Editor’s Note: During this period of social distancing, Group Tour magazine will continue to provide group travel inspiration. Many attractions and destinations are closed at this time; please contact them directly for updated information. 


The central New York city of Syracuse welcomes groups with plenty of activities and attractions. Explore the area’s rich history, take in arts and culture at numerous museums or visit Syracuse University.

“We are proud to welcome tour groups to Syracuse — right in the heart of New York state,” said Mary Moore, tour and travel sales manager at Visit Syracuse. “Many tour groups choose Syracuse as a stopover because of our location at the crossroads of I-90 and I-81. Syracuse is the perfect destination to enjoy an array of activities and attractions from exploring a unique blend of local history and culture to discovering outdoor adventure in a variety of landscapes, all while being surrounded by the gaming and winery opportunities that the Finger Lakes region offers.”

Visit Syracuse
315-470-1966
visitsyracuse.com

CRUISE

Syracuse
Camillus Erie Canal Park
Credit: Lock 52 Historical Society

Camillus Erie Canal Park offers boat rides along the historic Erie Canal over the only restored navigable aqueduct in the state. There are over 13 miles of scenic wooded paths and walkways for hiking and biking, Sims’ Store Museum and the steam engine exhibit. Canal boat tours typically run from May to Columbus Day weekend.

ENJOY

Syracuse Destiny USA
Destiny USA
Credit: Visit Syracuse-Wainwright Photography

Destiny USA is New York’s largest fully enclosed shopping, dining, outlet and entertainment destination. Destiny USA provides special incentives for group tours that register in advance, such as gift cards and motorcoach lounge access for the motorcoach driver and tour guides/escorts, and special offers and discounts for all passengers.

TOUR

Syracuse Gage House
Matilda Joslyn Gage House
Credit: Matilda Joslyn Gage Center

Visit the Greek Revival home of Fayetteville’s famous suffragist, Matilda Joslyn Gage. The Gage Home is the only Onondaga County home open to the public that was offered as a station on the Underground Railroad. In 1882, L. Frank Baum, author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, married Gage’s youngest daughter, Maud, in the house.

TASTE

1911 Tasting Room
Credit: Visit Syracuse-Wainwright Photography

Head to Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards in Lafayette for a tasting. The family owned business has been growing apples since 1911. The Apple Hill Campus is home to the 1911 Tasting Room, where guests enjoy tastings of apple wines, ciders and spirits as well as treats from the bakery and cafe.