28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Syracuse (New York)

With a teeming and endless list of top attraction areas, Syracuse is a top vacation spot.

Often regarded as the salt city, this city has a track of history leading it.

Syracuse is a popular city in the county seat of Onondaga County. 

As the fifth-most populous city in New York, it has a population of 148,620 as of 2020.

Timeouts at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo or the Salt Museum will definitely leave you with your mouth agape.

Whether you arrange to visit in the summer or spring, you’ll find it amazing.

Wondering what to do in Syracuse?

Here’s a list of some of them.

Things To Do In Syracuse, New York

1. WonderWorks Destiny

Recreation and outdoor fun are some of the best options you can harness in Syracuse.

As a park-filled city, it has a teeming number of attraction sites.

One of such attraction sites is the WonderWorks Destiny.

Families, friends, and even people of all ages and interests will find hours of tremendous entertainment for hours. 

This theme park focuses on entertainment with over 100 interactive displays to aid learning.

Tourists will find tremendous opportunities to learn and just let their imaginations run wild. 

In addition to the exhibitions, it has a black-lit laser tag labyrinth arena, a ropes course, and a 4D movie theater. 

You can try a rope course or watch a movie at the theater.

If that is too easy, try playing laser tag labyrinth at the arena.

WonderWorks is open seven days a week, and tickets are available for all exhibitions packed together.

Fun options are plenteous, therefore, whatever it is you intend to do, you’ll do it to your fill.

Address: 9090 Destiny USA Dr., Syracuse, NY 13204, United States

2. Rosamond Gifford Zoo

It’s no new statement that Syracuse has a teeming amount of attraction sites, just enough to place you in a thrill.

Of course, there are a ton of them, easy to get to as well.

For animal lovers, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is one of the most ideal picks.

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is at Burnet Park, one of Syracuse’s top attractions.

It ranks in the top 10% of zoos as a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

This 43-acre zoo is ideal for animal enthusiasts and has creatures from all over the world, such as elephants, penguins, and lions.

Even though it was established in 1914, it still has a history that is almost as fascinating as its present.

Initially, it began as a four-acre educational facility and has grown to more than 43 acres with hundreds of animals.

It now has over 700 species that visitors may observe in a variety of educational settings.

Whether you prefer to go bird-watching by the paths, you’ll find it fulfilling.

The zoo is open all year, even during Syracuse’s chilly winters, because more than half of the exhibits are indoors.

Those that are outdoors are specially chosen to fit with animals that can withstand the weather.

For something more adventurous, take a walk down the wildlife trail.

A walk down its picturesque Wildlife Trail outside will take you past gray wolves, tigers, snow leopards, and other wildlife.

Find time to explore if you are looking for interesting finds around Syracuse.

Address: 1 Conservation Pl, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States

3. Try a cup of coffee at Freedom of Espresso

Don’t simply visit Syracuse and not try her coffee.

Syracuse houses some of the best coffee shops in the United States and you’ll be surprised by what you can find.

Make your way to the Freedom of Espresso and taste unique coffee.

Freedom of Espresso is a coffee shop with four locations in Syracuse.

For a cup of coffee that is simply delectable, it’s worth exploring.

Its skilled baristas will serve you not just a delectable beverage but also a work of art, replete with distinctive patterns in the latte foam. 

This café only uses locally roasted coffee beans, guaranteeing the highest level of freshness and quality for its patrons. 

Besides, for a quiet time, this café is the ideal place to read a book or even catch up with friends.

You can even complete some work using their free Wi-Fi.

Literally, it offers a large range of drinks and has a pleasant, trendy ambiance.

If you’re looking for a quiet and tasty thing to do around Syracuse, this is one to not be missed.

Address: 403 1st St, Liverpool, NY 13088, United States 

4. The Carrier Dome

For something spectacular around Syracuse University, visit the Carrier Dome.

The Carrier Dome is on the campus of Syracuse University.

This dome has nearly 50,000 seats and is the only domed stadium in this part of the country.

According to the records, it is also the largest structure of its kind on campus.

It first opened its doors in 1980 and has since become a premier destination for local events.

You can see several Syracuse University sports like football, basketball, and lacrosse.

Additionally, they also host a variety of concerts and non-college sporting events like Olympic champion ice skating shows.

Top stars have performed and continue to perform here.

If you think you have the time to pace around something unique, take a tour of the Carrier Dome.

You’ll find a lot to keep you busy.

Address: 736 Irving Ave Ste 900, Syracuse, United States 

5. Syracuse Chiefs Minor League Baseball

Even if you visit a dozen of entertainment complexes, nothing beats a day at the ballpark. 

It’s no hidden fact that Syracuse hosts a large number of sporting activities, however, the Syracuse Chiefs is quite legendary.

Take a moment to watch baseball while cheering hard at your faces.

Asides from that, fans can enjoy classic snacks such as greasy ballpark food and beer in an oversized plastic cup.

Also, there are peanuts and giant soft pretzels which you can try while watching the Syracuse Chiefs, a minor league Triple-A team. 

From April through September, the Chiefs play at NBT Bank Stadium.

The NBT Bank Stadium is a massive baseball stadium that accommodates over 11,000 spectators. 

During the game, you can choose to sit in the stands or in a luxury suite.

There is a vast range of food, beverages, and items available inside the stadium for those watching.

Go see a game while you can.

Address: 1 Tex Simone Dr, Syracuse, NY 13208, United States

6. Go Shopping at the Destiny USA

While touring, make out time to pick a number of items in Syracuse.

There may be several malls around the city, however, there are a few must-visits.

One of such is Destiny USA.

This massive mall is the state’s largest shopping mall.

Its major highlight makes it quite popular amongst locals and even foreigners.

It features not only your favorite stores but also more than a dozen sit-down restaurants.

You’ll find a full list of nightlife and entertainment, as well as discounted outlet stores.

Literally, they take luxury to a new level, and an exquisite one at that.

They even offer special services such as valet parking.

For entertainment, they host events such as antique shows and free kids’ activities.

If you’re looking for trendy things to do, add this to your list.

Address: 9090 Destiny USA Dr, Syracuse, NY 13204-9098, United States 

7. Tree of 40 Fruits

If you visit Syracuse, then you will hear of the Tree of 40 Fruits.

On the Syracuse University campus, among the people lounging on the quad and scurrying to their next class, there lies a tree unlike any other. 

The Tree of 40 Fruits is an art and scientific experiment, a Frankenstein’s monster-like plant.

It was planted at Syracuse University in 2008. 

Spectacular about this tree is the fact that it develops over three dozen different sorts of fruit over the spring and summer. 

Shocking, but true.

One tree develops that much over the spring and summer.

This tree produces a variety of delicious fruits, including cherries, plums, peaches, and almonds. 

Sam Van Aken built it by grafting the buds of 40 different tree species onto a single plant. 

Be sure to catch a glimpse of this tree whenever in Syracuse.

Who knows, you may find some ripe cherries just hanging around.

Address: University of Syracuse 

8. Niagara Mohawk Building

The Niagara Mohawk Building in Syracuse is an art déco-style structure that represents that era’s design in a particularly magnificent manner.

This Art déco architectural landmark was formerly the Niagara Hudson Electric Company’s headquarters.

It was designed to be “a cathedral of light,” and as such, it has several architectural features that ensure it glitters, gleams, and sparkles in every way.

At night, the building lights up in a variety of styles and colors, especially along its tall main spire.

However, its three-story building is not as tall as some of the more renowned structures created with a similar design.

Its lower size allows visitors to see the entire structure from across the street for a full, lit image.

Visitors can now light it in whatever hue you like.

It is currently held by the National Grid Company, although it is also a designated historic site.

Check it out if you can.

Address: 300 Erie Boulevard West, Syracuse, New York, United States

Planning a road trip outside of Syracuse? Why not check out our list of things to do in New Rochelle, Lake Placid, Binghamton, SoHo, and Warwick?

9. Syracuse Pedal Tours

You could actually tour Syracuse as a group and in a more fun way.

Although there are limitless opportunities to tour the city, the Syracuse Pedal Tour is a must-try.

Syracuse Pedal Tours allows groups of friends, coworkers, or family to explore the city from a completely different perspective.

An adventure using a pedal-powered trolley that 13 people can control.

Similarly, Syracuse Pedal Tours offers three different ways to see the city.

Firstly, visitors can opt for a brewery tour.

In this brewery tour, guests can ride from brewery to brewery and enjoy a pedal-powered pub crawl.

The next is a food tour, in which visitors will stop at some delicious restaurants for snacks and food.

There you can feast on some of Syracuse’s very special delicacies.

Finally, an architecture tour, in which guests can sit back and learn about the city as they pedal through the streets. 

All trips are conducted by an experienced guide who will offer recommendations, information, and interesting tidbits along the route.

It’s one unique activity to try in the city and you’ll find it ideal if you enjoy company.

Address: 220 Herald Pl, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States.

10. Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology

This interactive science and technology museum is designed for learners of all ages, not just youngsters.

It is distinguished by its spectacular planetarium.

Apart from that, it holds one of the most popular awards as New York’s sole domed IMAX cinema.

You’ll find this first hands-on science museum in upstate New York.

It got its current moniker in 1992 when it also established the region’s sole public planetarium.

Only two years ago, it installed six permanent displays and increased its capacity to 35,000 square feet.

Fun place to look through if you want some peace and calm.

Make sure to see its sole domed IMAX cinema.

11. 5 Wits Syracuse

For something more fun and puzzling, make your way to 5 Wits Syracuse.

If you enjoy escape rooms, you will be completely intrigued by 5 Wits.

This game facility provides intense physical experiences that rival any escape room you have ever encountered. 

Each of the 5 Wits adventures takes place in a meticulously created set.

It blends lighting, sound, and intricate special effects to create an unforgettable encounter. 

To achieve your goals, you and your team will need to pool your collective physical and mental resources, as well as use all of your wits and senses. 

You’ll have to overcome several obstacles and come out on the winning side.

Far from playing games, there are a number of additional activities you can explore at 5 Wits.

Likewise, 5 Wits is a great place to have team-building activities, birthday parties, and other fun events.

Besides, it also has a huge function area and food choices.

See if you are up to the challenge and can be a 5 Wits winner.

Address: 5 Wits Syracuse, 10651 Destiny USA Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States

12. Everson Museum of Art

The Everson Museum of Art has made a name for itself in a variety of ways.

This modern structure in downtown Syracuse has an extraordinary collection of American art.

It was the first museum dedicated to American art, and the first to have its own permanent collection of ceramics.

Also, it was the first to begin collecting work in video format and the first to establish a docent program.

It was the first museum to focus completely on American art and artists, and its permanent collection of art.

Sculptures, video, graphics, paintings, ceramics, and photography include over 11,000 unique pieces.

The museum also offers a wide range of seasonal and temporary exhibitions, which rotate on a regular basis.

It also commissioned the then-unknown architect I. M. Pei to develop its sculptural-inspired structure.

To make everyone convenient, the museum is open Wednesday through Sunday and provides pay-what-you-want entry every Wednesday, and free admission on the third Thursday of the month.

Truthfully, for a museum, this is amazing.

Address: 401 Harrison St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

13. Fairmount Glen Miniature Golf

There will always be something for golf lovers around Syracuse.

If you have taken a liking to golf and want a good opportunity to see or try a few games, visit the Fairmount Glen Miniature Golf.

Fairmount Glen Miniature Golf is widely recognized as the greatest miniature golf course in Syracuse.

It provides hours of spectacular family fun for guests of all ages. 

The 18-hole course is surrounded by beautiful scenery, which includes a flowing waterfall, many fountains, and a babbling creek. 

While you can play golf while enjoying the beautiful scenery and creeks, there are other options this park offers.

It’s an excellent choice for a children’s birthday party, with special group prices available for groups of 8 or more players. 

You may also reserve the deck for your next party or event. 

Besides, the course is available seasonally and typically begins the first weekend in April. However, this might vary depending on the weather.

Play a game of golf or simply relax if you want.

Its creeks and scenic fountains are good spots to meditate, try yoga, or even read a book.

Address: Fairmount Glen Miniature Golf, 210 Onondaga Road, Syracuse, NY 13219, United States

14. Erie Canal Museum

The Erie Canal, a historic canal that runs from Albany, New York, to Buffalo, New York, was finished in 1825 and spans 363 miles across the state.

It was a vital canal for the transit of commodities between the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes Region when it was established. 

Its canal’s locks and waterways, as well as all of its lateral canals, may be found across New York State.

Erie Canal Museum in Syracuse tells the tale of this picturesque canal.

It showcases objects related to the Erie Canal and commemorates the structure’s significant influence on the region.

By delivering fascinating and enjoyable education on the issue, the museum hopes to expand the world’s broad awareness of the canal’s significance.

Visitors to the museum may learn about its history as well as its current effect on commerce, New York State, and other topics.

You may wonder, a whole museum dedicated to a canal.

If so, head down and see why for yourself.

Admission is entirely voluntary, and a $5 donation is requested but not necessary.

Make sure to see a little of Syracuse’s history while you tour.

Address: 318 Erie Blvd E, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States.

15. Lakeland Winery

Wine tasting is one of the seemingly great activities to do around Syracuse.

Wines in Syracuse have a different taste and feel.

The ambiance and surroundings add to the taste.

At the Lakeland Winery, you’ll find such wines.

Visitors may sample a broad range of wines created by this producer at Lakeland Winery or even try their hand at crafting their own. 

You can also sample some of Lakeland’s greatest and most varied vintages by making online or telephone appointments for wine tastings. 

By scheduling a wine-making appointment, Lakeland offers a comprehensive experience that includes wine tasting, variety selection, and wine-making.

Up to 30 bottles of the customers’ homebrewed wine will be provided, and they will be available for pickup and consumption.

Don’t leave Syracuse without a taste of its wine.

Address: 877 State Fair Blvd, Syracuse, NY 13209, United States

Check out some of the best Restaurants in Syracuse to eat at after your exploration of this city!

16. The Salt Museum, Syracuse

At one point in history, the city of Syracuse provided salt to the entire country.

The earliest reports of salty, briny springs in Syracuse came from Jesuit missionaries in 1654, and the city of Syracuse was created soon after.

For the majority of the nineteenth century, Syracuse provided the majority of the salt used in the whole United States.

Even today, Syracuse is known as the Salt City, and the Salt Museum in the adjacent town of Liverpool says it all.

This museum is located near Onondaga Lake.

It offers many displays, antiques, and genuine components that would have been used to transform salt water into only salt on a boiling block, utilizing kettles, wooden barrels, and other instruments.

On a tour around the Salt Museum, visitors can explore exhibits and relics from the salt industry while learning about its history and influence on the region.

Furthermore, the museum was built using timbers salvaged from salt warehouses.

A good way to spend an evening looking at unusual constructions.

It’s a completely unexpected and one-of-a-kind experience.

As you roam through the museum, you’ll find a thousand thoughts rushing in.

Address: 106 Lake Dr, Liverpool, NY 13088, United States

17. Watch the Syracuse Crunch Hockey play

Hockey lovers and general sports enthusiasts will find this option ideal to explore around Syracuse.

You will enjoy seeing the Syracuse Crunch play at the Oncenter War Memorial Arena. 

This arena, which has a capacity of over 8,000 people, is home to the Crunch, an American Hockey League club.

The club serves as a feeder league for the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning. 

Practically, the hockey season typically begins in October and lasts until April. 

Fans attending a Crunch game will be able to enjoy food, beverages, merchandise, and other amenities while watching an exciting game of hockey. 

There, you can cheer your favorite hockey player as they work hard to be victorious.

However, you should remember to dress warmly when watching this exhilarating and chilling sport.

There’s nothing like watching a game of hockey in warm clothes.

Address: 515 Montgomery St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

18. Upside-Down Traffic Signal, Syracuse

Although it may not appear to be much, this upside-down traffic signal was formerly considered a significant component of the city’s culture.

It all derives from the substantial Irish population, which aided in the construction of the Erie Canal.

When Syracuse constructed a traffic light in the Irish section of town in 1925, it was thought that the red light at the top represented the bigger population’s allegiance to Britain, while the green light at the bottom represented Ireland.

As a result, the Irish in the area would routinely breach the red light, forcing the city to replace it.

It was eventually determined that the red and green lights would be swapped, with the green light at the top of the traffic signal.

This was great until the judgment was overturned by the State of New York.

However, the inhabitants stated that they would continue to break the light until the green was on top of the red, and this is still the case today.

All these hurdles for some light.

See it for yourself and decide on your pick.

19. Sknnonh Great Law of Peace Center

Probably you’re looking to find a little of Syracuse’s history all bottled up in one place.

If so, head to the Sknnonh Great Law of Peace Center.

This cultural museum presents the narrative of the Haudenosaunee people, often known as the Iroquois Confederacy, a Native American confederacy.

It comprised five nations: Tuscarora, Oneida, Onondaga, the Mohawk, Cayuga, and Seneca. 

The museum concentrates on the stories of the Onondaga Nation, which is indigenous to the Syracuse area. 

Several exhibitions talking about all of its histories are on display.

Its exhibitions include multimedia displays and paintings by Haudenosaunee artists.

There are also several historical relics, which will inform visitors about the Onondaga people’s origins, livelihoods, and customs.

Decide if you’re ready for all of that history and go see some while you can.

Address: 6680 Onondaga Lake Pkwy, Liverpool, NY 13088, United States

See also the list of things to do in Montauk!

20. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, Syracuse

You don’t normally think of traveling to Syracuse for BBQ, yet here it is, one of the most recognized barbecue spots in the country.

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is a central and western restaurant, famed for the greatest BBQ north of the Mason-Dixon line and in the whole country.

It has appeared on Good Morning America, the Food Network, the Travel Channel, and other networks.

The restaurant has spread around the region, but this Syracuse location is the original and has been serving wonderful meals to the neighborhood since 1988.

They began with a mobile concession stand in 1983, progressed to a restaurant and bar, and then established more and more of those restaurants and bars around the state.

Even their cookbook has won an award. Fascinating, isn’t it?

Grab a dish of pork ribs or a platter of pork.

Try their plate of brisket or even a half chicken.

After that, try a cup of their fantastic cocktails.

When you are through with a meal, hang around their music venue with live blues music to complete the eating experience.

Its highly scenic setting is a plus.

Address: 246 W Willow St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States.

See also the list of things to do in York and Saratoga Springs!

21. Clinton Square, Syracuse

This lovely Syracuse downtown park and plaza attracts both residents and visitors.

Over 100 years old, thousands of people visit each year for a range of activities, ranging from ice skating in the winter to numerous summer festivals.

Clinton Square is perfect if you have itchy feet and want to skate.

Grab your skateboard and try skating.

Even if nothing is going on during your visit, you should go since you’ll get a view of some of the neighboring buildings.

Picnicking is also a top thing to do around this place, and the tranquility it brings is enough

Address: 161 W Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13219-1748

22. Onondaga Lake Park

Onondaga Lake Park, sometimes known as the Central Park of Central New York, contains more than seven miles of greenway.

It is a wonderful natural space that stretches for roughly 7.5 miles along the lake’s shoreline, just west of Syracuse. 

The park has four lovely routes that are ideal for a stroll, a bike ride, or a walk with the dog.

Biking equipment can also be rented.

Stop by the Griffin Visitor Center to play some volleyball or shuffleboard.

There are several seaside area parks, skate parks, and a large playground area, as well as the Salt Museum.

There’s even a fishing pier, ballfields, and so forth. 

Would-be fishers can try their luck at landing one of the pikes, bass, or catfish in Onondaga Lake’s waters from the fishing pier.

You can also try having a BBQ or party at the picnic shelters. 

In addition, the park holds a variety of festivals on a monthly basis.

Try to attend one of these festivals if you’re free. They tell more stories about Syracuse.

 Address: 106 Lake Dr, Liverpool, NY 13088, United States

23. Landmark Theatre

This theatre, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is not only a terrific venue in Syracuse to see a performance, but it is also culturally significant.

It debuted in 1928 and was dubbed “the final word in dramatic ornateness and luxury.” 

The entry price was 25 cents, and the area is as beautiful and sumptuous as you can imagine.

It’s marble-covered, tapestry-filled, and has a Tiffany-designed chandelier. 

There’s also a pond with a Japanese-style paged fountain.

Address: 362 S Salina St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

24. Stella’s Diner, Syracuse

Stella’s is the place to go if you want to experience a classic American diner while you’re in Syracuse.

This visit on your schedule will satisfy both your stomach and your pocketbook.

The menu is incredibly enormous, and you will be unable to choose.

Do you want an omelet, a salad, an ice cream sundae, or something else? 

That’s only the tip of the iceberg.

You’ll find burgers, breakfast platters, and a whole lot of delicacies.

Tasty meals only for your filling are available and you’ll find them scrumptious.

Address: 110 Wolf St., Syracuse, NY 13208, United States 

25. Beaver Lake Nature Center

Beaver Lake Nature Center is only 15 minutes outside of downtown Syracuse.

It has an amazing list of things going on virtually every day of the week, as well as more than nine miles of trails.

This is a nature lover’s delight, with over 200 bird species and more than 800 plant kinds to observe.

If you prefer bird watching for leisure, then this is one top thing to do.

Stop for bird watching or just a special moment with mother nature.

A 200-acre glacial lake serves as a rest stop for thousands of Canadian geese throughout the migratory season.

Grab the opportunity to see this rare species of geese during your stay.

Take as many photographs as you want.

In addition, during the summer, think of hiring a canoe and exploring the region by water!

It’s undoubtedly one top activity to try within Syracuse.

Address: 8477 E. Mud Lake Rd. Baldwinsville, NY 13027

26. Skytop Quarry

Skytop Quarry was originally a rock quarry, but it has since been abandoned. 

It is now a popular destination for bikers and a terrific area to explore. 

On a tour, visitors may notice several unusual characteristics, such as abandoned, charred husks of old automobiles.

Several bizarre and frightening art displays such as lines of dolls’ heads are meticulously arranged on the ends of logs.

There are even deserted fire pits where parties formerly took place.

It’s a wonderful destination for photographers or fans of eerie places.

If you have the stomach for scary activities and items, make time to see this place.

Address: Jamesville, NY 13078, United States

27. Syracuse Stage

The Syracuse Stage, a theater venue, has hosted a plethora of productions since its inception in 1974. 

In addition to all the favorites, they’ve also debuted a number of shows for the first time not only on the East Coast but also around the world.

Also, in addition to serving over 65,000 clients each season, they also serve over 30,000 students from a dozen nations each year.

Some titles in the 2017/2018 season will be familiar to you.

The Three Musketeers, The Wizard of Oz, A Raisin in the Sun, and even Peter Pan are a few.

Add to your list of things to see and explore around Syracuse.

You’ll find it interesting.

Address: 820 E. Genesee Street Syracuse, NY 13210

28. Museum of Intrigue

The Museum of Intrigue is more than simply a museum; it’s an interactive experience for visitors of all ages. 

First, guests select a narrative, such as Captain Williams’ Treasure or Murder at the Museum. 

Then, visitors can wander the museum, keeping their eyes alert at every turn, thanks to performers, hints, and interactive displays.

Visitors and groups of all ages and sizes will enjoy what the Museum of Intrigue has to offer.

Whether it’s plotting a robbery to take rich treasures from the museum’s exhibits or investigating the mystery of a strange tomb that is terrifying the museum employees, they’re fun to do.

There are tons of activities to keep you engaged.

Address: 306 Hiawatha Boulevard M302, Syracuse, NY 13290, United States

Final Remarks

Touring Syracuse offers countless opportunities, some of which are relatively easy to get to.

Whether you intend to bowl or skate, there are limitless opportunities.

Find out which is ideal for you and enjoy.

Make sure to take photos.

Safe Travels.