Though it’s for its collegiate-level sports at Syracuse University and for being one of the snowiest cities in the US, Syracuse offers much more to travelers than just game days and winter landscapes. With attractions such as the Museum of Science & Technology, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, the Erie Canal Museum, and Clinton Square—not to mention day trips to New York’s Finger Lakes region, Niagara Falls, New York City, and the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown—there are plenty of things to do in Syracuse for every traveler.
If you’re looking to take part in winter activities within the city, the best time to visit is November through March—but if you’re not used to the inclement weather, January and February may bring too much snow for your liking. To avoid the snow (and the ice), summer is the perfect time to visit—particularly in July and August. Plus, the city’s Great New York State Fair happens every year from the end of August until early September.
How you get around Syracuse really depends on your preferences. If you’re staying in the walkable downtown area, you can easily get around on foot. Otherwise, you can get to most areas of the city from downtown fairly quickly in a car, as the city has less traffic than most other urban hubs. Syracuse also offers the Centro bus system, as well as taxis and other rideshare services.
Even if you’re not in Syracuse on St. Patrick’s Day, you’re still going to want to pay a visit to the city’s Tipperary Hill neighborhood. This area is packed with Irish history and culture that can be felt around every corner. First, see the upside-down traffic light on Burnet Park Drive and the Tipperary Hill Heritage Memorial nearby on Tompkins Street. Then, head to Lowell Avenue to see St. Patrick’s Church and grab a shepherd’s pie and Guinness at Coleman’s Authentic Irish Pub.
