Where To Go Out In Syracuse, NY

While most of my cohort arrived to the hallowed grounds of Syracuse University as recently as this past August (or July if you endured “boot camp”), I’ve had the “joy” of being here an additional year as I began Syracuse University College of Law back in 2016. Before taking things a step further, there are certain things I’d recommend one add to their bucket list. Some of these include visiting Yellowstone National Park, skydiving, traveling cross-country and perhaps falling in love. Law school, however, should be scribbled from that “fun list” immediately, but I digress.

The purpose of this article is to provide some insight as to what to do when you’re not either tearing through a stack of assignments or layering your clothes in preparation of Central New York’s infamous winters. While some local efforts exist to promote the nightlife scene-such as “SyracuseEDM” on Facebook, my hope is to provide some insight on where to go when you just need to take a mental hiatus.

10. Singers

1345 Milton Ave. (Here)

This establishment proudly boasts karaoke night 7 days per week. That’s right! With no door cover and a few bucks for a libation, you too can receive hours of musical goodness. The best part is, the vocals get better with every sip. Grab a group of friends and head out here for a fun and unfortunately memorable night.

9. Wolff’s Biergarten

106 Montgomery St. (Here)

Wolff’s has been around for a while and boasts outdoor seating during the warmer weather. All you can eat peanuts, 1-liter boot shaped glass of a delicious draft and trivia night every Tuesday night? What more can one ask for?

8. Shifty’s Bar & Grill

1401 Burnet Ave. (Here)

This is the definition of a “hole in the wall” bar. Let me be clear, this little gem is all that is Syracuse, including a run-down establishment, inexpensive bites and yet oddly charming. Local bands adorn the super compact stage, but bring earplugs! Hey, you probably didn’t want to hear what the person next to you was saying anyway. Also, don’t forget to get the ridiculously delicious pizza.

7. Funk ‘n Waffles

307 S Clinton St. (Here)

This is an absolute staple in town. This double establishment boasts a restaurant featuring an entire menu of different waffle-based conglomerations, including the “James Brownie” which is pure joy on a plate. Next door is a bar with live music and an occasional modest door cover. It serves as both a nice place to end the night and a great way to blow twenty bucks on a t-shirt.

6. Trexx

323 N Clinton St. (Here)

When push comes to shove, Trexx is the place where DJ lights go to die. This two-roomed venue boasts an 18 to party crowd and sadly has a vast amount of uninitiated potential. In a pinch, this could be a good place to go, provided you take advantage of the half-priced beverage specials if you arrive early enough. They also boast Thursday night drag shows, which even this straight writer strongly endorses for a night out with your closest friends – the kind that understand that what happens at Trexx stays at Trexx.

5. Studio 54

308 West Genesee St (Here)

This little up and coming hot spot is the closest thing that resembles an actual nightclub in town. Decent lighting and sound systems backed by local DJs earns this location the number 5 spot on my list.

4. Al’s Wine & Whiskey

321 S Clinton St. (Here)

Whether it’s a date night, celebration with friends or simply a relaxed environment in the back room, this location is not the young routy crowd seen at other spots in the downtown area. The more courteous and mature crowd here will make you feel like an actual adult as you sip on your Tullamore Dew, neat. An occasional live music act enhances the vibe of this classy NYC-esque locale.

3. Kitty Hoynes

301 W Fayette St. (Here)

Here, kitty, kitty… If sane Irish pubs are your thing, Kitty Hoynes is the place to be. This downtown restaurant/bar is a great happy hour spot and serves “authentic” Irish cuisine, supported by a decent liquor selection. If you’re feeling experimental, try ordering a “Crabby on ice”.

2. Benjamin’s on the Franklin

314 S Franklin St. (Here)

This spot is where all the locals head to for a night out filled with dancing and the precursor to many mistakes worth reliving again and again, every weekend. A modest door fee grants entry into the bar, mediocre dance floor and most notably the very decent outside patio area, complete with fire pits.

1. Lava @ Turning Stone

5218 Patrick Rd, Verona, NY (Here)

Finally!! This is an actual bonafide nightclub located inside the Turning Stone casino. If you’re willing to drive 35 mins across the Thruway, you’ll end up at a legitimate big city-style venue. Their single-roomed, multi-million dollar lighting and sound setup will dazzle you just long enough to make you forget you’re living in the snowiest city in these United States. Still not convinced?

Rob Rivera

A graduate of the United States Army Military Intelligence School in Arizona and the Union Emergency Medical Services Academy in New Jersey, he has continued on in his educational career completing an A.S. in Criminal Justice, an A.A. in Education, and a B.S. in National Security Studies, all with Highest Honors. He is concurrently pursuing a Master in Public Relations at Newhouse School of Communications, an Executive Master in International Relations at the Maxwell School, and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Global Security at the Institute for National Security and Counter-Terrorism in advance of the completion of his terminal degree; a D.Sci. in Civil Security at NJCU.

Rob has dedicated his life to the service of others, including a dozen years in the United States Army and a decade in emergency services. He is an alumni of the Wounded Warrior Project and a registered first responder and non-financial contributor/donor to the National 9/11 Memorial Museum in New York City. Robert is highly experienced in both working under pressure in extreme situations, problem solving and formulating effective solutions. An ability to comprehend complex issues and think outside of the box gives him a unique advantage.

He is experienced in graphic design, owns a professional photography business, and is a former Production Manager for a community tabloid. In addition, Rob is an experienced club DJ, having played for music festivals and traveled throughout the United States. In his spare time, he produces dance tracks at his project studio in Syracuse, NY.

His volunteer affiliations include the Salvation Army's Emergency Disaster Services, Team Rubicon and numerous emergency service entities. As a reflection of his dedication to service, he was presented with the US Presidential Volunteer Service Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2015, on behalf of President Barack Obama, in addition to receiving the US Army Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal twice.