Syracuse summer: Beat the heat with close-by waterfalls, devour new cuisine
Get off campus this summer to scenic locations like Green Lakes, or taste some new foods at Syracuse Food Truck Battle. The Daily Orange’s recommendations include locations, festivals and more. Emma Lee | Contributing Illustrator
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On Sunday, Syracuse University seniors will toss their caps into the air, marking their graduation. If you’re looking to celebrate this milestone, or if you’re an underclassman celebrating what’s soon-to-be summer, Syracuse has a plethora of festivals, concerts, restaurants and more to kill some time.
Heading into graduation weekend and summer in Syracuse, The Daily Orange has answers to all your questions about what to do in the area to kick off the festivities.
Want to cool down?
Believe it or not, snow isn’t the only type of weather Syracuse experiences. Summers do get warm, but don’t worry if you’re not used to the increasing temperatures. There are plenty of ways to beat the summer heat and enjoy the Syracuse sun.
Green Lakes State Park in Fayetteville offers scenic views, clear blue waters and the perfect oasis on a summer day.
The park has spots to swim, boat, fish and relax around the lake. Besides a $10 car fee, there are no additional entry fees to take a walk or swim at Green Lakes.
If lakes aren’t your thing and you’re willing to drive a few extra miles, there are several waterfalls in the Syracuse area.
About a 25-minute drive from SU, Pratt’s Falls Park is a 137-foot waterfall. The site includes grills, hiking trails and picnic tables, so visitors can take in the landscape and foliage while cooking up some burgers or hotdogs.
Want to change it up?
If you’re seeking a new activity to try this summer, there are multiple sporting events and festivals in the Syracuse area.
Enjoy gourmet food from over 50 different food trucks at the Syracuse Food Truck Battle. The event will take place at the New York State Fairgrounds Chevy Court on Friday, May 16, from 4 to 10 p.m., and on Saturday, May 17 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
With a $10 general admission fee, there is a food truck for everyone’s taste buds to enjoy. The entry fee allows visitors to listen to live bands performing at the festival. On Friday, there’ll be music from a Taylor Swift tribute band. On Saturday, lovelytheband, the group behind the hit song “broken,” is performing.
If you’re a sports fan, watch the Syracuse Mets play ball this summer at the NBT Bank Stadium, they play at home on May 13 against Lehigh Valley and on May 20 against Rochester. The Mets play through September, so even returning students can enjoy when summer ends. Syracuse stores like Scholars & Champs or The Yard sell Syracuse Mets memorabilia to wear at games. You can also buy some merch at the stadium and take advantage of deals like $2 hot dogs and $1 Coca-Cola on Thursdays.
Want to taste more of central New York?
If you’re looking to savor some delicious food while celebrating graduation, then Francesca’s Cucina is the place to go. Try the Utica Greens, Uncle Paula’s Bolognese or classic cannoli. This Italian eatery even includes a secret garden in the back. For larger parties, Francesca’s takes reservations.
Another dining option to take in the warm weather is Syracuse’s Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. Though it doesn’t take reservations, this restaurant is worth the long wait, featuring foods like prime brisket or smoked wings on its menu. Seating is available both inside and outside.
Temperatures are rarely high in Syracuse, so whether you’re preparing to take off after graduation or stay for a while, take advantage of summer in Syracuse.
