4 Days to Bliss in Syracuse, NY
Discover the charm and history of Syracuse, your next destination for a memorable getaway.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into Hotel Skyler, a historic hotel with stylish decor
- Explore the Armory Square district, filled with boutiques, bars and restaurants
- Visit the Erie Canal Museum to learn about the waterway that put Syracuse on the map
- Take a stroll through the peaceful Onondaga Creekwalk
- Try the famous Syracuse style pizza at Apizza Regionale
- Enjoy breakfast at Pastabilities, a local favorite
- Visit the Syracuse University Art Museum for a dose of culture
- Learn about the history of Central New York at the Onondaga Historical Association Museum
- Visit the Soldiers and Sailors Monument to pay homage to fallen heroes
- End the day watching a movie at the vintage neighborhood theater, Westcott Cinema
- Start your day with brunch at Funk 'n Waffles, a funky breakfast joint
- Hike the trails at Green Lakes State Park for breathtaking views of the lakes and forests
- Rent a canoe or kayak and explore the calm waters of the nearby Oneida Lake
- Go on a hot air balloon ride for a birds-eye view of the city and surrounding countryside
- Venture to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo to see exotic animals from around the world
- Indulge in an extravagant brunch at The Mission, serving up Latin cuisine with a twist
- Discover the city's underground food scene on a Syracuse Food Tour
- Visit Syracuse's brewery district, with over 20 brewpubs and distilleries to try
- Satisfy your sweet tooth with gelato or sorbet from Gannon's Isle Ice Cream
- End your stay at L'Adour Cafe, a cozy French bistro with mouth-watering desserts and coffee.
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.