If you love to support small businesses and find unique local products, then we have the perfect spot for you! Located in Destiny USA on the 2nd level of the canyon is the Central New York Welcome Center. The Welcome center is the home for local products with authentic, homegrown stories. While shopping, you can explore New York State through kiosks filled with fun planning suggestions, quizzes to test your New York knowledge, and a camper RV with an LED screen inside that streams travel inspiration throughout the state. Curious what else you can discover at the CNY Welcome Center? Here’s 4 reasons why you should stop by soon.

I Love New York Merch

Fun fact, the CNY Welcome Center is the only place you can grab I Love New York branded products throughout Syracuse, NY and Onondaga County! The welcome center carries I Love New York T-shirts, magnets, travel mugs, teddy bears, and more. Talk about the perfect gift to give your loved ones after your amazing trip in the empire state.I love ny merch

Sweets and Treats

Who doesn’t love sweets while traveling? At the Welcome Center you can expect to find a variety of delicious confections to purchase. Enjoy upstate, NY options including chocolate covered pizza & wings from Chocolate Pizza Company, Winosaur gummies from Saucy Confections, and chocolate covered pretzels from Speach Family Candy Shoppe, a business that’s been around in Syracuse since 1920.

BONUS – the welcome center now carries chocolate keto cups from Eating Evolved. These chocolate cups are organic, vegan, paleo, and gluten free.

keto cups at welcome center

Spices & Sauces

Stock your pantry with locally made food products that add a dash of 'Cuse to your dish. Check out artisan salt blends from Syracuse Salt Co., or see how much heat you can handle with Hot stuff hot sauces – including Chihuhua, Holla –peño, Jab-anero, Guava Ghost, and don’t forget to grab a container of Central New York’s famous Cheeky Monkey’s tomato garlic oil.

hot stuff hot sauce

photo credit: Hot stuff Sauce
 
Home & Self-Care

Remember your trip by taking home a BeeKind Finger Lakes candle – a delicate scent that reminds you of a blend of the finger lakes wine in a jar. Pamper yourself with an artisan bar of soap, hand soap or body butter from Syracuse Soapworks. When you are done shopping and exploring the Welcome Center, make sure to purchase a Visit Syracuse reusable bag to stuff all your goodies with!

beekind candle

photo credit: BeeKind Syracuse
 

Whether you are a local 315-er or here in the Salt City for a visit, the CNY Welcome Center is excited for you to stop by and say hi. Who knows, you may even find your next favorite product.