A Central New York city known for its university, Erie Canal history, and access to the Finger Lakes wine region.

Why Visit Syracuse

Syracuse sits at a historic crossroads on the old Erie Canal route, and today serves as a practical gateway to the Finger Lakes wine region just to the south. Syracuse University adds a college town energy to the downtown, and the Erie Canal Museum preserves the waterway’s role in the city’s founding.

Top Experiences

  • Finger Lakes wine country day trips: One of the largest wine regions in the eastern US, within about an hour of downtown Syracuse.
  • Erie Canal Museum: Exhibits on the historic waterway that shaped Syracuse’s growth as a salt and shipping hub.
  • Destiny USA: One of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in the northeastern US.
  • Green Lakes State Park: Two unusually clear, mineral rich lakes known for their striking turquoise color.

Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Syracuse.

The Authentic Ortigia Street Food Tour by Hidden Syracuse

The Authentic Ortigia Street Food Tour by Hidden Syracuse

★ 5.0 (68)
From USD 77.2
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Sicilian cooking course and more

Sicilian cooking course and more

★ 5.0 (42)
From USD 156.63
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Syracuse Private Walking Tour with Traditional Lunch and Wine

Syracuse Private Walking Tour with Traditional Lunch and Wine

★ 5.0 (26)
From USD 246.14
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Private transfer Catania Airport (CTA) – Syracuse/Ortigia

Private transfer Catania Airport (CTA) – Syracuse/Ortigia

★ 5.0 (17)
From USD 223.76
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Syracuse and Ortygia and Park Neapolis Tuk-Tuk Tour

Syracuse and Ortygia and Park Neapolis Tuk-Tuk Tour

★ 5.0 (17)
From USD 267.39
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Private Transfer Catania Airport ↔ Syracuse Ortigia

Private Transfer Catania Airport ↔ Syracuse Ortigia

★ 5.0 (15)
From USD 93.24
View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Practical Tips

  • Base in Syracuse to explore several Finger Lakes wineries without committing to one lake town.
  • Green Lakes State Park’s turquoise color is most vivid on sunny days.
  • Fall foliage season brings some of the best scenery to the surrounding Finger Lakes drives.

FAQ

Is Syracuse a good base for the Finger Lakes?
Yes, it sits within about an hour of several Finger Lakes wine regions, making it a practical touring base.

What is Green Lakes State Park known for?
Two unusually clear, mineral rich lakes with a striking turquoise color, popular for swimming and hiking.

What is the Erie Canal Museum?
A museum in downtown Syracuse covering the history of the canal that shaped the city’s founding and growth.