Syracuse is a city located in the central region of New York state. With a population of 150,000 residents, it is the fifth largest city in the state of New York. Located 250 miles north of New York City, the quaint character of Syracuse is a stark contrast from Manhattan's skyscrapers and fast paced life. Syracuse is the commercial, cultural, and educational hub of the central New York area, as it attracts visitors with its convention centers, universities, downtown area, and performing arts.

Syracuse has mostly rural surroundings and it is within 20 miles of major bodies of water such as the Oneida Lake, Finger Lakes, and Lake Ontario. Such a landscape creates a breathtaking background for Syracuse's medium sized urban skyline.

Getting to Syracuse should be easy with the great transportation system of roads, air travel, and rail. The Syracuse Hancock International Airport has flights from major cities such as Atlanta, Cleveland, New York City, and Boston. The William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center includes train service from Amtrak and multiple bus services such as Greyhound Lines and Megabus. Major interstate routes leading to Syracuse include I-90, I-81, I-690, and I-481.

Despite being a medium sized city, Syracuse retains a charming small town character. The city is rich in 19th century architecture and modern amenities that create a unique atmosphere where the old world intersects with the new. There is plenty of interesting sightseeing opportunities in Syrcause's downtown areas such as Clinton Square, Hanover Square, Armory Square, and Columbus Circle. These parts in the heart of the city are full of historic buildings, monuments, and fountains, as well as fine dining, shopping, and cultural venues.

Syracuse draws significant crowds to its two major convention centers, the Oncenter and Empire Expo Center. Located on South State Street, The Oncenter consists of three separate buildings including Nicholas J. Pirro Convention Center, War Memorial Center, and John H. Mulroy Civic Center. The Oncenter hosts a variety of events ranging from sports games and trade shows to music concerts and movies. The Empire Expo Center attracts over 1 million annual visitors to major events such as International Auto Showcase, PHA Horse Show, and New York State Fair.

Syracuse offers visitors plenty of cultural enriching experiences with several museums and music performances. Situated in Armory Square, The Museum of Science and Technology is fun and educational with interactive exhibits and an IMAX Theater. Located along Harrison Street, the Everson Museum of Art has a fine collection of modern American paintings and sculptures. Other notable art and historic organizations worth exploring in Syracuse include the Delavan Art Gallery and Erie Canal Museum. Music lovers can appreciate local organizations and Jazz events such as the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra and Syracuse Jazz Festival.