The SUNY Upstate Medical University is in the city of Syracuse , in central New York State . Syracuse has a metropolitan area population of approximately 750,000. Along with its neighbors Syracuse University and the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry , form a dynamic hub known as University Hill. Our proximity to Syracuse University, which is right across the street, gives our students and staff the opportunity to participate in the intellectual, cultural, social and athletic aspects of life at a large university. The c ity's New York State Fairgrounds, s ite of the annual New York State Fair, also has a year-round schedule of ice shows, hobby shows and similar activities.
Public transportation is available to shopping areas, theaters, restaurants and recreational areas.
The Lake Ontario , Finger Lakes , Thousand Islands and Adirondack Mountain vacation areas are within an hour's drive of the city and offer unique swimming, boating, fishing and hunting opportunities. Many smaller lakes are within a few minutes of Syracuse, and numerous golf courses are located in the city and surrounding towns. Central New York is a haven for enthusiasts of winter as well as summer sports. Downhill and cross-country ski areas are within easy driving distance. Skating, tobogganing, dogsledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, ice boating and other cold weather activities are also popular.