<p>Hi. D just committed to SU a few days ago and I'd like to get our hotel/flight info reserved ASAP. Any suggestions for decent places to stay that don't cost an arm and a leg and in safe, well-lit locations? We'll have a rental car, so driving 10-15 min. isn't an issue. Also, new student orientation is 8/20 and 8/21. Is it worth it to fly in to Syracuse on 8/19 to go to BB&B, etc. (We're from the west coast, so it's an all day or redeye flight). Thanks.</p>
<p>DD will be a freshman this fall. We are from PA. I am not intimately familiar with Syracuse but we have visited several times. I really like the Armory Square area. It has lots of nice shops and is a walkable downtown area which is less than 10 minutes from campus. We also stayed in East Syracuse around Carrier Circle. This is a little farther away, about 15-20 minutes. Hotels are cheaper here with more chain restaurants.
Destiny USA Mall also is worth seeing as it is the 6th largest mall in the US.
There are a number of beautiful areas in the finger lakes to visit if you have extra days and time.
Obviously, someone from the area can offer much more insight. DD is very excited to be Orange! Good luck to you. </p>