A Primer: Northeast Summer Vacation Destinations

Our guide matches you with your ideal Maine or New York Northeast vacation among Opal’s top destinations.

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The Adirondacks

Lake Placid

The town is nestled among rugged 4,000-foot Adirondack peaks and revels in its rustic nature. There’s easy access to dozens of hiking trails and the huge Olympic Center with its bobsledding, ski jumping, and paean to the 1980 gold-winning men’s hockey team. In the winter, the Olympic Center and surrounding mountains offer great skiing and riding opportunities, as well.

Best for Couples whose idea of a great date is daylong hike together; Olympic buffs.

Lake Placid Lodge

Lake George

The Queen of American Lakes demands a full week’s visit but doesn’t require you stray far from your hotel.  The Sagamore Resort boasts a 95,000-gallon outdoor pool to lounge by, and steamboats and ferries to whisk you around the lake to explore Revolutionary War–era forts and shops. For more active pursuits, drive 10 minutes west to The Sagamore Golf Club for 18 holes, visit The Rec for 10,000 square feet of indoor entertainment loaded with tennis and basketball courts, or rent kayaks from the northern end of Green Island and ply the lake.

Best for Those who like their attractions at their hotel or close by; boating enthusiasts.

The Sagamore Resort

Coastal Maine

Camden/Rockland/Rockport

These three coastal towns are quintessential New England with yet another lobster shack perched over the Atlantic around every next bend and dozens of boutique shops and galleries to explore. Camden, the toniest of the three towns, has also built a strong reputation as one of the top foodie destinations in Maine. Those itching for a more active vacation can take to the Camden Hills, a state park with 30 miles of easy to moderate trails fanning out onto exposed rock outcroppings with great ocean views, or get on the water on one of a handful of classic schooners offering day sails.

Best for Midcoast explorers; those seeking some peace and quiet with their lobster roll.

Samoset Resort

Bar Harbor

Acadia National Park is the biggest draw here, with 47,000 acres of trails, craggy coasts, and wildlife sightings, ranging from puffins to harbor seals, all best explored by foot, by kayak, or by helicopter. Yet, the proximity to Bar Harbor and the paved Loop Road that winds through the park make this a “National Park–lite” experience, meaning you’re never more than 10 minutes away from an ice cream cone, concert in the center of town, or seafood dinner after your hike.

Best for Families; those looking to get into the great outdoors and back into town in the same afternoon.

Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina | West Street Hotel