12 things to do near Destiny USA

Destiny USA is the sixth-largest shopping center in the United States — but the area around it is just as worth exploring. Here's how our front-desk team sends guests out for a perfect day, all within a 10-minute drive of the Syracuse Grand.

Inside Destiny USA

1. WonderWorks

An upside-down indoor amusement park packed with over 100 hands-on exhibits. Great for families, especially on a rainy Central New York afternoon.

2. Apex Entertainment

Bowling, laser tag, arcade games, mini-golf, and a full bar — perfect for groups, work outings, or a teen birthday party.

3. Pole Position Raceway

Indoor electric go-karts that hit 45 mph. Adult and junior leagues run weekly.

4. The Cheesecake Factory & Margaritaville

Sit-down dining inside the mall. Reservations are smart on weekends.

Right outside Destiny USA

5. Onondaga Lake Park

The 7.5-mile West Shore Trail starts just across the highway. Walk, jog, or rent a bike. The views toward downtown Syracuse at sunset are worth the trip alone.

6. Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview

Lakeside outdoor concert venue with summer headliners. Walk over from your hotel room — no stadium parking required.

7. The Carousel at Lakeview Point

A free, beautifully restored carousel right on the lake. A small surprise that visiting parents always remember.

A short drive away

8. Salt Museum & Sainte Marie Among the Iroquois

Two free historical sites that tell the story of how Syracuse became "Salt City" — five minutes north on Onondaga Lake Parkway.

9. Rosamond Gifford Zoo

One of the best small zoos in the Northeast, in Burnet Park overlooking the city. About 12 minutes south.

10. Downtown Syracuse · Armory Square

Restaurants, galleries, breweries, and the Landmark Theatre. Easy 10-minute drive or a quick rideshare.

11. Inner Harbor

Waterfront restaurants and the Aloft hotel rooftop. Great for a relaxed dinner after a day of shopping.

12. The MOST (Museum of Science & Technology)

Hands-on science museum and IMAX theater downtown. A guaranteed hit with kids 4–12.

Stay close to all of it

The Syracuse Grand is only 4 miles from Destiny USA — about an 8-minute drive — and we offer free parking, hot breakfast, and a heated indoor pool, so guests can keep going as long as the day lasts. Book your stay or call (315) 701-4400 with questions.