Experience the Best of Syracuse in 4 Days
Discover the heart of New York State in Syracuse.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Syracuse, located in upstate New York, offers visitors a blend of history, culture and natural beauty. As a tourist, you can explore historic sites, such as the Erie Canal Museum, visit the Everson Museum of Art or hike in the nearby Adirondack Mountains. With its vibrant food and drink scene, Syracuse caters to all tastes, offering everything from farm-to-table restaurants to artisanal breweries.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Stay at:
- The Jefferson Clinton Hotel – a historic landmark hotel in downtown Syracuse with modern amenities, luxurious bedding, and an on-site restaurant.
- Do:
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Funk 'n Waffles, a funky joint that serves waffles, live music, and good vibes.
- Visit the Erie Canal Museum to learn about the history of the canal and its impact on Syracuse's growth. Don't miss the 1850 National Register Weighlock Building and the recreated canal boat.
- Stroll through the Everson Museum of Art, showcasing American art from the 18th century to today. Check out the impressive ceramic collection and the rotating exhibitions.
- Refuel at Pastabilities, a hip pasta joint famous for its spicy hot tomato oil and homemade pasta. Don't forget to try the stretch bread and the chocolate peanut butter pie.
- Take a leisurely walk to the Onondaga Creekwalk, a scenic trail that follows the creek and offers stunning views of downtown Syracuse. Stop at the Armory Square district for some boutique shopping and coffee.
- Do:
- Have breakfast at Kitty Hoynes. This Irish gastropub has a cozy atmosphere and generous portions of corned beef hash and eggs, bangers and mash, and black pudding.
- Hike through the Green Lakes State Park, a nature reserve with two meromictic lakes, stunning geological features, and abundant wildlife. Pack a picnic and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.
- Catch a Syracuse University football or basketball game at the Carrier Dome, one of the largest domed stadiums in the Northeast. Experience the excitement of the Orange fans and enjoy the concessions.
- Attend the New York State Fair, a 13-day event that showcases agriculture, entertainment, food, and rides. Try the famous State Fair fried chicken or a butter sculpture and browse through the exhibitions.
- End your day with a dinner at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, a local institution with slow smoked meats, tangy sauces, and live blues music. Don't miss the jumbo BBQ chicken wings and the pulled pork.
- Syracuse is a city of contrasts, blending its industrial past with its artistic and cultural present. Whether you prefer museums, parks, or festivals, Syracuse has something to offer for everyone. Come and explore this vibrant and welcoming city.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Syracuse by plane is to fly into Syracuse Hancock International Airport, which is located about 10 minutes north of downtown Syracuse. Multiple airlines such as Delta, United, and American Airlines offer daily flights to and from major cities across the United States.
Car
Driving to Syracuse is possible from major cities such as New York City, Boston, or Philadelphia. If you are driving from New York City, the best route is to take I-81 North for about 4 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car from Syracuse Hancock International Airport.
Train
While there is no direct train from NYC to Syracuse, the best option is to take Amtrak’s Empire Service from New York Penn Station to Syracuse Amtrak Station. The journey takes around 5 hours and offers scenic views of the Hudson River and the Mohawk Valley.
Boat
While there is no direct boat route to Syracuse, the Erie Canal offers a scenic route from New York City to Buffalo, which features stops in Syracuse and other cities along the canal. Visitors can embark on a canal cruise or rent a boat to traverse the canal on their own.
Bus
Greyhound offers daily bus services to Syracuse from major cities in the United States. Their bus terminal is located in downtown Syracuse and is easily accessible from the Syracuse University campus or downtown hotels.