The 16 best upstate resorts in New York

There aren’t many places left in the Adirondacks that truly evoke the feeling of the famous Great Camps of the past—those lavishly rustic homes that the Northeast’s elites once “vacated” to every summer. Whiteface Lodge is a place where that tradition feels alive and well. From the moment you drive past its entry gate and approach its grand main lodge with its rustic timber design, you’re hit with an overwhelming sense of place. This is a resort that brings the outside in and, as a result, you’ll never forget that you’re on vacation in one of the country’s most scenic regions. Plenty of small touches and attention to detail that made my visit to the Adirondacks feel less like an average weekend getaway and more like a Capital A Adventure.

Mood? Rustic Glam.
Location perks? Just 20 minutes from Whiteface Mountain.
Budget range? Luxury.
Time Out tip: Make your reservation for the indoor bowling alley when you first check-in.

This Lake Placid resort is regularly billed as one of Upstate New York’s best, and one look will probably illustrate why. Located right on Mirror Lake, and with the Adirondack Mountains as the compellingly beautiful backdrop, the setting here is a doozy. But the resort itself goes big on luxury, too. Each room has a private balcony (with views of the lake and mountains), plus there's a full-service spa and sauna, as well as tennis courts, two pools, and world-class dining in the aptly-titled restaurant, The View. Dine on tasty pub fare as the sun sets on another day in lakeside paradise.

Mood? Sweet mountains and sweeter memories. 
Location perks? Sauna, spa, and pools galore. Enjoy.
Budget range? Mid-range to high-end.

Wylder Windham is a scenic, 20-acre compound consisting of seven different buildings—all built at different times over the last 140 years. Thanks to the large scale of the resort, one of its best attributes is the wide range of accommodations available to guests and its amazing, outdoorsy amenities.

Mood? Big nature energy.
Location perks? From rolling hills to majestic trees, there's endless nature to explore. 
Budget range? A great price point.

Located in the heart of Onondaga County, the Mirbeau Inn and Spa resort sits right at the northern tip of Skaneateles Lake. You can explore the lake or nearby Syracuse, but we think you might be tempted to spend most of your stay exploring the exquisite grounds here. They really are something special. The high-tech spa is also well worth checking out (be sure to try the outdoor hot pool, too), and a waterside seat at the impressive restaurant is a must if you can – just remember to book well in advance.

Mood? Nature's paradise. 
Location perks? The landscaping here is top-notch. Time for a stroll?
Budget range? On the pricey side.

This bliss resort and spa was originally built by the 18th-century entrepreneur and visionary Gideon Putnam. You'll find everything you could ever need here. It houses the luxurious Roosevelt Baths and Spa, with natural mineral water captured from the city’s famous underground springs. But that's not all. Don't forget to make use of the other spa services, including massages, facials, scrubs, body wraps, and salon styling. There is also a restaurant on-site, where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at your own leisure. And in the summer months, take advantage of the opportunity for al fresco dining on the restaurant’s patio. 

Mood? Grand on grand. 
Location perks? Nestled in the heart of Saratoga Spa State Park – spa vibes all round. 
Budget range? A good range of options.

Overlooking the stunning Mirror Lake, and wrapped in a bowl of mountains, the Crowne Plaza resort offers rustic luxury from the get-go. From tennis courts and a putting green to an indoor swimming pool and fitness center, there's plenty of activity to do while you're here. Not in the mood to cook? Book a reservation at MacKenzie's, the on-site restaurant, and enjoy some delicious Italian-American fusion cuisine. Keen to explore the great outdoors? Take a stroll along the private beach before setting up camp for the day and unwinding to the soothing sounds of the shore. Ah, bliss. 

Mood? Outdoor explorer. 
Location perks? Despite the stunning mountain range, we rate the indoor pool takes the cake this time. 
Budget range? Very cost-effective. 

Here at this stunning resort, you couldn't get closer to Saranac Lake if you tried! The Saranac Waterfront Lodge sits right on the water's edge of Saranac Lake and offers guests a unique experience lakeside. Typical amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-con, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant, while the luxuries include the indoor pool, the wraparound terrace overlooking the water, and stunning interiors throughout. Rooms are super spacious and modern and the location makes your break feel like an instant retreat – even if you're only here overnight! 

Mood? Waterfront living.
Location perks? Did we mention the water?
Budget range? Very affordable.
Time Out tip: Rent a boat from the hotel's own outlet for a guaranteed day of fun out on the water.  

Just a three-and-a-half-hour drive from New York City, you’ll find the majestic Otesaga Resort Hotel – a luxurious lakeside inn reminiscent of a bygone era of elegance and atmospheric charm. The resort itself offers a plethora of upscale amenities including spa treatments, award-winning golf courses, first-class dining, and a one-of-a-kind fire bar where you can sip on a soothing autumn peartini as you soak in breathtaking views of Lake Otsego. And when you’re ready to explore more, you won’t have to travel far. The iconic National Baseball Hall of Fame, Fenimore Art Museum, and Ommegang Brewery are just a few miles away.

Mood? Stunning opulence. 
Location perks? The gorgeous lake on your doorstep. 
Budget range? More expensive than most. 

Opened in 1877, this four-star in the heart of Saratoga Springs still very much carries that nineteenth-century charm, except with all the mod cons you'd want of an overnighter. Some rooms even come with a spa bath or hot tub. There are two in-house restaurants (a bistro and a steakhouse), as well as a sushi menu and a grand terrace with city views. Plus, for the adventurous of you, there's free use of bicycles for guests, and golfing and fishing to be enjoyed locally.

Mood? Victorian glamor.
Location perks? The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame are less than a mile.
Budget range? Mid-range.

Chautauqua’s Athenaeum Hotel offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience that will reset both your body and mind. Established in 1881, the grand hotel sits prominently on the grounds of the Chautauqua Institution – the historic adult education center and summer resort made famous for its ecumenical teachings on art, music, dance, theater, and writing. During the summer season, hotel guests can enjoy a Chautauqua Institution gate pass, which grants access to a selection of on-site events offered daily. There's opera, themed lectures, and yoga – and yes, there's a whole lot of Shakespeare.

Mood? It's giving White House.
Location perks? The seemingly endless grounds. 
Budget range? Pricey.

This resort and casino include a sprawling complex of modern yet elegant accommodations nestled in the heart of Central New York. Here, you’ll find lodging to fit any preference of style – you can stay in the lodge, hotel, tower, or inn. But trust us, you won’t want to spend too much time ordering room service while watching free HBO – the resort houses a casino, spa, golf dome, and boxing venue alongside multiple restaurants, lounges, and bars. There's so much entertainment here, you'll be absolutely spoiled for choice.

Mood? Hedge your bets.
Location perks? If a great place to rest your head after a long flight is what you're after, this resort is the one. 
Budget range? Very affordable. 
Time Out tip: Catch a live show at the casino for a real night on the town.

This lakefront oasis is pretty gorgeous all year round, but winters here take the cake. After all, there's nothing like a fresh sheet of snow, hitting the slopes, shacking up by the fireplace with a gooey S'more, and wobbling along on the outdoor rink. Set in NYC's Finger Lakes Region, The Lake House is like a modern, wintry escape like no other: rooms are bright and elegantly dressed in cream, with brass finishes and beautifully crafted wood. They offer waterfront views and luxury goodies like plush robes, Nespresso, and filtered water.  

Mood? Cozy lakeside retreat.
Location perks? Yoga and wellness classes, Skiing, brewery tours, and more.
Budget range? On the higher end, but so worth it.
Time Out tip: Soak in the ambiance some more by going for a dip in the terrace swimming pool.  

This family-friendly spot has everything you need for a short break with all the modern creature comforts. Rooms are spacious and thoughtfully furnished with sleek decor and pastel blue and soft brown shades for a cozy touch. All rooms include essentials like a baby cot (on request), fridge, work desk, and private bathroom.

Mood? Clean and modern. 
Location perks? Close to Sonnenberg Gardens Mansion State Historic Park.
Budget range? Pretty affordable.
Time Out tip: The pancake machine is a must-try at breakfast.

The Point Resort is the epitome of rustic elegance. Well-known for being the Rockefeller family’s Great Camp during the Gilded Age, this Adirondacks resort boasts finely crafted native timber log mansions replete with grand stone fireplaces, original hand-built fixtures, and ornate antiques – all along the mirrored edge of Saranac Lake. Outdoor activities include everything from sailing and bass fishing to fiddlehead fern and morel gathering, set in the stunning backdrop of luscious tall evergreen trees that look like a fairytale all year round.

Mood? Rustic luxury. 
Location perks? So. Much. To. Do. Be sure to book a few days to squeeze it all in. 
Budget range? Suuuuuper spenny.

Situated on the southern end of Lake George’s Green Island, the Sagamore Resort offers 72 acres of rest and relaxation – in true upstate style. There are endless activities to try here, from fishing and boating to wakeboarding and tubing. And once you've had your adventurous fun, why not wind down in the spa with one of the amazing day packages? Sagamore also offers a 10,000-square-foot pool deck equipped with chaise lounges, al fresco fare, and cooling libations – perfect for a summer break from the city.

Mood? Boujie AF.
Location perks? From private cruises to fine dining alfresco, this resort has it all. 
Budget range? Expensive but worth it. 
Time Out tip: Book your stay well in advance to avoid disappointment – this resort gets busy! 

This historic property provides a great homebase for those looking to explore the Great Northern Catskills in any season. Built circa 1890, the renovated Victorian estate exudes an elegant, lived-in charm paired with modern conveniences and amenities. The 18 guest rooms in the hotel include a wide range of layouts from full beds to suites, providing options for many different types of traveling groups. Continental Breakfast is included in a stay and an on-site library, with original 1890s wood paneling, invites guests to while away a leisurely afternoon. 

Mood? Old-world charm.
Location perks? Whether you're drinking an old-fashioned at the cocktail bar or hiking at sunrise, there's so much to enjoy here. 
Budget range? Very well-priced.

It’s no surprise this 266-room Victorian beaut is on our list of the best resorts in upstate New York. Founded by Albert Smiley in 1869, the national historic landmark sits on a pristine mountain lake surrounded by lush forests and scenic hiking trails. Make the most of your R&R by row boating and hiking by day and indulging in exquisite farm-to-table feasts by night. And when in doubt, always agree to the outdoor massage. It's magic.

Mood? Resort vibes. 
Location perks? It's the Hudson Valley, need we say anymore?
Budget range? Spenny AF.