Trying to flex your holiday spirit on the 'gram this season? We've got the low down on the top spots where visitors and locals alike love snapping pics. Most of these spots make for great holiday activities too — it's the best of both worlds!

 

1. Clinton Square

It's Syracuse tradition to make it out to Clinton Square at least once for ice skating and enjoying views of the Christmas Tree or giant Menorah. Why not snap a pic next time? 





 

 

2. The Everson: Festival of Trees and Light 2022

The highly anticipated holiday event returns for three weeks this year (December 3-17) with its stunning showcase of Christmas trees & seasonal displays, live performances, art-making & storytelling activities for kids and, new this year, a Holiday Marketplace featuring artist-made wares and local products. Grab your shots of the illuminated trees and don't forget to grab a few more with the kiddos in Santa's Workshop themed photo booth!  




 

 

3. Skaneateles

This quaint town comes alive in not only the summer months but the winter too. Stroll and shop throughout the village with your favorite Dickens Christmas characters or snap a photo with Father Christmas. With beautiful views of the lake and amazing storefronts, there's a reason people call it picturesque. 






 

4. Armory Square

Get some holiday shopping done while enjoying the beautifully decorated streets of this Downtown neighborhood. We've found that it's not only the stores and restaurants that people love about this popular spot, but the scenery too!






 

 

5. Green Lakes State Park

Green Lakes is a state park like no other. The gorgeous meromictic lakes can be appreciated during all seasons. Enjoy this rare nature spot and don't forget to photograph it. Pro Tip: Wear practical shoes when you visit this winter wonderland. 





 

 

6. City Art

Syracuse is a vibrant city and our city art reflects it. Set out through the city in search of the murals that catch your eye and take a pic in front of your favorite. Which mural throughout Syracuse is your favorite?






 

 

7. Window Wonderland

Check out Downtown Syracuse's Window Wonderland and strike a pose in front of your favorite display! This year, you can expect more than 40 Downtown businesses to dress up their windows for the holiday season, including our Visit Syracuse office in historic Hanover Square. View the map and remember to vote for your favorite window display while you're out there!

 




 

 

8. Christmas Tree Farms

Bring the holidays to life through the lens with a stop by one of the many U-Cut & Fresh-Cut Christmas tree farms. If you're looking to capture the Christmas spirit & spread the cheer on social, what better backdrop than rows of snow-covered Christmas trees, wreaths and furry farm animals? Start a new holiday tradition by venturing out to the picturesque, powder-covered countryside just outside of the Syracuse city limits. Swing by Page's Christmas Tree Farm, Critz Farms, Cedarvale Maple Syrup Co., Springside Farm, Hafner's, Rocking Horse Farm, Whitetail Tree Farm and dozens of others. (BONUS: many of these popular farms also offer holiday fun for the kids, wagon & sleigh rides, gift shops, food & more)