10 Unforgettable Things to Do Near Syracuse, New York (Onondaga County)

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10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Syracuse, New York (Onondaga County)

Looking for a laid-back city break in Upstate New York? Syracuse, NY, in Onondaga County, is one of those places that surprises a lot of people. It’s friendly, easy to get around, and has just enough going on that you never get bored, but you also don’t feel overwhelmed like you might in a huge city. Whether you’re road-tripping through Upstate New York, visiting Syracuse University, or planning a long weekend getaway, here are 10 great things to do in and around Syracuse that give you a real feel for the area.

1. Wander Around Downtown & Clinton Square

If you want to get your bearings, start in Downtown Syracuse, especially around Clinton Square. This historic plaza is kind of the city’s living room. You’ll find:
  • Beautiful old buildings with tons of character
  • Restaurants, coffee shops, and pubs within a short walk
  • Fountains and monuments that light up nicely at night
  • Seasonal events and festivals throughout the year
In the winter, the square turns into a classic Upstate New York scene with an outdoor ice rink and holiday lights. On a warm summer evening, it’s the perfect place to grab an ice cream, people-watch, and snap some photos. If you enjoy architecture, look up as you walk. The mix of stone, brick, and intricate details gives downtown Syracuse a very “old New York” feel, without New York City crowds.

2. Explore Armory Square’s Shops, Bars & Nightlife

Just a few blocks from Clinton Square, you’ll hit Armory Square, one of the best-known neighborhoods in Syracuse. It’s compact, energetic, and easy to explore on foot. Here you can:
  • Browse local boutiques and record stores
  • Enjoy craft cocktails and local beer
  • Catch live music at cozy venues
  • Have dinner at a wide range of restaurants
If you’re visiting Syracuse for the first time and wondering where to stay, Armory Square is a great base. You can park your car and just walk to coffee, dinner, drinks, and entertainment. On my last visit, I wandered into a tiny bookstore here “just to look” and walked out with a stack of used paperbacks. That’s the kind of neighborhood this is—easygoing, welcoming, and full of small surprises.

3. Visit the Erie Canal Museum & Step Back in Time

Syracuse wouldn’t be what it is today without the Erie Canal. To understand the city’s history, head to the Erie Canal Museum, housed in a historic canal-era building right downtown. Inside, you can:
  • Walk through a full-size replica canal boat
  • See how goods and people moved across New York in the 1800s
  • Learn how the canal helped make New York State an economic powerhouse
Even if you’re not a “museum person,” this one is easy to enjoy. The exhibits are hands-on, family-friendly, and not overwhelming. Plan about an hour to an hour and a half. It’s one of the best things to do in Syracuse NY with kids because it feels more like exploring than reading long history panels.

4. Spend a Day at Destiny USA: Shopping, Food & Indoor Fun

If the weather turns rainy or snowy (very possible in Syracuse!), Destiny USA is your all-in-one backup plan. It’s one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in the country. Beyond regular shopping, you’ll find:
  • Indoor go-karts and ropes courses
  • Mini golf and arcades
  • Escape rooms
  • A wide range of restaurants and dessert spots
  • Movie theaters
You could easily spend half a day here, especially if you’re traveling with kids or teenagers. It’s also handy in winter when you’re looking for indoor things to do in Syracuse NY that don’t involve bundling up in five layers. Tip: The complex is big, so wear comfortable shoes and snap a quick photo of where you parked. It helps later.

5. Walk, Bike, or Picnic at Onondaga Lake Park

A short drive from downtown Syracuse, Onondaga Lake Park is the area’s outdoor playground. It stretches along the eastern shore of the lake and feels a bit like a waterfront neighborhood park on steroids. Here’s what you can do:
  • Walk, jog, or bike along miles of paved trails
  • Rent bikes or specialty cycles in season
  • Let the kids burn energy at large playgrounds
  • Have a picnic with lake views
On a sunny day, the park is full of locals out for a run, walking their dogs, or pushing strollers. It’s an easy way to get some fresh air without driving far out of the city. If you’re visiting in fall, the foliage around Onondaga Lake can be beautiful, with bright reds and golds reflecting off the water.

6. Visit Syracuse University & the Hill

Even if you’re not in town for college tours or a game, Syracuse University is worth a visit. The campus sits on a hill just southeast of downtown and has great views and attractive old buildings. Things to do on and around campus:
  • Stroll through the Quad and admire historic academic buildings
  • Check out the campus bookstore for Syracuse Orange gear
  • Walk along Marshall Street for casual eateries and student vibes
  • Catch a game at the JMA Wireless Dome if you’re visiting in season
Game days in Syracuse are an experience. The whole city feels more alive, with fans in orange everywhere. Even if you’re not a big sports fan, being in the Dome with thousands of cheering people is memorable. If you like campus architecture, plan an hour or two to just wander. The mix of older stone buildings and modern facilities is interesting, and the views over Syracuse are a nice bonus.

7. Discover Local Flavor at the Regional Farmers Market

If you’re in town on a weekend, try to visit the Central New York Regional Market, usually called the Syracuse Regional Farmers Market. It’s just north of downtown and draws farmers and makers from all over Onondaga County and the region. You’ll find:
  • Fresh produce, meats, and cheeses
  • Baked goods and local honey
  • Flowers and plants in season
  • Crafts and handmade items from local vendors
This is one of the best places to get a feel for everyday life in Syracuse. You’ll see families doing their weekly shopping, couples grabbing breakfast sandwiches, and visitors trying local products. If you’re staying in a rental with a kitchen, it’s a fun spot to pick up ingredients for a home-cooked meal. If not, come hungry anyway—there are usually plenty of food stands and snacks.

8. Explore Green Lakes State Park (About 15–20 Minutes Away)

Want a quick escape into nature without a long drive? Green Lakes State Park, in nearby Fayetteville, is one of the most beautiful spots in Onondaga County and an easy half-day trip from Syracuse. The park is famous for:
  • Two striking blue-green glacial lakes
  • Clear water and scenic wooded trails
  • A level path around Green Lake that’s great for casual walkers
  • Swimming area and beach in summer
The color of the water is so unique that it almost feels fake in photos—but it’s real. On a calm day, you can see reflections of the trees on the surface, and the whole scene is incredibly peaceful. If you’re looking for outdoor things to do near Syracuse NY, this is an easy pick. Bring walking shoes, some water, and maybe a picnic. In fall, the foliage around the lakes is stunning.

9. Dive Into Science & Tech at the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST)

Right in Armory Square, the MOST (Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology) is a family favorite and a great indoor option year-round. Inside, you can:
  • Try hands-on science exhibits
  • Learn about space and aviation
  • Experience interactive displays that kids actually want to touch
  • Watch shows in the domed IMAX-style theater (check schedule)
It’s one of the top family-friendly things to do in Syracuse NY, especially for elementary and middle school ages. But don’t worry—adults can have fun here too. A lot of the exhibits bring out your inner kid. Plan for a couple of hours, more if your kids like to try everything.

10. Sample Syracuse’s Food Scene: From Salt Potatoes to Local Breweries

You can’t leave without tasting a bit of Syracuse. The city and Onondaga County have a growing food and drink scene, with a mix of classic Upstate comfort food and newer, creative spots. Here are a few ideas:
  • Salt potatoes: A local favorite made by boiling small potatoes in very salty water, usually served with melted butter.
  • Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: A Syracuse staple near downtown offering barbecue, live music, and a lively atmosphere.
  • Local breweries: There are several in and around the city where you can sample craft beer in laid-back taprooms.
  • Italian and Polish comfort food: Reflecting the area’s heritage, you’ll find great pierogi, sausage, and pasta.
If you’re not sure where to start, ask a local server or bartender, “What’s something I can’t leave Syracuse without trying?” People here are usually happy to share their favorites.

Final Thoughts: Planning Your Syracuse Getaway

Syracuse, New York may not always be the first city that comes to mind for a trip, but that’s part of its charm. It’s affordable, easy to navigate, and full of down-to-earth people. You get a little bit of everything—history, nature, food, sports, and culture—without the big-city stress. Whether you’re in town for a day, a weekend, or longer, these 10 things to do in Syracuse and Onondaga County will give you a solid mix of the area’s best experiences. Now I’d love to hear from you:
  • Have you been to Syracuse, NY?
  • What were your favorite things to do or places to eat?
  • Which of these spots are going on your must-visit list?
Share this post with a friend planning a trip to Upstate New York, and drop your own Syracuse tips or questions in the comments—I’d be happy to help you brainstorm your itinerary.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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