History + Heritage

Discover the people, places and stories that have shaped Onondaga County for generations. 

Explore Nearly Four Centuries of History

Every corner of Onondaga County tells a story. From the enduring traditions of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy to Syracuse's legacy as the Salt City and the transformative impact of the Erie Canal, the region's rich history continues to shape its communities today. 

Whether you're exploring the region's Salt City legacy, the Erie Canal, or the enduring traditions of the Haudenosaunee, history comes to life throughout Syracuse and Onondaga County.

Discover Indigenous Heritage

Long before Syracuse was founded, this land was home to the Onondaga Nation, the Central Firekeepers of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. Today, visitors can deepen their understanding of Indigenous history, culture, and traditions through educational exhibits, cultural centers, and experiences that honor the people who have called this region home for generations.

A visit to the Skä•noñh – Great Law of Peace Center, located along the shores of Onondaga Lake, offers an opportunity to learn about the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, the Great Law of Peace, and the enduring traditions that continue to shape the region today.

Columbus Circle

Explore Syracuse's Salt City Legacy

Syracuse earned its nickname, the Salt City, thanks to the rich salt springs that fueled the region's growth throughout the 19th century. This booming industry helped establish Syracuse as one of America's leading salt producers and shaped the city's economy, architecture, and identity. Discover museums, historic landmarks, and exhibits that tell the story of the people and industries that built the community we know today.

Historic Fayette Park

Follow the Erie Canal Story

The Erie Canal forever changed New York State, connecting communities and creating new opportunities for trade, travel, and innovation. Its influence can still be seen throughout Onondaga County, where historic canal sites, museums, trails, and interpretive exhibits celebrate one of the most significant engineering achievements in American history. Whether you're walking along a former towpath, exploring the Erie Canal Museum, or learning about canal life, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the waterway that helped shape the region.

Farmers Market

Start Exploring

History isn't confined to the pages of a book. It's woven throughout the communities, museums, landmarks, and cultural experiences that make Onondaga County unique. Browse our historic sites, museums, and heritage attractions below to begin your journey through the stories that continue to define Syracuse and Central New York.

Syracuse Museums + History

Syracuse is a city loaded with history — the remarkable Erie Canal once ran through Clinton Square near the heart of downtown Syracuse.

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Skä•noñh - Great Law of Peace Center

Skä•noñh, is an Onondaga welcoming greeting meaning “Peace and Wellness.” This dynamic Native American museum offers the story of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois). It is operated by the Onondaga Historical Association in conjunction with Syracuse University and the Onondaga Nation. The Ska-nonh Center offers self-guided tours or tours by appointment for large groups.

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Erie Canal Museum

Welcome to the place where history happens. Housed in the 1850 National Register Weighlock Building, the only structure of its kind in the world. Come aboard a full-size canal boat and touch the past with hands-on exhibits. Take home unique Erie Canal books, photos, and gifts from the wide selection in our giftshop. A must see for children and adults.

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Onondaga Lake Park

The "Central Park of Central New York" is a 8+ mile linear greenway, featuring four great trails - East Shore Recreation, Shoreline Walking Trail, Lakeland Nature and the West Shore - bustling year-round with social interaction, special events, waterfront picnics and the region's premier skate and dog parks. Wegmans Landing, a ten-acre venue, includes a newly opened (2023) Pickleball Court Complex, Wegmans Playground, a colorful mecca with climbers, swings, play houses and slides while the 16,000 sq. ft. concrete Onondaga Lake Skatepark, open to skateboarders, BMX bikers, and inline skaters, features the challenging Liberty Bowl, volcano, quarter pipes and fun boxes. Explore a bit of Syracuse history at The Salt Museum, built on the site of an original salt boiling block.

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Downtown Syracuse

Downtown Syracuse offers plenty of accommodations to stay and explore the city’s finest restaurants, bars, boutiques, shops and activities.

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Visitors’ Top Picks

Looking for the hottest spots in Syracuse? You came to the right place 🔥.

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Syracuse Itineraries

Whether local or visiting from out-of-town, we've crafted itineraries to match your interests, time and discovery of Syracuse and Central New York.

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Onondaga Historical Association

One of the nation's largest regional collections of historical treasures awaits you at the Onondaga Historical Museum. Celebrate the region's people, events, architecture, sports legends, industries, transportation, and recreation. See our latest permanent exhibits, including Freedom Bound: Syracuse & the Underground Railroad. The Richard and Carolyn Wright Research Center houses two million archival photos, maps, cemetery records, and other documents pertaining to Onondaga County history. 

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Salt Museum

Discover the industry that created the City of Syracuse and supplied the nation with salt! Explore the site of an original boiling block where brine was turned into salt. Located on the scenic shores of Onondaga Lake in the popular Onondaga Lake Park. Open seasonally from early May to early October, Thursday through Sunday. Free admission. Group and school tours are available May - October with a group fee. Reservations begin in January for the upcoming season. Call (315) 453-6712 or email olp@ongov.net to make your reservation.

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Landmark Theatre

The Landmark Theatre is central New York’s premier destination for national touring concerts, comedians, family performances, Broadway shows, and local events.

This historic theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1928 and has been a symbol of Syracuse’s rich cultural heritage. The Landmark is dedicated to preserving its link to the region’s history while providing a venue for world-class arts, entertainment, and cultural events.

 When you visit the Landmark, you'll get more than just a show. You'll get an experience that you can enjoy with friends and family and the opportunity to be a part of our magical history! Whether it’s a Broadway performance, a nationally-touring concert, or a comedy act, the Landmark is sure to provide a memorable evening out.

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Milton J Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST)

The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST) is a hands-on science and technology museum located in historic Armory Square in downtown Syracuse. The MOST is focused on dynamic science education that engages learners of all ages and abilities. It features 35,000 square feet of interactive permanent and traveling exhibits plus the state-of-the-art National Grid ExploraDome theatre. The museum operates numerous STEM education programs and community outreach events throughout the year. The MOST’s mission is to provide informal science learning experiences that ignite curiosity, encourage discovery, and inspire investigation. The MOST is open from 9:30 to 5, Thursday through Sunday, and most school holidays and breaks.

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Heritage Hill Brewhouse & Kitchen

Nestled high in the hills of Pompey, NY is our authentic farm brewery and restaurant with a true local food experience. Heritage Hill Brewhouse offers farm to table food, 20 craft beer's on tap, canned beer and cocktails, and New York State Wine & Spirit beverages.

Come here to enjoy the ultimate watch party location for all sporting games, plenty of space for the kids to run around and stunning sunset views!

Available to book for your event, wedding, meeting, party & more. 

Please check out website for updated hours of operations and upcoming events. 

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