Syracuse travel guide

Syracuse travel guide

National Airports

The main airport in Syracuse is the Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), which is located about 6 miles north of downtown Syracuse. It is the largest airport in central New York and serves as a regional hub for several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

There are no other national airports in Syracuse, but there are several regional airports within driving distance, including:

Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport (ITH): Located about 50 miles south of Syracuse, Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport serves several major airlines, including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines.

Greater Binghamton Airport (BGM): Located about 65 miles southeast of Syracuse, Greater Binghamton Airport serves several regional airlines, including Delta Connection and United Express.

Watertown International Airport (ART): Located about 70 miles north of Syracuse, Watertown International Airport serves several regional airlines, including American Eagle.

Overall, the Syracuse Hancock International Airport is the main airport serving Syracuse and the surrounding region, with several major airlines offering domestic and international flights.

Trains in Syracuse

Syracuse has an Amtrak train station located in downtown Syracuse at 131 P&C Parkway. The station is served by several Amtrak train routes, including the Empire Service, the Lake Shore Limited, and the Maple Leaf. The Empire Service provides frequent daily service between Niagara Falls and New York City, with stops in several cities, including Buffalo, Rochester, and Albany. The Lake Shore Limited provides daily service between Chicago and Boston, with stops in several cities, including Cleveland, Buffalo, Albany, and Boston. The Maple Leaf provides daily service between New York City and Toronto, with stops in several cities, including Albany, Buffalo, and Niagara Falls.

The Syracuse Amtrak station features a waiting area, restrooms, and a ticket office. Additionally, the station is served by local buses and taxis, making it easy to connect to other parts of Syracuse.

Buses in Syracuse

Syracuse has a public transit system operated by the Central New York Regional Transportation Authority (Centro), which provides bus service throughout the city and the surrounding region. Centro operates over 50 routes, including express routes to downtown Syracuse, Syracuse University, and other major destinations.

In addition to regular bus service, Centro also offers several specialized services, including paratransit service for individuals with disabilities, Park-N-Ride service for commuters, and shuttle service for events and attractions.

Centro bus fares vary based on the route and type of service, with discounts available for seniors, children, and students. Riders can pay with cash or purchase a reusable fare card.

Overall, Centro bus service provides an affordable and convenient way to get around Syracuse and the surrounding region, with a range of routes and services to suit different needs.

How to get to Syracuse

Syracuse is located in central New York and can be easily accessed by several modes of transportation.

By air: The Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) is the main airport serving Syracuse and the surrounding region, with several major airlines offering domestic and international flights.

By train: The Syracuse Amtrak train station is located in downtown Syracuse and is served by several Amtrak train routes, including the Empire Service, the Lake Shore Limited, and the Maple Leaf.

By bus: Syracuse is served by several bus companies, including Greyhound, Trailways, and Megabus, which provide service to several cities throughout the Northeast.

By car: Syracuse is located at the intersection of several major highways, including I-81, I-90, and I-690, making it easy to access by car from several directions.

Overall, Syracuse is easily accessible by several modes of transportation, making it a convenient destination for travelers.

What is the best time to travel to Syracuse

The best time to travel to Syracuse depends on your preferences and interests. Here are some things to consider:

Weather: Syracuse experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. If you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports, the summer months (June-August) offer the best weather for these activities. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, the winter months (December-March) can be a great time to visit.

Events and Festivals: Syracuse hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, including the New York State Fair in August, the Syracuse Jazz Fest in June, and the Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival in July. If you’re interested in attending these events, plan your visit accordingly.

Crowds and Prices: Traveling during peak season (summer and holidays) can mean larger crowds and higher prices for flights and accommodations. Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds and prices are lower.

Overall, the best time to travel to Syracuse depends on your preferences and interests. Consider the weather, events, crowds, and prices when planning your trip.

How to get around Syracuse

There are several ways to get around Syracuse and the surrounding region:

By car: Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Syracuse and the surrounding area. Several car rental companies are located at the Syracuse Hancock International Airport and in downtown Syracuse. However, be aware that parking in downtown Syracuse can be limited and expensive.

By public transit: The Central New York Regional Transportation Authority (Centro) operates a public transit system in Syracuse and the surrounding region, including local and express bus service. Centro also offers specialized services like paratransit, Park-N-Ride, and shuttle service for events and attractions.

By taxi or rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available in Syracuse and can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you don’t want to rent a car or use public transit.

By bike or foot: Syracuse has several bike lanes and trails, making it easy to get around by bike. Walking is also a great option, especially in downtown Syracuse where many attractions and restaurants are within walking distance.

Overall, there are several options for getting around Syracuse and the surrounding region, depending on your preferences and needs.

Accommodations in Syracuse

Syracuse offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences, including:

Hotels: Syracuse has a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Many hotels are located in downtown Syracuse, near popular attractions and restaurants.

Bed and Breakfasts: Syracuse has several bed and breakfasts located in historic homes and neighborhoods, offering a more personal and cozy experience.

Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo offer a range of options, from apartments and condos to entire homes, giving you more space and flexibility during your stay.

Extended Stay: If you’re planning a longer stay in Syracuse, you may want to consider an extended stay hotel or apartment. These options offer more amenities like a kitchen and laundry facilities, making it easier to feel at home during your stay.

Overall, Syracuse offers a range of accommodations to suit different needs and budgets. It’s a good idea to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season or major events.