The fall season is such a fun time in Syracuse, NY, and Onondaga County. Keep reading for trip planning inspiration that includes fall events happening in Syracuse, attractions, and the best places to see fall foliage, pick apples and pumpkins, and participate in fall family fun. 

 

Fall Foliage at Green Lakes State Park

There's nothing like the changing leaves reflected on the stunning turquoise waters of Green Lakes State Park. Enjoy leisurely laps around the meromictic lakes throughout fall to experience the change of season for yourself. Make sure to bring your camera to capture its fall splendor.

 

Pick the Perfect Pumpkin

Fall isn't complete without pumpkin picking. Find the perfect pumpkin to carve at one of the many pumpkin patches in Syracuse. Check out Plumpton Farms for fresh corn stalks, bails of decorative hay, and pumpkin picking. Spend an evening at Tim's Pumpkin Patch, where you can pick your perfect pumpkin and celebrate with a drink in their brew barn or a sweet from their bakery. Another staple, The Pumpkin Hollow offers hayrides, animal feeding, apple-inspired treats, and…of course pumpkins! Why limit yourself to one patch? 

 

Visit Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards

Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards was established in… you guessed it 1911, and for over 100 hundred years they’ve been producing quality and a variety of apples, an upstate New York staple fruit. The Beak & Skiff Apple Campus is a popular fall destination. Start your trip off by exploring and picking apples in their apple fields, next head to the quaint country store and shop for crafts, cheeses, candles and so much more, and then finish off the fall adventure by heading over to the 1911 tasting room and tavern, where hard cider and spirits are served to guests. You'll surely be a repeat visitor between the cider donuts, apple picking, and cider and cocktails!

 

Spooktacular Stroll

Spooktacular Stroll, a family-friendly walk-thru experience! This not-so-scary 1/2-mile walk, on a paved path at Long Branch Park in Liverpool, brings to life a fantasy Halloween world through large wooden structures and LED light displays. Themed areas include Witch's Way, the Ghost Barnyard, the Pumpkin Patch, Skeleton Graveyard, the Dinosaur Dungeon, and more! There will also be food trucks in the park to grab a treat or dinner before or after. Thursday nights are for the dogs, Fridays and Saturdays are Family Nights, and Sundays are Treats on the Trails for the opportunity to collect treats at each themed location.

 

Explore Haunted History Trail Spots

The New York State Haunted History Trail highlights some of the spookiest spots in Onondaga County. Did you know the Landmark Theatre is said to be haunted? Check out a show this fall season, and you may see Clarissa appear as a pale figure dressed in white. Check out the Erie Canal Museum in the last remaining Weigh Lock Building in America for a chance to see several ghosts.

 

Learn Local History with a Spooky Twist

The Onondaga Historical Association makes it more exciting than ever to learn the history of the region with "ghost walks" in historic locations throughout Onondaga County. Keep a look out for calendar dates to register for and take this popular guided tour that includes engaging with actors dressed up as important individuals from Syracuse's past.

 

Sample Autumn-Inspired Ales & More

Craft beverages pair perfectly with fall. There are plenty of breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries throughout the region that offers seasonal creations with fall flavors. Did someone say Pumpkin Ale from Middle Ages Brewing or Cranberry Cider from Critz Farms? Yes, please!

 

Dine in the Crisp Autumn Air

A light autumn breeze and sunshine create the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a meal outdoors. Savor the comfortable weather while you can and check out what restaurants offer outdoor dining in downtown Syracuse throughout the fall season.

 

Warm up with Fall Lattes

Get cozy and warm up with a delicious latte from a local coffee shop. There's nothing like a pumpkin spice latte or a maple spice latte on a fall day. Freedom of Espresso, Cafe Kubal, Cracked Bean Roastery, Spill the Tea, Cafe Bee You, Cafe Blue, and other local cafes all put their original spin on these famous fall beverages. 

 

See Scenic Skaneateles

Skaneateles Lake is a great spot to catch picturesque views all year round. Discover unique fall offerings from local businesses and take in the gorgeous lake views as summer turns to autumn.

Discover Fall in Syracuse