NEWSLETTER
Ordinarily quiet streets suddenly buzz with energy, patios of local cafes fill with visitors, world-renowned amphitheaters welcome premiere performances, and once frozen lakes now sparkle beneath fireworks and summer sunsets. Across New York, small towns come alive in big ways during the warmer months. Places like Watkins Glen roar to life as racing fans take to the town for the Watkins Glen International, while Saratoga Springs transforms into a summer playground filled with horse racing, headline performers, and rooftop cocktails. Lake George invites boaters, families, and global travelers to soak in lake life in the majestic Adirondacks. This summer, venture beyond the big cities and discover the unforgettable energy, traditions, and experiences that make New York’s small towns summer destinations.
Saratoga Springs (Capital-Saratoga)
Saratoga Springs sparkles in the summer with lakeside lounging, legendary horse racing, and a nonstop lineup of unforgettable events. Horse racing has been integral to the city’s identity since the 1800s, and the iconic Saratoga Race Course remains the centerpiece of the season featuring the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival (June 3-7), July 4th Festival, and Travers Day (August 29). Visitors travel from around the world to experience the excitement and tradition of the track, where the people-watching, fashion, and electric environment are as exhilarating as the races themselves.
Beyond the track, the world-renowned Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) amphitheater becomes the soundtrack of summer, hosting everything from the Jazz Festival, Philadelphia Orchestra, and New York City Ballet to musicians like James Taylor, Lindsey Stirling, and Lil Wayne, and comedians like John Mulaney. For a more relaxed evening, the family-friendly, free Congress Park concert series invites you to spread out blankets on the lawn and enjoy local performances. The season’s packed calendar also includes the July 4th parade and festivities, Cars on Union (June 20), Pride Festival (June 28), and the Saratoga County Fair (July 21-26).
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Downtown Broadway keeps the energy going all summer long with rooftop cocktail bars, lively clubs, boutique shopping, and award-winning restaurants, while the weekly farmers market offers a slower-paced way to enjoy local food, produce, and artisan goods. And just minutes from downtown, find tranquility on Saratoga Lake, where you can spend the day swimming and sunbathing at Brown’s Beach, cruising on a floating tiki boat tour, or paddling along with the Kayak Shak.
Bethel & Narrowsburg (Catskills)
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Tucked along a quiet road in the Catskills sits the site of one of the most transformative cultural events in American history, the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair. The legacy lives on at the Museum at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, where immersive multimedia exhibits bring the spirit of Woodstock to life. There’s no better season than summer to experience Bethel at its best, when warm evenings, mountain views, and top-tier live music come together under the starry sky.
Get into a groovy getaway when you stay right on-site at the campground at Bethel Woods. Whether you pitch your own tent or opt for a luxury glamping experience, you’re just steps from the Pavilion stage and its sensational summer concert series. Lose yourself in the timeless tunes of James Taylor, Melissa Etheridge, Paul Simon, The Beach Boys, and Brandi Carlile (to name a few) before easing into a scenic summer slumber.
Just a short drive away, Narrowsburg offers a different but equally memorable escape. Though fewer than 500 people call this riverside hamlet home year-round, summer fills the streets with adventurers, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its prime positioning along the Delaware River, a trip to Narrowsburg must include an excursion with Lander’s River Trips, offering half-day and full-day rafting, tubing, kayaking, and canoeing adventures. Hikers can’t miss the Tusten Mountain Trail, a three-mile loop with sweeping views of the Upper Delaware River Valley. On Saturdays, the Narrowsburg Farmers’ Market brings the community to life with local produce, artisan goods, live music, cooking demonstrations, and an unmistakable atmosphere that captures the charm of a Catskills summer.
Lockport & Olcott (Greater Niagara)
The small town of Lockport is a vibrant and historic canal town that thrives in the warmer weather. Rich in history and charm, the season's splendor showcases a lineup of beloved traditions and events including Lockport Monday Night Cruises, celebrating 26 years of classic cars cruising the Lock City with live music, entertainment, food vendors, and a car show. Friday evenings bring the free Music in the Gardens concert series to the historic Kenan Center’s outdoor oasis. Every Saturday, the farmers market fills the air with local honey, wine, fresh produce, plants, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Make sure to swing into town for signature summer events like the 100 American Craftsmen Outdoor Arts & Craft Festival (June 6-7), Chalk Walk (July 18), and Shakespeare in the garden (July 22). No visit to Lockport is complete without experiencing the Erie Canal itself. All aboard Lockport Locks and Erie Canal Cruises for a one-of-a-kind narrated cruise through Locks 34 and 35 on three historic vessels.
Just 20 minutes away, the lakeside hamlet of Olcott truly shines in the summer. This nostalgic waterfront escape offers something for everyone, from the colorful Lakeview Village Shoppes lining the boardwalk to the vintage Olcott Beach Carousel Park to world-class fishing opportunities, all against the backdrop of picturesque Lake Ontario. There are endless ways to enjoy the outdoors at the 325-acre Krull Park, home to the signature annual events including the Pirate Festival (July 10) and the Olcott Beach Car Show (September 5). Every Friday in the summer you can enjoy strolling the boardwalk for weekly music and wine nights and on Sundays and select holidays the Gazebo concert series fills main street with tunes. Food lovers can’t miss the gourmet popcorn and caramel corn from the century-old Bye's Popcorn or the viral lobster roll flights at Olcott Lobster Co.
Alexandria Bay & Clayton (Thousand Islands-Seaway)
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Island vibes are on full display in Alexandria Bay, a summer scene set along the St. Lawrence River in the heart of the Thousand Islands. Aquatic adventure is a staple of the region, and one of the best ways to experience it is aboard Uncle Sam Boat Tours, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year! Cruise to the opulent Boldt Castle on Heart Island or explore nearby Dark Island, home to the magnificent Singer Castle, known for its intricate furnishings and secret passageways. Marvel at the mansions along Millionaire’s Row, once owned by some of the wealthiest families in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Back on land, take a joyride on the Seaway Trail (NYS Route 12) as it winds along the majestic river offering sweeping waterfront views. Venture to Wellesley Island, the largest camping complex in the region, and also home to the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center, a 600-acre wildlife sanctuary showcasing miles of wooded hiking trails.
Just 15 minutes away, Clayton is home to the Antique Boat Museum, featuring the largest collection of antique and classic boats in North America. Tour George Boldt’s houseboat or get out on the water in a skiff, sailboat, or speedboat. In August, the museum’s annual Antique Boat Show (July 31 - August 2) is the talk of the town.
If this wasn’t enough to lure you in, the Thousand Islands is also a world-class fishing destination, attracting anglers from around the world in search of bass, northern pike, muskellunge, brown trout, and salmon. Bassmaster Magazine consistently ranks the St. Lawrence River as the nation’s top bass fishing destination, and guided excursions are available for all abilities through the Fishing Guides Association.
Throughout the summer season, the Thousand Islands hosts a packed calendar of events, from Pirate Days (August 14-16) and the Summer Concert Series, which bring free music every Wednesday to the Scenic View Park Pavilion. You’re going to need a bigger boat for the 1st Annual Summerland Yacht Boat Parade (June 6), sip and savor at the Great New York State Food & Wine Festival (June 12-14), and move to the music at the Thousand Islands Bluegrass Festival (July 11-13).
Lake George & Saranac Lake (Adirondacks)
Lake George is an evergreen retreat, but nothing compares to its sunny season. Colorful storefronts open their doors, lakeside patios fill with music, and the 32-mile “Queen of American Lakes” beckons global travelers to dive in.
Board one of three historic steamboats for a sightseeing or themed cruise all around the lake, including a Sunday champagne brunch cruise, sunset sightseeing cruise, or an Elvis dinner cruise. The sky’s the limit when you experience the lake from a parasailing perspective. Ride the waves on a tubing adventure, rent a pontoon boat, get tropical on a tiki boat tour, or even camp on one of the lake’s 245 islands. For thrills on land, head to Six Flags Great Escape, where roller coasters, family rides, and waterpark fun await.
Motor on to Americade (May 27-30), one of the world’s largest motorcycle touring rallies, bringing tens of thousands of riders to Lake George each summer. Burst with excitement during a fireworks show over the lake every Thursday, soak in the sounds at Fridays at the Lake concert series and rock on at Rock the Dock (July 11). Taste from over 120 of New York's best wineries, breweries, distilleries, artisan food vendors and more at the 10th annual Adirondack Wine & Food Festival (June 27-28).
Venture north to immerse yourself in Saranac Lake, proudly proclaiming itself as the Adirondacks’ coolest town. Enveloped by the elements and a laid-back downtown, summer is the season in Saranac Lake. Paddle through stunning scenery with St. Regis Canoe Outfitters by renting a kayak or canoe, or join one of their guided day or overnight trips for world-class Adirondack paddling.
Take on the Saranac Lake 6er challenge by climbing six nearby peaks, earning you the right to ring the 6er Bell in Berkeley Green. For a slower pace, take a leisurely stroll or bike ride on the Adirondack Rail Trail, a 34-mile rustic route connecting Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake along a historic rail corridor through forests, wetlands, and sweeping mountain views.
Downtown, browse eclectic eateries, galleries, and shops, or catch an arts event. Go around and around the Adirondack Carousel, a unique old-fashioned carousel featuring 24 hand-carved and painted wildlife figures. Gather with locals and visitors at festive events like Third Thursday Art Walks, ArtMarkets, the Plein Air Festival (August 17), Northern Current Music Festival (September 6), and the Music on the Green series.
Watkins Glen & Penn Yan (Finger Lakes)
Rev your engines and speed into summertime in Watkins Glen, an otherwise quiet Finger Lakes village that roars to life in the summer. Best known as the home of Watkins Glen International, the only place to watch NASCAR in New York, and the glistening, gorge-ous Watkins Glen State Park.
Since 1956, the track at Watkins Glen International has hosted road racing events including Formula One, World Sportscar Championship, Trans-Am, Can-Am, the International Motor Sports Association, and the IndyCar Series. Catch a major race like the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen (June 25-28), the Trans Am series (July 16-19), and the Hilliard United States Vintage Grand Prix (September 10-13). Get a taste of the open road when you drive around the racetrack yourself as part of the “Drive The Glen” program, just make sure to buy tickets in advance! You can also drive directly in the tire tracks of America’s pioneering road racers on the original 6.6-mile circuit. This historic route takes you through the village streets, around a gorge, and over the surrounding farmland that put Watkins Glen on the international racing map.
Wondrous waterfalls await at Watkins Glen State Park, named one of the top state parks in the country. Climb between rock formations that are over 300 million years old and hike along the easy stone pathways of the 2.4-mile Gorge Trail as it passes 19 waterfalls, including the famous Rainbow Falls. Can’t get enough? Camp overnight on-site!
When you’re done chasing waterfalls, raise the sails and chase the sunset on Seneca Lake aboard the historic schooner True Love. The lore of this legendary vessel dates back to 1926, marking its 100th anniversary this year. For more waterfront fun, check out the Waterfront Festival and Cardboard Boat Regatta (June 20), a signature summer event featuring whimsical cardboard boats racing across the lake, live music, and family-friendly activities. On Tuesday evenings you can head to Lafayette Park to enjoy the free summer concert series and farmers’ market.
30 minutes away, situated at the northern tip of Keuka Lake, the village of Penn Yan (named after its early Pennsylvania and Yankee settlers) is most known for its lakeside proximity to renowned wineries. At the heart of Finger Lakes Wine Country is the Keuka Lake Wine Trail, boasting wineries that have received critical acclaim, including multiple Governor’s Cups in New York State, NYS Winery of the Year, Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines, and many 90+ point ratings from Wine Spectator & Wine Enthusiast. Standouts include Weis Vineyards, (New York State Winery of the Year in 2022, 2024, and 2025) where you can indulge in an engaging and picturesque tasting led by an expert wine educator, and Heron Hill Winery, dubbed one of the "most spectacular tasting rooms in the world," by Travel & Leisure.
Montauk (Long Island)
Montauk is a quaint coastal town (compared to The Hamptons) treasured for its pristine beaches, stunning sunrises and sunsets, deep sea adventures, and of course, fresh seafood.
Beach days define Montauk summers. Get your feet wet at Ditch Plains Beach, a top surf spot on the east coast, where novices can catch their first wave with a lesson from East End Surf Club. Next to the beach is Shadmoor State Park, offering bluffside trails to get your steps in as you soak in sweeping ocean views. Kirk Park Beach is ideal for swimming while Navy Road Beach is a favorite place to launch kayaks, paddleboards, and small boats. Also nearby is Hither Hills State Park, spanning 1,755 acres of sandy beach, dunes, hiking trails, playgrounds, and almost 200 campsites.
Substitute the shoreline for the deep sea and embark on an unforgettable fishing charter or whale watching excursion with the Viking Fleet. If you prefer land over sea, trot over to Deep Hollow Ranch (America’s oldest working cattle ranch), where you can saddle up as expert guides lead you on horseback along the beach and landscapes of Montauk.
A trip to Montauk isn't complete without visiting the historic Montauk Point Lighthouse, New York's oldest lighthouse and the fourth-oldest working lighthouse in the nation. Scale the tower for panoramic views, and meander the museum to dive into Montauk maritime lore. The landmark is set to host two exciting events this summer! On July 23, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile will perform an exclusive benefit concert under the stars. Then, from August 15–16, the annual Lighthouse Weekend kicks off, featuring family-friendly activities, performances, and a historical reenactment by the Third New York Regiment (established 1775) complete with authentic Revolutionary War uniforms and gear. For more tunes with a view, head to the Surf Lodge, where live music, late-night dancing, and an unbeatable waterfront atmosphere set the stage for the perfect summer night.
Chautauqua (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
Credit: @lifesaporch on Instagram
Chautauqua buzzes with activity in the summer, when the lakeside town fills with music, art, and open-air exploration. outdoor adventure, and long evenings spent watching legendary sunsets over Chautauqua Lake. Days are best spent boating or fishing on Chautauqua Lake and Lake Erie, while evenings are idyllic for relaxing and catching incredible sunsets over Chautauqua Lake. For a glamorous glimpse into the region’s past, book a narrated cruise on the historic Chautauqua Belle. You’ll hear the story of Chautauqua in the late 1800s while cruising the shoreline and admiring mansions in the town’s most affluent neighborhoods.
The season’s calendar is equally as vibrant as its sunsets. In nearby Jamestown at the National Comedy Center, the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival (August 6-9) features headline comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Bert Kreischer, and Seth Meyers along with more than 50 live events over four days, including late-night comedy, block parties, live music, and more. This year’s festival will also commemorate the 75th anniversary of I Love Lucy, memorialized at the immersive Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum.
Photo courtesy of Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau
Just 30 minutes away in Lily Dale, you’ll be transported to a tranquil summer tradition. Established in 1879, the Lily Dale Assembly has been the world’s largest center for spiritual development and the practice of the Spiritualist religion, offering a world-renowned summer program of lectures, workshops, and activities featuring best-selling authors, leaders in academic and scientific research into psychic phenomena, as well as the world’s most powerful mediums, teachers, and healers.
Saugerties (Hudson Valley)
Where the Esopus Creek meets the Hudson River, you’ll stumble upon Saugerties, a blend of small-town splendor, creative energy, and seasonal spectacles. In just one day, you can browse antique shops and eclectic eateries downtown, wander sculpture parks and waterfront trails in the afternoon, then catch a hometown ball game or live music in the evening.
The town’s most legendary landmark is the Saugerties Lighthouse, an 1869 beacon on the Hudson that operates as both a living museum and a beautiful bed-and-breakfast. A short nature trail leads to the lighthouse, where you can picnic, settle into sweeping river views, or even stay overnight. For a different perspective, rent a kayak, canoe, or boat from the marina and explore the river, creeks, and wondrous waterfalls. Back in town, colorful themed street art installations line the main streets. And for an inside scoop on the most must-try treat, Alleyway Ice Cream proudly proclaims itself as the world’s smallest and hardest-to-find ice cream shop, serving the sweetest, most innovative scoops.
Credit: @jwrach007 on Instagram
Summer in Saugerties comes alive with the weekly Farmers Market, 4th of July celebrations, Stallions baseball games, and the annual Sawyer Motors Car Show (July 12). Nature and art combine at Opus 40, an 6.5-acre hand-constructed environmental sculpture park enveloped by 63 acres of meadows, and built from an abandoned bluestone quarry. The venue also hosts concerts, workshops, wellness classes, and community events throughout the season.
Cooperstown (Central New York)
Photo Courtesy of ThisIsCooperstown.com
From history and baseball, concerts and culture, to farms and outdoor recreation, all-American Cooperstown truly has it all and more (especially in the summer!) In the mood for Belgian bites, brews, bonfires, and bands, amidst beautiful backdrops? Brewery Ommegang is the place to be every Fire Pit Friday. Tune in on Tuesday evenings to the lakefront concert series at Lakefront Park. On six select dates, the Cooperstown Summer Music Festival highlights world-class artists, spanning styles from classical to contemporary, jazz to bluegrass, cabaret to kids’ concerts. Start Saturdays off sweet (and savory) by perusing the Farmers’ Market for local products, pastries, produce, plants, and prepared meals.
Bask in the beauty of Glimmerglass State Park, where sandy beaches, picnic areas, and picturesque hiking trails offer peace as well as play. Get out on the crystalline waters of Otsego Lake with a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, or board the elegant Glimmerglass Queen for a narrated scenic cruise. The 593-acre Glimmerglass State Park is also home to the oldest covered bridge in America and the internationally-acclaimed Glimmerglass Opera Festival.
Time travel to the 19th century at Fenimore Farm & Country Village, one of America’s oldest living history museums. The recreated 1845 village comes to life with horse-drawn wagon rides, farm animals, demonstrations by blacksmiths, farmers, and weavers, and seasonal events, including the Junior Livestock Show (July 5–7), Fiber Arts Weekend (August 22–23), and special America 250 Voices of History weekends throughout July and August.
Credit: @gocooperstown on Instagram
And summer is in full swing at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Its legendary collection puts iconic artifacts on display including a uniform worn by Cy Young, a bat used by Willie Mays, Babe Ruth’s 1926 World Series glove, and Derek Jeter’s 3,000th-hit helmet. Before you walk-off, catch a ballgame on the perfectly manicured Doubleday Field diamond, where Babe Ruth himself once batted a record-breaking 500-ft homer.
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