Upstate Towns, Villages & Places to Visit Near Oswego, New York

Last updated on January 18, 2026.

All across the state there are hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Charming small towns, quaint villages, and scenes straight out of a Hallmark movie. And each of these areas has their own culture filled with unique history, eateries, shops, nature, and art. While many articles focus on one town and dive into all of the great things to do there, let’s take a look at a wider range. Here are some cute towns and villages with great places to visit near Oswego, New York. Which one calls your name the most?

Places to visit in Fulton, NY

In my mind Fulton has always been the younger sibling to Oswego. Perhaps because as you travel up to Oswego, the highway ends and flows into the city of Fulton. Running alongside the Oswego River, Fulton has a good variety of things to do and places to eat. Grab a great cup of coffee in the coziest of cafes at 114 Reserve. Enjoy a Mexican-inspired dinner as you make-your-own burrito or rice bowl at Fajita Grill. And find surprisingly good food and cheap drinks at Muskie’s, a dive bar beloved by locals.

Fulton thrives in the summer, when days are spent at Thunder Island Amucement Park and evenings are filled with races at the Fulton Speedway dirt track and movies at the Midway Drive-In. Enjoy hiking, biking, and skiing year-round at Great Bear Recreational Trails.

Places to visit in Mexico, NY

Nestled atop the hills of Oswego County, Mexico, NY is filled with some fascinating history. Most notably, the community was a significant part of the Underground Railroad. The town was home to many abolitionists and the Starr Clark Tin Shop was known to be a station for freedom seekers to stop at.

Now, visitors to Mexico are invited to visit the museums at the heart of town, including both the Tin Shop and the Chandler-Ames Bank Museum. Across the street a mural depicts the history of Mexico along a wide brick wall.

In the fall, apple orchards are aplenty among the rolling hills of farmland. Behling Orchards is a popular spot for families looking to pick some apples, enjoy a drink, and take home some pastries. The Behling family recently opened 6 Acres Farm Brewery just down the road, serving fresh brews in a stunning barn.

One of the other new additions to the town of Mexico is Books & Brew, a charming book-themed coffee shop in the center of town. Mexico Point State Park has miles of hiking trails and a unique tiny cottage that is said to be haunted. And some of the best birdwatching around can be done at Derby Hill Bird Observatory.

Places to visit in Phoenix, NY

Unlike the capital of Arizona, which is much hotter and drier, New York’s Phoenix is a charming village located along the Oswego River. The community is known for its craft beverages and festivals. Lock 1 Distilling Company is making some of the best spirits in New York State. Around the corner, Duskee’s is the ultimate sports bar, with game-day specials, appetizers, and craft beers. Angry Pig BBQ is serving up some delicious smoked meats. If you have a sweet tooth, then Gingersnap Bakery is a must.

Both locals and visitors alike enjoy the festivals in town, including the popular Locktoberfest every October. And as the seasons change, different local farms invite folks to come pick what’s ripe. Godfrey’s Last Stand is great for blueberries, Candee Tree Farm has both Christmas trees and lavender, while Goodman’s Christmas Tree Farm is always bustling around the holidays.

Treat yourself to a bit of pampering and shopping at The Looking Glass Saloon and Em & V Boutique.

Discover more things to do in Phoenix, New York.

Places to visit in Pulaski, NY

Every autumn, fly fishermen flock from across the country to Pulaski for the salmon fishing in the Salmon River. Even as a spectator, the hobby is something incredible to behold. Anglers line the shores of the river, casting their lines out into the cold, rushing water hoping to catch some prime salmon. There is a sense of camaraderie as they help each other net and bring the salmon to shore. Visitors can watch the happenings from the bridge over the river. And if you’re looking for a place to get in the water or go for a nature walk, head over to Selkirk Shores State Park.

Learn more about the history of the village at the Pulaski Historical Society Museum. Take a class or attend an event at the Salmon River Fine Arts Center. Additionally the Kallet Theater hosts concerts, performances, and community events.

Grab a bite to eat at Riverhouse Restaurant or LD’s on the River. At LD’s you can sit on the back deck and take in the sights of the river. Enjoy a drink or a meal and do some local shopping at Millhouse Market. Then stop at Colosse Cheese Store to get some cheese for home or ice cream in the summer.

Learn more about salmon fishing in Pulaski, New York.

Places to visit in Sandy Creek, NY

The smallest of the villages featured, Sandy Creek still have some hidden gems that truly shine in Upstate New York. First, you can explore multiple natural parks with swimming, hiking, birdwatching and more. Sandy Island Beach State Park and Deer Creek Wildlife Management Area are two great spots. Grab a bite to eat at Pond Pit BBQ, which many locals rave about. Search for hidden treasures at Angus Hill Antique & Flea Market.

In the summer, enjoy the Oswego County Fair at the fairgrounds in Sandy Creek.

Discover more things to do in Sandy Creek, New York.

Of course these aren’t all the towns and villages in Oswego County. The county boasts an impressive 22 towns and 10 villages. Those listed are the most populated with the most selection of interesting things to do. Some other places worth mentioning include Salmon River Falls in Orwell and Tailwater Lodge & Spa in Altmar.

And of course there are plenty things to do in Oswego itself.