Syracuse is the fifth-largest city in New York and it is located in the Finger Lakes region. It has a well-preserved downtown area with historic buildings and tourist attractions. The city has a vibrant shopping, dining, and cultural scene.
Syracuse has been an important city for a long time because of its location as a crossroads and its connection to the Erie Canal and railway network. This has influenced the development of the United States as well. There are many beautiful old buildings, landmarks, and museums in the city.
Syracuse is also known for hosting the country’s oldest state fair. Some of the enjoyable things to do in Syracuse include visiting its highly-rated zoo and New York’s largest mall. Additionally, there are picturesque nature spots and various entertainment options available.
14. The Great New York State Fair
One of the most enjoyable times to explore Syracuse is in August during the lively Great New York State Fair. Over thirteen days, the fair buzzes with exciting exhibits and fantastic concerts, showcasing the best of New York’s agriculture, entertainment, and technology, both from individuals and companies.
As the oldest and one of the largest state fairs in the country, it draws millions of visitors each year. Now hosted at the expansive Empire Expo Center alongside Onondaga Lake, the fair’s shows, displays, and competitions have been captivating audiences since 1841.
In and around its numerous buildings, you can stroll through art exhibits, explore agriculture stands, enjoy live music performances, and experience fairground rides. A variety of food vendors and drink providers are scattered around, accompanied by large herds of dairy cattle and the impressive thematic sand sculpture crafted during the fair.
13. Central New York Regional Market
Head to the north side of Syracuse, and you’ll easily discover the vibrant Central New York Regional Market in the Lakefront district, nestled alongside Destiny USA. This expansive complex houses over 300 vendors, offering a delightful stroll through its colorful and bustling atmosphere.
Since its modest beginnings in 1938, the market has evolved significantly, now featuring stands laden with fresh produce, handmade crafts, wines, and cheese. As you wander through its extensive rows of artisanal food products, local cafes and kiosks provide opportunities to pause for a coffee, snack, or a meal.
Both the marvelous farmers market and flea market are held throughout the year, with the former occurring on Saturday mornings and the latter at the same time on Sundays.
12. Museum of Science and Technology
The Museum of Science and Technology (MOST) is a fun and educational place to visit. It is located south of Armory Square. The museum has many exhibits that are both entertaining and informative. There are hands-on activities and experiments for everyone to enjoy. You can also watch movies at the IMAX theater.
The museum is the first interactive science museum in upstate New York. It is located in a unique building that used to be the city’s armory. The museum has been open since 1981 and has many engaging exhibits. Some exhibits focus on geology and paleontology, while others focus on outer space, flight, and technology.
In addition to the exhibits, the museum also has an IMAX theater where you can watch documentaries and films. Outside, you can see a piece of the Berlin Wall and the museum also has a planetarium where you can look up at the stars and sky.
11. Landmark Theatre
The Landmark Theatre is located in the downtown area and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. It is a popular venue for a variety of events, including Broadway shows, concerts, comedy nights, and community gatherings.
The theater, which opened in 1928, has an impressive interior with red and gold decorations, stunning murals, and motifs. It is now recognized as a National Historic Landmark. With its extravagant decor and talented performers, the Landmark Theatre offers a memorable experience for those who want to enjoy a musical or movie.
Many famous entertainers, including Jerry Seinfeld, Steely Dan, Bob Dylan, and Broadway stars, have performed on its illustrious stage throughout the years.
10. Green Lakes State Park
Just east of Syracuse, you can find Green Lakes State Park, which is known for its beautiful landscapes and nature. The park is home to two stunning glacial lakes and a famous eighteen-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones.
Established in 1928, the park is centered around Green Lake and Round Lake, both of which are famous for their unique blue-green color. These two lakes are perfect for photography and admiring, especially because the layers of water don’t mix. Surrounding the lakes are large areas of old forests and rolling hills with peaceful trails.
Apart from taking pictures and going for hikes, bike rides, and kayaking, you can also enjoy camping, having a picnic, or playing a fun game of golf.
9. Explore Downtown Syracuse
Syracuse’s vibrant downtown is the heartbeat of the city, offering a plethora of engaging activities. Brimming with charming Neoclassical and Gothic buildings, this lively area boasts numerous shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes to explore. Easily navigable, the downtown sprawls across a significant part of the city center, with many establishments clustered around Armory Square.
The district is not only home to various bars and nightclubs but also features attractive spots like Clinton Square and Hanover Square, drawing a diverse crowd. Additionally, key attractions such as the Everson Museum of Art, Landmark Theater, and Erie Canal Museum are conveniently situated within this bustling district.
9. Destiny USA
If you’re in the mood for shopping after exploring all the tourist attractions and enjoying outdoor activities, then Destiny USA is the perfect place to visit. It is the biggest mall in the entire state and is located by the lakeside, close to the CNY Regional Market and NBT Bank Stadium.
This shopping center is extremely popular and has seven large floors filled with a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. You can find everything from well-known brands like Macy’s and Armani to more affordable options like Old Navy, TJ Maxx, and Urban Outfitters.
With over 250 places to shop, eat, and have fun, there is something for every budget and interest. On top of that, they have live music venues, a comedy club, an exciting go-kart track, and a challenging ropes course. Even with all these attractions, the mall’s stunning glass atrium remains one of its most impressive features.
7. Trip to Skaneateles
If you’re ever in Syracuse and have some time to spare, it’s definitely worth visiting Skaneateles. This charming little town is only a thirty-minute drive southwest of Syracuse. Skaneateles is located at the northern end of a lake with the same name, which is known for being exceptionally beautiful.
The town has always been a popular destination for the wealthy and famous during the summer months. The shores of the lake are lined with impressive mansions and historic homes. In the center of town, you’ll find a variety of unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
The town also has lovely waterfront parks where you can take a leisurely stroll along the pier, go boating on the lake, or try out exciting water sports. The views of the lake are absolutely stunning.
Skaneateles is a laidback and relaxed place, and it hosts wonderful events throughout the year, such as the Skaneateles music festival and the Dickens Christmas festival.
6. Everson Museum of Art
The Everson is the first museum in America that focuses solely on American artists and their artworks. It is located just southeast of the city center and has a unique and recognizable building designed by I.M. Pei. Inside, visitors can explore a remarkable collection of paintings, photos, sculptures, and ceramics.
The institute was established in 1897 and is highly respected, now holding over 11,000 one-of-a-kind art pieces and captivating installations. The museum showcases the works of renowned artists like Jackson Pollock, Helen Frankenthaler, Maria Martinez, and Gustav Stickley, covering multiple centuries in its large galleries.
Aside from viewing prints and intriguing video art, visitors can admire the museum’s remarkable architecture. Furthermore, the Everson regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, talks, and workshops, providing additional opportunities for engaging with art.
5. Webster Pond
Webster Pond is a peaceful place located on the outskirts of Syracuse. It offers various outdoor activities and amenities for people to enjoy. Many people consider it a hidden gem because of its serene waters, where you can spot ducks, geese, and sometimes deer hiding among the surrounding trees.
At the small sanctuary, you can fully connect with nature and have a wonderful time feeding the abundant waterfowl while sitting on numerous benches. Although the large number of birds might seem overwhelming, it actually adds to the enjoyable experience, as both young and old visitors relish the interaction.
In addition to soaking up the relaxing atmosphere and admiring adorable ducklings, you can explore the Veterans Memorial trail, go fishing in the pond, or have a picnic by its side.
4. Clinton Square
Clinton Square, the original center of the city, has many beautiful buildings from the nineteenth century and a big fountain in the middle. It is now a public park and a popular place to visit with lots of festivals and events happening here.
Throughout history, the square has been an important meeting point for people and has grown alongside the city of Syracuse. When the Erie Canal opened in 1825, it became a bustling marketplace with many sellers and shoppers coming here every day. Nowadays, the square is quieter unless there’s a Jazz Fest, Oktoberfest, or Christmas celebration.
But you can still enjoy walking around and admiring the impressive architecture and monuments, like the ones dedicated to the Soldiers and Sailors or the brave Jerry Rescue.
3. Erie Canal Museum
If you’re visiting the city, make sure not to miss the Erie Canal Museum, which was very important in the development of the city, state, and Great Lakes region. The museum has interesting artifacts and exhibits, and you can also take a tour on a replica canal boat around a town that represents the canal era.
The museum is located in the 1850 Weighlock Building, which is not far from the city center. It’s actually the last remaining structure of its kind in the US, and it used to weigh boats to determine how much toll they should pay. You can learn about how the canal was constructed, which is 363 miles long from Albany to Buffalo.
The museum also has interactive exhibits that show what life was like in canal towns and how the canal impacted the growth and development of the country.
2. NBT Bank Stadium
If you’re looking for excitement instead of peace and quiet, then you should definitely go to NBT Bank Stadium. It’s a small but lively arena where you can watch the Syracuse Mets play an action-packed baseball game. The fans are enthusiastic and loud, creating a great atmosphere.
The stadium was built in 1997 and is located right next to Onondaga Lake, providing beautiful views from all seats and suites. It’s a great place to go with your family as there are many food stands available and the prices for tickets are reasonable, whether you choose the upper or lower tiers.
Watching the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Mets is truly a memorable experience, especially as the International League season runs from early April to late September.
1. Rosamond Gifford Zoo
The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is a must-visit place for people who love animals. It is a popular tourist attraction in the city and is home to more than 900 animals, reptiles, and birds from different species. The zoo is located in Burnet Park and has been open to the public since 1914.
Over the years, it has grown in size and now has a wide variety of animals, from giant elephants and fierce tigers to small frogs, cute penguins, and slow-moving sloths. Visitors can explore Primate Park and the Elephant Preserve, or they can visit the U.S.S. Antiquities cave to see insects, amphibians, and ocean creatures.
The zoo also has playgrounds and picnic areas for families to enjoy. Additionally, the zoo is known for its exceptional medical, research, and conservation programs.
