Syracuse: 3 Days of Fun, Culture & Adventure

Discover the charm of Syracuse, where history meets innovation.

03 May 2023

Syracuse is a vibrant city located in central New York State, known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and notable landmarks. Tourists can spend their days exploring the Erie Canal Museum, admiring the artwork at the Everson Museum of Art, and indulging in some shopping and dining along the Armory Square. Furthermore, Syracuse also offers visitors ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, with hiking trails, parks and scenic lakes dotting the region.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discover Syracuse's Treasures

  • Hotel: Marriott Syracuse Downtown
  • Start your day at the Museum of Science and Technology, featuring interactive exhibits and a planetarium
  • Take a stroll in the picturesque Onondaga Lake Park and explore its trails and wildlife
  • Satisfy your craving for history at the Erie Canal Museum, showcasing the canal's impact on Syracuse and the nation
  • Enjoy some retail therapy at the trendy Armory Square, home to unique boutiques and restaurants
  • End your day with a tasty dinner at the iconic Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, known for their lip-smacking BBQ ribs and live music
Day 2

Experience Syracuse's Art and Culture

  • Head to the Everson Museum of Art and marvel at its contemporary and historical collections
  • Take a guided tour of the opulent and grand Landmark Theatre, restored to its original 1920s glory
  • Learn about Syracuse's jazz heritage at the Central New York Jazz Arts Foundation
  • Stop by the Rosamond Gifford Zoo and meet over 700 animals from around the world
  • Dine like royalty at the Scotch 'N' Sirloin, a steakhouse known for its elegant ambiance and succulent steaks
Day 3

Explore Syracuse's Outdoors

  • Start your day with an adrenaline rush at the Syracuse Indoor Skydiving Center
  • Discover the stunning natural beauty of the Green Lakes State Park and its unique blue-green meromictic lakes
  • Have fun with the whole family at the Syracuse Soap Box Derby, featuring gravity-powered cars racing down a scenic hillside
  • Visit the Syracuse University campus and catch a game at the Carrier Dome
  • Wrap up your Syracuse experience with a simple yet satisfying meal at the funky Funk 'n Waffles, famous for its creative waffle dishes and live music.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Syracuse

Welcome to the land of eternal sunshine! Just kidding, we're actually talking about Syracuse, where the snow is eternal and the sun is a rare commodity.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

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Syracuse, located in the heart of New York State, offers an ideal family-friendly destination with a range of activities for all ages. From exploring the world-class museums, such as the Everson Museum of Art and the Museum of Science & Technology, to enjoying outdoor adventures at Onondaga Lake Park, there is something to captivate every member of the family. Moreover, don't miss the chance to catch a Syracuse University basketball game and indulge in the city's famed dining scene – a truly unforgettable trip awaits in Syracuse.

4 Days to Bliss in Syracuse, NY

Syracuse is a bustling city in upstate New York that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation. As a tourist, you can explore the city's many museums and art galleries, take a stroll through the picturesque Thornden Park, and sample delicious local cuisine at one of Syracuse's many restaurants. For those who love the outdoors, the nearby Finger Lakes region offers hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities.

Three Days of Adventure in Syracuse

Syracuse is a great destination for budget travelers with its affordable accommodations and activities. Visit the Everson Museum of Art, explore the scenic Onondaga Lake Park, and hike the trails at Green Lakes State Park. Don't forget to sample the local cuisine, including Syracuse-style pizza and the iconic salt potatoes.

Syracuse on a Budget: Art, Science & BBQ

A trip to Syracuse on a limited budget means making the most of free or low-cost attractions and food options. Visit the Erie Canal Museum, the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology, and Thornden Park for free. For affordable eats, check out Nick Tahou Hots for their famous Garbage Plate or pastries from Columbus Baking Company.