2. Lake George, New York
New York is definitely more than just humongous buildings and urban life. It’s also about beautiful landscapes and places where you can go for a vacation on a budget. Many of the original waterfront stone palaces built by the Gilded Age robber barons still stand along the 10-mile stretch known as Millionaires’ Row. The so-called “Queen of American Lakes” served as their playground.
The Sagamore Resort, which opened its doors to visitors in the 1880s, is still open today. At the Narrows, the lake is constrained by the southern Adirondacks into a narrow swath that is dotted with islets of all sizes. Last time I visited New York, I was only in the city because I was visiting a friend, but I promised myself next time I would definitely explore the outside of it!
