Exploring Syracuse: A Guide to the Area’s Rich History and Culture

Whether you’re a dedicated history buff or just looking to immerse yourself in a new cultural experience, Syracuse is filled with great places to explore!

Journey through historical sites, local eats, and vibrant arts, along with some of the area’s best locations on an upcoming visit. Check out this three-day, two-night itinerary diving into the rich history and culture of Syracuse, NY.

Day 1

Explore How Art & Nature Intersect

Kick off your adventure at Baltimore Woods Nature Center. With over 180 acres of woodlands and trails, it's a fantastic place to connect with nature. You can wander through the stunning scenery, check out seasonal art exhibits, and even join a hands-on workshop to create your own nature-inspired masterpiece. It’s a great way to get your day started and appreciate the environment.

Sip and Savor a Scenic Lunch

After your nature fix, head to Anyela’s Vineyards, perched on a hillside with breathtaking views of Skaneateles Lake. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vineyards and indulge in a wine tasting paired with delicious pizza and charcuterie. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the scenery.

Visit the Home of Harriet Tubman

Next, visit the Harriet Tubman Home and Harriet Tubman National Historical Park in nearby Auburn. Explore the life of this incredible abolitionist. Check out the home that she lived in as a free woman, the Home for the Aged that she founded, and the church where she worshipped. This park is a must-see for anyone interested in the fight for freedom.

Learn About the Fight for Equal Rights

Then, head over to the New York State Equal Rights Heritage Center. This spot celebrates the rich history of social justice in the region. With interactive exhibits, you'll learn about New York's role in the fight for equality and be inspired by the stories of those who stood up for their rights. The family friendly facility also offers free Wi-Fi, public restrooms, and regionally sourced products in the Taste NY Market.

Dig In to Regional Flavors

Wrap up your day with dinner at Apizza Regionale, where you can enjoy homemade Italian cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. The flour for each pizza is stone ground outside of Ithaca, pastured-raised meat grazes up in the north country, dairy and eggs from the Finger Lakes, salami and cured meats from Arthur Avenue in the Bronx, and summer brings produce from all over Central New York. Everything from the mozzarella to the sausage is crafted in-house. It's a cozy spot to savor some classic Italian flavors.

Lodging Suggestions:

Hotel Skyler Syracuse
Stay at Hotel Skyler, a stylish boutique hotel with a rich history. Once a theater, this spot blends modern comforts with unique design.
Marriott Syracuse Downtown
Alternatively, the Marriott Syracuse Downtown offers a luxurious experience in a beautifully restored historic hotel, complete with elegant furnishings and top-notch amenities.

Day 2

Grab a Cup of Kubal

Start your day by fueling up at Café Kubal, where they serve freshly brewed coffee, espresso, tea and a variety of delicious breakfast options. They have multiple locations throughout CNY, but their downtown spot is walkable to several great attractions. It’s a local favorite for a reason!

Fifteen Miles of Erie Canal History

Low Bridge, Everybody Down… Visit the Erie Canal Museum to learn about the significance of this modern marvel. Housed in a historic weigh lock building—listed on the National Register and the only remaining weigh station in America, you’ll find interactive exhibits and artifacts that bring the history of this engineering marvel to life.

Enjoy a Made-Fresh Lunch

For lunch, head to Darwin on Clinton, where everything is made fresh daily. Enjoy a gourmet sandwich made with local ingredients—it’s a tasty way to refuel for your afternoon adventures.

Dive Deeper into Local History

Explore the Onondaga Historical Association, where you'll find one of the largest regional collections of historical artifacts. Celebrate the region's people, events, architecture, sports legends, industries, transportation, and recreation. Their latest permanent exhibits now include Freedom Bound: Syracuse & the Underground Railroad.

Get Hands-On with Science

Next, get hands-on at the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST), where science comes alive through interactive exhibits. Don’t miss the planetarium and IMAX theater (the only one in Upstate New York) for a unique educational experience.

Explore American Art

Before dinner, swing by the Everson Museum of Art, which showcases an extensive collection of American art in a stunning building designed by I.M. Pei. Within its walls, Everson houses roughly 11,000 pieces—and one of the largest holdings of American ceramics in the nation.

Diversify Your Dinner

Finish your day at Salt City Market, a lively food hall with diverse culinary offerings. Sample everything from Ethiopian to Caribbean dishes in a vibrant community setting. The Market features 10 independently-owned food stalls, a cafe & bar, retail space, grocery store, community room, teaching kitchen, and playground.

Day 3

Enjoy a Modern Twist on Breakfast

Start your day at Modern Malt, a diner that puts a fun twist on classic American fare. Enjoy their playful menu in a cool, mid-century atmosphere. The restaurant and culture deliver unique and playful versions of elevated comfort cuisine, handcrafted artisanal cocktails and a place where Motown Soul meets alternative rock 'n roll!

Take In Nature's Beauty

Spend the morning at Green Lakes State Park, known for its stunning glacial lakes. Take a hike, relax by the water, or enjoy some kayaking if you’re feeling adventurous. The scenery is perfect for some peaceful reflection.

Enjoy Scenic Dining

Enjoy lunch at Yards Grille, overlooking a picturesque golf course. Their menu features classic American dishes, making it a great spot to relax after your morning outdoors.

Learn About Local Craftsmans

Visit the Stickley Museum in Fayetteville to dive into the world of Arts and Crafts furniture. Gain a glimpse into the innovative designs and meticulous workmanship that defined the Stickley brand through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. The museum narrates the rich history of the Stickley family and their enduring impact on American furniture.

Explore the Life of Fayetteville’s Most Famous Suffragist

Wrap up your trip at the Matilda Joslyn Gage Center. Explore the life and work of this suffragist and abolitionist in her former home. The interactive exhibits make it a powerful experience to understand her impact on women’s rights.

Explore more of Syracuse's art, history, science and culture with the Visit Syracuse tour app. It's your gateway to uncovering even more of the area's simple wonders and ensuring your next visit is just as incredible as the last.

Plan your Syracuse trip and enjoy your journey through the past and present of this vibrant city!