When it comes to quirky getaways, Upstate New York delivers charm in spades. From vintage diners to Bigfoot statues, some of these lake villages are so delightfully odd, they’ve caught the attention of comedians seeking both laughter and relaxation. Here are the lake towns that keep funny people coming back for more.
1. Lake George – The Adirondack Oddball
Lake George is a vibrant mix of lakeside beauty and oddball attractions. Colorful mini-golf courses line the streets, each with its own quirky challenges. Vintage arcades echo with the sound of laughter, as wax museums invite visitors to meet their doppelgängers in waxy forms. Comedians find inspiration around every corner, from pirate cruises on the lake to retro diners.
2. Skaneateles – Fancy, But Not Too Fancy
Skaneateles is a delightful blend of sophistication and whimsy. The lakeside is dotted with chic boutique shops, offering everything from high-end fashion to local crafts. But it’s the quirky cafes, where menus are filled with puns and laughter, that truly capture the heart. Comedians often retreat here for low-key celebrity sights and serene surroundings.
3. Saranac Lake – Ice Palace Meets Moose Humor
Saranac Lake is known for its annual winter carnival, featuring an enormous ice palace that towers over the village. Moose-themed decorations are prevalent, adding humor to the wintry scene. The artsy vibe, combined with the carnival’s quirky festivities, provides ample material for comedians seeking both inspiration and downtime in an inspiring setting.
4. Cooperstown – Baseball, Beer, and a Side of Weird
Cooperstown is renowned for the Baseball Hall of Fame, yet it’s the quirky blend of wax museums and vintage trolley tours that delight visitors. Local lore adds a layer of intrigue, as comedians find comedic gold in the mix of reverence and ridiculousness. The village’s oddities are as celebrated as its sporting legacy.
5. Lake Placid – Olympic History Meets Hipster Humor
Lake Placid’s legacy as a Winter Olympics host is etched into the snowy landscape. The Olympic ski jumps are a sight to behold, while retro souvenir shops and historic hotels offer a quirky backdrop. Comedians are drawn to the absurdity of such a unique mix, finding humor in both the adrenaline and the nostalgia.
6. Tupper Lake – The Bigfoot of the North
Tupper Lake is a nature lover’s haven, with treetop walks offering breathtaking views of the forest. But it’s the rumored Bigfoot sightings that add an element of mystery and humor. The Wild Center’s embrace of the unknown makes it a hotspot for comedians who enjoy blending nature with comedy in their routines.
7. Chautauqua – Brainy with a Side of Bizarre
Chautauqua is a sanctuary for intellectuals and artists, yet it doesn’t shy away from the bizarre. A statue of a giant paperboy stands proudly, while spontaneous barbershop quartets provide a quirky soundtrack. The village’s blend of brainy and bizarre creates an environment that comedians find both inspiring and amusing.
8. Canandaigua – Finger Lakes Funk
Canandaigua embraces its quirky side with attractions like old-school drive-ins and whimsical lawn gnome collections. The village’s playful energy is infectious, drawing in comedians who appreciate the humor inherent in its name and atmosphere. It’s a place where laughter flows as freely as the wine from nearby vineyards.
9. Hammondsport – Wine, Water, and Weird
Hammondsport offers a delightful mix of wine culture and lakeside relaxation, with a touch of the unexpected. Steamboat parades and grape festivals fill the calendar, providing ample opportunities for comedic observation. This village is a whimsical setting for comedians who find joy in the oddities of life by the lake.
10. Inlet – Small but Seriously Strange
Inlet may be small, but its personality is anything but. Known for its eccentric cardboard boat races, where participants build and race boats made entirely of cardboard, this village is a hub of creativity and humor. Comedians are drawn to the unique festivities and the endless laughs they inspire.
