Things to Do Near Speculator, NY

In less than two hours, you could be experiencing the small town charm and stunning natural beauty of Speculator, New York. From Albany, Speculator, NY, directions take drivers through Colonie, Amsterdam, and Mayfield before traveling a lovely span near the shore of the Great Sacandaga Lake. The scenic village of Speculator is home to fewer than 400 year-round residents.

Locals call Speculator “All-Season Vacationland,” thanks to the variety of activities available regardless of the weather. From canoeing, kayaking, and fishing on the lake in warmer months to hiking through the gorgeous fall colors to enjoying snowmobiling in winter, the options in Speculator mean there is never a bad time to visit.

Speculator Department Store

The Speculator Department Store is a far cry from any suburban mall. Family-owned since 2003, the store is the perfect place to find souvenirs and gifts to commemorate your trip. In addition to local maple syrup and handcrafted jewelry, Speculator Department Store has everything a visitor might need to fully indulge in the local activities, including fishing gear, sportswear, and camping supplies.

Tracy’s Rustic Relics

Experiencing and supporting local businesses is one of the joys of traveling, especially when visiting small towns and villages. Stop into Tracy’s Rustic Relics and explore more than 10 different small businesses under one roof. New, used, and repurposed goods are among the wares at Tracy’s, which is located at the four corners in Speculator.

Oak Mountain

In the winter, there is no better spot to explore in Speculator than Oak Mountain. The mountain features 22 ski trails, including a beginner hill as well as areas for snow tubing and snowshoeing. Newcomers can schedule private or group ski and snowboard lessons and rent equipment on the mountain. There’s no need to look far for lodging, either. Start a day of skiing nice and early by booking accommodation at a local historic hotel, rental house, or bed and breakfast.

Oak Mountain is also open in warmer months for hikers and nature-lovers. Finish off a day of exploring with dinner and enjoy the music at Acorn Pub and Eatery.

Village Motorsports

Whether you’re brand new to exploring snowy trails or you’re ready to invest in your own vehicle, Village Motorsports is the place to stop in Speculator. This business sells and rents both new and used snowmobiles, ATVs, and jet skis as well as all the necessary safety equipment. In the summer months, visitors can also rent a pontoon boat to take out on Great Sacandaga Lake. All renters receive quick lessons to ensure they understand the mechanics and safety features of their rentals before they take to the trails or the water.

Mountain Market

Spending a weekend or longer in Speculator will call for some provisions. Mountain Market is the perfect local spot to grab a bite, with hearty and delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fuel up with a breakfast sandwich or unwind with pizza and wings, and don’t forget to pick up a locally brewed hard cider to take back to your cabin.

Mountain Market also offers groceries, gas, souvenirs, and a chalkboard that’s updated daily with moose sightings.