Geddes gives residents proximity to regional attractions
In Geddes, quiet suburban streets unravel right next to multiple magnets for recreation and entertainment. This Syracuse-area enclave is situated next to the nearly 3,000-acre Onondaga Lake and features the New York State Fairgrounds, home to the annual Great New York State Fair. The community also has a rustic main drag, lined with businesses, and is only about 5 miles from downtown Syracuse . “It’s very close to everything,” says Adrian Nugent, a local broker with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices CNY Realty who has over 30 years of experience. “You’re close to the highways. You’re literally 10 minutes to Syracuse. Tons of shopping.”
Well-established homes in the area still have life
Many of Geddes’ houses date to the early to mid-1900s, a mix of well-kept colonials, Cape Cods and ranch-style options. “They’re smaller, but they use every square inch,” Nugent says. “You might have a 1,200-square-foot Cape Cod, but it feels like 2,400 when you get in there.” Many homes have attached garages, but virtually all of them at least offer off-street parking, typically on lots ranging from one-fifth to one-third of an acre. Houses in Geddes garner $150,000 to $340,000.
Central thoroughfare features shopping and dining
State Fair Boulevard runs through the middle of Geddes and acts as the area’s main commercial stretch. It’s home to local staples like Ranchers Choice NY BBQ & Steakhouse, whose brisket and ribs are popular. Johnny Mac's Pizzeria and Deli is a draw for pizza, wings and subs. Bella Bakery next door is an option for people with a sweet tooth, serving up doughnuts, cannoli, cookies and cakes. There’s also a Dollar General on State Fair Boulevard for household needs, and the locally owned McKie Sports is a one-stop shop for hockey gear. The Camillus Commons shopping plaza, about 7 miles away in the hamlet of Fairmount, features Walmart, Lowe’s and Tops Friendly Markets. The Destiny USA mall, 3 miles away, has over 250 retailers and eateries.
Next-door lake creates a foundation for boating, fishing and hiking
Homes in Geddes are minutes from Onondaga Lake. Locals can walk, run or bike along the water on the almost 8-mile Restoration Trail. “The runners love it, I think, because the area is pretty level,” Nugent says. The 100-foot-long West Shore Trail Fishing Pier is a place to drop a line and go after bass, catfish, bluegill and more. Long Branch Park, by the Lake Outlet, is known in part for its 100-foot sledding hill. Onondaga Lake Park, across the water from Geddes, has four trails, a playground, a dog park, a skate park and a boat launch. Residents looking for recreation even closer to home have Lakeland Park, within Geddes, which includes basketball and tennis courts, ball diamonds, a playground and a pair of pavilions. The community’s John Carno Recreation Building hosts yoga sessions, line dancing classes and Zumba.
State fair offers rides, food and music over almost two weeks
The Great New York State Fair takes over the almost 375-acre New York State Fairgrounds around Labor Day each year. “It dominates,” Nugent says. “People come from all over. It’s really, really popular.” It’s considered the oldest state fair in the country, and attracts around 900,000 visitors over 13 days. The fair features midway rides, numerous concerts and the Taste NY Marketplace, highlighting food and drinks from New York-based businesses. The fairgrounds also hosts assorted other events at other times of the year, from the New York State Blues Festival in June to the Christmas Craft & Holiday Market. Geddes is close to the Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview as well, which hosts regular concerts and is the home venue for the Syracuse Crunch, a minor league hockey team.
Schools offer college credit and tech exposure
The Solvay Union Free School District carries a B-minus grade from Niche. The system’s C-plus-rated Solvay Elementary has a Girls on the Run group that participates in events like a local 5K. Solvay Middle gets a C rating and has hosted activities like a Micron Chip Camp, exposing students to hands-on technology activities. The B-plus-rated Solvay High is home to the Solvay Success Academy, in which students can take classes toward an associate degree from Onondaga Community College.
Travelers are close to highways and air travel
Drivers can take Interstate 690 directly into downtown Syracuse. Interstate 81 is a connection to the Syracuse Hancock International Airport, which is located 8 miles away and offers nonstop flights to over 20 cities. Commuters in Geddes also have access to the Syracuse area’s Centro bus system, with multiple stops along State Fair Boulevard.
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Written By
Wayne Epps Jr.
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