Where to stay

Downtown Syracuse is the place to stay to visit the historic and opulent Landmark Theatre. While the theater continues to put on the latest shows, a visit is just as worthwhile to appreciate its history as one of the few surviving movie palace theaters from the 1920s. There's even more history to explore at the Westcott Theater, now a live music venue following its previous incarnation as a cinema built in 1919. Those staying in East Syracuse should check out The Palace Theatre, a restored 1922 building that shows classic movies and holds live music events.

Stay in Downtown Syracuse to be within walking distance of the 50,000-seat Carrier Dome. Located on the campus of Syracuse University, it is the stage for high-profile sporting events. The successful Syracuse Orange college football team has a strong local and national following. Home games at the stadium, nicknamed "The Loud House," ensure that the city is a boisterously fun place to be on game day. If baseball is more your interest, consider booking a room in North Syracuse or stay in accommodations in Liverpool next to Onondaga Lake for a trip to the NBT Bank Stadium, the home of the Syracuse Mets minor league team. Skaneateles, about a 30-minute drive west, is a great place to stay to enjoy swimming, fishing, and sailing on one of the beautiful Finger Lakes.

Undoubtedly the biggest event of the year in the city, the state fair is held every August at the huge New York State Fairgrounds west of Syracuse next to Onondaga Lake. To be out of the city during the event, find a room in the Seneca Knolls suburb, a 10-minute drive northwest of the fair. Alternatively, book accommodations in Liverpool to stay near the shores of the lake on the opposite side from the fair. Featuring 13 days of amusements, rides, games, and food, the event also includes a circus and themed parades, along with exhibits on everything from agriculture to the arts. The event welcomes over a million people every year, making it one of the largest state fairs in the United States. Downtown Syracuse is a great place to stay for eclectic events such as the Bacon Festival and Crawfish Festival.