City Guide: Binghamton

History, culture, and technological innovation converge in one vibrant city

Built by historic innovators and fueled by a new class of creative visionaries, Greater Binghamton's communities are filled with rich history and unique experiences. Binghamton is not just a collection of artifacts or a reflection of “the way things were"; it is a bustling city with a diverse food scene, fabulous festivals, and technological innovation that is showcased today in many of its attractions and charming carousels that make you feel all of the nostalgia.

Binghamton ("Bing" to locals) is home to several major festivals throughout the year, including: Spiedie Fest and Balloon Rally, LUMA Projection Arts Festival, July Fest and Jazz Festival, and Blues on the Bridge.

Fun Facts | Views From Binghamton | Explore Binghamton | Hotels & Stays | Where to Eat | Getting There | Getting Around

FUN FACTS

Animal Adventure Park

Known as the "Carousel Capital of the World", Binghamton is home to six antique carousels in its parks. These historic carousels have been lovingly restored and are free and open to the public.
At Animal Adventure Park (once home to internet sensation "April the giraffe"), you can partake in animal encounters with penguins, sloths, giraffes, and capybara.
Binghamton is often referred to as the "Parlor City" due to its well-kept neighborhoods and the city's reputation for Victorian architecture.
The Ross Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in America and known for its conservation efforts, is proud to call Binghamton home.

Views From Binghamton

Explore Binghamton

Nature & Outdoor Adventure

Otsiningo Park

Large green space with nature trails, playing fields, community gardens, and seasonal events. more
Chenango Valley State Park

This 1,137-acre park has bird watching, fishing, camping, golf, swimming, and more. more
Susquehanna River

The longest river on the American east coast, ideal for warmwater sportfishing. more
Cutler Botanic Garden

One of 360 gardens in America designated as a display garden of All-American Selections. more

History

Phelps Mansion Museum

Three-story Victorian home from the 1870s offering visitors a look back at the Gilded Age. more
Roberson Museum and Science Center

Science, history, and culture. Home to the region’s largest model train display. more
Antique Row

Unique city street filled with antique, collectible, and refinishing shops. more
Bundy Museum of History & Art

Learn about the history of the Bundy Manufacturing Company and how it evolved into IBM. more

Family Fun

Animal Adventure Park

Interactive, educational animal park providing unique experiences like animal encounters. more
Ross Park Zoo

A historical and family attraction, home to more than 100 different animal species. more
Recreation Park Carousel

60 jumping horses, 4-abreast; chariots; and 2-roll frame Wurlitzer Military Band Organ. more
Binghamton Rumble Ponies

American Minor League Baseball team, Double-A affiliate of the New York Mets. more

Arts & Culture

Binghamton University Mainstage

National touring shows and premiere student performances in music and theater. more
Uncorked Creations

4-story building with several different art lofts for guests to enjoy, explore, and create in. more
First Friday Art Walk

Browse art galleries, take in live music performances, and shop. more
Forum Theatre

Historic theatre showcasing performances by various local groups & traveling shows. more

Budget
Mid-Range
Luxury

Red Roof Inn Binghamton North

Affordable pet friendly hotel with free parking & wifi. more

Quality Inn & Suites at Binghamton University

142 clean and comfortable rooms, plus a community room with a fully equipped kitchen. more

Comfort Inn

Complimentary breakfast, conference facilities, outdoor pool, and more. more

Fairfield Inn by Marriott

82 air-conditioned rooms with refrigerators and flat-screen TVs. more

Hampton Inn

Minutes away from Binghamton University offering 63 newly renovated rooms. more

Tru by Hilton

Prime location to attractions, offering free daily breakfast and 24-hour fitness center. more

Traditions at The Glen

Luxurious rooms, championship Golf Course, and state of the art Spa & Salt Sanctuary. more

Homewood Suites by Hilton

Enjoy spacious suites featuring fully equipped kitchens, living, and dining areas. more

DoubleTree by Hilton

Upscale hotel located in the heart of the business district, spectacular views and amenities. more

Where to Eat

Spiedie & Rib Pit

Various toppings, breads, and condiments complement this char-broiled delicacy. more

Chris' Diner

Family-owned and operated serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. more

Nirchi's Pizza

Popular pizza joint with 6 locations offering a signature sheet pizza. more

Little Venice Restaurant

Long-running, family-friendly mainstay serving Italian classics. more

Garage Taco Bar

Airy, industrial eatery offering Mexican grub such as taco & burrito plates. more

Lost Dog Café & Lounge

Vibrant café serving healthy, globally-inspired food & craft cocktails. more

Remlik's Grille & Oyster Bar

Upscale grill & oyster bar offering area-sourced American fare & wine. more

205 Dry

Craft cocktails, bourbon & whiskey galore accompany fantastic food. more

PS Restaurant

Fine dining serving delicious international flavors, custom cocktails, and more. more

getting there

By Train

The closest Amtrak station to Binghamton is 50 minutes away at Utica Station. Take Amtrak to Utica, where taxi and rideshare services are available to bring you to Binghamton.

By Plane

Fly into the Greater Binghamton Airport via Delta, United Express, and US Airways.

By Car

By car, Binghamton is just over 1 hour from Syracuse, 2.5 hours from Albany, under 3 hours from NYC, and 3.5 hours from Buffalo.

By Bus

New York Trailways offers a safe and modern charter bus option that serves all major New York cities and hundreds of small towns, offering a drop-off in Binghamton. You can also travel to Binghamton via Megabus, which has departure stations all throughout the country.

Getting Around