Syracuse is located in central New York, close to Lake Ontario. A highly rated university, Syracuse University, is located in the city, giving it a high educational standard and an interesting and varied culture. Syracuse is known for its abundance of parks and green spaces, great restaurants, and exciting events throughout the year.
1. Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
The parks and gardens of Syracuse provide a great opportunity to spend a first date outdoors in a beautiful setting. Onondaga Lake Park is a great option, with winding paths to stroll along, plenty of wildlife to observe, and spectacular views of the lake. Thornden Park is another popular choice, with gardens, trails, and plenty of grassy and shady areas for a relaxing picnic date. Another great option is Beaver Lake Nature Center, which offers a network of trails and boardwalks where you can admire the abundance of native wildlife and flora.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Syracuse
What better way to spend a first date than with a coffee? Syracuse is home to many independent coffee shops, cafes, and bistros where you can enjoy a relaxing coffee date. Funk 'n' Waffles is a great place for a coffee date, with a menu of delicious coffees and pastries, and a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Cafe Kubal is another great spot to take your date for coffee, offering artisanal and locally sourced coffee beans, delicious muffins and pastries, and a bright and colorful ambience. The Roost is another great spot to enjoy a coffee date, with a menu of specialty coffees and teas, tasty treats, and a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
3. Galleries, Museums, and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Syracuse is home to a variety of galleries, museums, and exhibitions. The Everson Museum of Art is a great place to visit on a first date, featuring a large collection of contemporary and classic artworks, as well as frequent exhibitions of visiting artists. The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology is another great option with interactive exhibitions, a planetarium, and a variety of interactive activities. The Onondaga Historical Association offers a range of fascinating exhibitions and artifacts that can make for a great first date, as well as a range of talks and lectures on various historical topics.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Syracuse
Syracuse is home to a thriving music scene, and there are plenty of options for inviting your date to a live gig. The Westcott Theater hosts regular live music performances from a variety of genres, from rock and pop to classical and jazz. Syracuse University's Setnor Auditorium presents a range of classical music performances throughout the year, and the Landmark Theatre presents a mix of musicals, dramas, and comedy shows. The Redhouse Arts Center is also a great place to invite your date to see an indie movie, theater performance, or music gig.
5. Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a Drink or Meal on a First Date
Syracuse is home to a great variety of pubs, bars, and restaurants where you can enjoy a first date meal or drink. Kitty Hoynes Irish Pub is a great choice, with traditional Irish dishes, an extensive range of beers, and live music and Irish dancing. The Blue Tusk is another popular spot and serves up an array of craft beers, as well as a delicious menu of pub grub and local specialties. Empire Brewery is another great choice, with an array of craft beers on tap, and a menu of delicious meals and small plates.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Syracuse
Syracuse is full of exciting activities and experiences that can make for a great first date. The Syracuse Salt Museum is a great spot to take a date, with fascinating exhibits and artifacts about the area's history and its salt mining industry, and the chance to take a guided tour of a working salt mine. Another great option is Onondaga Lake Park, with the option to rent a kayak or canoe for a romantic paddle on the lake. The nearby Syracuse Nationals Car Show is another great option, with a huge range of classic cars, hot rods, and muscle cars on display.
