Home to the Adirondacks, the 1000 Islands Region, and miles of rivers, Upstate New York feels like an entirely different world from its urban counterparts. At its heart, keeping the region lively are numerous small towns that serve as gateways to exploring this wonderful region. If Adirondack hikes, 20th-century castles, waterfront restaurants, boat tours, and scenic wineries sound like your idea of a breathtaking trip, you will love visiting these eight towns.
Saranac Lake
Saranac Lake, New York. Image credit: Wangkun Jia via Shutterstock
Saranac Lake lies in the heart of the Adirondacks, surrounded by scenic peaks and winding waterways. Hiking opportunities are abundant in the area, such as Ampersand Mountain, a 5.4-mile round-trip route that leads to an open summit that overlooks the High Peaks Wilderness Area. You will also find plenty of places in the area to access the water, with the Saranac Lake Marina being a prime spot, with access to 27 miles of waterways. After exploring the great outdoors, head back into town to relax at a local restaurant or brewery. RiverTrail Beerworks is the town’s only riverfront brewpub, near the town’s riverwalk and rail trail.
Alexandria Bay
The Gananoque Boat Line near Boldt Castle in Alexandria Bay, New York.
Alexandria Bay is part of New York’s 1000 Islands Region and is home to the Boldt Castle, a legendary castle that dates back to the early 20th century, complete with 120 rooms, tunnels, an Italian garden, and a drawbridge. During the summer months, travelers can explore the castle with a local tour agency like Uncle Sam Boat Tours, which offers sightseeing cruises featuring the area’s castles, Millionaire’s Row, dining cruises, and other specialty excursions. Although Boldt Castle is already closed for the season, the agency continues to offer other cruise types. Travelers looking to experience more of the region’s natural beauty can head to Otter Creek Preserve, a 115-acre piece of land with 1.9 miles of trails that wind through the woods, along creeks, and past a wildlife observation tower.
Ticonderoga
Downtown Ticonderoga, New York. Image credit: Doug Kerr via Flickr.com
Ticonderoga is best known as the site of Fort Ticonderoga, a massive 2,000-acre property featuring a reconstructed 18th-century fort that played a key role in the Revolutionary War. Today, travelers can tour the fort and immerse themselves in its past through numerous exhibits, collections, and special events. The Hancock House is another breathtaking historical site to visit, a Georgian-revival-style building that was previously the home of patriot John Hancock. If you are craving a hike or picnic, make sure to plan some time at Mount Defiance, where you can enjoy a birds-eye view of the town’s military landscape while having lunch at one of the summit’s picnic tables.
Skaneateles
The waterfront in Skaneateles, New York.
Skaneateles is located along the northern tip of Skaneateles Lake, offering attractions like waterfront parks and historic inns. Travelers hoping to dip their toes in the water can spend an afternoon at Clift Park, which lies right in front of the Caribbean-blue colored water and has park amenities like a gazebo, a dock, and a seasonal swimming area. The Sherwood Inn is just steps away from the park, with a history that dates back to 1807 and beautifully furnished rooms. If you will be in town near the end of October, consider attending Skaneateles’ annual Fall Fest Weekend, which will take place between October 24th and October 26th, featuring a scavenger hunt, walking tours, a trick-or-treat parade, a dog costume contest, and more.
Lake Placid
Street view in Lake Placid, New York.
Lake Placid lies among New York’s 46 High Peaks of the Adirondacks, making it an excellent destination to hike and spend time outdoors. Travelers seeking a challenging yet rewarding experience can take on the 15-mile round-trip hike to Gray Peak, New York’s seventh-highest summit. Want to rent a boat and hit the water? Placid Boat Rentals provides convenient boat access to both Mirror Lake and Lake Placid. Travelers can finish their afternoon with a beer at Lake Placid Pub & Brewery, a popular pub in town that has been operating since 1996.
Cape Vincent
Tibbets Lighthouse, Cape Vincent, New York.
Cape Vincent is another beautiful town in the 1000 Islands region, known for its historic lighthouse, local wineries, and abundant water recreation opportunities. Travelers can begin their visit at Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, whose history dates back to 1827 and stands at the meeting point of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. To explore the great waters of Lake Ontario, head out to Martin’s Marina, where you can fish, camp, and boat. The fall is the perfect time to enjoy a nice glass of wine in the area, with the Cape Winery being the perfect setting, located on the historic Deerlick Farm, serving a variety of reds, whites, and rosés.
Old Forge
Downtown Old Forge, New York. Image credit KMarsh via Shutterstock
Old Forge proudly calls itself the “Adirondack Base Camp” for visitors. In the winter, the town comes to life at the McCauley Mountain Ski Area, which features a 633-foot vertical drop, steep bumps and glades, and double-black diamond challenges. The Moose River runs through the area as well, with Woodcraft Camps offering seasonal canoe and kayak paddle trips down the river. In the winter, the outfitter also offers cross-country skiing passes. The art scene is stunning in town as well, with the View Arts Center holding rotating exhibitions, performances, pottery classes, yoga workshops, and other art-centric events.
Lake George
Downtown Lake George, New York. Image credit: Daniel Case, via Wikimedia Commons.
Nicknamed “The Birthplace of the American Vacation,” it is easy to get lost in Lake George’s nature. There are several family-friendly hikes in the area to embark on, including Prospect Mountain Hiking Trail, one of the town’s most scenic hiking trails that leads to a spectacular view from the top. Want to go horseback riding? Saddle Up Stables is a great option, family-owned and operating since 1945, offering trail rides through the Adirondacks. The Lagoon is the perfect place to end the day, a waterfront restaurant that serves brick oven pizza, burgers, seafood, craft beers, and ciders.
The beauty found throughout Upstate New York is abundant, making it difficult to narrow down a list of breathtaking towns to just a few. However, these eight towns are arguably some of the most incredible you will find in the region, due to their diversity of lakes, high peaks, and expansive waterways. Many of them have some beautiful attractions within town as well, including historic inns, art centers, and iconic brewpubs! So choose adventure and get ready for an unforgettable experience.