Weekend Getaway: Where to go before the snow

As we reach mid-October, it’s hard to shift the thoughts of the upcoming winter into the back of our minds. But sometimes we need to remind ourselves to take advantage of the beautiful Central New York Fall instead of anticipating the colder months. Here are a few spots you have to visit to sneak in that last bit of adventure (and sun) before the snow falls.

Photo: Erika Colbertaldo

The CNY Regional Market, open each Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. is a great place to get your favorite Fall produce.

Beak & Skiff Apple Orchard

Apple picking may seem cliché but you won’t think of that when you’re munching on a juicy Red Delicious. Beak & Skiff is located in Lafayette and is home to the famous Apple Hill. There’s no better way to immerse yourself in a fall day, than taking a tractor out to Apple Hill and filling your bags to the brim with a variety of picks. You can check the Beak & Skiff website, or their Facebook page, for the picking schedule and a description of different apples and when they are available. Golden Delicious and Gonagold are among the ones that are currently up for grabs. After the day’s activities, relax at the bakeshop or café where you can enjoy apple pie, cider donuts, homemade sandwiches and salads. Beak & Skiff also has the 1911 Tasting Room that offers a selection of wines and hard ciders.

Onondaga Lake

Don’t let the myths of the polluted lake steer you away. Onondaga Lake Park has everything you need to enjoy a sunny Fall day. Whether you bring your own gear or rent some out, the park has plenty of trails and grass areas to bask in. At the south end of the lake, by Wegmann’s Landing, is a stand for equipment rentals. Pay per hour to use a bike, skates or different recreational balls. If you’re really feeling adventurous, you and a few friends can rent out a Conference Bike that seats up to 7 people. There are also plenty of docks and pavilions kick back and relax. Also, if you’re lucky, you might catch a Recess Coffee pop-up cart that is set up next to the rental stand on most weekends.

Green Lakes

Only about 15 minutes away from campus, Green Lakes State Park will make you say we’re not in Syracuse anymore. The nature surrounding the state park is absolutely breath taking. Hike the trails through the woods and along the water. If it is not too cold, you can even rent canoes or kayaks. The lake has an entire beach area, so be sure to bring a blanket or towels. If you’re not the outdoorsy type, it is a still a great way to spend a day relaxing and isolating yourself from campus (hey, at least you’ll get a good Instagram out of it). And even if it’s not quite swimming weather, you can still dip your toes in.

Ithaca Gorges

If you and a few friends are up for a road trip, then take your weekend getaway towards Ithaca. Although it may be too late in the year for cliff jumping, there are still plenty of woods, trails and dams to see and explore. Once you’ve seen enough make a quick trip to The Commons for shopping and of course a bite to eat at Collegetown Bagels.

Drumlins

Getting off campus doesn’t always have to be an all day affair. Drive or take a bus past South Campus and take advantage of the student perks at Drumlins Country Club. Located at 800 Nottingham Rd., Drumlins has a golf course and tennis courts that are student-friendly. During the academic year, full-time Syracuse University undergraduate students can play tennis at the Drumlins Tennis Club and golf on the Drumlins West Golf Course free of charge.

CNY Regional Market

Even though the CNY Farmer’s Market is opened Saturdays year round, you may want to stop in before the winter months. At 2100 Park St., the Regional Market offers a farmer’s market each Saturday from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Filled with a variety of farm stands, the Regional Market also has gift shops and an array of dining options from diners to Mediterranean specialties. Stop by now while your favorite Fall produce is in season.