Free Vector map of the City of Syracuse, New York, USA.
Free, royalty-free, unlimited use.
The map is intended for editing, media, presentations.
File format SVG, Simplified version
Fully vector, editable.
See also: detailed vector map of the Syracuse
Download vector map in archive:
The Syracuse area, located in central New York State, is the economic and cultural hub of the Central New York region. It is situated on the northern edge of the Appalachian Plateau and is known for its historical significance, diverse geography, and vibrant mix of urban and natural landscapes. Below is a detailed geographic description of the Syracuse area:
General Location
- Region: Syracuse is located in Onondaga County and is the county seat.
- Coordinates: Approximately 43°02′N 76°08′W.
- Proximity: About 150 miles east of Buffalo, 87 miles east of Rochester, and 145 miles west of Albany.
Urban Core
- City of Syracuse:
- Downtown Syracuse: Features historic districts like Armory Square and Hanover Square, characterized by 19th- and early 20th-century architecture.
- Major institutions include Syracuse University on University Hill, known for its iconic Carrier Dome (a large indoor stadium) and cultural events.
- The central business district is a hub for finance, education, and healthcare.
- Suburbs and Surrounding Communities:
- DeWitt: An eastern suburb featuring residential neighborhoods and business parks.
- Liverpool: To the north, near Onondaga Lake, known for its quaint village center and Salt Museum.
- Camillus: West of the city, blending suburban developments with rural landscapes.
Natural Features
- Onondaga Lake:
- Once heavily polluted due to industrial activity, it has undergone significant environmental restoration.
- Surrounding parks, including Onondaga Lake Park, offer trails, recreational areas, and picturesque views.
- The lake drains into the Seneca River, part of the Erie Canal system.
- Hills and Topography:
- The area lies at the edge of the Appalachian Plateau, transitioning into the flat lowlands of the Lake Ontario Plain.
- The city itself is hilly, with notable elevations on University Hill and the southern neighborhoods.
- Rivers and Waterways:
- Onondaga Creek: Flows through the city, eventually emptying into Onondaga Lake.
- The Erie Canal: Historically significant and now largely replaced by the New York State Barge Canal system, parts of which are maintained as recreational waterways.
- Lakes and Reservoirs Nearby:
- Oneida Lake: Northeast of Syracuse, the largest lake entirely within New York State.
- Skaneateles Lake: To the southwest, part of the Finger Lakes, and a pristine source of drinking water.
Transportation Geography
- Highways:
- Interstate 90 (New York State Thruway): Runs east-west just north of the city, connecting Syracuse to Albany and Buffalo.
- Interstate 81: A major north-south route running through downtown, linking Syracuse to Canada and Pennsylvania.
- Interstate 481: A bypass around the city to the east.
- Rail and Air:
- Syracuse Hancock International Airport: North of the city, serving as a regional air hub.
- Amtrak services connect Syracuse to major cities like New York City and Chicago.
- Public Transit:
- Centro: Operates local bus services and regional connections.
- Trails and Greenways:
- Erie Canalway Trail: Offers biking and walking paths along the historic Erie Canal corridor.
Climate
- Type: Humid continental.
- Seasons:
- Winters: Cold and snowy, with Syracuse regularly ranked among the snowiest cities in the U.S., averaging over 120 inches of snowfall annually.
- Summers: Warm and humid, with temperatures typically ranging from 60°F to 85°F.
- Precipitation: Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, and lake-effect snow is common in winter due to proximity to Lake Ontario.
Economic and Demographic Landscape
- Population: Syracuse has about 150,000 residents, with a metro area population of over 650,000.
- Economy: Historically rooted in manufacturing, the area has transitioned to focus on education, healthcare, and technology. Syracuse University and SUNY Upstate Medical University are significant employers.
- Urban-Suburban Mix: The city features a compact urban core surrounded by sprawling suburban communities and rural areas.
Recreational and Natural Attractions
- Parks and Green Spaces:
- Green Lakes State Park: East of the city, known for its glacial lakes and old-growth forests.
- Beaver Lake Nature Center: North of the city, offering hiking and wildlife observation.
- Clark Reservation State Park: A geological wonder with a glacial plunge basin and diverse flora.
- Cultural and Historical Sites:
- Erie Canal Museum: Celebrates the history of the Erie Canal and its impact on the region.
- Rosamond Gifford Zoo: A popular family destination near downtown.
- Festivals and Events:
- Great New York State Fair: Held annually just west of the city, showcasing agriculture, entertainment, and regional culture.