Things to do in Phoenix, NY for the Perfect Day Trip
Last updated on November 12, 2025.
If you’re looking for a great place to take a day trip this fall, head up to Oswego County. The leaves are changing, the landscape is gorgeous, and the small town charm is calling you. There are plenty of things to do in Phoenix, NY to fill a day-long itinerary.
Learn local history at Schroeppel Historical Society
Every town, no matter how big or small, has a beloved historical society. Phoenix is no different. Located in the southern part of the town of Schroeppel, Phoenix is home to the Schroeppel Historical Society. While small in size, its history is mighty. The museum is open every Saturday from 10am til 1 pm and occasionally hosts historical events throughout the year.
Get lunch at Duskees Sports Bar & Grill
When you step inside Duskees Sports Bar & Grill in Phoenix, you’ll immediately notice the walls that are filled with Syracuse sports murals and New York Yankees decor. Much like my college dorm room, I felt right at home. The small-town sports bar packs a punch with a variety of both mass-produced and locally-made beers alongside craft cocktails. And the best part? The prices are very reasonable!
Beer lovers will be happy to discover that they offer beer flights and the chalkboard shows when the draft lines were last cleaned.
Iconic chicken wings
As for food, their chicken wings deserve a medal. Duskees offers an impressive 22 different options for sauces and rubs. They are known for their “Goat Sauce”, a mix of multiple sauces. Some of my favorites? The Old Bay Dry Rub and the Bourbon Glaze.
Whichever flavor you choose, you can’t go wrong. Because the wings at Duskees definitely live up to the hype. Both the glaze and the dry rub packed a punch of flavor. The wings were crispy on the outside, yet tender and moist inside.
Or… get lunch at Angry Pig BBQ
Another great option for lunch in Phoenix is the Angry Pig BBQ. What started as a food truck serving mouth-watering, barbecue-slathered meals now also boasts a brick-and-mortar location across the river from the village. Open Wednesday through Sunday, Angry Pig serves up all of your barbecue favorites: pulled pork, smoked turkey, ribs, and more. They also offer some combo creations like pulled pork mac & cheese, brisket poutine, and a “pig plate” (their version of a garbage plate). For sides, they have mac & cheese, tater tots, mac salad, coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, and more. Guests can opt for a combo platter, a creative entree, or a smash burger.
* Did you know that Angry Pig BBQ is also a participating business on the Wandercuse passport? Passport holders save 10% off every purchase.
Go shopping at Em & V Boutique
When Kat VanDenburgh had her son Everett in 2018, she knew she wanted to stay home to raise him. But at the same time she wanted to be able to financially contribute to the family. So she took a chance on herself and opened up her own business. Named after her two children, Emmy and Everett, Em & V Boutique is now the most adorable little shop located in Phoenix, NY.
Kat fills the shop with a well-curated collection of women’s apparel and accessories. But customers can shop online for even more options. Additionally, Kat offers permanent jewelry both in the store and at pop-up events throughout Central New York.
* Did you know that Em & V Boutique is also a participating business on the Wandercuse passport? Passport holders save 15% off every purchase.
Get a dessert at Gingersnap Bakery
My first exposure to Gingersnap Bakery was at one of my best friend’s weddings over a decade ago. They made some delicious cake centerpieces for the reception tables. While known for their wedding and event cakes, Gingersnap also does cookies, pies, and individual desserts with a wide variety of flavors and fillings.
Treat yourself at the Looking Glass Salon
Two sisters are giving the village of Phoenix an added bit of country flair. Dani and Bre are the owners of The Looking Glass Salon, a desert ranch-themed salon established in 2020 in Upstate New York. The all-female team at the salon pride themselves on offering the latest and most fashionable services.
Among the services of the stylists, estheticians, and nail technicians are treatments for hair, face, and nails. Hair extensions, cuts, colors, balayage, and blowouts. Lashes, facials, waxing, teeth whitening, and permanent make-up. And finally, a full array of manicures and pedicures.
Have drinks over a football game at Lock 1 Distillery
I first visited Lock 1 Distillery in Phoenix almost 7 years ago, and every time I visit I find another reason to love it more. Their most recent addition? Monday Night Football specials. Like most sports bars in Oswego County, Lock 1 is a proud Syracuse University and Buffalo Bills bar. And for the 2024-2025 season, they started opening up on Monday nights to cheer on the NFL teams.
A variety of specials feature the distillery’s famous wood-fired pizza, cocktails, and chicken wings. Plus, any time a customer orders one of the MNF specials, they get entered to win a cooler filled with goodies at the end of the season! Their chicken wings come in a variety of classic and unique flavors. Some of their most popular options include Buffalo Bleu, Blueberry Jalapeño, and Inferno (made using their signature inferno whiskey).
If you’re going any night except Monday (when there is a special limited menu) I highly recommend the Brussel Crowe salad. It’s a mix of romaine, roasted brussel sprouts, craisins, cherry tomatoes, chopped bacon, olive oil, balsamic, and parmesan. You won’t regret it.
Lock 1 is also open for brunch on Sundays. The menu consists of chicken & waffles, coconut French toast, breakfast tacos and other delicious creations. And you know they have some fantastic brunch cocktails.
* Did you know that Lock 1 Distilling is also a participating business on the Wandercuse passport? Passport holders save $5 off every purchase over $25.
Seasonal Activities in Phoenix
Depending on the time of year you visit, there are different, unique things to do in Phoenix, NY. Plenty of pick-your-own farms have offerings as the seasons change. Blueberries, lavender, apples, and Christmas trees – there’s something for everyone.
Blueberry Picking at Godfrey’s Last Stand
There really is no shortage of blueberry patches in Oswego County. But out of all the options, Godfrey’s Last Stand in Phoenix has more weekday hours than most. During blueberry picking season, Godfrey’s is open weekdays from 8am til 7pm and weekends from 8am til 6pm. Which means there’s just enough time to pick some blueberries after work one day. Pick-your own berries are $2.75 per pound and visitors are asked to bring their own containers.
Pick lavender at Riverview Lavender Farm at Candee’s Tree Farm
This past summer Candee’s Tree Farm added a second business to their property. Located at the back of the tree farm is the new Riverview Lavender Farm. The fragrant fields offer you-pick lavender and host lavender-themed events throughout the summer. Guests can attend lavender workshops, yoga in the fields, and more.
Find the perfect Christmas tree at Goodman’s Christmas Tree Farm
When the snowflakes start falling and the Christmas carols are playing, it’s time to head to Goodman’s Christmas Tree Farm. The farm offers pre-cut trees, cut-your-own, and wreaths. Starting at the end of November, they are open weekdays noon – 5pm and weekends 9am – 5pm.
Goodman’s is both family-friendly and dog-friendly. Families are even allowed to bring skis, sleds, and snowshoes to explore the farm while choosing their Christmas trees. They specialize in Frasier Fir, Balsam Fir, White Spruce, White Pine, and Scotch Pine trees. Saws and tarps are provided for customers to borrow; no chainsaws allowed.
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