The festive season has arrived, accompanied by falling snow, bringing a sense of love and wonder to Syracuse, NY. Whether you're orchestrating a flawless date with your significant other, seeking activities for you and your longtime sweetheart, or serendipitously finding a connection on your dating app, Syracuse, NY offers an abundance of winter date spots. Allow us to guide you to the ideal places to snuggle up, have a blast or even get to know someone special this holiday season.

Check out our picks for the hottest cold weather dates in the region: 

 

1. Ice Skating & Sweets or Samplers

Get in the holiday spirit by ice skating next to the Christmas tree or giant Menorah in Clinton Square. Rent skates or bring your own and test your skills on ice with your significant other. Whether you're showing off your skating skills or holding hands as you glide, it’s a perfect winter moment. 

The Downtown location of the rink allows for many pre- or post-skating sweets & treats. Start your day with award-winning donuts at Glazed & Confused or vegan sweets from Sweet Praxis before hitting the ice. If you're skating into the evening hours, wrap up your evening with a casual pizza and drinks at Maxwells or stroll down Salina Street to hit up Oh My Darling's fine cuisine or speakeasy basement bar. Not sure what you're in the mood for? Scope out the acclaimed Salt City Market where you can warm up with the never-ending comfort of Southern Soul food at Soulutions, tasty desserts or a craft cocktail at the market's Salt City Bar.

 

2. A Day in Skaneateles

Escape the charming lakeside village of Skaneateles for a mix of romance and holiday magic. This Finger Lakes gem offers a cozy retreat during the winter months. Visit Anyela’s Vineyards, enjoy great Finger Lakes blends and cozy up while sharing a cheese plate. Take advantage of exploring the picturesque streets overlooking Skaneateles Lake. You can even catch a cast of over 50 characters from “A Christmas Carol” performing interactive street theater. This event, known as Dickens Christmas, starts the day after Thanksgiving and runs every Saturday and Sunday through Christmas, from noon to 4 p.m. with a limited show on Christmas Eve from noon to 2:30 p.m. 

Don't miss the chance to snap a photo at the iconic lakeside gazebo, framed by the stunning winter scenery of Skaneateles Lake. Enjoy your day with a hearty meal at Rosalie's Cucina or grab coffee and baked goods from Skaneateles Bakery before heading home.

 

3. Snow Leopards & Irish Pubs

The Tipperary Hill neighborhood is the perfect spot for a unique date experience. Snow doesn’t stop Syracusans, and it doesn’t stop our zoo animals either. Start your date at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, where winter brings extra charm to the exhibits. Watch snow leopards frolic in the fresh snow or just enjoy the crisp winter air, and stroll through the indoor aviary to warm up while admiring colorful tropical birds.

After your zoo date, check out one of the many Irish Pubs in the Tipp Hill neighborhood. Enjoy pub food at the famous Coleman's Authentic Irish Pub, or head over to Blarney Stone for a signature burger and get competitive with some pool or darts - bring cash here. End your night at Emerald Cocktail Kitchen for handcrafted cocktails, local flavors, and an unforgettable experience at their rooftop bar and speakeasy.

 

4. Frosty Romances Outside

Adventurous couples, this one's for you! Syracuse offers plenty of places to go skiing, snowboarding or tubing. Test your skiing and snowboarding skills on the slopes at Song Mountain or Labrador Mountain. After a day of enjoying the crisp air outside, unwind with dinner, drink and live music at the restaurants on either resort.

Head to Four Seasons Golf & Ski Center and race to the bottom of their tubing hill. Looking for a cozy meal afterward? Green Lakes Lanes next to Four Seasons serves up the top-rated Chicken Riggies in the area, and just down the road is the Craftsman Inn & Suites where you can stay for the weekend or dine at their cozy restaurant located in Fayetteville, NY. Pick a mountain and activity, get your adrenaline racing and share a fun day together.

 

5. A Date at the Dome

For sports-loving couples, nothing beats the energy of a live game! Watch the puck drop at a Syracuse Crunch game and maybe even get featured on the kiss cam, or cheer on themany sports in season at Syracuse University. If you have the same taste in stadium snacks and sports teams, then you’re pretty much meant to be, right?

If you’re looking to celebrate a win, the fun doesn’t need to stop there. Whether you catch a game at the JMA Wireless Dome at SU or War Memorial Arena, there are plenty of nearby options for post-game dinner or drinks, including the notorious Ale 'n' Angus Pub, voted "Best Burger" in New York State by the New York Beef Council 2012, 2013, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023!

 

6. That date Slays

For a romantic and magical holiday experience, nothing compares to a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow at Highland Forest. You can take a 20-minute sleigh ride (or hayride, depending on the weather) every Saturday & Sunday starting December 21, 2024. Make it a double date, go with a group or book a private experience. This is a great time to take in the scenery of one of the most beautiful snowy landscapes in the area, whether you prefer sleigh, snowshoes, skis or sleds — you can do it all together here!

Make an entire weekend out of the holiday spirit by heading over to Critz Farms in nearby Cazenovia or OnCo Fermintations in Tully, New York. At Crtiz Farms you can choose and cut your own Christmas tree, sip on craft beverages or cider in their tasting room, and shop for unique gifts in their Balsam Barn Gift Shop — consider it a souvenir from a successful holiday date experience.

 

7. Embrace the Arts Scene

If you’re looking to bring out your creative side, Syracuse's vibrant art scene offers plenty of opportunities to connect with your special someone. Whether you're exploring museums, enjoying live performances, or getting hands-on with art, there's something for everyone. Admire ceramic pieces at the Everson Museum of Art or even take a class together. The Everson also hosts the stunning Festival of Trees & Light where you can view beautifully decorated Christmas trees, performances, activities and events.

Go out for a night of symphony music by catching a performance by The Syracuse Orchestra or watch a show at Syracuse Stage. There are also plenty of opportunities to see a show brought to you by the world-class performing artists of the Redhouse Arts Center and the Landmark Theatre. The theater is a perfect place to escape the elements and enjoy a night out on the town. End your night with dinner and cocktails at the innovative Lemon Grass or the captivating Noble Cellar.

The Season of Syracuse