The locale
A 2-hour drive east on I-90.
The scoop
One of Syracuse’s most beautiful neighborhoods, Armory Square is home to cozy cafes, notable restaurants and charming shops. Boasting plenty of character via its historic buildings, the neighborhood always held high importance due to its vicinity to railroads and the Erie Canal.
There’s a lot to do, buy and taste in Armory Square, so consider staying at least one night in an Airbnb or hotel to fully discover the area’s best restaurants, breweries, activities and shopping. Start off with a hot cup of coffee at Freedom of Espresso to gear up for the day. Make time for a romantic ice skating date in nearby Clinton Square, where you can take in the crisp, cool air while absorbing the European-style architecture. Afterward, grab a drink somewhere like Al’s Wine & Whiskey Lounge, which features whiskies and wines from around the world. Chase that with their selection of cheeses, cured meats, and live music, and you’ve got yourself a lively night.
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Places to stay
The Residence Inn Syracuse Downtown at Armory Square is right in the heart of the square and offers guests free hot breakfast, grocery delivery service and an evening social during the week. Warm up by the fireplace or in the hot tub after a day out in the cold.
Jefferson Clinton Hotel — Just a stone’s throw from must-see spots in Armory Square, lodging here will score you free breakfast and parking, in addition to tea and coffee in the lobby throughout the day.
Places to stay
Funk ‘N Waffles — Founded by two Syracuse University students, the first location opened near the school; Armory Square is its second location. With a live music line-up and waffles like you’ve never seen, this place attracts throngs of hungry diners. The original chicken and waffles is served with a hot sauce and cinnamon maple syrup; other options include the Jive Turkey (stuffing waffle with smoked turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and gravy) and the James Brownie (brownie waffle served with two scoops of ice cream, whipped cream and chocolate sauce).
Pastabilities — Serving up homemade pasta and its famous spicy hot tomato oil with fresh bread, Pastabilities tames that comfort food craving with options like creamy burrata and squash blossoms and a variety of cheesy, homemade pasta dishes.
Sakana-Ya — Sit at this eatery’s counter where a conveyor belt brings fresh sushi offerings past you – simply grab what looks good. Hit this spot on Monday for half price sushi and Wednesday for all-you-can eat sushi for $25.
Things to do
Brewery Tour at Empire — Located under the Bentley Settle Building, Empire Brewing Company offers high quality beers and solid menu options. Stroll down the steps of what used to be a pickle factory to see how things are made. Learning about the process and discovering what you like most is all part of the fun.
Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST) — Discover hands-on learning opportunities for any age at MOST. The large venue currently hosts nine permanent exhibits in addition to housing the only public planetarium in Central New York.
Spots to shop
Eureka Crafts Gallery —The shop displays a selection of handmade jewelry, ceramics, glass, wood, metal and fiber all while supporting over 300 American craft artisans.
Sweet On Chocolate — Featuring hand-dipped and homemade chocolate, the talk of the town seems to be the chocolate dipped potato chips — a bestseller.
