
How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Syracuse, New York, United States
1. Armory Square
Historic district filled with restaurants and shops; avoid overpriced eateries by exploring local gems off the main drag.
- Local Gems: Look for smaller, locally-owned businesses away from the central area.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak meal times to avoid crowds and high prices.
- Food Trucks: Explore food trucks for a more authentic and affordable dining experience.
2. Salted Caramel Company Store
Popular candy shop selling caramels; buy in bulk at local grocery stores for a cheaper alternative.
- Bulk Purchases: Buy candies in larger quantities from grocery stores to save money.
- Local Grocery Stores: Check out local grocery stores for a wider selection and better deals.
- Gift Shop Prices: Compare prices with what you would pay at a gift shop to ensure you're getting the best deal.
3. Syracuse University Carrier Dome
Stadium offering tours and games; skip the overpriced tickets by attending free events or checking Groupon deals.
- Free Events: Check for any free events or open houses at the Carrier Dome.
- Groupon Deals: Look for discounted tickets on Groupon for games and tours.
- Off-Season Tours: Take a tour during the off-season when prices are typically lower.
4. Destiny USA Mall
Major shopping mall with high-end retailers; save money by planning ahead and comparing prices.
- Price Comparisons: Compare prices online or at nearby stores before making a purchase.
- Off-Peak Shopping: Shop during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and long lines.
- Outlet Malls: Visit outlet malls for discounted prices on popular brands.
5. Syracuse Onondaga Lake Park
Beautiful lakefront park with a view of downtown; enjoy free activities like picnicking and birdwatching instead of paying for attractions.
- Free Activities: Enjoy the park's beauty by participating in low-cost or free activities.
- Pack a Picnic: Bring your own food to save on dining costs.
- Local Hikes: Explore nearby trails for a more authentic experience of the area.
6. Syracuse's Little Italy
Traditional Italian neighborhood with restaurants and specialty shops; dine at family-owned businesses for an authentic meal.
- Family-Owned Businesses: Choose family-owned eateries for a more personal dining experience.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak meal times to avoid crowds and high prices.
- Street Parking: Utilize street parking instead of paid lots for a more cost-effective option.
7. Rosamond Gifford Zoo
Popular attraction with entrance fees; visit during free admission days or look for discounted tickets online.
- Free Admission Days: Check the zoo's website for dates of free admission.
- Discounted Tickets: Look for discounted tickets online or with local deals.
- Local Parks: Explore nearby parks and nature reserves for free animal encounters.
8. Syracuse's Eastside Neighborhood
Artistic neighborhood with unique boutiques and eateries; save money by exploring hidden gems off the beaten path.
- Hidden Gems: Look for smaller, lesser-known businesses off the main streets.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and high prices.
- Street Art Tour: Join a free street art tour to discover local artists and their work.
9. Syracuse Museum of Art
Art museum with admission fees; save money by visiting during free days or purchasing discounted tickets online.
- Free Days: Check the museum's website for dates of free admission.
- Discounted Tickets: Look for discounted tickets online or with local deals.
- Local Galleries: Explore nearby art galleries for a more affordable art experience.
10. Everson Museum of Art
Modern and contemporary art museum with admission fees; save money by visiting during free days or purchasing discounted tickets online.
- Free Days: Check the museum's website for dates of free admission.
- Discounted Tickets: Look for discounted tickets online or with local deals.
- Local Art Galleries: Explore nearby art galleries for a more affordable art experience.
11. Skä•noñh Great Law of Peace Center
Museum dedicated to the Iroquois Confederacy; save money by visiting during free admission days or purchasing discounted tickets online.
- Free Admission Days: Check the museum's website for dates of free admission.
- Discounted Tickets: Look for discounted tickets online or with local deals.
- Iroquois Cultural Sites: Visit nearby Iroquois cultural sites for a more immersive experience.
12. Syracuse's Thousand Islands Boat Tour
Boat tour of the Thousand Islands; save money by opting for self-guided kayak or canoe tours.
- Self-Guided Tours: Rent a kayak or canoe for a more affordable option.
- Off-Season Tours: Take a tour during the off-season when prices are typically lower.
- Group Discounts: Check for group discounts if traveling with a larger party.
13. Syracuse's Warehouse District
Urban district with restaurants and bars; save money by exploring hidden gems off the main street.
- Hidden Gems: Look for smaller, lesser-known businesses off the main streets.
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and high prices.
- Street Food Vendors: Try street food vendors for a more affordable dining option.
14. Syracuse's Onondaga Lake Parkway
Scenic drive around Onondaga Lake; enjoy the view and save money by packing a picnic lunch.
- Pack a Picnic: Bring your own food to save on dining costs.
- Local Hikes: Explore nearby trails for a more authentic experience of the area.
- Off-Peak Drives: Take the drive during off-peak hours to avoid traffic and enjoy a quieter experience.
15. Syracuse's Clinton Square
Central park with events and eateries; save money by participating in free events or dining at local spots.
- Free Events: Check for any free events or concerts happening in the square.
- Local Eateries: Choose local restaurants for a more affordable dining experience.
- Picnicking: Pack a picnic to save on dining costs and enjoy the park's beauty.