When traveling with family, finding a hotel that balances comfort, convenience, and kid-friendly amenities is key to making the trip enjoyable for everyone. Syracuse, New York, offers a great variety of family-friendly hotels that cater to all ages while placing you near top attractions, dining, and entertainment. I’ve explored many places to stay in Syracuse and found several that truly stand out. I’ll share my personal experience at one wonderful hotel and recommend four others that I believe any family would love. Whether you want to be near museums, parks, or shopping centers, there’s something here for everyone.
My Personal Stay: Homewood Suites by Hilton Syracuse/Liverpool
Location: 5785 Widewaters Parkway, Liverpool, NY 13090
Booking Platforms: Hilton.com, Expedia, Booking.com
Typical Rates: Around $140–$180 per night for a suite
Why I Chose It: Spacious suites, full kitchens, and excellent kid-friendly amenities.
During my last family trip to Syracuse, I stayed at the Homewood Suites in Liverpool, just a short 15-minute drive from downtown Syracuse. What immediately struck me was how spacious and thoughtfully designed the suites were—especially for families. Each suite has a separate living room and bedroom, along with a full kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave, stove, and dishwasher. This made meal prep easy, especially with picky eaters and dietary needs in our group.
Facilities and Services
The hotel offers a free hot breakfast buffet daily, featuring kid-friendly options like waffles, fresh fruit, and cereal. There’s also a free evening social Monday through Thursday with snacks and drinks, which was a great way for us to unwind after busy days exploring the city. For families, the indoor pool was a definite highlight. My kids loved swimming while I relaxed poolside—an ideal way to recharge.
A standout feature was the free grocery shopping service—just let the staff know your grocery list ahead of time, and they’ll stock your kitchen before arrival. This saved me a ton of time and hassle!
Location and Nearby Attractions
The hotel’s location near Liverpool gives easy access to the Erie Canal Museum (about a 10-minute drive) and the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, one of Syracuse’s top family attractions. If you’re looking to shop or grab a bite, Destiny USA—one of the largest shopping malls in the region—is just 15 minutes away, with plenty of restaurants and entertainment options like an arcade and ropes course.
Booking and Deals
I booked my stay through Hilton Honors, which provided flexible cancellation and the option to earn points toward future trips. Sometimes you can find special family packages or longer-stay discounts, especially if you book in advance or travel off-peak. I recommend checking Expedia and Booking.com too, as they occasionally offer bundled deals that include breakfast or parking.
My Personal Takeaway
The combination of roomy suites, great amenities, and a location that balances city access with quiet surroundings made this hotel perfect for my family. It felt like a home away from home, with enough space for everyone to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Recommended Hotel 1: Marriott Syracuse Downtown
Location: 100 E Onondaga St, Syracuse, NY 13202
Booking Platforms: Marriott.com, Hotels.com, Expedia
Typical Rates: $160–$220 per night
If your family prefers to stay right in the heart of downtown Syracuse, the Marriott Syracuse Downtown is an excellent choice. This historic hotel blends old-world charm with modern amenities and is steps away from key attractions like the Landmark Theatre and Armory Square’s restaurants.
Family Features
The Marriott offers spacious rooms and suites that can accommodate families, plus an on-site restaurant with kid-friendly menus. The indoor pool and fitness center are added perks. The hotel provides cribs and rollaway beds upon request, and the concierge is very helpful with recommendations for family-friendly activities.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Central location, historic ambiance, on-site dining
- Cons: Parking can be pricey; not as many kitchen facilities for families wanting to self-cater
Best For
Families wanting a lively downtown experience close to theaters, shops, and museums.
Recommended Hotel 2: Embassy Suites by Hilton Syracuse Destiny USA
Location: 6646 Destiny USA Dr, Syracuse, NY 13204
Booking Platforms: Hilton.com, Expedia, Booking.com
Typical Rates: $150–$210 per night
Located adjacent to Destiny USA, this Embassy Suites hotel is ideal for families planning to spend time shopping, dining, and enjoying entertainment under one roof.
Family Amenities
The all-suite hotel design means separate living spaces and bedrooms, plus free made-to-order breakfast and an evening reception with drinks and snacks. There’s also an indoor pool and a fitness center. Since it’s connected directly to the mall, it’s incredibly convenient for families wanting easy access to attractions like Dave & Buster’s and the WonderWorks museum.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Direct mall access, suite layout, free breakfast and evening reception
- Cons: Can be noisy on weekends due to mall traffic; parking fees apply
Best For
Families focused on shopping and entertainment with minimal travel between activities.
Recommended Hotel 3: Hyatt Place Syracuse/Carrier Circle
Location: 6716 Buckley Rd, Syracuse, NY 13212
Booking Platforms: Hyatt.com, Hotels.com, Booking.com
Typical Rates: $120–$180 per night
Hyatt Place offers a modern, casual vibe with large rooms and a 24/7 market for snacks and light meals—a plus for families with unpredictable schedules.
Family Benefits
The hotel features spacious rooms with sofa beds, complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool. Free parking and shuttle service to Syracuse Hancock Airport add convenience for travelers arriving by air.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Affordable rates, family-friendly room layouts, airport shuttle
- Cons: Located a bit farther from downtown attractions (about 10 minutes by car)
Best For
Families seeking a budget-friendly option near the airport and highways.
Recommended Hotel 4: Holiday Inn Syracuse-Liverpool
Location: 441 Electronics Parkway, Liverpool, NY 13088
Booking Platforms: IHG.com, Expedia, Booking.com
Typical Rates: $110–$160 per night
Holiday Inn is a reliable choice for families wanting straightforward comfort without breaking the bank.
Family-Friendly Features
It offers an indoor pool, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant with kids’ menus, and suites with sofa beds. The hotel’s proximity to the NY State Fairgrounds means you’re close to seasonal events and festivals. It’s also a short drive to Green Lakes State Park, perfect for outdoor family fun.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Affordable, good pool, proximity to fairgrounds and parks
- Cons: Lacks the upscale feel of some downtown hotels; parking fees may apply
Best For
Families looking for budget comfort near outdoor activities and events.
Making the Most of Your Family Stay in Syracuse
One thing I’ve learned after years of traveling with family is that a hotel is more than just a place to sleep—it’s the foundation for your entire trip experience. A family-friendly hotel should not only provide comfort but also offer conveniences that reduce stress and add fun to your stay. In Syracuse, there’s a wide spectrum of accommodations that deliver just that, from spacious suites with kitchens to hotels nestled right by the city’s best attractions.
Beyond the Hotel: Thinking About Convenience and Comfort
When traveling with kids, proximity matters. I always look for hotels that minimize long car rides or complicated transit routes after a long day of exploring. That’s why hotels like Homewood Suites Liverpool or Embassy Suites by Destiny USA are fantastic—both allow quick access to shopping, dining, and entertainment so the kids never get restless during travel.
If your family prefers a slower pace and outdoor fun, the Holiday Inn near the NY State Fairgrounds is a strategic choice because it puts you right next to sprawling parks and seasonal events without sacrificing hotel amenities like pools and dining options.
Booking Tips to Save You Money and Stress
From my experience, planning and booking early is key, especially if your visit coincides with popular events like the Great New York State Fair or university graduations. Many hotels offer family packages that include breakfast, free parking, or discounted tickets to local attractions, so always check the hotel’s official website or loyalty programs. Sites like Expedia, Booking.com, and Hotels.com sometimes have exclusive deals and refundable booking options, which can give you peace of mind when traveling with kids.
Don’t forget to sign up for loyalty programs such as Hilton Honors or Marriott Bonvoy. Over time, these programs can save your family money through free nights, upgrades, or late checkouts—luxuries that mean a lot when you have young children in tow.
Entertainment and Amenities That Matter
Having an indoor pool, kids’ menus, and social hours might seem like small perks, but they make a huge difference in how relaxed and happy your family feels. When my kids are entertained at the hotel, it gives me a chance to recharge as well, which is essential for keeping everyone in good spirits.
For families who love flexibility, suite-style hotels with kitchens provide a welcome alternative to eating out for every meal, especially if you have dietary restrictions or picky eaters. I always pack some simple groceries or order delivery to the room—it’s a great way to save money and maintain a sense of routine on the road.
Getting Around and Exploring from Your Hotel
All these hotels have easy access to Syracuse’s public transport and rental car options. If you don’t drive, most offer shuttle services to and from Syracuse Hancock International Airport, making arrival and departure hassle-free. Plus, ride-share apps work well in the city, so you’re never far from your next adventure.
If you want to explore the city without the stress of parking, staying downtown at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown is a prime choice. It places you walking distance from museums, parks, and the historic Armory Square district, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture.
My Reflection
Looking back at all my stays in Syracuse, what stands out the most is how family-friendly the city’s hospitality truly is. From the warm welcomes at check-in to the thoughtful touches that anticipate parents’ needs, these hotels go beyond simply providing a room. They create a supportive environment where families can relax, connect, and make memories.
So, if you’re planning a family trip to Syracuse, take your time choosing the right hotel for your unique needs. Whether it’s Homewood Suites’ spacious comfort, the Marriott’s downtown charm, or Embassy Suites’ entertainment-packed locale, you’ll find a home base that perfectly suits your family’s style.
Remember, the hotel is your launching pad for adventure. Pick a place that makes travel easier and more enjoyable, and your family vacation will be one for the books!
