Syracuse on a Budget: Art, Science & BBQ

Syracuse: budget-friendly adventures and unforgettable memories await.

21 June 2023

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.

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Day trip plan

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Day

A Budget-Friendly Day in Syracuse

  • Start your day off with a visit to the Everson Museum of Art, boasting an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art exhibitions.
  • Take a stroll through the Clinton Square Ice Skating Rink, perfect for November to March visits, and grab a hot cup of cocoa!
  • For lunch, try the famous salt potatoes at the Syracuse Farmers' Market, offering an array of local food vendors on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
  • After lunch, head to the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology for interactive science exhibits, including the mesmerizing planetarium show.
  • End your day with dinner at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, a go-to spot for finger-licking, authentic southern-style BBQ in a lively atmosphere.
  • Don't forget to catch a live band or open mic night at The Westcott Theater, known as the heart of Syracuse's live music scene.

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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