The Syracuse area is filled with unique and vastly different neighborhoods. From streets full of history and tradition to those with a more eclectic vibe, a visit to the area should include a stop to at least a few of these distinct areas. We’ve gathered some of our favorites to start off your first of many weekend discoveries, or visit our Neighborhood pages and create your own trip!
Fuel Up
Begin your day at a Syracuse landmark, The Gem Diner, just a short distance from the Inner Harbor area, for some serious omelettes and classic diner food.
Shop
Take a stroll around Armory Square and the surrounding streets for some local shopping. Stop into boutique shops such as Midnight Sun or Frankie and Faye for some fashion finds or browse the records at The Sound Garden. The guys can peruse American Reserve Clothing or grab some kicks at Ambition Upstate. Stop into Sweet on Chocolate or Cathy’s Cookie Kitchen for a quick snack and then stroll on over to Clinton Square .
Eat
Spend some time in the Little Italy and Northside neighborhoods for a wide variety of delicious options. A historically Italian neighborhood, locals love the pastries and especially cannolis from Biscotti Cafe, while Columbus Bakery and DiLauros Bakery & Pizza are two of the top rated bakeries for bread and rolls. Habiba’s Ethiopian Kitchen and Ethio-Eritrea bring a world of different flavors to the neighborhood. Both restaurants feature authentic Ethiopian cuisine such as beef sambusa, misir wot and doro alecha.
Drink
Grab a pint in the city’s historic Tipperary Hill neighborhood. The area boasts the world’s only upside-down traffic light and a bevy of Irish pubs. Check out Coleman’s Authentic Irish Pub and Restaurant or Blarney Stone for a classic Irish hang-out or enjoy a craft beer at Now & Later.
Play
In the heart of the Strathmore neighborhood stands Onondaga Park - an 86-acre oasis complete with a swimming pool, playground, athletic fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, and the stunning Hiawatha Lake. A perfect spot for a hot summer day.
Nightlife
Just a few blocks from the popular Armory and Clinton Square sections of downtown, Hanover Square offers a variety of nightlife options. Maxwell’s and The Evergreen are two popular area pubs. Grab a bit to eat and enjoy a nightly options including open mic nights, trivia and burger specials or just order a beer and enjoy the warm weather on either of their outdoor patios.
