Beaver Lake Nature Center

For an up-close-and-personal look at our natural world, Beaver Lake Nature Center offers various guided tours through the park's wildlife habitats. Life along the bog trail, predator/prey relationships, winter preparation, and fall colors are some of the topics of autumn classroom field trips. For more information, click here or call 638-2519.

Onondaga Lake Park

Learn about the history of salt production in Syracuse at The Salt Museum. Local historical interpreter and character actor Scott Peal has created an entertaining and educational tour designed for 4th-7th grade classes. Students will be placed in the role of "Reporter," to investigate within the Salt Museum answers to such questions as: "Why is Syracuse nicknamed the Salt City?", "What were the two types of salt producing methods used during this era?" and more.

Take a trip back in time on a Historical Tram Tour. Groups will be entertained while learning about the physical and geographical characteristics of Onondaga Lake, the Iroquois Confederacy, the Willow basket industry, the Mudlock and the importance of the canals, the Turn of the Century amusement parks that dotted the shoreline, and the discovery of salt and the development of the salt industry.

Both Salt Museum and Tram Tours run from April-June & September-October, 9:30-11am & 11:30am-1pm. (Please note: From Mother's Day-Columbus Day, tram tours on Fridays are only available at 9:30am). Museum tours are limited to 30 participants and are $50 per tour. Tram tours are limited to 45 participants and are $50 per tour. Reservations are required and may be made by calling 453-6712.

Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park

Another favorite field trip destination is the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, whose animal residents never cease to delight visitors of all ages. From the National Grid Rainforest Exhibit to one of the largest Asian elephant collections in New York State, the zoo promotes understanding of, and respect for, the natural world and its inhabitants.

The Zoo to You program is an educational outreach program that will bring fun, hands-on educational experiences to audiences ranging from 4 years old to adults. The program is available to schools, scout troops, day care and senior facilities, after-school programs, camps, and community groups for a moderate price.

The 45 minute presentation is limited to 30 participants. From small classrooms to auditoriums, each program is uniquely designed to fit the NYS science curriculum and badge requirements for all age levels. For more information, call the zoo at 435-8511.

Sainte Marie among the Iroquois

Tours of Sainte Marie among the Iroquois include a visit to the Visitors Center where they will learn about the Native American environment; the European journey to North America, the meeting of the French and Native Americans and the establishment of a peace treaty, upon visiting the Mission Site, students will learn about the Jesuit Mission and the men who lived there. Prior to the visit teachers will receive a reproducable activity packet. Costumed interpreters may be available. The program supports the NYS 4th Grade social studies curriculum standards including physical geographical characteristics, Native American history, settlement of NYS and development of transportation and industry.

Tours are available Monday - Friday, beginning at 9:30 or 11:30am. Tours are targeted to 4th-7th grades and French Clubs, all grades are welcome. Tours in French and American Sign Language are available upon request (and availability.) Cost is $2 per student. 1 adult free for every 10 students, additional adults are $2 each. Reservations are required and may be made by calling 453-6768.