Premier Summer Destinations in Upstate New York

Buffalo

Many excellent communities in Upstate New York serve as ideal summer vacation spots. Let’s look at some premier summer destinations in Upstate New York that you should consider for your next summer retreat.

Saugerties

Nestled between the foothills of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River, Saugerties offers both top-notch forest hiking trails and waterfront fun. During the summer, visitors can enjoy kayaking along the river or camping at the Blue Mountain Campground, all while surrounded by magnificent Catskills scenery.

Saugerties Lighthouse | Reid Buchanan

Skaneateles

Skaneateles is an idyllic summer getaway destination for beating the heat by the water. Located on the shores of Skaneateles Lake, one of the Finger Lakes, this charming town is a hub for boating, fishing, and relaxing by the beach. Its delightful lake is accompanied by its quaint downtown, adorned with enticing restaurants, delightful local shops, and intriguing art galleries.

Skaneateles Lake

Buffalo

Buffalo, Upstate New York’s biggest city, is a vibrant community on the shores of Lake Erie. There are endless ways to experience Buffalo in the summer, from kayaking the surrounding waterways to immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of one of its many outdoor concerts. Visitors can also explore the city on a boat tour or cruise or try the city’s famous Buffalo wings. 

Lake Erie, Buffalo

Lake Placid

Lake Placid, a picturesque town in the Adirondack Mountains, is known as the site of the 1980 Olympics. Centered around its namesake lake, during the summer, visitors can fish and boat in its mirror-like water or hike to vantage points that showcase stunning mountainous panoramas. Once you’ve had your fill of outdoor fun, treat yourself to a delightful shopping and dining experience on Main Street.

Lake Placid | Susan Jones

Canandaigua

Canandaigua is a pleasant city along Canandaigua Lake, one of the Finger Lakes. The town is a hub for outdoor experiences on the water, but there is plenty more it offers. Celebrated for its thriving wine industry, Canandaigua is home to one of the world’s largest wine producers and distributors. The town houses an array of charming local restaurants and welcoming shops, inviting visitors to leisurely browse through a selection of antiques and artisanal goods.

Canandaigua Lake | J Dean

Lake George

Lake George, a busy mountain town in the Adirondacks, is surrounded by lush forests and borders its namesake lake, one of the country’s clearest and cleanest large lakes. Popular for its activities on and off the water, Lake George offers mountain hiking and biking trails, top-notch overnight accommodations, and tour cruises. 

Lake George | majicphotos/Shutterstock.com

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is a popular year-round destination, thanks to its world-class spas and healing springs. Its many resorts are busiest in the summer when horses are racing on the Saratoga Race Course. This bustling city also hosts casinos that add to the excitement.

Saratoga Race Course | Keith Luke