts, prepared food and other vendors’ wares. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mary Street at Village Park Circle. 1000islands-www.1000islands-clayton.com/farmersmarket. www.facebook.com/Claytonnyfarmersmarket.

315-686-3771. info@1000islands-clayton.com.

Specialty Shops ~ Restaurants ~ Services

Warfield’s Restaurant, Lounge & Bakery Main Street Arts ~ Sulfur Books Flowers by Sandy ~ Dork Forest Comics Parks ~ Labyrinth ~ Salons ~ Spa Foster Cottage Museum

byunis@yunisinc.com | ggreynolds@yunisinc.com

CAMPAREY.COM | 607.737.5233

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The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

Just South of NYS Thruway, Borders Route 96 Near Canandaigua & Geneva

CliftonSpringsChamber.com ~ 315.462.8200

Hejamada Campground & RV Park

PO Box 492 Montezuma, NY 13117 hejamadacampground.com Weekly, Monthly, Seasonal & Group Rates Available

Email: larso692000@yahoo.com

315-776-5887 Toll Free 1-877-678-0647

Marina Supplies G Sundries Soda G Ice G Snacks

FULL SERVICE MARINA: SUMMERIZATIONS, WINTERIZATIONS

1938 West Lake Road Skaneateles, NY 13152 315-685-5095 skanmarina.com

Tour our 3-floor, 23-room mansion Tues. - Fri. 9 am to 5 pm Sat. 10am to 3pm

(Hourly Tours Begin at 10am) info@sfhistoricalsociety.org

55 Cayuga St. Seneca Falls, NY 13148 | 315-568-8412

HOME of the Green Heart ❤ of the Finger Lakes

We make boating fun!

RENTALS:

Pontoons, Kayaks, Canoes Paddle Boards

Gas & Oil • Trailer Storage ALL KINDS OF BOAT RELATED NEEDS!

Wed. / Thurs. /Sat. 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Friday: 10am - 6pm Sunday: 11am - 4pm TURNKEY BUSINESS FOR SALE Mon.-/ Tues. Closed 2 University Ave, North Cohocton, NY • (585) 534-5747 • info@ocs1849.com

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

89

THE FINGER LAKES Oswego. Oswego Farmers Market. Peruse local wares from area farms and other vendors.

4 to 8 p.m. Free. West First Street. www.oswegony.org/explore/community-events-calendar/ ev-detail/oswego-farmers-market-2.

SEPT.

1

SEPT.

4

Syracuse. The Great New York State Fair. See Aug. 20.

amusements, food, beverage and marketplace vendors, including apples, pumpkins and more. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Washington Square Park. 315-342-6082, option 0. pumpkinfest@ oswegoymca.org.

Sylvan Beach. Classic Car Cruise. Free to participate and to show. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Sylvan Beach Park. https://sylvanbeachny. com/events.

SEPT.

5

Oswego. CNY Pumpkin Festival. daily. Live music, kids’ activities,

Oswego. CNY Pumpkin Festival.

See Oct. 4.

Syracuse Irish Festival Syracuse. SCARE-A-CON. The ultimate horror, sci-fi, and paranormal fan convention and film festival—packed with celebrity guests, vendors, exciting parties, and more. 4 p.m. $41.80.

Marriott Syracuse Downtown, 500 S. Warren St. www.facebook.com/ScareACon. Syracuse. Syracuse Irish Festival. This twoday family oriented, festival features cultural activities that promote and highlight the strong Irish Heritage that is prominent in Central NY. The goal of the Festival is to provide a unique and positive Irish –Celtic cultural and social

& BOOKS LONGS’ CARDS OFFICE SUPPLIES

Summer 2025 Events

Curbstone Festival: July 10-12 Antique & Classic Boat Show: July 25-27 Fall Fest Weekend: October 24-26 0PEN

No trip to Skaneateles is complete without a visit to Doug’s Fish Fry!

7 DAYS A WEEK

Skaneateles.com 315-685-0552

115 Main St, Beautiful Downtown Penn Yan, NY 14527 Ph 315-536-3131 • Fax 315-536-6743 shop@longscardsandbooks.com

DISCOVER THE

1897 Beekman House — Five luxurious rooms with en-suite bathrooms — Gourmet three-course breakfasts — Convenient to Seneca and Keuka Lake wineries — Sommelier-guided wine tours available 39 Main St, Dundee, NY 14837 • (315)412-2697

TomatoFest

Auburn. TomatoFest. Sept. 6. A fundraiser to help local food pantries, TomatoFest includes fun activities, vendors, food, live music and more. Bring shelf-stable food to donate. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fingerlakes Mall, 1579 Clark St. https://tomatofestcny.org.

beekmanhouse1897@gmail.com | www.1897beekmanhouse.com

Visit Sonnenberg

CANANDAIGUA’S CHOSEN SPOT FOR NEW & USED VINYL

Nine Formal Gardens Mansion Bay House Gift Shop, Gardeners Cottage Cafe Antique Lord and Burnham Greenhouse

250 Gibson Street Canandaigua, NY www.sonnenberg.org

90

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

WWW.CANANDAIGUARECORDEXCHANGE.COM

15 COY STREET

CANANDAIGUA, NY

THE FINGER LAKES experience for the all the people of Central New York through entertainment, cultural activities, food experiences and vendors. Free.

Clinton Square, N. Clinton St. & W. Genesee St. 315-425-1424.

SEPT.

Auburn. TomatoFest. A fundraiser to help local food pantries, TomatoFest includes fun activities, vendors, food, live music and more. Bring shelf-stable food to donate. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission

6

TBA. Fingerlakes Mall, 1579 Clark St. https:// tomatofestcny.org.

Canandaigua. John Mulaney: Mister Whatever. John Mulaney is a three-time Emmy Award, Critics’ Choice Award, and WGA Award-winning writer, comedian, and actor. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Drive. 585678-6938.

Syracuse. SCARE-A-CON. See Sept. 5.

SEPT.

7

Sackets Harbor. Sackets Harbor Marathon and Half Marathon. Prep for the Boston Marathon with a challenging qualifier race. 500-plus participants. Register in advance on the website. 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. $109 to $119. https://www.sacketsharbormarathon.com.

Syracuse. Syracuse Irish Festival. See Sept. 5.

SEPT.

11

Unique Consignment Boutique For every lifestyle

101 Genesee Street • Downtown Auburn, NY

www.murandacheese.com

Syracuse. KROCK Presents: Papa Roach & Rise Against: Rise of the

Let us plan your tasting tour!!

Home Furnishings • Home Décor • Women’s Clothing & more!

Open Daily 10-5

Syracuse. SCARE-A-CON. See Sept. 5.

We can book transportation, plan a custom itinerary and make tasting reservations so you can just have fun!

“Like” us out on Facebook!

315.406.0097 www.regenerations2.com

Email us at sipbackrelaxtours@gmail.com www.sipbackrelaxtours.com

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR THE PERFECT BOATING EXPERIENCE Daily & Weekly Boat Rentals

585-394-0918

www.suttersmarina.com

Open for Tours May 1st - October 12 295 NORTH MAIN STREET CANANDAIGUA NY, 14424

585-394-1472

WWW.GRANGERHOMESTEAD.ORG 2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

91

THE FINGER LAKES Roach Tour. 7 p.m. Admission TBA. Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview, 490 Restoration Way. www.asmsyracuse.com/p/amphitheater.

SEPT.

Palmyra. Harvest on the Canal.

Crafters, vendors, food trucks, car show, farmers market, live music, parade and more. 5 p.m. Admission TBA. Wayne County Fairgrounds, W Jackson St.

12

SEPT.

13

Palmyra. Harvest on the Canal.

See Sept. 12.

Sackets Harbor. Porch Music Fest.

Outdoor performances by local musicians on the porches of area residents and businesses to benefit charitable organizations. 12 noon to 5 p.m. Free. Porches around downtown Sackets Harbor. 315-778-0156. shhistoricalsociety@ gmail.com.

Ward W. O'Hara Agricultural & Country Living Museum Dr. Joseph F. Karpinski Sr. Educational Center Revisit rural life in 1800's Blacksmith Shop, Country Store, One Room School & More

Open – Saturday Sundays 11–4 OpenMonday 7 days a week,10–4, 10 am - 4 pm July & August: Sundays 10–5 JulyMonday & Aug.– Saturday 10 am -9–5, 5 pm

~ Free Admission & Parking ~ 315-252-7644 315-252-7644 www.wardoharaagriculturalmuseum.org www.wardoharaagriculturalmuseum.org 6880 East East Lake Lake Road 6880 Road Rt. Rt. 38A 38A Auburn, Auburn, NY NY13021 13021

SEPT.

14

Palmyra. Harvest on the Canal.

See Sept. 12.

Preble. Car Show & Market at Dwyer Park. Classic cars, flea market and family fun. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations accepted for spectator admission. Dwyer Memorial Park, Little York Lake Rd. https://www.7valleystreetrods.org.

A SPECIAL STORE

Novelties and Classics • The usual and unusual

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 585-394-2319 120 S. Main St., Canandaigua

Cosentino’s Ristorante A LOCAL FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS SINCE 1996

Visit our Gourmet Restaurant, and Farm Market to Experience Finger Lakes Bounty at its Best

Soups, Salads, Entrees and Desserts Prepared Daily from our Gardens, and Orchards.

Open for Lunch 11:30 –2; Dinner From 5 p.m.

April through December • Wednesday through Sunday

AS SEEN ON FOOD NETWORK’S RESTAURANT IMPOSSIBLE

Authentic Italian Cuisine

Offering dine in, take out, or delivery

(315) 789-1638

1 Railroad Place, Geneva, NY • www.cosentinosgeneva.com

92

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

THE FINGER LAKES

SEPT.

Syracuse. Halestorm & Lindsey Stirling. The duo has received two GRAMMY nominations and took home the award for Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance for “Love Bites (So Do I)” in 2012, which Rolling Stone called a “muscular, adventurous, and especially relevant rock record.”

12 noon and 6:30 p.m. Admission TBA. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 760 S. State St. www.halestormrocks.com.

16

SEPT.

Palmyra. The Purple Painted Lady Festival. The 13th annual event includes live music, artisans, food and more. This year, The Purple Painted Lady Festival benefits the charity Embrace Your Sisters. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. $10. The Purple Painted Lady, 880 Yellow Mills Rd.

20

Verona. Foreigner. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 800-771-7711.

SEPT.

SEPT.

Fair Haven. Third Friday. Live music, art, shopping, demonstrations, food, and fun in downtown Fair Haven. 4 to 7 p.m. fairhavenny.org.

19

Utica. Bayside & The Sleeping at Irving Plaza. Pop punk heavyweights Bayside are teaming up with The Sleeping for a leg of shows across the US in 2025. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. $58.

Irving Plaza, 1001 Broad St.

Fair Haven. Caleb Liber. Solo/ acoustic musician playing 90s music. 6 p.m. Brandon’s Pub + Grille, 559 Main St.

21

Oswego. Porchfest. Spend the day strolling through Oswego’s historic west side while listening to a variety of music. 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Palmyra. The Purple Painted Lady Festival.

See Sept. 20.

Syracuse. Syracuse Vegfest. Celebrate plantbased living. Plant-based food from local vendors, cooking demonstrations by chefs, presentations, music, kids’ area, and educa-

tional entertainment. 12 noon to 5 p.m. $10 donation. Science and Industry Building at NYS Fairgrounds, 581 State Fair Blvd. https:// nysfairgrounds.ny.gov/venues/science-industry-building.

Syracuse. World Ballet Company: The Great Gatsby Ballet. Step into the jazzy world of the Roaring Twenties with this new Broadway-style ballet by the World Ballet Company. For ages 8 & over. 6 p.m. Admission TBA. The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St. https://worldballetcompany.com.

SEPT.

Altmar. Salmon River Fish Hatchery Open House. Enjoy a fun day at the fish hatchery. Demonstrations, tours, and exhibits. 2133 County Route 22. https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/freshwater-fishing/hatcheries/salmon-river.

27 SEPT.

Weedsport. Jess Novak. 1 p.m.

Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company, 8931 N. Seneca St. https:// en-gb.facebook.com/LunkenheimerCraftBrewingCompany.

28

Come celebrate the beauty nature leaves behind!

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Jewelry • Baskets • Books & Journals • Cards • Incense Soaps • Tea & Coffee • Mugs • Scarves • Magnets • Pottery Toys • Mismatched Socks • Hand Crafted • Fair Trade

…AND MUCH MORE!

2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

93

Here, It’s Christmas

ALL YEAR ROUND

I

t’s vacation time. Thoughts turn to swimming, boating, biking, hiking, gardening and grilling.

It’s shorts and sandals season and there’s no snow in the forecast.

Sunshine and beach days are great. But does anyone “need a little Christmas right this very minute’’ (as Johnny Mathis sings in the popular holiday tune)?

Then program your GPS for Evolve for the Home — The Christmas Store in Lyons, Wayne County.

It’s a one-of-a-kind “deck the halls” destination.

Owner Glenn Wasman believes it’s the only year-round store in the Finger Lakes region dedicated exclusively to holiday merchandise.

The Christmas Store is impressive.

Some might even call it tree-mendous.

It occupies not one but three storefronts in downtown Lyons, a couple doors from the historic Ohmann Theatre. Open the door and a long hallway trimmed with twinkling lights, snowflakes, drummer boys and myriad ornaments sets the stage and the mood.

Inside is a colorful holiday

94

The Best of Upstate New York | 2025

By Margaret McCormick

spectacular, offering everything from Snowbabies porcelain figures to bright green “Grinch” figures to rolls of red and green toilet paper (“tinkle all the way’’) to sugar cookie boxed mixes.

One room holds dozens of holiday-themed nightlights.

Christmas music plays in the background.

Does Wasman get tired of it?

“That’s the No. 1 question I’m asked,’’ he said. “I don’t even notice it.’’

Wasman, 58, grew up on a farm near Lyons and graduated from Lyons High School. After graduation, he moved to Florida and spent more than 20 years working in merchandising and retail operations for Walt Disney World.

“Florida was great when I was 18, not so much when I was 40,’’ he said.

“In 2004, four hurricanes hit us in sixweek period. It was time to leave.”

He returned to Wayne County and served as bookkeeper for local businesses and the family farm. “I still do that on the side,’’ he said.

In 2016, Wasman opened a retail shop in Lyons, Evolve for the Home.

He did well with it, attracting a steady stream of customers drawn to the

store’s mix of gifts, antiques, home decor, repurposed items and furniture.

But the adventurer in him wanted to take the store to another level and make it a destination worthy of a billboard on the Thruway.

When COVID-19 hit in 2020, Wasman took it as an opportunity to reimagine the business. Evolve closed its doors for more than a year and reopened as an “all Christmas, all the time” store with 7,000 square feet of retail space.

“We made the right decision,’’ Wasman said. “And we don’t have a billboard.’’

Wasman is assisted at Evolve by partner Craig Fraser and store designer Donna Conlin. The store is a showcase for more than 40 trees, many decorated by theme. There’s a white tree, a blue tree, a Santa tree, a snowman tree, a bird tree, a mushroom tree — you get the idea.

Evolve doesn’t sell trees, inflatables and strings of lights. Those items are better left to “the big box stores,” he said.

The store does carry decorative branches with white lights and colored lights. And the store’s top-selling item,

mer and Christmas. (“Leon” is Noel spelled backwards.)

The store’s “Christmas in July” weekend, scheduled for July 25-27, also gets people thinking about the holiday season in advance. Former Rochester TV sports anchor turned digital media creator John Kucko has visited the store several times for this event.

“Trust me when I say they have everything here, thousands and thousands of ornaments to get folks into the holiday spirit during these dog days of summer,’’ Kucko posted on Facebook (John Kucko Digital).

How do people discover the Christmas store?

Largely through word-of-mouth recommendations and social media, according to Wasman.

Visits from Kucko and “Day Trips Around Rochester New York’’ author Debi Bower have helped to get the Glenn Wasman is the owner of Evolve for word out. the Home in Lyons. The store features The store’s customers are primar7,000 square feet of retail space focusing ily women and largely from within a on Christmas related items. couple hours of Lyons, as well as the local community: Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Utica, Rome, etc.

Wasman said while pointing to a disWasman named his store Evolve play above the front counter, is a twin- “because your home is always evolvkling, multi-color ornament-shaped ing.’’ light on a string.

His properties and business portOther top sellers include Defolio are evolving, too. He has purpartment 56 collectibles, festive Jim chased an adjacent storefront, which Shore figurines, whimsical “Grinch” will make room for even more Christcharacters and red and white peppermas merchandise and a seating area mint-themed décor items. Peppermint for shoppers (and their companions). has special significance in the Lyons In late April, Wasman opened area. In the 1800s, many farmers grew The Mercantile @ Newberry, a home peppermint, which was used in quanti- décor store across the street from The ty by the H.G. Hotchkiss Company to Christmas Store. It offers all manner of produce much of the peppermint oil home goods, including some vintage used in the U.S. There’s even a Pepper- items, as well as women’s clothing and mint Museum in town. jewelry. The store also has a coffee and Evolve offers some items for sale lunch counter. online, but not too many.

Evolve for the Home the Christ“People want to come for the mas Store is at 57 William St., Lyons. experience and see it,’’ Wasman said of The store is open daily (closed Easter, the store.

Thanksgiving and Christmas Day).

There’s plenty to see and Evolve For information, call 315-937-8409 or sees plenty of visitors, especially visit https://evolveforthehome.com/. as spring gives way to summer and Groups of 10 or more and motorcoach during the busy fall season. tours are welcome but should call the Lyons is close to Finger Lakes wine store and arrange to visit in advance. country and the Lake Ontario Wine For information on The Mercantile Trail and attracts some of that trade. @ Newberry, visit https://evolvemerBusiness tends to pick up in June, cantile.com/. when the weather gets warmer and For more information on things school’s out for summer. There’s an to do in Lyons and Wayne County, inuptick in traffic on “Leon Day,” June cluding an events calendar, visit www.

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95

Cortland

Corthouse Park: Civil War Memorial, Cortland.

Come Walk through History with Us …

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Central New York

4 Unique Collections ~ 1 Price

BROCKWAY TRUCK MUSEUM “The Most Rugged Trucks in the World”  History & Memorabilia HOMEVILLE MUSEUM Military  Model Trains  Local History & Musicians ANTIQUE FIREHOUSE MUSEUM & FIRST RESPONDER EXHIBIT Antique & Vintage Fire Apparatus  Equipment  Memorabilia AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE in the BIG RED BARN Vintage Farm Equipment & Tractors  Examples of Early Farm Life

Something for Everyone!

HOURS: Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM - 5 PM

Last Admission at 3:30 PM Call or Visit Us Online for More Information and Special Events

Buses & Groups Welcome with Prior Arrangements  Discounted Rates & Meal Packages Available

Handicapped Accessible  Wheelchairs & Scooters Available  Theater & Venue Rentals  Memorial Garden & Veranda

4386 US Route 11  Cortland, NY 13045  607-299-4185  www.cnylivinghistory.org 96

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You packed the gear, the guides and the what-ifs, but all you really needed was a sense of adventure. In Cortland, you’ll find trails, flavors, and surprises you can’t fit in a suitcase.

Adventure isn’t packed. It’s found at experiencecortland.com Action TrackChair at Lime Hollow Nature Center

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OCTOBER TUESDAYS Syracuse. Downtown Farmers Market Lunchtime Live! Music Series. Enjoy a free music performance from a unique artist weekly through October 14. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free. 161 W. Genesee St. https://downtownsyracuse.com/ events/signature/downtown-farmers-market.

OLDE HOMER HOUSE

Traditional Furnishings & Gifts...

We welcome you to step into our Shoppe full of home decor inspiration: American-Made Furnishings, Wall Decor, Lamps, Curtians, Rugs, Table linens, Florals, Garlands, & Wreaths Unique Gifts & more!

607-756-0750

44 James St., Homer, NY

Open: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 10AM-5PM,

Sat. 10 AM-4PM | Closed: Wed. and Sun.

THURSDAYS

OCT.

Blossvale. Vienna Farmers Market. Produce and artisan vendors, cookouts, food trucks and a variety of live music. Rain or shine, through Oct. 23. EBT and SNAP benefits accepted and worth double their face value for produce. 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Free. North Bay Firemen’s Field, 2040 Route 49. www.facebook.com/ ViennaFarmersMarketNY.

Watertown. Watertown Farm & Craft Market. Vendors, produce and live music. 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Free. 317 Washington St.

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OCT.

Fulton. Outlaw Weekend. The racing season comes to an exciting close at Fulton Speedway with the 39th Neivel Precision Plumbing Outlaw 200 Weekend. Three days of racing with

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31 YEARS REAKES COUNTRY GOODS

CELEBRATING

Gifts•Antiques•Home Decor

Local & Seasonal Plants, Produce & Homemade Pies

OPEN 4 DAYS A WEEK THURS-SUN

Amish Gliders & Cupboards • Adirondack Furniture • Antique Tables & Dressers Textiles, Pottery, Prints, Purses • Jewelry, Candles • Pies, NYCheese, Maple Syrup, Honey Open May 3rd-June 22 | Closed June 23rd - July 25th Reopen July 26th - Oct 26th Closed October 27th - Nov 14th | Reopen Nov 15 - Dec 21st

4107 Rt 13, Truxton NY • 607-842-6322 reakescountrygoods@gmail.com Like us on Facebook!

Cortland County

HISTORICAL SOCIETY Telling Your Stories for 100 Years!

Kellogg Memorial Research Center

Suggett House Museum

Then & Now Children’s Room Free admission!

Explore history!

Discover your story!

Member of the Empire State Museums Reciprocal Program and the North American Reciprocal Museum Association

25 Homer Avenue, Cortland, NY www.cortlandhistory.org

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607-756-6071

The Adirondacks

Whiteface Mountain, Adiroandack

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ADIRONDACKS / MADISON COUNTY multiple classes with the Outlaw 200 on October 4. www.fultonspeedway.com.

vendors, entertainment and fun. www.facebook.com/phoenixnylocktoberfest.

OCT.

OCT.

Cazenovia. Fall Fest 2025. Experience vendors, local food and live music at this three-day, family-oriented event. www.facebook.com/ events/1900060477067940.

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Fulton. Outlaw Weekend. Oct. 2.

OCT.

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Cazenovia. Fall Fest 2025. See Oct. 3.

Fulton. Outlaw Weekend. Oct. 2.

Oswego. CNY Pumpkinfest returns to Washington Square Park from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, and Sunday, Oct. 5. This two-day fall festival will feature a variety of live music throughout the weekend in addition to kid’s activities, amusements, food, beverage and marketplace vendors and all the fall favorites including apples, pumpkins and more! For more information contact pumpkinfest@oswegoymca.org or call 315-342-6082 option 0.

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Oct. 4.

Cazenovia. Fall Fest 2025. See Oct. 3.

Oswego. CNY Pumpkinfest. See

Verona. Jamey Johnson. 8 p.m. Admission TBA. Turning Stone Resort Casino, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 800-771-7711.

OCT.

Syracuse. RetroGameCon 2025.

Established in 2013, RetroGameCon is Upstate NY’s Video Game Expo. RGC features special guests, hundreds of exhibitor tables, panel presentations from industry professionals, video game music, tournaments, tabletop games, fantastic art, video game free play, charity events & more. 12 noon $13.51+. The Oncenter Convention Center, 800 South St. www.retrogamecon.com.

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Phoenix. Locktoberfest. Celebrate fall with

Paddle with Loons

Learn about loons

while watching loons!

Small Groups All ages Free t-shirt + gift

Stop in at the Loon Center:

75 Main St. Saranac Lake

Learn more online adkloon.org

Cazenovia Fall Fest Cazenovia. Oct. 3- 5. Experience vendors, local food and live music at this three-day, family-oriented event. For more information, visit www. facebook.com/events/1900060477067940.

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OCT.

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Syracuse. RetroGameCon 2025.

See Oct. 10.

OCT.

Syracuse. RetroGameCon 2025.

See Oct. 10.

Preble. 13th Annual Little York Fall Fiber Arts Festival. View the creations of knitters, spinners, felters, craft enthusiasts, and artists of all kinds. Vendors will have yarn, roving, fleeces, felted products, clothing, unique holiday gifts, and decorations, along with pottery, maple products, soaps, and more. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. $5; Free for children 12 and younger.

Little York Lake Pavilion, 6799 Little York Lake Road. 607-842-6204.

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Preble. 13th Annual Little York Fall Fiber Arts Festival. See Oct. 11.

Weedsport. Tom Chick. 1 p.m. Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company, 8931 N Seneca St. https://en-gb.facebook.com/LunkenheimerCraftBrewingCompany.

Madison View of Cazenovia Lake in Cazenovia.

Madison County Historical Society at Cottage Lawn 11th Annual

Summer Farmers’ Market Tuesdays • June 10 - Aug. 26 • 2-6 pm Winter Market Nov. 4, Dec. 2 • Indoors 12-4 pm 61st Annual

Madison County Craft Festival Sat. Sept. 6 • 10 am - 5 pm Sun. Sept. 7 • 10 am - 4 pm MCHS1900.org 435 Main Street, Oneida, NY Follow us on Facebook Madison County Historical Society, Oneida NY

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Farmers’ Markets FOR SEASONAL FRESH SHOPPING

By Mary Beth Roach

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rom apples to zucchini. From bedding plants to baked goods. From hanging baskets to kickballs.

The Central New York Regional Market has an abundance of locally-grown fresh fruits and vegetables, plants and goodies for shoppers to enjoy at the 2100 Park St. location. And there’s an abundance of vendors. At the height of the season, the market can draw approximately 300 vendors — farms and artisans — and thousands of visitors, especially on Saturday mornings.

The farmers’ market runs from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursdays, from May to mid-November and on Saturdays year-round, with a flea market on Sundays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The market has been a staple in Central New York for generations, having opened in the 1930s.

Some of the vendors, like Matt Hoxie, of Fulton and Hahn Farms, of Baldwinsville, have been part of the market for decades, while some, like 102

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Rob Branshaw, of Our Indigenous Garden of Lysander, is in his second year there and has been very pleased with the response he’s received.

Vendors all accept cash and some may accept forms of credit. They also may take EBT tokens, if they sell SNAP eligible products. M&T Bank has an ATM on the market property.

And speaking of abundance, the market’s website — cnyregionalmarket.org — has a wealth of information on the market, specific vendors and more.

Below is a listing of some of the other farmers’ markets in Onondaga and Oswego counties. Please note that there are other markets; these are the ones who responded to our inquiries.

ONONDAGA COUNTY DeWitt Market Location: DeWitt Town Hall Parking Lot, 5400 Butternut Dr., ast Syracuse

Dates/Times: Wednesdays, May 28 through Oct. 8, noon to 6 p.m.

Vendors: There will be 15 to 20 vendors a day, offering fruits, veggies, dairy products, soaps, plants, candy, baked goods, candles, woodworking, crafts, crochet items, two to four food trucks and much more.

Payment accepted: EBT/SNAP, Fresh Connect. Vendors take an assortment of payments. Information is posted each week on the Recreation page with what vendors are there, what they sell and what they take as payment.

Entertainment/other attractions: There will be entertainment at some of the market dates. A concert series is planned following the markets July 2 through Aug. 6; a DJ during the markets on June 25 and Aug. 13.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ DeWittParksandRecreation; Instagram: www.instagram.com/dewittrecreation/

Downtown Farmers’ Market Location: Clinton Square, 161 West Genesee St., Syracuse Dates/times: Tuesdays, June 10 through Oct. 14, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Vendors: The vendors specialize in fruits and vegetables; baked goods; flowers; soap; skincare; candles; microgreens; honey; bread and even dog treats, from Carm’s Doghouse Payment accepted: cash, credit, WIC; Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP), Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (Senior SFMNP) and EBT Double-Up Food Bucks Entertainment/other attractions: The Lunchtime Live! Music Series will run from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. each market day

Dates/times: Thursdays, May 1 through Oct. 30, noon to 6 p.m.

Vendors: There will be approximately 30 vendors, with local foods Payment accepted: cash, credit, FMNP Entertainment/other attractions: There will be food trucks on all market days Website: Fayettevillefarmersmarketcny.com Syracuse East Side Farmers Market Location: Westcott Community Center, 826 Euclid Ave., Syracuse, NY 13210

Dates/Times: Wednesdays from June through October, 2 to 6 p.m.

Vendors: Southwick Family Farm, Website: www.downtownsyracuse. with eggs, meat, produce, etc.; Good com/events/signature/downtown-farm- Stuff, with baked goods; and pickles, dips and spreads from The Mad Pickle ers-market Company Payment Accepted: cash, credit, Fayetteville Farmers’ Market Location: Towne Center, Fayetteville Venmo, PayPal, based on individual

vendor Website: https://westcottcc.org/ syracuse-eastside-farmers-market Facebook: Westcott Community Center Instagram: Westcott_CC

OSWEGO COUNTY Fulton Farmers’ Market Location: Canalview Mall, State Route 481, Fulton Dates/times: Saturdays, June 14 through Oct. 11, from 8 a.m. to noon Vendors: Vendors include local farms with a wide variety of local produce, honey, organic mushrooms, baked goods, local artisans, fresh cut flower farms and more.

Payment accepted: cash, WIC, FMNP, SFMNP and SNAP. There are also ATMs available close by.

Entertainment/other attractions: The market will feature entertainment 2025 | The Best of Upstate New York

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periodically, with monthly theme days with bounce houses, family-friendly entertainment, face painting and more.

Website: https://centerstateceo. com/about-us/greater-oswego-fulton-chamber-commerce/community-programs/oswego-fulton-farmers-markets Oswego Farmers’ Market Location: West First Street, between Bridge and Oneida streets, Oswego Dates/times: Thursdays, June 12 through Oct. 9, from 4 to 7:45 p.m.

Vendors: The market has local farms with a wide variety of local produce, local honey, organic mushrooms, fresh-cut flower; bakeries offering a wide variety of products

including breads, sourdough, gluten-free options, cookies, donuts and more; local artisans selling a variety of handmade craft products, including crocheted items, 3D printed toys, jewelry, and much more; a variety of food trucks; as well as henna tattoos, face painting and more.

Payment accepted: cash, WIC, FMNP, SFMNP and SNAP. There are also multiple ATMs available close by.

Entertainment/other attractions: The market will showcase local musicians, jazz bands and a variety of other local groups throughout the season.

Website: https://centerstateceo. com/about-us/greater-oswego-fulton-chamber-commerce/community-programs/oswego-fulton-farmers-markets

Pulaski Farmers’ Market Location: South Park, 3 Bridge St., Pulaski Dates/times: Fridays, June 6 through Sept. 26, from 4 to 8 p.m.

Vendors: There will be 45 vendors and farmers with produce, mushrooms, wine, food trucks, crafts, flowers, soap.

Payment accepted: cash, credit, FreshConnect checks and FMNP Entertainment/other attractions: free kids’ events. A summer concert series free live music every Friday.

Website: pulaskifarmersmarket.org Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/pulaskifarmersmarket

SELECT FARMERS MARKETS ACROSS

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Upstate New York

he listing below is based on information from https:// agriculture.ny.gov/farmersmarkets, maintained by NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets. Visitors may wish to check with individual markets for updated info.

CAYUGA Auburn Farmers Co-op Market 96 State St., Auburn Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 3 through Oct. 30, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

www.auburnfarmerscoopmarketinc.com

MADISON Cazenovia Farmers Market Memorial Park, 36-38 Albany St., Cazenovia Saturdays, May 10 through Oct. 25, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. www.cazenoviachamber.com

Cottage Lawn Farmers Market Madison County Historical Society, 435 Main St., Oneida

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Tuesdays, June 10 through Aug. 26, 2 to 6 p.m. www.mchsfarmersmarket.org

Village of Hamilton Farmers Market Village Green, 3 Broad St., Hamilton Saturdays, May 10 through Oct. 25, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. www.hamilton-ny.gov MONROE Rochester Public Market 280 N. Union St. off East Main St. Year-round, from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays www.cityofrochester.gov/publicmarket

ONTARIO Geneva Farmers Market 35 Lakefront Dr., Geneva Saturdays, May 24 through Oct. 11 https://cityofgenevany.com/413/Geneva-Farmers-Market

Victor Farmers’ Market Village Hall Parking Lot, 60 East Main St., Victor Wednesdays, June 4 through Oct. 29, 3 to 6 p.m. www.victorny.org

Brighton Farmers’ Market Brighton High School lot, 1150 Winton Road. South Sundays, April 27 through Nov. 16, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WAYNE Curbside Market-The Gardens at Town Center 100 Greece Center Dr. Tuesdays, Year-Round, 10:30 to 11 a.m.

Webster’s Joe Obbie Farmers’ Market Webster Towne Plaza, 1034 Ridge Road Saturdays, June 14 through Oct. 25, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Ginegaw Farmers’ Market 1980 Route 441, Walworth Tuesdays, June 17 through Oct. 7, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.

www.brightonfarmersmarket.org

www.webstersjoeobbiefarmersmarketinc.org

www.foodlinkny.org

www.townofwalworthny.gov

Advertiser Index THE FOLLOWING ADVERTISERS HAVE MADE THIS PUBLICATION POSSIBLE

LISTED ALPHABETICALLY 1897 Beekman B&B...............................90 43 North Marina.....................................79 911 Generators......................................33 Adam’s Cheese Shop.............................68 Adirondack Center for Loon ...............100 Adventure Calls Outfitters....................48 Alexandria Bay Chamber of Comm......29 All Car Care............................................72 Antique World & Flea Market................24 Apple Country Retreat..........................71 Arcade & Attica Railroad.......................39 Associated Dental Arts..........................58 B.A.C. Helicopters..................................31 Brennan Beach ...................................107 Brewerton Boatyard..............................78 Brewerton Pharmacy ...........................77 British Blacksmith, The.........................72 Broadwell Hospitality Group .................7 Brookfield Renewable Energy..............79 Builders First Source.............................73 Bull Farm Antiques, The .......................25 Burger King............................................56 Burke’s Home Center............................57 Burnap’s B&B, Farm Market..................80 Burt Goodnough’s Marina East.............65 Camillus Erie Canal Park.......................72 Camp Arey.............................................88 Camp Good Days & Special Times........39 Canale Insurance & Accounting............52 Canalview Travel...................................61 Canandaigua Records Exchange..........90 Cape Vincent Chamber of Commerce..17 Car Shop, The........................................58 Cattaraugus County Tourism................11 Century 21 Galloway ............................52 Children’s Museum of Oswego.............51 Christ the Good Shepherd ....................59 Christmas Store of New York (Evolve for the Home)......................86 Christy’s Motel.....................................101 City of Oswego ......................................53 Clayton Chamber of Commerce...........70 Clifton Springs Chamber of Com..........88 CNY Arts.................................................31 CNY Living History Center.....................96 Colonial Laundromat............................12 Compass Federal Credit Union.............56

Cortland Arts Connects.........................98 Cortland County Convention & Visitor’s Center..............................97 Cortland County Historical Museum ...98 Cortland Repertory Theatre....................2 Cosentino’s Ristorante..........................92 Court Street Antiques............................24 Crouse Hospital.....................................16 Discover Downtown Syracuse..............74 DiscoverUpstateNY.com........................31 Doug’s Fish Fry......................................90 Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery.................93 Earlville Opera House, The...................33 Eastern Shore Insurance Agency..........63 Elderberry Pond Restaurant.................92 Elemental Management Group............26 Eleven Waters Restaurant (Marriott Hotel).................................74 Fair Haven Chamber of Commerce......82 Finger Lakes Boating Museum..............87 Friendship Thrift Shop..........................65 Fulton County..........................................8 Fulton Taxi.............................................63 Gauger Estate, The................................62 Gem & Mineral Society of Syracuse......72 Geneva Antique Co-op..........................24 Granger Homestead & Carriage Museum.............................91 Greater Lakes EZ-Dock..........................41 Greater Oswego/FultonChamber of Commerce (Farmers Market)...........50 Greene Point Marina.............................65 H. Lee White Marine Museum & Gift Store........................................56 Harborfest..............................................51 Hastings Lions Club Apple Fest.............79 Hejamada Campground.......................89 Henderson Harbor................................68 Herschell Carrousel...............................47 Jewish Community Center (JCC)..........73 Jim’s Trailer World.................................84 Johnston’s Gas......................................60 JP Animal Adventure...............................6 Ken’s Body Shop....................................58 Lakeview Lanes.....................................61 Lasnicki Landscaping............................77 Left Bank, The........................................25

Editor & Publisher: Wagner Dotto • editor@cnysummer.com Calendar Editor: Deborah Jeanne Sergeant • Contributing Writers: Deborah Jeanne Sergeant, Margaret McCormick, Mary Beth Roach, Steve Yablonski • Advertising: Peggy Kain, Roxanne Seeber, Rob Elia, Pam Roe, Bill Gowan • Office Manager: Mary Trepasso-Ayers Design: Angel Campos-Toro • Cover Design: Jillian Siriphanthong.

Longley Dodge.......................................63 Longs Cards & Books.............................90 Lukacs Pottery Studio...........................84 LW Emporium .......................................83 Madison County Fair...........................101 Madison County Historical Society.....101 Main Street Emporium..........................82 Martin’s Amish Furniture.......................85 Martin’s Tide Sides Bay House..............81 Mill House Market / Rainbow Shores....65 Mimi’s Drive-In.......................................61 Mirabito Financial Group......................60 Muranda Cheese....................................91 Nest Egg Country Store, The.................49 New York State Fair, The..........................3 Nolan’s on the Lake...............................86 NYS Parks and Recreation...................108 NYS Woodsmen’s Field Days.................47 Oak Hill Bulk Foods...............................86 OBC Athletic & Boxing...........................51 Ol’ Factory Soaps/Lavender Festival....81 Old McDonald’s Farm............................68 Olde Country Store and More, The.......89 Olde Homer House Museum.................98 Ontario Orchards...................................59 Orleans County........................................4 Oswego County Fair..............................27 Oswego County Mutual Insurance (OCMIC).........................106 Oswego County Tourism.........................9 Oswego Pumpkin Fest...........................50 Painfull Acres Amish Furniture.............67 Pandora’s Barn......................................24 Paul’s Big M............................................57 Paulanjo’s Pizza.....................................65 Peters Realty / Simeon Dewitt..............58 Pinehurst Cottages................................69 Polish Festival........................................47 Port City Co-Op......................................25 Port of Oswego Authority......................56 Reakes Country Goods..........................98 Red Fox Run B&B.................................100 Regenerations.......................................91 Reiter’s Marina, Inc................................64 REV Theatre, The...................................33 Rhonda Vincent Concert at Sodus Bay Lighthouse.................................84

Ridge Campgrounds, The.....................29 Rochester Museum & Science Center...28 Rolling Hills Asylum...............................47 Rudy’s Lakeside Drive-In.......................50 Salt Sanctuary.......................................49 Scriba Electric........................................57 Seneca Falls Historical Society.............89 Seneca Park Zoo....................................41 Sharp’s Bulk Foods ...............................69 Sip Back & Relax Tours..........................91 Skaneatelas Area Chamber of Commerce....................................90 Skaneatelas Marina...............................89 Skydive the Falls....................................41 Smith Boys.............................................95 Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum...........83 Sodus Feeds & Artisan’s Co-Op.............84 Sonnenberg Gardens............................90 St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce....................................30 Stickley Museum, The...........................73 Sutter’s Marina......................................91 Syracuse Honey.....................................35 Tailwater Lodge.....................................48 Tee Time CNY.........................................60 Together for Youth Formerly Berkshire).........................41 Torbitt’s Service Center.........................57 Total Fire Protection..............................74 Tru by Hilton..........................................73 Tug Hill Estate Vineyard........................67 Twin Oaks Campground.......................49 Unique Toy Shop...................................92 Utica Zoo................................................49 Vashaw’s Collision Service....................59 Visit Rochester.........................................5 Visit Sackets Harbor..............................68 Ward O’Hara Museum...........................92 Warren’s Auto Parts & More...................64 Water Safari Resort................................99 Watertown International Airport..........67 Wayne County Tourism.........................10 Weis Vinyard..........................................89 White’s Lumber......................................64 Wild Goose Chase Antiques..................25 Wizard of Clay Pottery...........................93 Woman Made Products.........................93

The CNY Summer & Fall Guides are published by Local News, Inc. P.O. Box 276, Oswego, NY 13126 Phone: 315-342-8020 | Email: editor@cnysummer.com © 2025 Local News, Inc. All rights reserved.

Website: www.cnysummer.com, www.cnyfall.com

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SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE

1878

LOOKING FOR INSURANCE? Contact OSWEGO COUNTY MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY today!

1-800-640-9660 www.ocmic.com

Oswego County Mutual Insurance Company is represented by multiple agencies.

Please call or visit our website for available agencies near you!

Brennan Beach is more than just your typical resort.

Located on the eastern shores of Lake Ontario, we combine the benefit of having all the comforts of home surrounding you with a relaxing “ocean holiday.” Whether you want to soak up the rays or splash around in the waves, you’ll love the unique experience of camping at this Pulaski RV resort!

At Brennan Beach RV Resort, you can stay on one of our attractive RV campsites or choose a comfortable vacation rental experience. Our facility makes your stay so worry-free and memorable that you’ll want to come back to Brennan Beach year after year!

1/2 MILE OF BEACH • 3 POOLS • RENTAL UNITS • CAMP STORE • ON-SITE RESTAURANTS PLANNED ACTIVITIES / THEME WEEKENDS • SEASONAL SITES • ARCADE • LAUNDRY 80 Brennan Beach Rd., Pulaski | Call For Reservations: 315-298-2242 BrennanBeachRVResort.com | RVonthego.com