There’s more to do in New York than just visiting New York City. You can escape to the trendy Catskills, explore the Adirondaks, paddle the Finger Lakes, sample wine in the Thousand Islands, or have a foodie getaway to the Hudson Valley. So I’ve rounded up the dreamiest vacation rental homes in Upstate New York.
From lighthouses to A-frames to castles, these properties are the perfect “home bases” for exploring the vineyards, mountains, countrysides, and coastlines of New York.
Here are the best vacation rental homes in Upstate New York for your next trip!
Selkirk Lighthouse
Selkirk Lighthouse
Pulaski
8 guests 3 bedrooms 3 beds 1 bath
The Selkirk Lighthouse was built in 1838, and it’s still operational. This historic lighthouse sits at the convergence of Salmon River harbor and Lake Ontario, so you’ll be close to beaches, outdoor activities, water sports, and cute towns.
Lakefront Farmhouse
King Ferry
15 guests bedrooms beds baths
This 1800s restored farmhouse is on the bank of Cayuga Lake in the Finger’s Lake region. You’ll have incredible views, and you’ll never want to leave the porch swing and patio. If you do venture out, you can fish or swim off the home’s dock or head to the nearby town of Aurora.
Getaway To The Hamptons
Sag Harbor
8 guests bedrooms beds baths
If you want a picture-perfect home in The Hamptons, then this property is for you. There’s the main house, a converted barn/carriage house, a fantastic outdoor patio with a pergola, seating area, al fresco dining, and a large yard. You’ll love the saltwater pool, and you’ll be a short walk to Sag Harbor’s historic shops, bars, and restaurants.
Cottage Castle
Bolton
6 guests 2 bedrooms 2 beds 1 bath
The Highlands Castle is a complex that includes the Castle Cottage (sleeps 6), the Castle Gatehouse (sleeps 7), and the Highlands Castle (sleeps 8). You’ll be on Lake George, and you’ll have stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains.
Ski House
Lanesville
12 guests bedrooms 6 beds 3 baths
This country home is located on 15 secluded wooded acres overlooking a picturesque stream. The home is only about ten minutes from the Catskill Flyer lift, and you’re just a short drive from Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain. The Catskills is one of the Best Destinations To Visit In July!
Historic Home
Hudson
10 guests bedrooms beds baths
Step back in time with a stay at this Insta-perfect historic home in Downtown Hudson. The home is full of antiques and vintage decor. You’ll have an old-world kitchen (with modern appliances), fruit trees in the back yard, beautiful gardens, an outdoor kitchen, and al fresco dining.
River Views
Marlboro
10 guests bedrooms beds baths
If you want seclusion, nature, and a private pool, then this neo-colonial home is for you. There’s a game room, indoor fireplace, piano, two decks overlooking the Hudson River, a ping pong table, and a pool table. Plus, you’ll be centrally located to explore the region’s best wineries, hikes, and towns.
Luxury Estate
Queensbury
16 guests 8 bedrooms 9 beds 8.5 baths
You can bring your whole crew or extended family to this mansion near Lake George and Saratoga. You’ll never have to leave this property with its pond, pool, playground, fire pit, expansive grounds, hot tub, office, game room, and chef’s kitchen.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What area is considered Upstate NY?
Anything north of the New York City metropolitan area is Upstate New York, which is most of the state.What cities are in Upstate New York?
Some of the most popular cities to visit in Upstate New York are Albany, Utica, Binghamton, Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo.
What is the best time of year to go to Upstate New York?
There isn’t a bad time to visit Upstate New York. June, July, and August are the busiest months of the year. You’ll want to reserve tours, guides, cabins, hotels, and campgrounds in advance. The weather will be warm, but evenings and mornings can be cool in the higher elevations.
September – November is the second most popular season because of the foliage change. You’ll still need to book accommodation and tours well in advance on weekends during these months. The foliage change usually starts mid to late September, peaks in October, and the leaves fall throughout November.
December – February has freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. Some attractions, tours, visitor centers, and campgrounds close during the winter. Ski resorts and snow activities are popular everywhere in Upstate New York during these months.
March – May is a beautiful time to visit Upstate New York. The weather will still be chilly and unpredictable in March, but April and May bring warmer temperatures and amazing wildflowers. This is the shoulder season, so accommodation prices will be lower, but weekend tours and lodging can still fill up, so book ahead of time.
What are the best places to visit in Upstate New York?
Top Places To Visit in Upstate New York:
1. Watkins Glen State Park
2. Ausable Chasm (the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks)
3. Whiteface Mountain
4. The Hudson Valley
5. The Catskills
6. The Finger Lakes Region
7. The Thousand Islands
8. Chimney Bluffs State Park
9. Ithaca Falls
10. Lake Placid
Where is a great weekend getaway in Upstate NY?
Here are some of the best hotels and resorts in Upstate New York:
1. Lake Placid Lodge (Adirondacks)
2. Mohonk Mountain House (Catskills)
3. The Inn at Cooperstown (Central New York)
4. The Roxbury (Catskills)
5. Belhurst Castle (Finger Lakes)
6. 10 Fitch (Finger Lakes)
7. Mirbeau Inn & Spa (Finger Lakes)
8. Red Coach Inn (Greater Niagara)
Where should I go for a weekend getaway in New York?
The Best Weekend Getaways in Upstate New York:
1. Watkins Glen State Park
2. The Adirondacks
3. Whiteface Mountain
4. The Hudson Valley
5. The Catskills
6. The Finger Lakes Region
7. The Thousand Islands
8. Chimney Bluffs State Park
9. Ithaca
10. Lake Placid
Are the Catskills considered Upstate?
Yes, the Catskills are part of Upstate New York.
Are the Adirondacks considered Upstate New York?
Yes, the Adirondacks are part of Upstate New York.
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