Awesome Parks in Syracuse

Located in the heart of central New York, the city of Syracuse is known for many things from sports to food to a good snowstorm. Being on the list of snowiest cities in America every year, this upstate city is filled with outdoor activities all year long.  When the sun is shining in the summer or when the snow is falling in the winter, visit some of the best parks Syracuse has to offer.

Onondaga Lake Park

106 Lake Dr, Liverpool, NY 13088

Onondaga Lake Park is the perfect spot for every outdoor activity imaginable.  Known as the ‘Central Park of Central New York’ this park is 7.5 miles of green grass and water views.  All year long the park is filled with people walking, running rollerblading, biking, and much more. Settle down for a picnic on the waterfront or get a team together for a game of baseball on one of the ball fields.   Onondaga Lake Park includes a skate park and dog parks for kids and adults of all ages.

Green Lakes State Park

7900 Green Lakes Rd, Fayetteville, NY 13066

This park really has it all.  Located about 10 miles east of downtown Syracuse, Green Lakes State Park is almost 2,000 acres of land.  The park is situated around two lakes which have an unusual blue-green color. Spend the day on the outskirts of the lake to sunbathe, have a picnic or do yoga. Other activities offered at the park include camping, fishing, biking, hiking, and even an 18-hole golf course.  And in the winter, you can hike, snowshoe, or cross country ski on 15 miles of trails.

Burnet Park

577 Burnet Park Dr Syracuse, NY 13204

Known for being the largest park in Syracuse, Burnet Park is located on the west side of Syracuse and covers over 88 acres. Including 3 softball fields, a basketball court, a racquetball court, 2 tennis courts, a swimming pool, a 9 hole golf course, and a zoo, you will never be bored at Burnet Park. Also, all activities are free excluding the golf course and zoo.  Clearly, Burnet Park has activities for all ages all year long!

Thornden Park

Thornden Park Dr, Syracuse, NY 13210

Thornden Park is situated near Syracuse University and is a favorite wedding location.  Stretching over 76- acres, Thornden Park is known for an amazing assortment of great flowers that peak in the month of June. As the second-largest park in Syracuse, the space is equipped with a pool with six swimming lanes and 4 tennis courts and 3 basketball courts.  Another amazing feature of Thornden Park is the amphitheater which is home to the Syracuse Shakespeare Festival and the Syracuse Opera throughout the summer.

Onondaga Park

Onondaga Park Dr Syracuse, NY 13207

Different from the Onondaga Lake Park mentioned above, Onondaga Park is located in the city of Syracuse on the outskirts of the historic Strathmore neighborhood.  Stretching over 80 acres, the park is separated into upper and lower Onondaga Park.  No matter the season, the park is equipped to entertain all visitors. Upper Onondaga Park includes 8 tennis courts, 3 basketball courts, a playground, and a swimming pool. Lower Onondaga Park includes a baseball field and a greenhouse.  A staple of the park is Hiawatha Lake with a picturesque gazebo located at one end.  This spot is great for a wedding or prom photos!

Franklin Square Park

101 Solar St, Syracuse, NY 13204

Located just two blocks from downtown, Franklin Square is an escape from the city environment.  Featuring a large fountain, arbors, statue, and gardens with beautiful flowers.  Franklin Square Park is also a popular location for special-occasion photography like weddings.