Located between two rivers, the pretty town of Waterford has a thriving waterfront community. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere in the town, with events such as farmers’ markets, arts and crafts fairs and a famous annual tugboat festival. The town of Waterford contains a village of the same name that may be the country’s oldest incorporated village.
Waterford plays an important role in the water systems of the state and serves as the entrance to the New York State Barge Canal network.
Learn about the local background through the Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center. Attend regular events and temporary exhibits about the history of the town. Peruse various rooms to see the Victorian Period display and the comprehensive library.
The harbor plays an important role in the town’s culture. Walk along the waterfront, which is full of shops, restaurants and churches. Make your way to the Waterford Harbor Visitor Center to find out about current events. Visit the town center for its antique shops, bars and shops in a picturesque waterfront setting.
Boat across the Mohawk River to Peebles Island State Park for a picnic in the woods. Hike along the island’s 2-mile (3-kilometer) circumference. Spot deer and bald eagles amid the trees as you relax to the sound of the rushing river.
The area has one of the world’s largest canal lifts in the shortest distance, the Waterford Flight of Locks. Visit for summer’s Steamboat Meet and autumn’s Tugboat Roundup.
Waterford stands at the union of the Hudson River and Mohawk River in Saratoga County in eastern New York State. The nearest large city is the state capital of Albany, 11 miles (18 kilometers) south. Drive north 165 miles (266 kilometers) from New York City in about 3 hours.
The waterfront makes Waterford seem like a New York version of Venice with its many rivers and canals. The climate is fairly hot and humid in summer. Unlike Venice, Waterford winters are cold and snowy.
