Blake Walsh

16 Best Things to Do in Pulaski, NY

  • Published 2023/04/01

Pulaski is a quaint rural village in Oswego County in upstate New York.

Situated between the famous Salmon River and Lake Ontario, the village provides access to the center of the sport fishing scene.

Incorporated as a village in 1832, the area was once known as Fishville, also called just Salmon River.

Apart from excellent fishing, the village offers yearly recreation, such as hiking and camping in the warmer months and snowmobiling in the winter.

Its historic district is home to well-preserved buildings and structures with gorgeous architecture.

Read this list of some of the best things to do in Pulaski, New York, to help you plan your well-deserved getaway.

Enjoy First-Rate Fishing in the Salmon River

Aerial view of Salmon River

Yena Lou / Shutterstock.com

Of course, fishing in the Salmon River is one of the best things to do when you visit Pulaski.

The 17-mile-long river offers some of the best sport fishing experiences in the country.

Prepare your fishing gear and check out the village’s various fishing access points and boat launches.

People fishing on Salmon River

Mahmoud Suhail / Shutterstock.com

The river is stocked annually with Coho, Chinook, and Atlantic salmon.

Aside from salmon, you can catch trout and bass.

You can also check out various outfitters and fishing guide services within the village to guide you in planning your fishing trip to Salmon River.

Explore the Outdoors at Selkirk Shores State Park

Go on an energizing outdoor adventure at Selkirk Shores State Park.

The park has campsites, trails, a swimming beach, boat launches, and shelters, offering plenty of recreation throughout the seasons.

Hike the trails and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding woodlands and lush meadows.

Come sundown, slow down, and enjoy the breathtaking sunset views over the lake.

You can also stay and camp to enjoy more of the park’s popular activities and scenic views.

If you’re visiting in winter, you can enjoy snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

The Selkirk Shores State Park is located along State Route 3.

Visit the Pulaski Historical Society Museum

Glimpse the village’s storied past at the Pulaski Historical Society Museum.

This museum is housed at the site of the Snow family home, one of the pioneer settlers in the area.

You can see various artifacts, historical records, and photographs that tell stories of the area’s rich history.

A carriage house is part of the museum, where you can learn about the village’s farming history and early industries.

You can find the Pulaski Historical Society Museum along Maple Avenue.

Grab a Meal at Arties Hometown Diner

Sample local flavors at Arties Hometown Diner.

This quaint local favorite serves comforting, home-style meals such as meatloaf, fries, sausages, steak, and eggs.

Grab a heavy breakfast before going sightseeing.

Otherwise, stop by for lunch specials to refuel after a morning of exploring the village.

They also have a kid-friendly menu if you’re dining with your little ones.

You can find Arties Hometown Diner along North Jefferson St.

Admire Local Art at the Salmon River Fine Arts Center

See the village’s creative side when you visit the Salmon River Fine Arts Center.

This art center has showcased the works of the area’s artists since the 1990s.

Stop by and view their exhibits at the gallery.

The center mounts various art shows to highlight the works of its member artists, county artists, amateur painters, and students.

If you’re interested in art guidance, you can also check out its workshops, such as drawing classes.

Salmon River Fine Arts Center is located along North Jefferson St.

See a Show at the Kallet Theater

Take a break from exploring the outdoors and catch a performance at the historic Kallet Theater.

This lovely art deco structure was built in 1939 as a cinema, serving as the village’s entertainment center.

The theater has since been upgraded and hosts various live events and entertainment.

Spend an evening at the theater and catch a musical show or stage performance.

There’s a concession bar and a lounge where you can get a drink and enjoy the theater’s retro atmosphere.

You can find Kallet Theater along North Jefferson St.

Tour the Pulaski Village Historic District

Learn about the village’s rich cultural heritage as you explore the Pulaski Village Historic District.

The district features one of the most preserved clusters of 19th and early 20th-century structures and buildings north of the state.

You can see many of the village’s beautiful brick commercial buildings built in the Italianate style.

Admire the buildings’ details and take photos as you stroll around.

The Pulaski Village Historic District encompasses the west and east sides of Jefferson St.

In 1983, it was included in the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural significance.

Spend a Weekend at the Salmon River Lighthouse and Marina

Exterior of Salmon River Lighthouse and Marina

Self, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Go on a relaxing getaway at the Salmon River Lighthouse and Marina, home to the historic Selkirk Lighthouse.

Built in 1838, the bird-cage lighthouse is one of only four in the country.

It was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 for its architecture and transportation significance.

You can book a stay at the lighthouse or the cottages on the property.

During your stay, go on an adventure, kayaking or canoeing on the Salmon River.

Of course, a visit wouldn’t be complete without fishing on Lake Ontario.

The Salmon River Lighthouse and Marina are located along Lake Road Extension.

Grab Fresh Produce at the Pulaski Farmer’s Market

Spend a beautiful sunny day exploring the Pulaski Farmer’s Market.

This summer market features homegrown produce and other products from local shops.

Enjoy the festive vibe as you taste local food and shop for souvenirs.

The season’s fresh produce, baked goods, and craft products can be found.

There are also fun, family-friendly activities such as live music and face painting for the kids.

You can find the Pulaski Farmer’s Market downtown.

Go Beach Camping at Brennan Beach RV Resort

Enjoy a relaxing weekend camp at Brennan Beach RV Resort.

Situated along Lake Ontario’s eastern shores, this resort has over 1,000 campsites for RVs.

You can also stay at one of their beautiful cottage rentals for your vacation.

Soak up the sun by the shore and have fun in the waters.

Come sundown, slow down, and marvel at the spectacular sunset scene over Lake Ontario.

You can find Brennan Beach RV Resort along Brennan Beach.

Dine at the Mill House Market

After a great day outdoors, enjoy a nice meal at the Mill House Market.

This lovely restaurant also has a deli and a bakery offering freshly made bread.

Refuel with one of their daily specials and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.

Finish your meal with a slice of delicious cake.

You can also check out their craft beer list for a pint.

The Mill House Market is located along NY Route 13.

Shop at Angus Hill Flea Market

Visit and find some fantastic deals on collectibles and antiques at Angus Hill Flea Market.

This seasonal market hosts numerous dealers and vendors.

Check out the booths and browse their vintage furniture, home decor, glassware, toys, and other items.

Their inventory is changing, so there’ll be plenty to see each time you visit.

You can find Angus Hill Flea Market along US Route 11.

Experience Snowy Fun at the Salmon River Winter Festival

Bundle up and join the fun at the Salmon River Winter Festival.

This annual event features many family-friendly activities, including carriage rides, bonfires, and snow sculptures.

Kid-friendly activities, such as crafting and a scavenger hunt, also keep your young ones entertained.

The festival also features plenty of food competitions, such as the wings challenge, so it’s a great chance to check out the area’s food scene.

The Salmon River Winter Festival is usually held at Selkirk Shores Park.

Enjoy a Summer Day at the Sandy Island Beach State Park

Sunny day at Sandy Island Beach State Park

Easchiff, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Pack your beach essentials and head to the Sandy Island Beach State Park for a day in the sun.

Lounge on the sand and enjoy the cool waters.

You can also stroll around and admire the beautiful sight of the dunes.

The area is part of the migratory path of several birds, making the park an excellent spot for bird watching.

The Sandy Island Beach State Park is located along County Route 15.

Get a Sweet Treat at Colosse Cheese Store

Stop by the Colosse Cheese Store and get yourselves some ice cream.

This famous cheese company returned to the 1930s and began the ice cream business in the 1970s.

Stay cool in the summer heat and have a scoop or two of their ice cream, which you can get in various flavors.

While you’re there, also check out their great selection of cheese products.

You can find Colosse Cheese Store along Rome Road.

Drink with a View at Eleven Brewing Co at LD’s on the River

Grab a pint while enjoying the views at Eleven Brewing Co at LD’s on the River.

This brew pub offers handcrafted burgers and wings to pair with their brews.

Stop by after a day around the village and unwind with a burger and beer.

Its outdoor seating overlooks the Salmon River so you can enjoy your craft beer with a view.

You can find Eleven Brewing Co at LD’s on the River along North Jefferson St.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Drive to Pulaski’s surrounding areas and discover more of the area’s charm.

Here are some activities to explore nearby.

Join the Oswego County Fair

Don’t miss the fun events at the Oswego County Fair in Sandy Creek, New York, nine minutes from Pulaski.

This county fair has been running since 1859, featuring a variety of family-friendly activities.

Check out the rides and grab some local treats.

You can also watch talent shows, games, and live entertainment.

The Oswego County Fair venue is a six-mile drive from Pulaski.

Marvel at the Salmon River Falls Unique Area

Head to Orwell, New York, and be mesmerized by the beauty of the Salmon River Falls Unique Area, 17 minutes from Pulaski.

Spanning over 100 acres, this breathtaking recreation spot is home to gorgeous waterfalls and a picturesque gorge.

Go on a hike along the trails and enjoy the fantastic natural scenery.

If you’re visiting in the winter and looking for adventure, you can try the popular ice-climbing activity in the area.

Salmon River Falls Unique Area is an 11-mile drive from Pulaski.

Go on a Salmon River Rafting Adventure

Take your friends on a Salmon River rafting adventure for some adrenaline rush.

This rafting adventure will take you along the river as it flows through Pulaski.

You’ll spend a couple of hours navigating down the river.

Test your paddle skills as you face its well-known Class III rapids!

You can go on the Salmon River rafting trip through Adventure Calls Outfitters in Altmar, ten minutes from Pulaski.

Hike at Chateaugay State Forest

Discover more of the area’s rich natural beauty when you visit the Chateaugay State Forest in Richland, New York, 16 minutes from Pulaski.

Situated at the edge of the Tug Hill region known for heavy snow, this 4,000-acre area offers year-round recreation.

Hike along one of the eight trails and reconnect with nature as you explore the abundant wildlife.

Listen to the charming calls of blue jay, veery, eastern wood-pewee, and other songbirds.

The Chateaugay State Forest is a nine-mile drive from Pulaski.

Final Thoughts

Best known for superb fishing experiences in the Salmon River, Pulaski is a small, quaint village surrounded by many natural attractions.

Whether looking for a laidback fishing getaway or planning days of active fun, this destination offers plenty of opportunities for leisure and recreation.

Experience the best things to do in Pulaski, New York!

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