Best Things to Do in Summer in Upstate New York

We never run out of things to do in upstate New York and if we want to, we can also quickly head into the city. In New York, we get to enjoy all the seasons, including a fantastic summer! If you’ve never been, or you just don’t get out much, there are tons of things to do in summer in Upstate New York.

There are many things to do during the summer in Upstate New York. From activities and destinations for the whole family, these make Upstate New York a great travel destination.

Most of the activities are outdoor activities. You will find that most people in the area leave the indoor attractions for the city. You can enjoy things like hiking, camping, swimming, and even a few amusement parks that also let you enjoy the outdoors.

It is easy to see why the outdoors are given preferential treatment. The seasons help change the landscape in many different ways. Come during summer and then return for each and every season of the year.

Best Things to Do in Summer in Upstate New York

I love camping. Getting outside and sleeping under the stars is one of the best parts of summer. Luckily for me, there are plenty of campgrounds in Upstate NY. One of my personal favorites is Watkins Glen State Park.

There are plenty of other camping grounds in the state. However, Watkins Glen is close to wine tasting… So, I’m pretty sure you know why this is my favorite!

Best Things to Do in Summer in Upstate New York a Roller Coaster Filled with Riders

Amusement Parks

I’m not usually one for amusement parks. But when you have kids’ amusement parks just come with the territory. There are seven different theme parks and amusement parks in Upstate NY.

Most of them are water parks like Enchanted Forest Water Safari or Roseland Waterpark. There are also places for thrills as well. If you like big roller coasters, check out Great Escape or Seabreeze Amusement Park!

Best Things to Do in Summer in Upstate New York View of a Body of Water with Trees in the Background

Summer in Upstate New York Swimming Holes

I love the nature scenes here in Upstate NY. One of the best things to experience during the summer is the fantastic swimming holes. One of my favorites is near Ithaca, and it is called Buttermilk Falls.

Plenty of waterfalls to serve as a backdrop to your day of swimming and fun! Pack a picnic lunch and make an entire day of it!

Best Things to Do in Summer in Upstate New York a Girl Sitting on a Log Reading a Book in a Park

Upstate State NY Parks

When people think of New York, they think of New York City. In fact, when I tell people that I live in New York, I have learned to follow up with exactly where and how far away it is from the city.

It’s nice to get away from the “concrete jungle” and head to a state park! There are plenty to be found upstate. Two parks in Upstate New York have been ranked as two of the best state parks in the country!

Those two parks are Letchworth and Watkins Glen. You’ll see why they’re the best when you get here!

Best Things to Do in Summer in Upstate New York a Man Wearing a Hiking Back Pack While on a Trail Covered in Red Flowers

Go Hiking and Catch a View

Mount Marcy is one of the most popular in the Adirondack range. There are trails all over the mountains in Upstate NY that range in difficulty. You can easily find a trail for the whole family at Bald Mountain.

No matter where you go, you are sure to find a view that is stunning. I even feel confident saying that no matter what you like to do, you can find something you will love in upstate New York.

I have decided to share a few of my favorite things to do in upstate New York to share with you.

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