27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Syracuse (NY)
1. Pratts Falls
Just a short drive southeast of Syracuse, this natural wonder is located within the picturesque borders of Pratts Falls Park in Pompey, New York.
This waterfall, rising tall at an astonishing 137 feet, is the major highlight of this expansive 300-acre park.
While you may see its amazing splendor from a viewpoint at the summit, the real magic arrives when you view it from the base.
This geological wonder, produced from the retreat of old glaciers, also has historical value.
It was the site of Onondaga County’s original mill operation in 1796, and you may still discover relics of that ancient mill near the waterfall’s peak.
As you explore the park, you’ll learn it’s not just about the falls — there are chances for hiking, archery, and even bringing your pet friend along (as long as they’re leashed).
While technically free, a kind $2 donation is encouraged to help maintain this beautiful bit of nature in New York’s Syracuse.
Address: Pompey, NY, United States
2. Salt Museum
Discover how Syracuse became known as the “Salt City” by visiting this museum, which is only a short drive from downtown Syracuse and situated along the gorgeous shore of Onondaga Lake near Liverpool.
Located in a quaint, rustic building made of wood taken from old salt warehouses, the Salt Museum transports you back to the days when the city was a major producer of salt.
A fascinating display of salt-making tools and dioramas awaits you inside, providing a fascinating look into the distinctive past of Onondaga Salt.
This salt was extracted by evaporating spring water, which sets it apart from other salt manufacturing methods you may have seen at Syracuse’s Salt Museum. Traditional salt mining methods do not extract salt like this.
It’s one of the most amazing sights to visit and a very informative place for anyone interested in learning more about Syracuse’s rich history.
Address: 106 Lake Dr, Liverpool, NY 13088, United States
3. WonderWorks
WonderWorks is the place to go in Syracuse if you’re ready for some exciting amusement park fun.
Located fully within New York’s largest mall, Destiny USA, this venue spans 40,000 square feet and offers nonstop entertainment.
It’s not your typical attraction—it’s the ideal balance of enjoyment and education.
More than 100 interactive displays make it resemble a playground for inquisitive minds.
Prepare yourself for a mind-bending adventure as soon as you enter WonderWorks—you’ll go through an inversion tunnel that turns the world upside down!
Six amazing zones within provide family pleasure as the quest continues.
Address: 9090 Destiny USA Dr, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States
4. Clark Reservation State Park
A unique natural wonder sculpted by the powers of the last ice period is Clark Reservation State Park.
This park provides an insight into the region’s geological past and is situated in Jamesville, just south of Syracuse.
A little lake that we now appreciate was sculpted by a magnificent waterfall that was created some years ago when glacier ice melted.
Clark Reservation State Park is a veritable heaven on Earth for those who enjoy the outdoors and botanical studies.
A stunning mixture of flowers, ferns, mosses, and rocks will be in front of you, offering countless photo chances.
In addition to its inherent beauty, the park is a great place for children and couples because it has a lovely playground and lots of picnic areas.
There is plenty for everyone to enjoy on this network of varied routes, from easy strolls to strenuous excursions.
Address: 6105 E Seneca Turnpike, Jamesville, NY 13078, United States
5. Downtown Syracuse
You may discover a wide range of fascinating sites and activities in downtown Syracuse.
There’s no shortage of things to see and do, from excellent eateries and pubs to quaint boutiques and shops.
The accessibility of Syracuse’s downtown is among its best features.
The distinctive areas are conveniently accessible by bike, scooter, or foot.
You also have the option to drive if that is your preference.
The area’s unique identity is derived from its ancient and beautiful architecture, which will capture you as you stroll around the streets.
Make sure to stop and take in the sights of the city as you walk around, including the statues, paintings, and sculptures that line the streets.
Address: Syracuse, NY, United States
6. Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology
The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology, or “MOST,” is one of the most popular places for tourists to visit in Syracuse.
The MOST is in the Armory Square neighborhood in Downtown Syracuse. It has 35,000 square feet of interesting permanent and changing displays.
Everyone is welcome at this museum, but kids and teens are especially welcome. It’s a great place to develop an interest in science and technology.
Not only that, but if you like games, you’re in for a treat.
Elite Gaming is a cutting-edge attraction at the Museum of Science and Technology (MOST) that makes things more fun. It has a full-fledged video production studio, streaming pods, and a whopping 100 gaming PCs and consoles.
The MOST is without a doubt one of the best and most fun places to visit in New York for an out-of-this-world experience that is both educational and thrilling
Address: 500 S Franklin St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States
7. Destiny USA
It’s more than just a place to shop; it’s an experience as the state’s biggest shopping center.
This is a must-see on your list of things to do in Syracuse. It has more than 250 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Destiny USA has something for everyone, whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, or as a couple looking for a fun place to be.
You can go on a shopping spree at Destiny USA and find top names like Apple, Nordstrom Rack, and Michael Kors.
And that’s only the beginning!
Not only can you shop and eat at Destiny USA, but it also goes above and beyond to provide a wide range of top entertainment options.
If you’re in Syracuse or New York this weekend and want to have fun, Destiny USA is the place to go. You can drive a race car, complete a ropes course, find your way through a mirror maze, play golf, or see an IMAX movie.
Are you hungry? Don’t worry.
You won’t be disappointed at Destiny USA because it has a lot of different places to eat, from sit-down restaurants to a busy food court.
If you want to have the best time in Syracuse, this place has everything you need for a full day of fun.
Address: 9090 Destiny USA Dr, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States
8. New York State Fair
Want to do fun things in Syracuse, NY that won’t cost a lot?
The New York State Fair is a real treat.
Like winning the lottery: it’s fun, interesting, and educational all at the same time.
This 13-day event is a party for fun, farming, and technology.
This fair is New York’s biggest party of the year, and it’s easy to see why. It has fun bands, exciting midway rides, and interesting exhibits.
This is one of the oldest and largest state fairs in the US; it has been going on since 1841 and gets over a million people every year.
You won’t be let down if you like farms or are just looking for something fun to do for free.
You can explore the wide world of animals, commercial sites, and thrilling rides this weekend or any other time.
Also, guess what?
It’s a huge boon for the wallet!
A ticket costs $6, but kids under 12 and people over 65 get in for free.
How long are you going to wait?
At the New York State Fair, you can enjoy the best of Syracuse.
Address: 581 State Fair Blvd, Syracuse, NY 13209, United States
9. Onondaga Historical Association
The Onondaga Historical Association should be at the top of your list if you want to see the best of Syracuse.
This private, nonprofit museum and study center is right in the middle of New York City and has one of the largest collections of historical items in the region.
Learn about Onondaga County’s history and tradition through a wide range of topics, such as people and events, architecture, sports legends, industries, transportation, and recreation.
The Onondaga Historical Association has been collecting and preserving historical, genealogical, scientific, and literary materials about Onondaga County since it was founded in 1862 and chartered by the New York State Legislature in 1863.
You will likely be mesmerized by this place whether you are interested in history, culture, or just finding the best things to do in Syracuse, NY.
Going to the Onondaga Historical Association today if you’re in Syracuse and don’t know what to do will be a great way to learn about history, culture, and the city itself.
Address: 321 Montgomery St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States
10. Webster Pond
There are many great places to have fun and relax in Syracuse, New York. Webster Pond is one of the best.
It’s hard to find at 2004 Valley Drive, but this little oasis is a special place to visit.
The refuge is run by volunteers, and anyone can go there to have a unique wildlife experience.
The pond is open all year, from 9 am to 9 pm, and is a peaceful place to go for anyone in Syracuse looking for a nature-filled experience.
Young explorers are welcome to join the Junior Fishing Programs, which are made for kids ages 7 to 15. During the warmer months, outdoor vendors put on summer and fall events.
The area has easy-to-use paths and long trails, which make it a great place to go for a walk today.
Wildlife lovers will be mesmerized by the large number of ducks and geese that live in this pond.
Being able to see guests taking care of these animals warms my heart.
Although you are welcome to help feed the birds, remember to get your corn from the Anglers Association (for a small fee) instead of crackers or bread.
Address: Syracuse, NY 13207, United States
11. Landmark Theatre
Do not forget to include the Landmark Theatre in your list of fun things to do in Syracuse, NY.
It’s only a short drive from Syracuse Airport to this famous site, which anyone in or near Syracuse should see for fun.
The famous theater builder Thomas W. Lamb made this theater a true work of art from the 1920s movie palace era.
It is the only big venue in the city that is still standing.
A local non-profit opened it again after it had been closed for a while, with help from folk-rock singer Harry Chapin.
Now, people in Syracuse go there to see great plays and other interesting stage shows.
Take a moment to admire the stunning murals and elaborate golden molding that cover every inch of the room before the lights go down and the show starts.
Take a seat in one of the comfortable ancient chairs and get ready to have fun.
You can get your tickets at the box office during the week, or it’s easier to just buy them online.
Now that you know what to do in Syracuse, this weekend might be a great time to go see a show at the Landmark Theatre.
Address: 362 S Salina St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States
12. Erie Canal Museum
This is the best place in Syracuse, New York, to learn about history. Don’t miss the Erie Canal Museum.
Along the Erie Canal, this interesting spot, which opened in 1962, takes you on a trip through time.
Through the New York Heritage Digital Collections, the museum shows interesting old photos and documents that cover more than 50 years of canal history.
This building used to be the offices of weighmasters and engineers for the New York State Barge Canal, which gives it an interesting history.
Today, it not only has interesting items from the time of the Erie Canal, but it also has a lively gallery that shows how lively the canal is now.
Look into the last of the seven weighlocks that were built along the New York State Canal System and learn how this canal has changed over time.
Whether you’re in Syracuse by yourself, with family, or with friends, the Erie Canal Museum is a must-see. It’s also the best way to experience the beauty of the Erie Canal, both close up and far away.
Yes, the gift shop has unique books, photos, and gifts with canal themes that you can take home with you as a piece of history.
Address: 318 Erie Blvd E, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States
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13. Clinton Square
Clinton Square is a famous location in the middle of downtown Syracuse, New York. It is full of history and exciting things to do.
This lively park has been around since the early 1800s. It started out as the town’s center and has grown into a place where people gather and have fun.
The square, which used to be a busy market, is now a reminder of the city’s rich history and strong sense of community.
Clinton Square is still a popular place for people in Central New York and their friends to get together, and thousands of people visit and live there every year.
Everyone is welcome to skate there as much as they want. There are also benefit walks, fun runs, and happy parties.
This square is the place to be for the Downtown Farmers Market, the Jazz Fest, the Crawfish Festival, or the beautiful lighting of the Christmas tree.
Clinton Square is an important part of Syracuse’s cultural scene that all visitors should see. It has a lot of free things to do and a rich past.
Address: 161 Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States
14. Central New York Regional Market
When you visit Syracuse, New York, there are many interesting things to see, but the Central New York Regional Market is one of the best.
It’s not just any market; this busy hub is on the north side of Syracuse. It’s a retail-wholesale terminal food center that has been a part of the city since 1938.
The market has a great history; it has been open without any public funding for more than twenty years.
This store is unique because it helps local farmers and sells a wide range of bulk goods from both local and national suppliers.
Part-time retail shops open at the market every weekend, selling everything from farm-fresh goods to crafts, antiques, collectibles, and even ready-to-eat food.
On Saturdays and Thursdays, people who like food and plants can go, and on Sundays, people who like hobbies and old things can go.
Everyone who goes to the Central New York Regional Market in Syracuse will have a great time, whether they love food or unique finds.
Address: 2100 Park St, Syracuse, NY 13208, United States
15. Museum of Intrigue
The Museum of Intrigue in Syracuse, New York, takes you into a world full of mystery and thrills.
This interesting site has become a top choice for families looking for unforgettable experiences in Central New York since it opened in 2017.
What makes the Museum of Intrigue so appealing is that it can combine live-action thrills with puzzles that will keep people of all ages interested.
You can explore a huge 9000 square foot play area and go on a variety of exciting adventures, each with its own mysterious story and puzzles.
The Museum of Intrigue is different because it wants to be a family-friendly place where parents and kids can disconnect from their phones and connect with each other while working together to solve difficult problems.
The amazing staff at the museum encourages people to look around and talk to each other, which makes the whole experience an interesting trip of discovery.
The best part? You don’t have to hurry.
You can spend as much time as you want getting lost in the museum’s secrets, talking to strange people, and enjoying the excitement as it happens.
There’s no question that the Museum of Intrigue will provide an exciting and unique experience for people of all ages.
Address: 9658 Destiny USA Dr, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States
16. Central Rock Gym
Central Rock Gym is the best place in Syracuse, New York for people who love rock climbing, exercise, and yoga.
This underground climbing gym is huge—22,000 square feet—and has 45-foot walls that are great for adventure climbing.
Even though Central Rock Gym has climbing walls, it has more to offer. It has exercise rooms for classes and workouts.
Their goal is clear: to give members and guests the best indoor rock climbing and fitness options possible.
In addition to sports, this gym is all about making neighborhoods stronger.
Events, meetups, challenges, and fundraisers for youth create a fun space where everyone feels welcome, no matter their background or level of skill.
Every week, new rock problems and routes are added, so there’s always something new to try.
Plus, the local leader makes sure that each gym offers a unique climbing experience.
Central Rock Gym has a lot of activities for climbers of all levels, from those who are just starting out to those who have been climbing for a long time.
Address: 600 N Franklin St, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States
17. Niagara Mohawk Building
One amazing thing to see in Syracuse, New York, is the Niagara Mohawk Building.
This amazing piece of architecture is a great example of the Art Deco style and a sign of the Age of Electricity.
This amazing building, which was finished in 1932 as the main office for the Niagara Hudson Electric Company, is a reminder of a time when new ideas were common.
The Niagara Hudson Electric Company used to be the biggest energy provider in the country, and the design showed how important they were.
The outside of the building was skillfully decorated with light features that lit up the front like a beacon at night. This practice lives on today with lights that can be changed to different colors.
The Niagara Mohawk Building is still a beloved historic site, even though it is now owned by National Grid.
Address: Syracuse, NY 13204, United States
18. Syracuse Antiques Exchange
Syracuse Antiques Exchange is a great place for people who love old things to look around.
This place is perfect for people looking for good antiques and retro items because it is in central New York.
The store has a huge 20,000 square feet of exhibit room spread out over four floors. It has a wide range of items for different tastes.
It has everything from Midcentury to Victorian furniture, clocks, books, vinyl records, jewelry, clothing, and even random things that catch your eye. It was carefully put together by more than seventy different dealers.
With easy access to the elevators, you won’t have any trouble getting around the large displays.
The icing on the cake?
You can park for free across the street.
This is a place you might want to check out if you’re in Syracuse, New York.
Address: 1629 N Salina St, Syracuse, NY 13208, United States
19. ArtRage Gallery
ArtRage Gallery in Syracuse, New York, is a lively place where people can find new adventures and ways of looking at things.
Their job is to show work that makes people think and starts conversations about social issues and change.
The gallery wants to break down stereotypes, fight for social justice, and spark protest through their shows.
The ArtRage Gallery breaks down barriers and encourages people to connect with both the art and each other.
It’s not just an art gallery; it’s also a spot for artists to meet and talk.
The variety of subjects is both interesting and striking, and the art powerfully addresses important social justice issues of our time.
You can do more than just look at art at ArtRage Gallery. You can take part in classes, watch movies, listen to talks, and be in an atmosphere that makes you want to talk about things like race, gender, politics, and history.
In Syracuse, ArtRage Gallery is the best place to go for a great night out that includes art, learning, and talks that will make you think.
Address: 505 Hawley Ave, Syracuse, NY 13203, United States
20. The Palace Theatre
The Palace Theater has been a beloved gem of Central New York for more than 80 years.
This old Eastwood business is owned by a family and has a building that looks like it was built in the 1920s.
The amazing thing is how well they’ve mixed the present and the past.
Through creative renovations, the Palace Theatre has become a place that can be used in many ways and has the best sound and theater technology.
Even though it has changed a lot over the years, the theater still has its own unique charm.
This theater is one of the few in New York City that has been owned and run by its own people since the beginning.
Only three movie houses in Syracuse are not owned by a chain.
The Palace Theatre has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a cozy movie night, an interesting talk, or a fun night out.
Address: 2384 James St, Syracuse, NY 13206, United States
21. Green Lakes State Park
New York City’s center is very close to Green Lakes State Park, a beautiful natural area.
This huge 2,000-acre park is a great place for nature lovers and people who like to try new things.
One of the best things about it is the pair of beautiful meromictic lakes called Round and Green Lakes.
Because these lakes don’t mix in the usual way during the seasons, there is a good chance that old plants and animals will be found.
Nature fans will love this place because it has miles of beautiful hiking trails where they can find new things all the time.
The park has the 18-hole Green Lakes State Park Golf Course, which was built by Robert Trent Jones.
Even when it snows, the fun doesn’t stop. During the winter, guests can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on one of the 15 miles of trails.
People who love nature, golf, or winter sports will have a great time at Green Lakes State Park, which is one of the best places to visit in Syracuse, NY.
Address: 7900 Green Lakes Rd, Fayetteville, NY 13066, United States
22. Skaneateles Lake
Unquestionably, one of the must-visit locations close to Syracuse, New York, is Skaneateles Lake.
The name means “long lake” and comes from an Iroquoian language spoken in the area.
Widely recognized as one of the most exquisite destinations in the United States, the immaculate lake spreads its splendor over three counties: Onondaga, Cayuga, and Cortland.
Among the cleanest lakes in the country is Skaneateles Lake, which is a notable distinction.
In addition to being a natural wonder, it provides adjacent towns, notably Syracuse, with an essential supply of unfiltered drinking water.
It’s easy to explore the lake, and boat cruises are a great opportunity to take in the beauty of nature.
Despite being a paradise for sailors and recreational boaters, it’s important to remember that the lake is subject to stringent environmental regulations because it serves as a vital source of water for the nearby communities.
Address: NY, United States
23. Upside-Down Traffic Light
When looking for interesting things to visit in New York, there’s a peculiar sight in the Tipperary Hill district of Syracuse that you shouldn’t miss.
This is the location of what is thought to be the only upside-down traffic signal in the world, right in the middle of the busy streets.
This traffic light reverses the usual pattern of red, yellow, and green beaming from top to bottom. Instead, red is at the bottom and green is at the top.
The origins of this anomaly can be traced to the thriving Irish community of Tipperary Hill in the 1920s, when the British red was intolerant of the Irish green, and as a result, the light was regularly broken.
In the end, they decided to hang the lamp upside down so that the Irish green would be prominently displayed on top.
These days, this upside-down traffic light in Syracuse is a must-see anomaly that represents Irish pride.
Address: 101 Milton Ave, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States
24. Everson Museum of Art
With more than 10,000 beautiful works of art, the Everson Museum of Art is one of the most interesting places to visit in Syracuse.
When the museum first opened in 1968, it was praised as a real masterpiece that was meant to show off other masterpieces.
The history of the Everson Museum of Art is something that makes it even more unique.
George Fisk Comfort opened the Syracuse Museum of Fine Arts in 1897 and that was the start of it all.
In 1911, the Everson became the first museum to only collect American art. It now has a large fixed collection of works from the Colonial era to the present day.
The museum also has one of the biggest collections of video art in the world as well as an amazing range of American ceramic art.
The museum has grown and moved to different places. Its modern building in downtown Syracuse now houses a huge collection of one-of-a-kind paintings, sculptures, drawings, and graphics.
The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, and there are free and family days when you can have even more fun.
The next time you’re in Syracuse and not sure what to do, especially where to have fun for free, know that the Everson Museum of Art has what you need!
Address: 401 Harrison St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States
25. Rosamond Gifford Zoo
Want to know about the best places to visit and fun things to do in Syracuse, NY?
If you want to see something in Syracuse, you can’t miss the Rosamond Gifford Zoo.
Over 700 animals, such as strong lions, bison, and red wolves, call the zoo their home. It opened in 1914.
The range of animals, birds, and marine life on display here is truly amazing, spanning 43 acres of outdoor habitats and indoor shows.
The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is a member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), which means it meets high standards for caring for animals, protecting the environment, and making sure visitors have a great time.
You can see animals at this zoo, but it’s also a center for conservation activities. It works with other AZA institutions to protect threatened and endangered species around the world.
Wildlife lovers and families looking for fun things to do will both enjoy the Rosamond Gifford Zoo. It offers a chance to learn about protecting wildlife around the world and a fun time.
Meet Asian elephants, Humboldt penguins, Amur tigers, and African cats. Don’t miss the chance.
Check out the gift shop, the conservation education center, and the Jungle Cafe while you’re here. All of these places are fun for kids and adults alike.
Address: 1 Conservation Pl, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States
26. Syracuse Stage
Visit the Syracuse Stage, which is one of the best things to do in Syracuse while you’re on vacation there.
This top-notch professional theater has been around since 1974 and is the place to go for an amazing experience.
Syracuse Stage knows how to keep things interesting. In 48 seasons, they’ve put on more than 300 plays, including world, American, and East Coast performances.
They have something for everyone, whether you like new plays or big changes to old favorites and shows.
Their educational outreach program is interesting because it helps over 30,000 kids from 24 counties every year.
Syracuse Stage is an important part of the arts scene because it is the professional, non-profit theater group at Syracuse University.
They are known across the country for producing interesting and thought-provoking theater that makes Central New York and the university community better places to live.
Syracuse Stage is all about making theater that works, entertains, and motivates people. They do this through their daring shows and creative outreach.
So, whether you like drama, are looking for a fun date night, or are just looking for new places to see, Syracuse Stage is the place in the middle of New York where creativity and excitement meet.
Address: 820 E Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
27. City Market
No matter what time you visit Syracuse, you should not miss City Market. It’s a fun place for both locals and visitors.
There are a lot of different high-quality items at reasonable prices in this one-of-a-kind market.
With sellers from all over New York State, it’s a treasure trove of handmade goods.
It has a wide range of unique homemade items as well as old Americana items that will take you back in time.
Since it opened in 2014, City Market Syracuse has become one of the most popular places for tourists to visit in downtown Syracuse.
This market event takes place every month on the second Sunday from May to October, from 10 am to 4 pm, in front of the Everson Museum of Art Plaza.
Get ready to be wowed by a wide range of items, such as antiques, art, new and used clothes, jewelry, furniture, and more made in the area.
City Market is in the middle of Syracuse’s busy city scene and is a mix of old and new.
Address: 401 Harrison St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States
28. NBT Bank Stadium
One of the fun things to do in Syracuse, NY is to go to the NBT Bank Stadium.
This stadium has 11,117 seats and is happy to be the home of the Syracuse Mets Triple-A baseball team from the International League.
It’s a great place for families, friends, and sports fans because prices are cheap and there’s plenty of parking. Enjoy a wide range of foods and drinks, and get lost in the endless sales and great sports gear stores.
The Syracuse Mets are proud of making their ballpark a great place for families.
Because of this, they ask people to be polite.
Enjoy the thrill of the game without going onto the field without permission, getting in the way of the action, or using bad language.
Even though you’re enjoying the fun, remember to follow the ground rules to keep the mood light.
Address: 1 Tex Simone Dr, Syracuse, NY 13208, United States