SOS NYC: Where to Swim, Soak, or Cool Down Upstate
Escape the Heat 🥵
Howdy all,
It’s officially too hot to think straight in New York City — so we’re sending out an SOS in the form of lake swims, creekside naps, and poolside cocktails for our people.
Whether you’re craving a private swim hole in the woods, a boutique hotel with a saltwater pool, or just somewhere you can float until further notice, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite summer stays on the water.
Keep scrolling for six quick picks from two of our most popular summer-themed lists, or bookmark the below for the expanded versions of each:
🔗 Spectacular Stays on the Water
🔗 10 of Upstate’s Best Hotels with Pools
More to come later this week, but for now, good luck out there! 🥵
-Erin, Founder & CD at Escape Brooklyn
Low-Key Cool: The Graham & Co. in Phoenicia
Tucked behind tall hedges, the minimalist pool setup at The Graham & Co. is one of the Catskills’ most peaceful — and most photogenic. Guests can grab a drink from the snack bar/deli (or in town), then relax poolside before heading into town for evening activities.
Part of our “10 of Upstate’s Best Hotels with Pools” feature. Click through above link for intel on nearby trails, plus how to get there by bus from NYC.
Waterfall Through the Walls: Salvato Mill
This 18th-century gristmill-turned-rental sits directly over a rushing creek — complete with a waterfall that flows through the building. At Salvato Mill, the interiors mix antiques and mid-century pieces, while outside, a multi-level patio is perfect for late summer evenings.
Part of our “Spectacular Stays on the Water” feature. Click through above link for intel on its history as a working mill and why it’s become a top-notch photoshoot location.
Pool(s) with a View: Inness in Accord
Two saltwater pools, sweeping mountain views, and a poolside bar make Inness one of the Hudson Valley’s most coveted summer escapes. Set on a 220-acre campus with cabins, a reimagined golf course, plus a dreamy restaurant and bar, it’s designed for long, sun-soaked days.
Part of our “10 of Upstate’s Best Hotels with Pools” feature. Click through above link for intel on their geothermal bathhouse with indoor/outdoor pools and brand-new cold plunge.
Private Swim Hole: Old Quarry House
Tucked into the woods above Kaaterskill Creek, the design-forward Old Quarry House has one of the Catskills’ rarest summer features: a private swimming hole. A dreamy setup for creek dips, fire pit hangs, and movie nights on a 75” projector.
Part of our “Spectacular Stays on the Water” feature. Click through the link for intel on the creekside picnic area and hot grilling setup.
Retro Resort Vibes: Wylder Windham
With its heated pool, navy lounge chairs, and white umbrellas, Wylder Windham delivers peak retro-resort energy in the heart of the Northern Catskills. Expect yacht-club vibes meets mountain views — with enough hammocks, bikes, and fire pits to fill a long weekend.
Part of our “10 of Upstate’s Best Hotels with Pools” feature. Click through for intel on saunas, bike rentals, and on-site bakery specials.
Lakeside for Groups: Glasco BLCK Creek
This 164-acre estate revolves around a spring-fed, 37-acre lake with a private dock for swimming, paddling, and unplugging. Four distinct homes make Glasco BLCK Creek ideal for groups, while a sauna, hot tub, and hammocks turn it into a true summer sanctuary.
Part of our “Spectacular Stays on the Water” feature. Click through the link for intel on the private lake activities and spa add-ons like yoga, massage, and more.
Find many more summer stays on Escape Brooklyn, and our forthcoming app, Escape Club! Want to get exclusive discounts for Upstate getaways delivered to your inbox monthly? Subscriptions are $6/month or $60/year, and they help keep our small, women-owned and operated business going. Plus, as always, 1% goes back to the planet. 🌎
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