Parks
74 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Forman Park0.3 mi from downtown
- Roesler Park0.5 mi from downtown
- Performance Park0.6 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Syracuse
5 kinds of free outings in and around Syracuse.
Good days out in Syracuse don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Onondaga County Public LibraryThe Galleries, 447 S. Salina St.
- Northeast Community Center Library716 Hawley Ave
- White Branch Library763 Butternut Street
Historic places
104 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- Oncenter War Memorial ArenaBuilt 1951
- Niagara Mohawk Building
- Syracuse Savings Bank Building
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge31 mi west
- Fort Stanwix National Monument37 mi east
- Whitney Point39 mi south
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge31 mi west
- Whitney Point39 mi south
- Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests49 mi southwest
Around town
Get a feel for the city
A WALK AROUND TOWN
A walking tour of Syracuse New York
A recorded city visit shared by Our Earth. This is not a live camera or current conditions report.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Things to do in Syracuse, New York
An activity Short shared by ThingssToDo.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Syracuse?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Syracuse this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.