I know firsthand how crucial it is to find tours and activities that are not only fun but also practical, comfortable, and enriching for kids and adults alike. Syracuse, New York, might not be the first city that pops into your mind when planning a family trip, but trust me—it’s packed with hidden gems and experiences that will delight every member of your crew.
I’ve taken my family through some amazing tours here, and I’m excited to share the inside scoop on what worked brilliantly, what to expect, and how to plan it all seamlessly. Whether you’re into history, nature, hands-on learning, or just want to keep the kids happily entertained, Syracuse has a little something for everyone.
My Top Three Family-Friendly Tours in Syracuse
1. Exploring the Erie Canal Museum: History Comes Alive for Kids
Location: 318 Erie Blvd E, Syracuse, NY 13202
Ticket Price: Adults \$8, Kids 6-17 \$5, under 6 free
Booking: Walk-in or via Erie Canal Museum official website
Walking into the Erie Canal Museum felt like stepping back in time. The museum itself is housed in the historic Weighlock Building—the last standing weighlock from the canal era—which immediately sparked my kids’ curiosity. It’s rare to find a museum where history feels so tangible.
What I loved most was the interactive exhibits. The kids got to experience a replica canal boat, where they could pretend to “lock” the boat through the canal system. This hands-on experience was a winner—learning about the importance of the Erie Canal in shaping America’s economy and culture became fun rather than boring history lessons.
The staff here is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to answer questions or suggest kid-friendly highlights. Plus, they offer educational scavenger hunts, which kept my little ones engaged for nearly two hours.
Pros: Interactive, educational, affordable, central location
Cons: Smaller scale museum—plan for about 1.5-2 hours visit
Getting There: Easily accessible from downtown Syracuse; I took an Uber from my hotel which was about \$10.
2. Rosamond Gifford Zoo: Animal Encounters for the Whole Family
Location: 1 Conservation Pl, Syracuse, NY 13204
Ticket Price: Adults \$13.50, Children (ages 3-12) \$9.50, under 3 free
Booking: Online tickets recommended via Rosamond Gifford Zoo site
One of the highlights of our trip was definitely the Rosamond Gifford Zoo. This isn’t just any zoo—it’s a beautifully maintained space with a strong focus on conservation and education, which was important to me as a parent. The kids loved the train ride that circles the park, giving a fun break when little legs got tired.
Some of our favorite exhibits included the Asian Elephant, the Polar Bears, and the Red Pandas. I was thrilled that the zoo has well-thought-out indoor and outdoor exhibits, making it a great spot regardless of weather. The staff organizes regular feedings and talks, which are perfect for learning more about animal care.
They also have a wonderful sensory-friendly program for kids with special needs, which really impressed me.
Pros: Well-maintained, educational programs, great for all ages
Cons: Can get crowded on weekends and holidays
Getting There: About 10 minutes by car from downtown; parking is free onsite.
3. The MOST (Museum of Science & Technology): Engaging and Interactive Fun
Location: 500 S Franklin St, Syracuse, NY 13202
Ticket Price: Adults \$14, Children 2-17 \$11, under 2 free
Booking: Recommended to buy tickets online at MOST’s official website
The MOST was a revelation! If your kids love hands-on activities and science experiments, this place will be a big hit. From building circuits to trying out the planetarium shows, there’s a dynamic energy that kept my kids buzzing with excitement.
My personal favorite was the Sci-Tech Hall, where kids get to experiment with mechanical systems and energy sources. I appreciated the balance between fun and educational content—the exhibits don’t talk down to kids but challenge them.
They also have a seasonal Science on the Spot program, which features live demonstrations perfect for families.
Pros: Highly interactive, excellent staff, good for older kids too
Cons: Admission a bit pricey for budget travelers, parking can be limited
Getting There: Downtown location, walkable from many hotels; street parking and nearby garages available.
Four More Family-Friendly Syracuse Tours You Shouldn’t Miss
4. Green Lakes State Park: Nature and Outdoor Adventures
If your family loves the outdoors, Green Lakes State Park is a must. Located about 20 minutes east of Syracuse, this park offers pristine glacial lakes with striking turquoise waters—perfect for family picnics, hiking, and even swimming in the summer.
You can rent kayaks or paddleboards in warmer months, or just enjoy the nature trails. The playgrounds are great for younger kids, and the park staff maintain clean facilities with picnic shelters and restrooms.
Pros: Beautiful natural setting, plenty of outdoor activities, affordable day trip
Cons: No food vendors on site, so pack your own snacks
Getting There: Best accessed by car; parking is ample and free.
5. Onondaga Lake Park: Lakeside Trails and Playgrounds
Onondaga Lake Park hugs the shores of the city’s largest lake and offers miles of paved trails perfect for biking, walking, and skating. The playgrounds here are among the best I’ve seen in the area—modern, safe, and with equipment that appeals to various ages.
I recommend renting bikes near the park to explore the trails, then stopping by the nearby Carousel for a classic family treat. During summer months, the park hosts free concerts and festivals that are fantastic for families.
Pros: Free access, family-friendly events, scenic walking and biking paths
Cons: Parking can be limited during major events
Getting There: Easily reachable via city buses or a short drive; bike rentals nearby.
6. The Palace Theatre Tour: A Cultural Treat for Kids
For a taste of local culture, I recommend booking a family tour of the Palace Theatre in downtown Syracuse. This beautifully restored 1920s theater offers behind-the-scenes tours that fascinate older kids and adults alike.
The theater often hosts family-friendly shows and musicals, so check their schedule to time your visit accordingly. The architecture and historic details provide a magical setting, and the staff are excellent at engaging young visitors.
Pros: Unique cultural experience, educational and fun
Cons: Limited tour availability, best for older kids
Getting There: Central downtown location, walkable from hotels and restaurants.
7. Erie Canalway Trail Bike Tour: Active Family Fun
For families with school-age kids who enjoy biking, I highly recommend renting bikes and exploring the Erie Canalway Trail. This trail runs through Syracuse and offers a mostly flat, scenic route that’s easy for kids to handle.
Along the way, you can stop at local parks, grab snacks from small vendors, and explore historical markers explaining the canal’s significance.
Bike rental shops like Spoke & Steele downtown offer family packages and helmets. It’s a wonderful way to combine outdoor exercise with local history.
Pros: Great exercise, combines history and nature, kid-friendly
Cons: Weather dependent, bike rentals add to cost
Getting There: Trailheads accessible from downtown, rental shops centrally located.
Practical Tips for Booking and Planning Your Syracuse Family Tours
How to Book and Save Money
Many Syracuse attractions offer online booking with discounts, so I always check official websites first. For example:
- The Erie Canal Museum offers family packages and seasonal discounts.
- MOST has combo tickets for planetarium shows plus museum entry.
- The zoo’s website often has early-bird specials or summer passes.
Additionally, check sites like TripAdvisor or Viator for bundled deals or guided tour options.
When to Visit
Weekdays and mornings are the best times to visit popular spots to avoid crowds. Summers are busiest due to festivals and good weather, but spring and fall offer beautiful scenery with fewer tourists.
What to Pack
I always bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes for everyone
- Reusable water bottles
- Weather-appropriate clothing layers (Syracuse weather can be unpredictable)
- Snacks for kids (especially useful for parks and trails)
- A small first aid kit and sunscreen
Transportation Tips
Syracuse has a reliable bus system (Centro) that connects most major attractions, but I recommend renting a car if you want flexibility, especially for parks outside the city.
Family Tours in Syracuse
I can’t recommend Syracuse enough as a family destination. The blend of history, nature, science, and culture means there’s never a dull moment, no matter the age of your kids. The city strikes a perfect balance between being manageable and packed with engaging activities.
Planning ahead, booking tickets online, and factoring in transportation will make your trip smooth and stress-free. From exploring the fascinating Erie Canal Museum to biking the scenic trails or getting up close with animals at the zoo, Syracuse truly offers a family adventure that will create memories for years to come.
If you’re looking for a destination that’s educational, fun, and welcoming to families, Syracuse should be at the top of your list.
