
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Syracuse, New York, United States
1. Wayne County Spider House
A house shaped like a spider, complete with eight legs and a large spider body. It's a unique architectural wonder.
- Unusual Architecture: Arachnid-inspired design makes it stand out among other buildings.
- Rare Find: One of only a few spider-shaped houses in the world.
- Local Landmark: A popular spot for tourists seeking unique photo opportunities.
2. Salt Museum
Learn about the history and uses of salt in this quirky museum. The exhibits are both educational and entertaining.
- Educational Fun: Combines learning with fun, making it appealing to both kids and adults.
- Unique Topic: Focuses on an often overlooked yet essential element: salt.
- Interactive Displays: Offers hands-on activities, making the learning experience engaging.
3. Mirror Lake Auto Garage
An auto repair shop built over a mirror-like lake. The unique setting adds a touch of charm.
- Lake View Repairs: Provides a picturesque backdrop for car repairs.
- Rare Location: One of the few auto shops situated over water in Syracuse.
- Local Business: Offers regular car services with a unique twist.
4. Dinosaur BBQ
A restaurant themed around dinosaurs, offering delicious barbecue and fun decor.
- Themed Dining: Creates a prehistoric atmosphere with dinosaur-themed décor.
- Delicious Food: Serves mouthwatering barbecue dishes that draw crowds.
- Diners' Favorite: Consistently rated as a must-visit restaurant in Syracuse.
5. The Warehouse Building
A towering building with a hexagonal design, giving it an otherworldly appearance.
- Unique Design: Features a striking six-sided shape that sets it apart.
- Historical Significance: Was once the largest warehouse in Syracuse, playing a crucial role in local commerce.
- Architectural Marvel: A testament to the ingenuity of its original architects.
6. Underground Railroad Experience
Step into history at this interactive museum that tells the story of the Underground Railroad.
- Historical Education: Provides insights into the Underground Railroad and its role in Syracuse.
- Immersive Experience: Offers a realistic, interactive exploration of the underground railroad.
- Community Outreach: Encourages visitors to learn about and appreciate the importance of this historical movement.
7. The Haunted Hilltop
An amusement park with a haunting twist, offering spooky rides and attractions.
- Haunted Attractions: Offers Halloween-themed fun all year round.
- Thrilling Rides: Features adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and other exciting rides.
- Themed Entertainment: Creates a spooky, eerie atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
8. Syracuse's Little Italy
A charming neighborhood filled with Italian restaurants, bakeries, and specialty shops.
- Authentic Italian Culture: Offers a taste of true Italian cuisine and culture.
- Unique Shopping Experience: Features one-of-a-kind Italian goods not found elsewhere.
- Foodie's Paradise: Serves up delicious Italian dishes that tantalize the taste buds.
9. The Everson Museum of Art
An art museum with an eclectic collection, showcasing works from various periods and movements.
- Artistic Diversity: Features artwork representing different styles and time periods.
- Historical Significance: Houses an extensive collection of American art, including works by famous artists.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers engaging exhibits that encourage visitors to interact with the artwork.
10. The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST)
A science and technology museum with hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, and more.
- Interactive Learning: Allows visitors to learn through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
- Planetarium Shows: Offers sky shows for a unique look at the cosmos.
- Educational Fun: Creates a fun, engaging learning environment for all ages.
11. The Landmark Theatre
A historic movie theatre with an ornate interior, offering movies and live performances.
- Historical Architecture: Features stunning Art Deco-inspired design.
- Live Performances: Hosts concerts, plays, and other live events in addition to movies.
- Community Hub: Serves as a gathering place for the local community and visitors alike.
12. The Onondaga Lake Park
A beautiful park located next to Onondaga Lake, featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and more.
- Natural Beauty: Offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding area.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides opportunities for walking, biking, and picnicking.
- Local Flora and Fauna: Features a variety of plant and animal species found in the area.
13. The Locked Room Escape Game
An escape room experience where teams must solve puzzles to escape a themed room.
- Team Building Activity: Provides a fun, interactive team-building experience.
- Challenging Puzzles: Offers brainteasers that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Themed Adventures: Creates immersive, themed experiences that transport players to different worlds.
14. The Great New York State Fairgrounds
A massive fairground hosting an annual state fair, as well as other events and attractions.
- Annual State Fair: Holds the largest annual state fair in New York, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors.
- Year-Round Events: Hosts a variety of events and attractions throughout the year.
- Unique Attractions: Features one-of-a-kind exhibits, rides, and performances.
15. The Erie Canal Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of the Erie Canal, featuring interactive exhibits and artifacts.
- Historical Education: Provides insights into the construction and impact of the Erie Canal.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on activities that bring the history of the canal to life.
- Community Impact: Explores the transformative role the Erie Canal played in Syracuse and New York State.