8 Best Lakeside Towns in Upstate New York
Far from the hustle and bustle of New York City, Upstate New York is a natural wonderland full of green space, waterfalls, mountains, and massive sparkling lakes. Travelers looking to spend quality time by the water will find a handful of charming lakeside towns in upstate New York that fit the bill. No matter the season, these lakeside towns offer plenty of relaxing and recreational activities both on and off the water. Outside of the natural appeal of these towns, they also offer a wide selection of different cultures, festivals, and fun things to do. So don’t wait; start planning your upstate New York adventure today!
Skaneateles
In Skaneateles, year-round tourism is one of the largest economic contributors. The town offers access to highlights such as Skaneateles Lake, historic buildings, and fun-filled annual festivals that draw out locals and tourists alike. During a visit to the small upstate town, travelers will find plenty of fun things to see and do. Starting with a trip to Cliff Park. Here, visitors can grab a bench or sit in the park's gazebo and gaze out at the northern shore of Skaneateles Lake. The park also has a swimming area, a playground, a boat launch, a picnic area, and the Charlie Major Nature Trail.
Those looking to dive into the town's past can explore spots like the Skaneateles Historical Society and the Skaneateles Antique Center. In the summer months, travelers can plan their visit around the annual Skaneateles Festival, a 4-week music festival celebrating the music and artists of the Finger Lakes Region. In the winter, the Dickens Christmas celebration is a must. At this festival, guests can enjoy everything from free roasted chestnuts to interactive street theatre performances and horse-drawn carriage rides.
Cooperstown
Tucked along the shores of Otsego Lake, travelers will find the small but charming village of Cooperstown. Although natural beauty abounds in Cooperstown, the village is primarily known as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Visitors who enjoy walking through the Baseball Hall of Fame may also want to explore the town's other museums, which include Hyde Hall, Fenimore Farm, and the Fenimore Art Museum.
For nature enthusiasts, however, it simply doesn’t get better than Glimmerglass State Park. Glimmerglass, a common nickname for Otsego, Comes from the 1841 James Fenimore Cooper novel titled The Deerslayer. According to a post on otsegooutdoors.org, Cooper described Otsego Lake in his novel as "a broad sheet of water, so placid and limpid that it resembled a bed of the pure mountain atmosphere…" Regardless of the nickname, Glimmerglass State Park is a great spot for activities such as admiring the lake, hiking, swimming, skating, fishing, ice fishing, canoeing, and camping.
Lake George
Lake George is a popular vacation town, boarded by a lake of the same name. Having attracted visitors from all around the country for many years, Lake George is boasted on the town's tourism website as "the birthplace of the American vacation." While here, travelers will find no shortage of things to see and do. Those traveling with kids will want to head to Canada Street, where they will find family-friendly activities, including the House of Frankenstein Wax Museum and Leonelli's Playland Arcade.
For an afternoon of sun, sand, and swimming, a visit to Shepard Park Beach or Million Dollar Beach is a must. Hiking fans will enjoy the trek up Prospect Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding town from its summit. Those who prefer to be on the water rather than admiring it from afar can book a cruise on the Lake George Steamboat instead.
Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen is a beautiful town located on the tip of Seneca Lake. The main highlight of the town is Watkins Glen State Park, which is home to a whopping 19 waterfalls. Park visitors will also find plenty of hiking and biking trails, campsites, grilling areas, pavilions, and a swimming pool located throughout the park. Adult visitors who enjoy a tasty glass of vino will be pleased to find a handful of quality wineries throughout Watkins Glen, including the popular Hillick & Hobbs Finger Lakes Winery. The winery also serves delicious local eats and offers panoramic views of the town below.
Those looking to experience more wineries, breweries, and places to eat can hop on the Lakeside Trolley, which offers easy hop-on-hop-off service around town. Another major draw to Watkins Glen is the racetrack. Watkins Glen International hosts NASCAR races and serves as a hotspot for car lovers.
Long Lake
Calm, still water and the beauty of the famous Adirondack Mountains are just some of the highlights awaiting travelers in Long Lake, New York. Home to a handful of gorgeous lakes, including the one it’s named after, Long Lake is a popular summer travel destination for those who enjoy the great outdoors. Start a Long Lake trip off right by swimming at Long Lake Town Beach. The beach has beautiful surrounding views of the Adirondacks Seward Mountain Range and features kayak and canoe rentals, lifeguards, two swimming docks, and plenty of nearby restaurants.
For more lake views, hiking trails, and serene picnic spots, don’t forget to check out John Dillon Park as well. Outdoor enthusiasts who are up for a challenge will want to lace up their boots for the Owl’s Head Mountain Trail. The hike is described on All Trails as a 6-mile out-and-back trail and features a climbable fire tower along the route.
Lake Placid
Skiing opportunities, amazing hiking trails, and remnants of past Olympic Games help make the fabric of Lake Placid. As a popular all-season vacation spot, Lake Placid offers a wide range of different activities to suit everyone’s interests. Those interested in the town's Olympic Games ties can wander through the Lake Placid Olympic Museum or engage in some thrilling activities at the Olympic Ski Jumping Complex.
In the heat of summer, a swim at Lake Placid Public Beach is just what travelers need to stay cool. The beach offers access to Mirror Lake and is situated close to downtown amenities. Places, including the John Brown Farm State Historic Site and the Olympic Speed Skating Oval, are also worth exploring.
Oswego
Oswego, New York, is a town known for its pristine waterfronts. Bordered by Lake Ontario and the Oswego River, maritime culture is alive and thriving in this charming small town. For the perfect mix of outdoor exploration and history lessons, head to the Fort Ontario State Historic Site. Here, visitors can tour the grounds, watch historic reenactments, and enjoy a peaceful outdoor picnic. Those who prefer a waterfront view with their park picnic will want to visit Breitbeck Park instead.
The park features a bell tower, a splash pad, a snack bar, a mini golf course, decent views of the nearby Oswego Lighthouse, and easy access to the H. Lee White Maritime Museum. Those traveling with young children will want to make a stop at the Children's Museum of Oswego for an afternoon of fun-filled learning.
Saranac Lake
Known for its rich history, cold winters, and abundance of outdoor recreation, it’s safe to say Saranac Lake is a great place to visit. The town provides easy access to Lower Saranac Lake, Lake Flower, and Lake Colby. During a visit here, travelers can hike the Baker Mountain Trail or go skiing at the Dewey Mountain Recreation Center. The Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation is also worth a visit, especially for animal lovers. For an indoor activity, why not take in a performance at the popular Pendragon Theatre? Finally, a trip to Saranac Lake isn’t complete without a ride on the hand-carved Adirondack Carousel.
Upstate New York was made for nature lovers, and these lakeside towns are sure to fill any adventurer's heart with joy. From towering waterfalls in Watkins Glen to challenging mountain summits in Long Lake, there is a little something for everyone upstate. So whether you are looking for lakeside relaxation or want to climb new heights to get a birds-eye-view of the surrounding water, you can do it all in these eight wonderful small towns.
