Things to Do in Syracuse in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Syracuse
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect outdoor festival weather - warm 27°C (81°F) days with cool 16°C (61°F) evenings ideal for Syracuse's summer concert series at Onondaga Lake Park
- Peak summer season means all attractions are fully operational with extended hours, including Destiny USA's outdoor activities and full Rosamond Gifford Zoo programming
- Great Lakes effect creates stunning sunset photography opportunities over Onondaga Lake, with clear visibility on 70% of August evenings
- Syracuse University campus is peaceful and accessible for self-guided tours before fall semester crowds return in late August
Considerations
- High tourist season means 30-40% higher hotel rates downtown, especially during New York State Fair weeks (typically mid-to-late August)
- Afternoon thunderstorms occur 8 days per month and can disrupt outdoor plans for 1-2 hours, particularly impacting lake activities
- Popular restaurants in Armory Square require reservations 3-5 days ahead due to summer tourism and local event crowds
Best Activities in August
New York State Fair Experience
The Great New York State Fair runs for 12 days in late August, featuring agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and concerts. August weather is ideal with warm days perfect for walking the 375-acre fairgrounds and cool evenings comfortable for outdoor shows. Avoid midday crowds by arriving at 10am opening.
Onondaga Lake Park Cycling and Waterfront Activities
The 7.5 km (4.7 mile) lakefront trail is perfect in August with morning temperatures around 18°C (64°F) ideal for cycling and evening breezes perfect for sunset walks. Salt Museum and amphitheater host regular summer programming. Lake activities peak in August with warm water temperatures.
Finger Lakes Wine Trail Day Trips
August is harvest preparation time in the Finger Lakes, 50 km (31 miles) southeast of Syracuse. Wineries offer behind-the-scenes tours showing grape development before harvest. Perfect weather for outdoor tastings with temperatures in the mid-20s°C (mid-70s°F) and low humidity.
Historic Downtown Walking Tours and Food Scene
August evenings are perfect for exploring Armory Square and downtown Syracuse on foot. Temperatures drop to comfortable 18-20°C (64-68°F) after 6pm, ideal for walking tours that combine history with food stops. Many restaurants offer sidewalk seating taking advantage of pleasant weather.
Green Lakes State Park Swimming and Hiking
Located 15 km (9 miles) east of Syracuse, the glacial lakes reach their warmest temperatures in August - perfect for swimming. The unique meromictic lakes maintain 22°C (72°F) surface temperatures. Hiking trails through old-growth forest provide shade during afternoon heat.
Syracuse Chiefs Baseball and Outdoor Entertainment
August is peak baseball season at NBT Bank Stadium with comfortable evening game temperatures around 20°C (68°F). Stadium offers great views and affordable family entertainment. Many games feature post-game fireworks taking advantage of clear August skies.
August Events & Festivals
The Great New York State Fair
The largest state fair in the US runs for 12 days typically from mid-to-late August. Features agricultural competitions, Midway rides, headline concerts, and the famous food vendors. Essential Syracuse August experience with over 1 million annual visitors.
Onondaga Lake Park Concert Series
Free outdoor concerts every Wednesday evening in August at the lakefront amphitheater. Features regional bands and tribute acts with food vendors. Sunset concerts start at 7pm taking advantage of perfect August evening weather.
Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival
Juried fine arts festival in Columbus Circle downtown featuring over 165 artists. Typically held the last weekend of August with outdoor booths, live music, and food trucks. One of the region's premier art events.