New York is home to thousands of bodies of water, all with as many backdrops as you can imagine. Whether you enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, or kayaking we promise you’ll find something for everyone in your family! The next question becomes how can you find the one that’s right for you? We’ve put together a list of 4 picturesque lakes to relax at this summer. Not only that but we’ll tell you what makes each so unique.
Seneca Lake
To start we’ll take you out to the center of the state. Seneca Lake, the largest of the Finger Lakes is a little under 40 miles long and brings you right to the heart of wine country in New York. The lake originally was home to the Seneca Nation and now brings visitors from all over in due to its natural beauty and attractions such as the Watkins Glen race track. Start your stay by relaxing at one of the many bed and breakfasts. Once you’re all rested up you can venture out on a wine tour at any of the hundreds of Finger Lakes wineries. Take a break from the drinking and be sure to check out Watkins Glen State Park. At the center of the park is the Gorge Trail which winds through multiple waterfalls.
If it’s your cup of tea check out the race track which hosts multiple NASCAR and Indy events. It even was home of the United States Grand Prix for decades beforehand!
Lake George
We’ve talked about Lake George quite a bit, and for good reason! This lake repeatedly finds itself on the the lists of top lakes in the country. Why? It’s natural beauty, crystal clear water, wealth of outdoor activities, and proximity to numerous attractions such as Six Flags Great Escape. This 31 mile long glacial lake becomes one of the more picturesque lakes the farther north you go. We suggest taking a cruise up the lake on one of the five cruise boats. After you’re back sit down for dinner on the water and enjoy the weekly fireworks from July 4th to Labor Day! The lake also boasts many small communities such as the Village of Lake George, Bolton Landing, Hague, Huletts Landing, Silver Bay, and more. We suggest checking each of these out to see which is right for you!
Chautauqua Lake
Holding down the Southern Tier, Chautauqua Lake is a peaceful getaway in the Lake Erie Grape Region. Chautauqua Lake also offers an abundance of recreational activities, farm to table experiences, and performing arts. Most of these picturesque lakes are great spot for boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking/canoeing, and Chautauqua Lake is no exception. Most people however visit for the Chautauqua Institution, which has a wide variety of stores and restaurants. However the biggest draw to the Institution may be its plentiful live entertainment in the summer months. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, then Chautauqua Lake is your place to relax and get away from you hectic life.
Lake Placid
The home of the 1980 Olympics is the last of our picturesque lakes to visit. Not to be confused with Mirror Lake, which is actually the lake you’ll see when in downtown Lake Placid, this lake is the claim to fame for the heart of the Adirondacks. Tucked in the mountains, Lake Placid is a site to behold from any of the numerous mountaintops in the area. While here you’ll find that while small this lake (and small town) are the perfect example of an Adirondack getaway.
The lake also is a great place to enjoy the usual activities even in the winter! Try out the sled dog rides, or enjoy some hot cocoa on the ice! Lake Placid is one lake that is definitely a year round destination, regardless of the weather!
