Syracuse, Sunny Side Up!
A late summer guide to Syracuse.
BY Ava Ascenzo★ august 11th, 2025
Photo Credit: Ava Ascenzo
Girls, I know you’re feeling a lot right now. Some of you are counting down the days. Others are dreading them. I know both.
Don’t stress — Syracuse is awesome once we’re back. You don't have to go off campus for a perfect intro to the city, but you definitely should. There's so much beyond campus, and if you never leave, you’ll miss out.
Let's talk about ways to calm the nerves, ease the stress and soak up the Syracuse sun before it's too late.
Parks
Spoiler alert: You can still take your hot girl walks in Syracuse. After sylly week, we’ll all be in need of some nature bathing.
About 30 minutes south of Syracuse, there are two waterfalls: Pratts Falls and Tinker Falls. Tinker Falls is a harder trail, but walks you under the falls. Pratts Falls is easier, with views just as spectacular. Or, travel east to Chittenango Falls — another easy trail with gorgeous views.
We can’t talk about waterfalls without mentioning a day trip to Ithaca. Visit Robert H. Treman and Buttermilk Falls State Parks for swimming holes and stunning scenery. And you don’t just have to hike. Explore the city too, especially the Ithaca Commons.
Photo Credits: Ava Ascenzo
Daytrips
Speaking of daytrips, everyone knows Skaneatlas — the most adorable lake town. Cruise the lake or relax at Mirbeau, where delicious food meets a beautiful garden overlook.
Photo Credits: Ava Ascenzo
For a longer drive, stop at Lake Ontario. Sandy Island Beach State Park is a great place for catching rays and enjoying the shore. For a weekend escape, rent a cozy lakefront cabin in the Adirondacks, one of the country’s most scenic mountain ranges. If you go, be sure to stop at Blueline Coffee House in Old Forge — you’ll fall in love.
Photo Credits: Ava Ascenzo
Picnicking
Picnics on the quad are great, but sometimes you’ll want something new. For a little roadtrip, visit Skyline Lodge, the perfect spot for a picnic. If you want something closer, Green Lakes is a given — but don’t forget a Vince’s sandwich on the way!
Photo Credits: Ava Ascenzo
About 15 minutes from Green Lakes lie Onondaga Lake Park and Heids of Liverpool. I’m obsessed with their vintage vibe and hotdogs. For another 80’s feel, travel to the Midway Drive-In Theater in Fulton. For nicer fare and a view, Heritage Hill Brewhouse and Crazy Daisies are definitely worth the visit.
Events
Some of Syracuse’s hidden gems are right around the corner — seriously. There are tons of events and festivals to check out, and some are just a walk away.
Besides the New York State Fair, the Italian Festival is a must if you want a glimpse into the Syracuse food scene. These vendors serve amazing Italian dishes.
Not into the Italian vibe? Visit Beaver Lake’s Golden Harvest Festival to kick-start the fall season with local eats and shopping.
Also, the Westcott neighborhood’s Cultural Fair brings live music, art and food, as well as the Inner Harbor. And who doesn’t love a good farmer’s market? Visit the CNY Regional Market or the Downtown Farmer's Market for fresh produce and baked goods — plus some local vendors with insane finds.
Edited by: Madison Sherman