5-Day Syracuse Adventure: Culture, Food, and Fun

Discover history, culture, and beautiful landscapes in Syracuse, USA.

22 April 2023

Visiting Syracuse as a tourist would provide a plethora of opportunities to explore the region's rich history and culture. From touring the Erie Canal Museum to visiting the renowned Syracuse University, the city offers an abundance of attractions for visitors. Additionally, the vibrant food scene and bustling nightlife make it a perfect spot for those looking for an unforgettable urban vacation.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Downtown Exploring

  • Check into Hotel Skyler Syracuse, a modern and eco-friendly hotel in the heart of downtown.
  • Walk through Clinton Square and take in the beautiful fountain and historic architecture.
  • Stop for lunch at Modern Malt, a quirky diner-style restaurant with delicious burgers and milkshakes.
  • Visit the Everson Museum of Art and admire their impressive collection of contemporary and modern art.
  • Head to Armory Square for dinner at Pastabilities, a local favorite known for their homemade pasta dishes.
Day 2

Foodie Adventures

  • Start the day with breakfast at Funk 'n Waffles, an eclectic spot with creative waffle combinations and live music.
  • Take a guided tour of the historic Syracuse Downtown Farmers Market and taste fresh and locally sourced food.
  • Visit the Syracuse University campus and grab lunch at Varsity Pizza, a legendary pizzeria loved by students and alumni.
  • Drive out to Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards for a tour and tasting of their award-winning hard ciders and apple-based spirits.
  • End the day with dinner at L'Adour, a French bistro with an extensive wine list and decadent desserts.
Day 3

Culture and History

  • Start the day at Onondaga Lake Park, a beautiful outdoor space with trails, picnic areas, and access to the lake.
  • Visit the Erie Canal Museum and learn about the history of the canal and its impact on Central New York.
  • Drive out to the Fort Ontario State Historic Site and tour the fort, which played a significant role in American military history.
  • Enjoy the scenic drive through Skaneateles and stop for lunch at The Krebs, a historic restaurant with delicious upscale cuisine.
  • Return to Syracuse for dinner at Danzer's German & American Gasthof, a local institution with hearty portions and a cozy atmosphere.
Day 4

Nature and Adventure

  • Start the day with a hike at Green Lakes State Park, home to two stunning glacial lakes and miles of picturesque trails.
  • Drive out to the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge for a wildlife drive and bird watching.
  • Stop for lunch at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, a beloved local chain serving up authentic barbecue and live music.
  • Visit the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology and explore their interactive exhibits.
  • End the day with dinner at Alto Cinco, a Mexican-inspired restaurant with fresh and flavorful dishes.
Day 5

Relaxation and Farewell

  • Sleep in and enjoy the amenities at Hotel Skyler, including a fitness center and complimentary breakfast.
  • Visit the Rosamond Gifford Zoo and see the extensive collection of animals from around the world.
  • Stop for lunch at Tully's Good Times, a casual sports bar with classic pub fare and a lively atmosphere.
  • Spend the afternoon at Destiny USA, the largest shopping, dining, and entertainment center in New York State.
  • Bid farewell to Syracuse with dinner at The Mission Restaurant, a contemporary spot with a fusion of flavors and artisan cocktails.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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A Blissful Long Weekend in Syracuse, United States

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Experience the Best of Syracuse in 4 Days

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.

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.