A Blissful Long Weekend in Syracuse, United States

Fall in love all over again in Syracuse, the heart of Central New York.

22 April 2023

A romantic trip to Syracuse, United States offers exquisite food, stunning scenery, and a rich cultural heritage. From strolling hand in hand along the Erie Canal to exploring the beautiful historic sites of the city, such as the Erie Canal Museum and the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, there are plenty of romantic activities to keep couples entertained. Syracuse also boasts a thriving restaurant culture featuring farm-to-table cuisine, offering the perfect opportunity to create unforgettable memories together.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and exploring Downtown Syracuse

  • Check into the Marriott Syracuse Downtown, a beautifully restored historic hotel with luxury amenities
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at Modern Malt, where you can sample creative takes on classic American cuisine
  • Explore Armory Square, a trendy neighborhood filled with boutiques, art galleries, and nightlife
  • Indulge in some sweet treats at Gannons Isle Ice Cream, a local favorite for homemade ice cream
  • Catch a concert or show at the Landmark Theatre, a stunning 1920s theater with great acoustics
Day 2

Discovering History and Culture

  • Visit the Erie Canal Museum, where you can learn about the history of the canal that shaped the city's development
  • Take a stroll around the Syracuse University campus, which boasts beautiful architecture and a vibrant student life
  • Explore the Everson Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art
  • Grab lunch at the Dino BBQ, a famous Syracuse joint known for its finger-licking-good barbecue
  • Head to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, home to over 700 animals from around the world
Day 3

Exploring the Great Outdoors

  • Take a scenic drive to the Finger Lakes, a region renowned for its natural beauty and wineries
  • Go hiking at Green Lakes State Park, where you can explore two glacial lakes and lush forests
  • Visit the Skaneateles Lake, a picturesque body of water with quaint shops and restaurants along its shores
  • Enjoy a romantic picnic at Onondaga Lake Park, which offers stunning views and peaceful surroundings
  • Take a sunset cruise on the Syracuse Lake as you enjoy cocktails and dinner on board the Judge Ben Wiles
Day 4

Relaxation and Romance

  • Relax and unwind with a couples' spa treatment at the Skana Spa at Turning Stone
  • Take a scenic drive to the Chittenango Falls State Park, where you can marvel at the 167-foot waterfall and surrounding nature
  • Have a late lunch at the Blue Water Grill, which offers delicious seafood and romantic views of the Skaneateles Lake
  • Take a leisurely walk around the Syracuse Inner Harbor, a newly developed waterfront with shopping and dining
  • End your trip with a bang with a show at the famous Syracuse Stage, a regional theater known for its world-class productions.

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.

More travel plans

Syra-sights on a Budget: 2-Day Adventure

A trip to Syracuse, United States on a limited budget can be an enjoyable experience. You can explore the city's unique culture by visiting the Erie Canal Museum, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo or the Everson Museum of Art which are free or affordable attractions. Additionally, accommodation options such as budget hotels and Airbnb are available to lower your expenses.

Syracuse on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun!

Syracuse offers a range of budget-friendly activities such as hiking in the nearby state parks, taking a free walking tour of downtown Syracuse, and exploring the Erie Canal Museum. To save on accommodations, consider staying in hostels or budget motels. Food options can also be affordable by trying local food trucks or markets for fresh produce.

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.

Syracuse on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

For budget travelers, Syracuse offers a great mix of museums, parks, and city attractions. Some of the most popular ones include the Onondaga Lake Park, Erie Canal Museum, and the Everson Museum of Art. Getting around the city is easy and affordable thanks to the Centro bus system, while budget-friendly accommodation options are available in the downtown area.