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Downtown Syracuse, New York is a vibrant area filled with a variety of attractions, dining options, shopping, and entertainment. It serves as the cultural and commercial hub of the city, offering a mix of historic architecture, modern venues, and diverse businesses. Here are some key places and resources for things to do and see in Downtown Syracuse, including websites for more information:
1. Destiny USA (Shopping Mall)
- Website: www.destinyusa.com
- Description: Destiny USA is one of the largest shopping malls in the U.S. and located just a short distance from Downtown Syracuse. It features over 200 stores, dining options, entertainment, and attractions such as an indoor amusement park (WonderWorks) and a ropes course.
- Attractions: Shopping, dining, entertainment, family activities, and events.
2. Onondaga Lake Park
- Website: www.onondagacountyparks.com
- Description: Just a short distance from Downtown, Onondaga Lake Park is a beautiful space for outdoor activities, offering walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and views of Onondaga Lake. It’s a great spot for a relaxing day, running, cycling, or just enjoying nature.
- Activities: Biking, walking, fishing, picnicking, and seasonal events like concerts.
3. Clinton Square
- Website: www.syracuse.ny.us
- Description: Clinton Square is a historic public square in the heart of Downtown Syracuse, often hosting festivals, markets, and events throughout the year. It is surrounded by restaurants, shops, and key landmarks. The square is a lovely place to walk around, relax, or attend community events.
- Activities: Ice skating in the winter, festivals, live events, and public gatherings.
4. The Landmark Theatre
- Website: www.landmarktheatresyracuse.com
- Description: The Landmark Theatre is a historic venue in downtown Syracuse offering Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances. The theater's beautiful architecture makes it a stunning venue for cultural events.
- Events: Broadway shows, concerts, live performances, and special events.
5. Syracuse University (SU) Campus and College Town
- Website: www.syr.edu
- Description: Just a short distance from downtown, Syracuse University is home to beautiful architecture, vibrant student life, and cultural experiences. The College Town area near SU features shops, restaurants, and activities geared toward students, alumni, and visitors.
- Attractions: University events, sporting events at the Carrier Dome, cultural venues like the Everson Museum of Art (see below), and restaurants around the university.
6. Everson Museum of Art
- Website: www.everson.org
- Description: The Everson Museum is one of Syracuse's most prominent cultural institutions, offering a diverse collection of American art. The museum features rotating exhibitions, a permanent collection, and educational programs.
- Exhibitions: Contemporary art, American art history, rotating exhibits, and educational programs.
7. Armory Square
- Website: www.armorysquare.com
- Description: Armory Square is a trendy district in Downtown Syracuse known for its historic architecture, vibrant nightlife, dining options, and boutique shops. It’s a great place to explore local restaurants, bars, and stores.
- Attractions: Local shops, restaurants, bars, and events.
8. The Syracuse University Carrier Dome
- Website: www.cuse.com
- Description: Located just outside Downtown, the Carrier Dome is home to Syracuse University's football, basketball, and lacrosse teams. It is a premier venue for major sports events and concerts.
- Events: College sports games, concerts, and large-scale events.
9. Syracuse Stage
- Website: www.syracusestage.org
- Description: Syracuse Stage is a leading regional theater in Central New York, offering professional theater performances year-round. The theater hosts both classic plays and contemporary works.
- Events: Live theater performances, special events, and educational programming.
10. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST)
- Website: www.most.org
- Description: The Museum of Science and Technology, located in Downtown Syracuse, is a family-friendly museum featuring interactive exhibits on science, technology, and space. It also features an IMAX theater and hands-on exhibits.
- Exhibits: Science, space, technology, and interactive exhibits for children and adults.
11. Destiny USA (Shopping Mall)
- Website: www.destinyusa.com
- Description: Destiny USA is one of the largest shopping malls in the United States and a major retail, dining, and entertainment destination in Syracuse. It offers over 200 stores, an indoor amusement park, bowling alley, and a variety of dining options.
- Attractions: Shopping, dining, indoor amusement park, movies, and entertainment.
12. Syracuse University’s Carrier Dome
- Website: www.cuse.com
- Description: The Carrier Dome is the stadium on the Syracuse University campus, hosting Syracuse Orange sports events (football, basketball, and lacrosse) and major concerts and events.
Dining and Nightlife in Downtown Syracuse:
There are plenty of restaurants and nightlife options in downtown Syracuse. Some notable spots include:
Getting Around Downtown Syracuse:
- Syracuse City Bus System: www.syracusebus.org
- Syracuse’s Connective Corridor: A pedestrian and bicycle-friendly route connecting downtown with Syracuse University and other cultural destinations.
- Syracuse's Downtown Parking: www.syracuse.com/parking
Downtown Syracuse is full of things to do, from cultural landmarks and museums to vibrant restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, attending a concert, or exploring local history, there’s something for everyone in the heart of Syracuse.