Our Visit Syracuse staff selected some of their top things to do during the fall in Syracuse. Discover what our area "experts" suggest for the autumn season and even year-round!
Maggy, Marketing Technology Manager
KING DAVID’S: Swing by King David’s in Fayetteville for some of the freshest Mediterranean cuisine east of the city. If you’re hungry, go for the mazza for two platter — loaded with tasty hummus, pita, olives, feta, grape leaves, babaganouge, falafel patties and more. Or try out the barbecue gyro for a savory and refreshing lunch.
ONONDAGA PARK: In the heart of the city’s south side is the pristine 82-acre Onondaga Park, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. This gem borders the stunning Strathmore neighborhood, with man-made Hiawatha Lake and old gardens and grottos with pools and fountains. A picturesque park any time of year, this is a great place to grab some photos, bring the dog or take the kids on a walk around the century-old interconnected parks and parkway.
ERIE CANAL MUSEUM: Located in the 1850 National Register Weighlock Building in Downtown Syracuse, the Erie Canal Museum tells the incredible story of the historic Erie Canal. Ideal for adults and children of all ages, you can take a step back in time as you explore the real-life exhibits simulating life during the canal era. Kids can climb aboard a full-size replica line boat and peek inside life in a canal town with the canal tavern, general store and theater replications.
Liz, Senior Marketing Manager
DOWNTOWN SYRACUSE ERIE CANAL WALKING TOUR: Take a walk through historic downtown Syracuse and learn how the Erie Canal shaped the city, and ways the neighborhood has changed since the waterway was its centerpiece. Meet outside the Erie Canal Museum’s garden, Erie Boulevard East and Montgomery streets, and a trained docent will lead you along the Canal’s original path. See stunning historic architecture, tour Clinton and Hanover squares, visit the site of a huge Canal basin, and learn how the Erie Canal Museum came to be. This program is a must for history lovers! The tour takes about an hour and is limited to 10 people. Face coverings must be worn at all times.
THE MOST: Currently open weekends only, The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology is a hands-on science and technology museum in the heart of Armory Square. To reduce contact with exhibits, the museum has added pop-up labs and demonstration areas for fun science experiments, a pandemic related learning kiosk and Make and Take kits to bring home. The IMAX and BUILD exhibits are currently closed and the Science Playhouse is by reservation only. However, the popular Dino exhibit is open and a brand new Nature’s Ninjas exhibit, featuring live animals opens in October.
WEEKENDS ON WALTON: The City of Syracuse is paving the way for additional outdoor dining and retail opportunities for visitors on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. By closing off the 100 and 200 blocks of Walton Street in Armory Square, the city has helped create an outdoor café vibe. Grab lunch and a beer at The Blue Tusk or dinner and a drink at Kasai Ramen. Just look-ing for a snack and or shopping? Stop by Sweet on Chocolate or Vagabond Clothing. View the full list of Walton Street businesses.
Mary Kate, Marketing & Communications Specialist
THE REGIONAL MARKET: Located at 2100 Park St., Syracuse. Open on Saturdays, this market brings farm fresh produce and other goods right to the city. Since it’s open year-round, you can shop what’s in season throughout the region. This is the perfect place to find local artisan cheeses, honey, wine, coffee, cider and more. Fill your pantry with tastes of the region so you can remember your visit from home.
WEST SHORE TRAIL: At Onondaga Lake Park Trailhead is at 390 Long Branch Rd., Syracuse. This is the perfect trail for enjoying fall foliage lakeside. The West Shore Trail allows various forms of recreation so it’s worth a visit if you want to bike, run, walk, rollerblade or skateboard your way along a paved path. It’s also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your four-legged friend.
THE BRINE WELL EATERY: Find it at 128 E Jefferson St., Syracuse. The Brine Well Eatery is the perfect place to go if you’re craving a fast casual take on menu items made with fresh, local, sustainable ingredients. Most of their items can be made gluten-free or vegan, so it’s great for any dietary restrictions. Try the “Syracuse Plate” made with smashed salt potatoes, baked beans, a Hofmann hotdog, pickles and honey mustard.
