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A thriving city with plenty of fun opportunities, the list of things to do in Syracuse, NY is endless. While it may seem far away from the hustle and bustle of New York City, there’s always something going on in this East Coast city. Named after the historic Sicilian city, Syracuse is situated in the heart of Onondaga County, New York. As the fifth-largest city in the state, it offers plenty of tourist attractions from art houses to wildlife parks. Moreover, it also has a number of natural wonders since it’s located in the picturesque Finger Lakes region.
Whether you're looking to go hiking, want to enjoy some retail therapy, or check out museums, there are plenty of things to do in Syracuse, NY. The picturesque natural landscape behind the charming facades of establishments provides the perfect balance of urban excitement and rural adventure. Read on to discover the best of Syracuse!
Things To Do in Syracuse, NY By Yourself
1. Live Out History in Erie Canal Museum
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Photo from Erie Canal Museum Facebook Page[/caption]
One of the best things to do in Syracuse, NY alone is visiting the Erie Canal Museum. Housed in the last remaining Weighlock Building in America, where canal cargo was once weighed, the museum offers information about the historic Erie Canal. Walk through several extensive exhibits to learn more about the impact of canal building on the country. Step aboard a canal boat replica to get a feel for what they were like. For travelers planning a trip, checking a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy might help with packing, but Syracuse’s indoor exhibits make this a year-round stop.
2. Learn About the Syracuse Salt Industry at the Salt Museum
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Photo by Smerdis on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Discover more about the industry that made the city prosperous at the Syracuse Salt Museum. The City of Syracuse supplied the entire nation with salt for much of the 19th century. Located on the shore of Onondaga Lake, the Salt Museum is brimming with historical facts and artifacts like boil blocks and wooden barrels. Learn all about how locals “mined” salt from the salt springs on the southern end of the lake. Moreover, the building is constructed from timbers taken from the old salt warehouses back in the day, giving an old-time rustic sense once you step inside. For a broader travel perspective, consider a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to plan future trips.
3. Check out Niagara Mohawk Building
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Photo by BriLila on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
The Niagara Mohawk Building is one of the best remaining examples of Art Deco architecture in New York, and arguably in America, located along Erie Boulevard in Syracuse. Designed by architects Melvin L. King and Bley & Lyman, it was the headquarters of the nation’s largest utility company in 1932 and is now part of the National Grid Company. This historic landmark draws visitors during major festival events when it is illuminated in various colors. Even without going inside, passing by to study the blend of materials and designs should be one of the things to do in Syracuse, NY you shouldn't miss.
4. Shop at Destiny USA Mall
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Photo from Destiny USA[/caption]
As a major shopping destination, there are plenty of activities you can enjoy in Destiny USA. It houses not only retail and outlet brands but also entertainment and gaming experiences for all ages. From the go-kart race track and rope course to the trail of mirror mazes and glow-in-the-dark mini-golf, there’s always something fun that’s waiting for you. Afterward, relax and fill yourself up at the mall’s extensive dining options. For those looking for things to do in Syracuse at night, you’ll be glad to hear that the mall also offers a vibrant nightlife scene of live music and comedy nightclubs.
5. Catch a Show at the Landmark Theatre
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Photo from landmarktheatre.org[/caption]
New York City may be home to Broadway, but Syracuse also offers theater fans a place of their own at the Landmark Theatre. Built in 1928, it is one of the last remaining Depression-era theaters in the county and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. Its architectural design alone is stunning, but the live culture is what will captivate you. The historic theater has hosted performers from Josh Groban to David Copperfield, and Broadway touring shows such as Cats and Hamilton. If you’re looking for things to do in Syracuse, NY today, head to the theatre’s website and check whether you can book a seat.
6. Visit the Onondaga Historical Association Museum
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Photo from Onondaga Historical Association Facebook Page[/caption]
For history buffs looking for educational things to do in Syracuse, NY, head to the Onondaga Historical Association Museum in downtown Syracuse. It offers free access to permanent exhibits on the Underground Railroad and the Jewish community’s contributions to the city, plus rotating temporary exhibits about the county’s history. If you are planning a trip around seasonal events, consult a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy for timing, though Syracuse’s climate differs significantly.
7. Get Fresh Local Goods at the Central New York Regional Market
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Photo from cnyregionalmarket.com[/caption]
Whether you’re a foodie or a bargain hunter, your next stop should be the Central New York Regional Market. Open all year round, it has two major markets. The farmer’s market, open every Thursday and Saturday, offers fresh, local goods from surrounding counties—a one-stop shop for healthy food options. From farm-fresh produce and meat to baked goods, you’ll find something to munch on while supporting local farmers.
Discover old and new treasures at the Flea Market, open every Sunday throughout the year. An assortment of antique furniture, handmade goods, musical instruments, and other collectibles wait here for fans of all things vintage and unique.
8. Bargain at the City Market Syracuse
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Photo from City Market Syracuse Facebook Page[/caption]
Wondering what to do in Syracuse on a budget? Head to the City Market. This flea market showcases local vendors with one-of-a-kind items such as hand-sewn clothing, furniture, and decorative objects. You can also find pre-loved antique and vintage objects. The market is open every second Sunday from May to October. It’s the place for those who want to take home collectibles and crafts found only in the city. For travelers planning around the seasons, check out a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy for timing your visit.
9. Visit the Harriet May Mills House
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Photo from Doncram on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Another treat for history nerds, this historic structure was home to suffragist and political activist Harriet May Mills and her family. As part of the National Women’s Rights History Trail, you can learn about the life of one of the prominent feminists of the era. She fought for political equality for women nationwide. In 2002, the building was listed in the National Register of Historic Places for its significance in local, state, and national history. For travelers planning a broader trip, a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy can help coordinate seasonal visits, but in Syracuse this stop offers a focused look at the fight for women's rights.
10. Catch a Game at the Carrier Dome
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Photo by Darry2385 on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
If you’ve ever been to Syracuse before, you’ll know how the locals take sporting events seriously. Make sure catching a game is on your list of things to do in Syracuse, NY. More specifically, catch one at the Carrier Dome. As the largest dome stadium in the Northeast, it has a 50,000-seat capacity and all major sporting events are held here at the JMA Wireless Dome.
Located on the campus of Syracuse University, it is home to the college’s football, basketball, and lacrosse teams. It has also hosted boxing matches, NFL exhibition games, and motorsport events. Besides sporting tournaments, the dome hosted concerts for Frank Sinatra, Taylor Swift, and U2. For planning your visit, check out a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to compare climates.
Romantic Things To Do in Syracuse For Couples
11. Go Hiking at Green Lakes State Park
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Photo by Tory Backenstross on Green Lakes State Park Facebook Page[/caption]
Looking for cheap weekend getaways? One of the top 10 National and State parks to see, Green Lakes State Park offers hiking trails circling two glacial lakes, Green and Round Lake. Their striking “Caribbean blue” color comes from natural mineral and sulfur content. Rent kayaks, rowboats, or paddle boats for a closer look, or swim in the designated area. The upland forest surrounds both lakes, providing a magnificent view.
12. Culture Yourself at the Everson Museum of Art
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Photo from everson.org[/caption]
You can never go wrong taking a leisurely stroll in a museum while taking in the beauty of all the artworks. The Everson Museum of Art is an excellent choice for both art lovers and novices alike. The museum has an extensive collection of pieces ranging from paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and even video art. Its modern and contemporary exhibits display dynamic and meaningful artworks that inspire curiosity and encourage learning.
13. Walk the Historic Streets of Downtown Syracuse
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Photo by Eridony on Flickr[/caption]
Wondering what to do in Syracuse for your next date night? Head to Downtown Syracuse for cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment. It is also a hub of history, home to several historic districts, including Armory Square, Forman Park, Hanover Square, Clinton Square, and Columbus Circle. Over 20 buildings here are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
14. Take a Boat Tour at Skaneateles Lake
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Photo by Jason on Flickr[/caption]
Just a short 30-minute drive from downtown Syracuse, Skaneateles Lake is one of the cleanest bodies of water in the U.S. Mid-Lakes Navigation has been offering sightseeing tours on the lake and the Erie Canal since 1969. Their one-hour sightseeing cruise is the most popular option, with several packages to fit any budget. It’s a scenic way to enjoy the water with your partner.
15. Picnic at the Pratt's Falls Park
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Photo by Steve Cyr on Flickr[/caption]
There’s no shortage of the best waterfalls in the US and you can visit one of them on your next trip to Syracuse. Located in Pratt's Falls Park, a short drive from Downtown Syracuse, this stunning waterfall is surrounded by a scenic trail perfect for hiking couples.
Bring a well-stocked picnic basket to enjoy a light meal while gazing at the nearly 140-foot waterfall. Picnic tables and grills are available on a first-come, first-use basis. An archery range is open for public use; bring your own equipment and target. For a broader outdoor itinerary, check out the top 10 National and State parks to see.
16. Hike Through the Clark Reservation State Park
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Photo by andyarthur, licensed under CC BY 2.0[/caption]
The Clark Reservation State Park is a geologic wonder in Syracuse city. Break a sweat with your partner as you explore the rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops that this county park has to offer. Take in the scenic view of the wetland and a glacial plunge basin lake at the top. Adding to the list of romantic things to do in Syracuse, NY, is woodland and meadow open for those who prefer relaxing nature walks. You can even go fishing and birdwatching! Without a doubt, the Clark Reservation State Park is a true outdoor paradise.
17. Drink Craft Beer at Now & Later
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Photo from Now & Later[/caption]
If you and your partner are beer lovers, you are in luck. Syracuse has a plethora of breweries, including Now & Later Brewing Company. Located at Tipperary Hill, this brewery offers a variety of craft beers, delicious food, and an excellent bar experience. The interior exudes a rustic, calm vibe to unwind after a day of adventure. The bar also hosts live musical performances from local artists. During warmer weather, the outside seating provides an inviting atmosphere for hanging out with locals among the fun things to do in Syracuse, NY.
Bonus: The Upside-Down Traffic Light
Just a few blocks down from Now & Later, you can find Syracuse’s famous upside-down traffic light. This quirky tourist spot dates back to the 1920s. When first installed in 1925, the Irish portion of the city saw it as a preference for the British, so they kept breaking the red light. With repeated vandalism, a decision to reverse the positions was unfortunately overruled. Residents just continued breaking the red bulb. Today, the same traffic light still stands, with green above red.
18. Go Skating at the Clinton Square Ice Rink
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Photo from City of Syracuse - Office of the Mayor Facebook Page[/caption]
What’s more romantic than two people holding hands as they glide on an ice rink? If you visit around wintertime, you can enjoy just that on the Clinton Square Ice Rink. The city uses the fountain, which was once part of the Erie Canal, as an ice rink when the water freezes over. First opened in 2001, the rink typically opens in late November and runs until early March. For only five dollars, you get 90 minutes of skate time. You can bring your own figure skates or rent a pair for another five dollars. With these rates, going skating is certainly one of the cheap things to do in Syracuse while making winter memories along the way.
19. Follow the Trails at the Beaver Lake Nature Center
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Photo from Beaver Lake Nature Center Facebook Page[/caption]
Craving more nature on your list of fun things to do in Syracuse, NY? Then get lost in the beauty of the Beaver Lake Nature Center. Just a short 15-minute northwest drive from downtown Syracuse, this Nature Center has nine miles of trails and a 200-acre glacial lake. Filled with over 200 bird species and 800 plant varieties, it is a nature lover’s paradise. There are over 400 natural programs to enjoy, including guided bird walks, tree identification, and canoe tours. For those planning a longer trip, consider consulting a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to pack accordingly.
Fun Things To Do in Syracuse With Your Kids
20. Interact with Wildlife at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo
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Photo from Rosamond Gifford Zoo Facebook Page[/caption]
Watch the look of sheer bliss on your children’s faces as they see and interact with all sorts of wildlife. Home to over 700 animals, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is amongst the best zoos in America and definitely one of the top things to do in Syracuse for families. The zoo offers both indoor and outdoor exhibits. The indoor exhibits include a tropical rainforest habitat and a number of exhibits dedicated to marine life. Meanwhile, the outdoor exhibit allows visitors to lay their eyes on animals, including wolves, camels, and even Komodo dragons.
21. Grab a Hearty Meal at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
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Photo from Dinosaur Bar-B-Que Facebook Page[/caption]
A list of what to do in Syracuse isn’t complete without a shout-out to the first-ever Dinosaur barbeque place to open in history. While the city isn’t famous for its BBQ, there’s no denying the impact this restaurant has on its residents. Originally a biker’s joint, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is now a staple among locals and tourists. It offers an all-star lineup of BBQ pork ribs, rib-eye steak, chicken wings, spicy shrimp boil, and Dino sliders. On top of the soulful menu, this restaurant is also famous for its weekly lineups of blues musicians performing live.
22. Discover More at the Museum of Science & Technology
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Photo from Museum of Science & Technology Facebook Page[/caption]
The Museum of Science and Technology (MOST) is home to several interactive exhibits for kids and kids-at-heart. This hands-on science museum educates just as much as it entertains. As such, it’s certainly among the top things to do in Syracuse, NY for kids. Visitors can walk through jumbo replicas of the human anatomy and explore fun-filled obstacles at the Science Playhouse.
MOST also houses the city’s first-ever permanent life-sized dinosaur exhibit. Travel back in time to the age of the dinosaurs and discover more about these extinct species through interactive stations and animatronics. Furthermore, MOST also hosts an IMAX theater and planetarium, which adds more educational fun for visitors.
23. Family Bonding at the Onondaga Lake Park
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Photo by Joegrimes on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Dubbed as the Central Park of Central New York, Onondaga Lake Park is an ideal spot for things to do with your kids in Syracuse. Besides its gorgeous scenery, there are tons of amenities for the whole family. There’s a volleyball court, bocce court, and a setting for softball and kickball, perfect for athletic families.
You can rent bikes and skateboards for the 16,900-square-foot skate park, complete with pipes, grind rails, and spines. Smaller playgrounds are available for young ones. Your family can also enjoy recreational watercraft, such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The park is pet-friendly with plenty of dog parks for your furry friends to roam.
24. Watch a Lively Show at Syracuse Stage
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Photo from Syracuse Stage Production Facebook Page[/caption]
The theater offers an immersive experience for audiences of any age. If you’re looking for things to do in Syracuse for families, catching a stage production should be on your list. Within the grounds of Syracuse University, the Syracuse Stage has produced a plethora of shows since 1974. Each season, the stage sees a mix of new plays and bold interpretations of the classics. Past shows include Peter Pan, Mary Poppins, and many more. 70,000 patrons can watch stories unfold, taking them away from reality for a few hours in the theater. Besides showcasing local and international talents and stories, Syracuse Stage also hosts workshops, both for writing and acting. For a complete travel plan, consider a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to time your visit perfectly.
25. Indulge in Mouthwatering Food at Stella’s Diner
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Photo from Stella’s Diner Facebook Page[/caption]
A favorite among locals, Stella’s Diner serves all-American food for the all-American family. Diners can choose staples like burgers and fries, or classic dishes such as spaghetti and meatballs and pot roast. Other specialties include omelets, tuna melts, casseroles, and seafood platters. The cozy atmosphere, with vintage signs and Betty Boop cartoons, adds to the experience.
26. Learn the Ropes at WonderWorks at Destiny USA
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Photo from WonderWorks Destiny Facebook Page[/caption]
Just a short drive from Stella’s, you’ll find yourself at Destiny USA mall. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Syracuse with your kids, enter the world of WonderWorks. Home to over a hundred interactive science exhibits, this indoor amusement park offers laser tag and zero-gravity experiences.
One highlight is the Canyon Climb ropes course, the tallest in the country at 70 feet. It offers three challenging levels with over 80 obstacles, from swinging steps to a tremor bridge. For younger children, the Sky Tykes course features ten child-friendly obstacles for climbing, jumping, and exploring.
27. Discover Native Culture at the Skä·noñh-Great Law of Peace Center
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Photo from skanonhcenter.org[/caption]
The State of New York is abundant with Native American history and culture. And the area of Syracuse is no exception. Discover more about the Haudenosaunee people and their history at the Skä·noñh—Great Law of Peace Center. Located along the banks of Onondaga Lake, this Native American museum explores the unique culture of the indigenous people that lived in the area. Visitors also get a chance to learn more about the group’s resistance, resilience, and survival over the years.
Why You Should Visit Syracuse
With so many things to do in Syracuse, NY, this underrated city holds tons of appeal, especially for people searching for the best cheap vacation ideas. A city with a rich history, Syracuse offers locals and tourists alike metropolitan excitement, thanks to its eateries, cultural, athletic, and artistic locations. You can also take in the beauty of Mother Nature and partake in several outdoor activities in the surrounding natural landscapes.
