REI Store Locator

Exploring REI Stores Near Syracuse and the Onondaga Region: Gear Up for Central New York’s Outdoor Adventures

Syracuse, nestled in the heart of Onondaga County, New York, serves as a vibrant hub for outdoor enthusiasts. With its proximity to the Finger Lakes, Adirondack Mountains, and numerous state parks, the region offers a wealth of activities like hiking, biking, skiing, and kayaking. For those looking to equip themselves for these adventures, REI Co-op (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) stands out as a premier destination. As a consumer cooperative founded in 1938, REI focuses on high-quality outdoor gear, expert advice, and community-driven experiences, with over 23 million members nationwide. While there isn’t an REI store directly in Syracuse, several locations within about 100 miles provide easy access for residents of the Onondaga area. This article dives into these nearby stores, their offerings, and how they connect to the local outdoor scene.

REI Ithaca: The Closest Gateway to Finger Lakes Exploration
• REI Ithaca store
• 742 S Meadow St, Suite 200, Ithaca, NY 14850
• (607) 288-7111 
Just a short 55-mile drive south from Syracuse via I-81, the REI Ithaca store is the most accessible option for Onondaga County adventurers. Located in the South Meadow Marketplace, this store opened in the summer of 2024 and quickly became a go-to spot for gear in the Finger Lakes region. 

Store hours are convenient for weekend warriors: Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Curbside pickup is available during slightly adjusted hours, making it easy to grab items like hiking boots or kayaking accessories without stepping inside. 

What sets the Ithaca store apart is its full-service bike and ski shops. The bike shop stocks a wide range of brands and offers professional repairs, with REI members enjoying a 20% discount on services and free tube installations for flat tire fixes (using Co-op Cycles tubes).  In winter, the ski shop provides tuning, waxing, and repairs for skis and snowboards, also with a 20% member discount and free belt waxes.  This aligns perfectly with nearby activities, such as hiking the scenic trails at Buttermilk Falls State Park or skiing at Greek Peak Mountain Resort, about 30 miles from Ithaca.  Staffed by knowledgeable locals, the store emphasizes year-round biking on streets and trails, making it ideal for exploring the Onondaga Creekwalk or the Erie Canalway Trail back near Syracuse.  

REI Rochester: A Hub for Western New York Outdoor Gear
• REI Rochester store
• 450 E Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 14620
• (585) 242-0787
Heading west about 87 miles along I-90, the REI Rochester store caters to those in the Syracuse area seeking a broader selection, especially for water-based and winter sports.

Operating hours include Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with curbside pickup available until 5 p.m. most days.  Like its Ithaca counterpart, it features comprehensive bike and ski shops with the same member perks on services.  A standout feature here is the rental program, where you can borrow gear like skis, snowboards, snowshoes, tents, and climbing equipment—perfect for trying before buying, with members getting 33% off rentals.  The store also hosts classes to maximize outdoor enjoyment and runs a Re/Supply program for trading in used gear for credit or shopping lightly used items. 

Rochester’s location ties into regional adventures, such as paddling on Lake Ontario or hiking in Letchworth State Park, often called the “Grand Canyon of the East.” For Syracuse locals, it’s a great stop en route to these spots, complementing Onondaga County’s own offerings like cross-country skiing at Onondaga Lake Park or archery and bocce there.   The friendly expert staff can guide you on gear for everything from local trail runs to multi-day camping trips.

REI Albany: Extending Your Reach for Eastern Adventures
• REI Albany store
• 1 Crossgates Road, Suite R203, Albany, NY 12203
• (518) 918-3111
For those willing to venture a bit farther—around 140 miles east via I-90—the REI Albany store offers another excellent resource, though it’s slightly beyond the 100-mile radius.  

Hours are extended for holiday shoppers: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with special holiday adjustments like closing on Christmas Day.  Note that curbside pickup isn’t available here, but the store boasts robust bike and ski shops with professional services and member discounts identical to the others.  It’s a complete setup for Albany-area biking and skiing, supporting year-round trail use.

This store is particularly useful for trips to the Adirondacks or Catskills, where you might need specialized gear for hiking peaks or winter sports. Back in the Onondaga area, it pairs well with local gems like Pratts Falls Park for waterfall views or the Rosamond Gifford Zoo for family-friendly outdoor education.  

Why REI Matters for Syracuse and Onondaga Outdoor Lovers
These REI locations—Ithaca, Rochester, and Albany—effectively serve the Syracuse and Onondaga community by providing top-tier gear, repair services, and expert insights tailored to Central New York’s diverse landscapes. From the gushing waterfalls and public parks in Onondaga County to seasonal pursuits like apple picking at Navarino Orchards or moonlight snowshoe hikes, REI helps make these experiences accessible and enjoyable.    Joining as a member (a one-time $30 fee) unlocks dividends, discounts, and exclusive perks, fostering a sense of community among outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you’re gearing up for a casual walk along the Onondaga Creekwalk or a rigorous hike on one of the 22 trails in the Syracuse area, these stores ensure you’re prepared.   Plan a road trip to your nearest REI and dive into the adventures that make this region special.