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While the semester may still be young, summer is quickly drawing to an end. Oswego offers plenty during the warmer months, but don’t worry, there’s plenty of time before the snow hits to check out what the Port City has to offer.

Ontario Orchards provides a taste of central New York unlike anywhere else. Not only does the orchard offer apple picking, but it has a large variety of goods, ranging from apple butters to cheeses, to sauces and even sweet candies, available at its market. Ontario Orchards is open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. and is located at 7735 State Route 104.

Breitbeck Park is the perfect place to go for a walk with a view of Lake Ontario. The park was constructed after World War II and has 15 acres to explore. It also provides an excellent view of the lighthouse in the harbor. Take a short walk up the hill toward the Oswego Harbor and an even better view of the lighthouse with the harbor and all its boats comes into view. Breitbeck Park is located along the end of Lake Street, which can be reached by following West Eighth Street toward Lake Ontario.

Fort Ontario has a history dating back to 1755, when it was first built by the British. Destroyed by the French soon after, a second fort was built in 1759. Fort Ontario would be destroyed and rebuilt multiple times until the fort that stands today was built between 1839 and 1844. The fort was used as a safe haven for refugees of the Holocaust at the end of World War II. The fort also served as a place to house veterans and their families starting in 1946. Today, the site is being restored to its 1867-72 appearance and costumed interpreters recreate the lives of those who once lived there during that time. The fort is open until mid-October and can be visited Wednesday through Sunday, and Monday Holidays from 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The historic site is located at the end of East Fourth Street.

The Oswego River Walk provides a beautiful view of where the Oswego River meets Lake Ontario. The walk is on both sides of the river and stretches from the marina to Leto Island. Fisherman can be seen along the river walk and sometimes in the water. The walk provides a remarkable place for a run, walk or bike adventure. Both river walks can be reached from West and East First streets.

One last place to check out before the lake effect snow reaches Oswego is the Flat Rocks. The location is popular with students at Oswego State, mainly due to its proximity to campus. A short walk down the lake side toward the President’s House can reward students with a beach-like lake experience. The Flat Rocks provide students with a place to jump in the water or to sit around and listen to music. This spot also happens to be one of the best places to view the sunset. If you don’t feel like braving the lake side stroll, just take Sixth Avenue past the energy plant where an open parking lot overlooks the lake.