Local Transportation: Syracuse

Public Transportation

The Central New York Regional Transportation Authority (Centro) operates the public bus system in Syracuse and surrounding Onondaga County. Syracuse does not have a metro or tram system; buses serve as the main mode of public transit.

Centro buses connect downtown Syracuse, Armory Square, Syracuse University, Destiny USA, and various residential neighborhoods. The network covers most areas a visitor would want to reach. The main transfer hub is the Centro Transit Hub, located downtown at 599 S. Salina Street. Many routes converge here, making it easy to transfer between different lines. Route maps are available on the Centro website and at major bus stops.

Ticketing & Fares

Single Fare: A single ride costs $2.00. Exact change is recommended for cash payments on the bus.
ConnectCard: This reusable smart card allows you to load value or passes. Tap the card when boarding. Obtain at Centro Transit Hub or authorized retailers.
Day Pass: Unlimited rides for one day, purchase for $4.00. Good value for frequent use.
7-Day Pass: Costs $17.00, suitable for longer stays. 31-Day Pass: Costs $60.00.

Hours of Operation

Centro bus service generally runs from early morning (around 5:00 AM) until late evening (typically around 11:00 PM or midnight).

Frequency

Service operates with reduced frequency on weekends and public holidays. Busier routes have more frequent service (e.g., every 15-30 minutes).

Accessibility

Centro buses are generally accessible, featuring ramps or lifts for wheelchairs and designated seating for mobility needs.

Tips for Efficient Navigation

Digital Tools

Use the Centro Bus Tracker app: It yields real-time bus tracking, showing bus location and arrival times.
Google Maps: This integrates Centro bus schedules and routes for navigation directions using public transport.
Familiarize yourself with routes to popular destinations like Syracuse University, Destiny USA, and Onondaga Lake Park.

Planning Ahead

For less frequent routes or weekend travel, check schedules in advance to avoid long waits.
Consider purchasing a Day Pass if you plan multiple rides in one day for better value.
Always have exact change for bus fares if paying with cash.

Hours of Operation & Frequency

Weekday Start

Around 5:00 AM

Weekday End

Typically 11:00 PM or midnight

Weekend Service

Reduced frequency

Peak Hour Routes

Every 15-30 minutes

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services afford convenient, on-demand transportation options in Syracuse, especially for direct trips or late-night travel.

Taxi Information

Licensed taxi identification: Typically yellow or specific company branding (e.g., Syracuse Yellow Cab).
Hailing procedures: You can hail them on the street in busier areas like downtown or Armory Square.
Typical fares: Fares are metered. A short ride within the city center might cost between $10 and $20.
Payment methods: Most taxis accept both cash and major credit cards for payment. Confirm options with the driver.

Ride-Sharing Information

Recommended apps: Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular in Syracuse.
Services: These apps allow you to request a ride directly from your smartphone, see fare estimates, and track your driver.
Pricing: They generally offer competitive pricing and convenience, a preferred choice for many.
Airport/station arrangements: At SYR and the RTC, you will find designated pick-up zones for ride-share services.

Safety Considerations

Taxis: Use reputable taxi companies. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand.
Verify identification before entering any vehicle.
For Uber/Lyft, always confirm vehicle make, model, license plate, and driver's name match the app.

Share your trip details with a friend or family member for added safety.
Avoid unlicensed vehicles offering rides, especially at night.
Provide feedback through the app after your ride for quality assurance.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

Airport Pickups

At Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), taxis are available directly outside baggage claim for easy access.

Train/Bus Station Pickups

At the William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center (RTC), taxis wait outside for train and bus passengers.

Ride-Share Zones

Ride-sharing apps direct you to specific, clearly marked pick-up zones at both airport and station.

Rental Options

Other rental options also exist for specific activities.

Car Rental Information

Requirements: Valid driver's license (IDP recommended for foreign licenses not in English). Major credit card for rental and deposit.
Minimum Age: Generally 21, with a young driver surcharge often applying for those under 25.
Major Companies: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty, and Dollar have locations at SYR and other city spots.
Booking: Booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, is a good idea for better rates and availability.

Other Vehicle Rentals

Motorcycle/Scooter: Less common in Syracuse. Limited options may exist from specialized local dealers, but it is not a main tourist transport.
Bicycle: Syracuse does not have a widespread city-wide bicycle sharing program. Some local bike shops offer daily or weekly rentals.
Specialty Vehicles: Syracuse does not feature vehicles like tuk-tuks or jeepneys for public transportation.
Standard vehicles: Standard cars, taxis, buses, and ride-shares are the typical options available.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving Laws

Standard U.S. Driving laws apply. Drive on the right. Seatbelts are required for all occupants. Obey posted speed limits. Cell phone use without hands-free is prohibited.

Always follow traffic regulations.

Road Conditions

Roads in Syracuse are generally good. Winter brings significant snow and ice. Main roads are usually plowed quickly after snowfalls, but side streets may take longer.

Exercise caution in winter.

Parking Information

Metered street parking is available downtown and in Armory Square, typically enforced during business hours. Parking garages and lots are also available. Rates vary.

Check signs for specific rules.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling afford enjoyable ways to experience Syracuse, especially in pedestrian-friendly areas and dedicated trails.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Downtown & Armory Square: These areas are very walkable, with wide sidewalks, shops, restaurants, and historical architecture.
Syracuse University Campus: The campus has a pedestrian-friendly environment with walking paths and green spaces.
Onondaga Lake Park: This large county park has miles of paved multi-use trails, ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Walking Tour Options: Self-guided historical walking tours of downtown and Armory Square are available.

Cycling Information

Bicycle Infrastructure: Dedicated bike lanes within the city are limited. Cyclists generally share roads with vehicles.
Safety: Always ride with caution, follow traffic laws, and use appropriate hand signals.
Trails: Onondaga Lake Park and other county parks have excellent paved trails designed for cycling, offering a safer experience.
No-Go Areas: Avoid walking or cycling on major highways (I-81, I-90). Use caution in less populated or industrial areas at night.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

Avoid walking or cycling on major highways (I-81, I-90).
These roads are designed for high-speed vehicle traffic and are unsafe for pedestrians or cyclists.
Use caution in less populated or industrial areas, especially at night.
Lighting may be poor or foot traffic low in certain outlying areas.

Stick to well-lit, populated areas when walking after dark.
Always remain aware of your surroundings, regardless of the area.
Cyclists should wear helmets and use lights for visibility, especially during dusk or dawn.
Secure your bicycle with a strong lock if leaving it unattended.

Specialized Transportation

Syracuse does not feature many unique or specialized transportation methods for daily commuting, but some options exist for tourism or specific needs.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Tour Buses: Not a common mode of daily public transportation. Local tour operators may have specific sightseeing tours.
Hop-on-hop-off: Services, common in larger tourist cities, are not typically found in Syracuse.
Boat Taxis: Recreational boating thrives on Onondaga Lake, but no formal water taxi service exists for urban commuting.
Water Tours: Boat tours, often recreational or historical, operate seasonally on Onondaga Lake, a different perspective.

Unique Local Transport & Accessibility

Cable Cars/Funiculars: Syracuse does not have cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems.
Topography: The city's topography and urban layout do not require such systems.
Accessibility: Centro buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges.
Accessible Vehicles: Taxis and rideshare services may offer accessible vehicle options; specify needs when booking.

Sightseeing Tours

Local tour operators occasionally arrange bus tours for specific historical sites or areas of interest.

Customized Trips

For groups, a pre-arranged private shuttle or van service might be available from local companies.

Pedestrian Access

Many major attractions and public buildings adhere to ADA standards, providing ramps and accessible restrooms.

Accessibility & Planning

Navigating with Mobility Needs

Centro buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges.
Taxis and rideshare services may offer accessible vehicle options; specify your needs when booking.
Many major attractions and public buildings adhere to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.

Seamless Experience

This includes ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms at many locations.
It ensures public transit remains an option for all travelers.
Contact specific venues or services directly for detailed accessibility information prior to your visit.

Smart Transport Choice

Consider local transportation options before renting a car for your entire stay.

Public transit and ride-shares cover many attractions and reduce parking stress.

Local Transportation