Onondaga Lake Park Tours and Activities

Onondaga Lake Park which includes a lake or waterhole as well as a small group of people
Onondaga Lake Park featuring a park and a lake or waterhole as well as a couple
Onondaga Lake Park featuring a small town or village
Onondaga Lake Park which includes cycling and a park as well as a couple
Onondaga Lake Park which includes a pond and bird life


Full of opportunities for relaxation, exercise and fun, this green oasis just outside Syracuse is a favourite destination for nature lovers from the whole area.

Stretching along the lakeshore, Onondaga Lake Park is a thriving urban natural refuge with many opportunities for recreation. Though it was formerly a highly industrialized area, dedicated to salt mining and processing, local activism has transformed Onondaga Lake into a natural playground. Enjoy its varied attractions.

Start at the Griffin Visitor Center in the south to rent sports equipment or play a game of bocce. Coast down the level paved bike paths on a bicycle, a tandem or inline skates, as the 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) shoot by. If you have an adventurous spirit, stop by the skate park nearby for tricks on the well-maintained jumps. Challenge friends and family at the volleyball courts or put together an impromptu game of kickball on the baseball diamond.

Stroll along the pedestrian-only lakeside trails to the fenced dog park at the northern end, where dogs are allowed to run and play off leash. Paddle out onto the lake in a rented kayak, try to catch and release a fish, swing on the playground or climb a tree. Bring a picnic to relax with other families in the picnic area or peer through binoculars at the ducks that paddle serenely atop the water.

In winter, bring cross-country skis for a beautiful and exciting trip along 9 miles (11 kilometers) of the park’s frozen shoreline. In December drive or walk through Lights on the Lake, a multi-mile holiday light display. Whether it’s hot or cold, come to the lake for fresh air and opportunities to appreciate the beautiful nature that is so emblematic of Central New York.

Onondaga Lake Park is located on the eastern shore of Onondaga Lake, a 15-minute drive from downtown Syracuse or Syracuse International Airport. The park is open from dawn to dusk. Street parking is available nearby. A tram shuttles visitors between the Willow Bay Café, at the northern end of the park, and the Salt Museum, at the southern end, for a nominal suggested donation. Stop at the visitor center, which is open Monday to Friday during business hours.

Plan a trip to see Onondaga Lake Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Randolph House Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Vernon Downs Casino and Hotel

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Onondaga Lake Park

Randolph House Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

Randolph House Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

3 out of 5
441 Electronics Pkwy, Liverpool, NY
Randolph House Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Days Inn by Wyndham Liverpool/Syracuse

Days Inn by Wyndham Liverpool/Syracuse

2 out of 5
430 Electronics Pkwy, Liverpool, NY
Days Inn by Wyndham Liverpool/Syracuse
Best Western Liverpool-Syracuse Inn & Suites

Best Western Liverpool-Syracuse Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
136 Transistor Pkwy, Liverpool, NY
Best Western Liverpool-Syracuse Inn & Suites
Super 8 by Wyndham Liverpool/Clay/Syracuse Area

Super 8 by Wyndham Liverpool/Clay/Syracuse Area

2 out of 5
7360 Oswego Rd, Liverpool, NY
Super 8 by Wyndham Liverpool/Clay/Syracuse Area
Super 8 by Wyndham Liverpool/Syracuse North Airport

Super 8 by Wyndham Liverpool/Syracuse North Airport

2 out of 5
421 7th North Street, NYS Thruway(I-90) Ex 36 & 37, Liverpool, NY
Super 8 by Wyndham Liverpool/Syracuse North Airport
Best Western The Inn At The Fairgrounds

Best Western The Inn At The Fairgrounds

2.5 out of 5
670 State Fair Blvd, Syracuse, NY
Best Western The Inn At The Fairgrounds
Staybridge Suites Liverpool Syra by IHG

Staybridge Suites Liverpool Syra by IHG

3 out of 5
439 Electronics Pkwy, Liverpool, NY
Staybridge Suites Liverpool Syra by IHG
Holiday Inn & Suites Syracuse Airport - Liverpool by IHG

Holiday Inn & Suites Syracuse Airport - Liverpool by IHG

3.5 out of 5
400 7th North St., Liverpool, NY
Holiday Inn & Suites Syracuse Airport - Liverpool by IHG
Hampton Inn & Suites Syracuse North Airport Area

Hampton Inn & Suites Syracuse North Airport Area

2.5 out of 5
1305 Buckley Rd, North Syracuse, NY
Hampton Inn & Suites Syracuse North Airport Area
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Onondaga Lake Park

Onondaga Lake Park offers a variety of enjoyable activities for visitors, including lovely picnic areas, vibrant festivals, and live music events. Outdoor recreation options abound, with well-maintained play areas and expansive park spaces perfect for leisurely strolls or active pursuits. Whether you're interested in hockey or simply soaking in the natural beauty, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this picturesque destination in Liverpool, New York.

Shopping

For shopping near Onondaga Lake Park, visit Destiny USA, only 8.0km away, offering a mix of family entertainment and diverse shops. Also, the Central New York Regional Market, 8.0km away, has local vendors. If you're up for a drive, check out Towne Center Mall, located 20.9km away.

Recreation

Experience live performances at St. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater at Lakeview, just 3.2km from the park, offering vibrant entertainment. Enjoy a round at Timber Banks Golf Club, 6.4km away, for a sporty outdoor vibe. For relaxation, visit Hopkins Road County Park, 4.8km away, perfect for wellness.

Adventure

At Brewerton Speedway, located 16.1km from Onondaga Lake Park, experience the thrill of motor racing amidst an exhilarating atmosphere. For outdoor enthusiasts, SCA Bog Trailhead and Bishop Guppy Farm Trailhead, both 20.9km away, offer scenic trails perfect for hiking and immersing yourself in nature's adventure.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Onondaga Lake Park! Catch a show at the Landmark Theatre, indulge in arcade fun at 5 Wits Adventure, or try your luck at YBR Casino & Sports Book for an exciting evening filled with entertainment and city vibes.

Find the best attractions near Onondaga Lake Park

Onondaga Lake Park in Liverpool, New York, offers a delightful mix of attractions including fairgrounds, modern squares, and memorials, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the park's scenic waterfront, enjoy activities at the Onondaga Lake Park Marina, and discover nearby Oneida Lake, all while appreciating the natural beauty of Onondaga County Parks.

  • New York State Fairgrounds: Located 4.8km from Onondaga Lake Park, this vibrant fairground offers outdoor family-friendly events. Experience a lively atmosphere with food stalls, rides, and seasonal fairs that celebrate local culture and entertainment.
  • Armory Square: Situated 9.7km away, Armory Square is a bustling modern hub filled with restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Enjoy the energetic city vibes as you explore the area, known for its historic architecture and vibrant nightlife.
  • The Oncenter: Located 11.3km from the park, this memorial is a cultural landmark that hosts various events, including concerts and theatre performances. Immerse yourself in the local arts scene and appreciate its significance to the community.

Best time to go to Onondaga Lake Park

Visitor numbers around Onondaga Lake Park is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Onondaga Lake Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January24.1°F (-4.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February25.3°F (-3.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March33.4°F (0.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
November39.7°F (4.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December31.5°F (-0.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Onondaga Lake Park

To save money on your visit to Onondaga Lake Park, take advantage of the park's free entry and explore nearby attractions like Destiny USA and Armory Square, which also have no admission fees. Plan your trip during the cheaper months of March or December to January, and consider staying from Monday to Thursday for the best rates. Utilize Expedia to compare hotel prices and consider booking a package for additional savings on flights and activities. Lastly, always sort options by price to find the best deals available.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Onondaga Lake Park are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and August to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Onondaga Lake Park is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Onondaga Lake Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay near Onondaga Lake Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.