Oswego

OK, so Oswego, NY is even colder, windier, and snowier than Syracuse in the wintertime -- but it’s still worth a trip to experience what Oswego has to offer. It’s a small college town nestled next to Lake Ontario with a hopping maritime district of bars and restaurants. Sip tea with some SUNY-Oswego students, conquer downtown of this notorious party school, or visit the waterfront to view some awesome WWII tugboats and learn some history.

Distance: 33 miles

Driving: 53 minute trip northwest

Population: 18,000

Schools: SUNY Oswego

Where to wake up: Oswego Tea Company

The Oswego Tea Company will help you start your day of adventuring and keeping warm with a delicious omelet or a freshly baked, house-made pastry. It’s directly in the middle of the downtown area, so you won’t have to walk too far to check out the Oswego scene. The Tea Co. is also a very quiet, calm place to get some work done or clear your thoughts in the morning.

Location: 157 East First Street, Oswego, NY

Food: Breakfast all day: omelets, eggs, pancakes, fresh breads and pastries every day

           Lunch: sandwiches and wraps

Drink: Tea, juice, Starbucks coffee and specialty coffee drinks

Price: $4 - $7

What to do: Visit the H. Lee White Marine Museum

Syracuse University graduate Rosemary Nesbitt and Oswego native Harris Lee White founded the H. Lee White Marine Museum in 1982. The museum offers guided tours for groups if called ahead of time, but simply stopping to look at these giant, ancient ships will make all the difference in your day. It’s located right in the middle of the Maritime District, so even if you just happen to be having a drink at the Press Box, take a quick walk down the pier to view an awe-filling piece of history.

Location: end of West 1st Street Pier, Oswego, NY

To Do: Check out the boats and gift shop; guided tours

Price: Looking is free, tours are not (call for details)

Where to eat: Canale’s Restaurant

Mike Canale’s grandmother was the original boss of Canale’s Restaurant when it opened in 1954. Fifty-six years later, Canale’s is still using the original recipes she created under Mike’s ownership. Her traditional Italian sauces have grown quite popular - jars are even sold in Syracuse grocery stores. If you’re a fan of authentic Italian cuisine and tradition, Canale’s is a must-go. Maybe if you're lucky the Canale brothers will be sitting at a table by the bar drinking wine and cracking jokes. Otherwise, enjoy the cozy dining room and Italiano nourishment.

Location: 156 West Utica Street, Oswego, NY

Food: Dinner: antipasto, soups, salads, pizzas, pastas, baked pastas, chicken, seafood

Drink: Full bar

Price: Entrees: $15 - 34

Going out? Go to The Press Box

The Press Box is a lively sports bar and restaurant in the maritime district. The staff says it’s a more popular spot to stop for dinner, but they do get plenty of college students that come in to watch a game. And they are sure to play all the Syracuse basketball games at the bar -- a familiar way to start a night out on a new town. 

Location: 29 East First Street, Oswego, NY

Food: Sandwiches, pizza, burgers, chicken, shrimp

Drink: Full bar

Price: Food: $7 - $13