Here are some interesting threads which have some info on what to do in and around Zurich:

http://www.englishforum.ch/travel-da...-days-out.html

Day trip from Zurich for "Swissness"

It may have been mentioned before, but I think Schaffhausen followed by a walk along the Rhine to the Rhine Falls is a good day trip.

You could go to Seilbahn Rigblick, go up on the cable car, walk up the hill and then along towards the lake until you get to the Zoo and then visit the Zoo. I have done the walk, but not the zoo.

I've been saving Winterthur for a rainy day, since I think the old town is supposed to be quite pleasant and there are loads of museums/galleries there.

Hope this helps.

kfc.