The city of Watertown, New York--located in northern New York about 70 miles north of Syracuse--is home to many attractions, making it a great place to travel with family and friends. While it is a small city, it offers many attractions comparable to those of a big city including national parks, zoos and historical sites.
The New York State Zoo, located in the historical Thompson Park in downtown Watertown, is a family zoo and one of Watertown's most popular attractions. It is the only zoo in the state dedicated solely to wild animals native to the state such as black bears and bald eagles. The zoo has a reasonable admission fee of just $4 for children, $5 for seniors and $7 for adults, as of 2010, and also offers a special package for parties.
New York State Zoo at Thompson Park
1 Thompson Park
Watertown, NY 13601
315-782-6180
nyszoo.org
The Jefferson County Historical Society, located in the historical Paddock Mansion on Washington Street, is a historical site--turned museum--offering a look and information about the country's early settlers. The museum includes photographs and other historical treasures recovered and preserved from important historical events such as the Civil War. The Jefferson County Historical Society also has a beautiful Victorian-inspired garden available for use for weddings or other special events. Admission to the museum is free for members of the society and children under 5 years old, $3 for students, $4 for seniors and $5 for adults, as of 2010.
Jefferson County Historical Society
Paddock Mansion
228 Washington St.
Watertown, NY 13601
315-782-3491
jeffersoncountyhistory.org
The Dry Hill Ski Area is located just past Brookside Cemetery on Dry Hill. The ski hill has a total of 12 trails, which are a mixture of beginner, intermediate and advanced trails. Dry Hill also offers an area for tubing and snowboarding and provides skiing equipment for rent, as well as skiing lessons. Rates range from $10 to $25 depending on the time and day of the week. Season passes are also available.
Dry Hill Ski Area
County Route 67
Watertown, NY 13601
315-782-8584
skidryhill.com
