Oswego earned its name from the trading post established by the British in 1722, which they named Fort Oswego. The fort was once the site of the Battle of Fort Oswego during the French and Indian War after which the fort was destroyed and rebuilt a number of times. The fort that exists today was built between 1839 and 1944 and is now a historic site and location of the Safe Haven Museum. In addition to being a stronghold during war, Oswego is also known for its early industrial establishments. It is home to the port of Oswego and was once a major railroad hub for seven major railroads, two of which operated a coal trestle for fueling steamships at the Port of Oswego. You can learn more about Oswego’s history stretching back to the 15th century at the H. Lee White Marine Museum, the Richardson-Bates House, and Fort Ontario. Celebrate the city, its history and more at the annual Oswego Harborfest, a four-day festival of music, culture and food centered around the Oswego Harbor.
Four seasons of outdoor recreation makes for beautiful weather during the festival. It also means you can enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, running, hiking and biking and more throughout the year near Oswego’s pristine shoreline and wilderness areas. Oswego is surrounded by water and has the largest shoreline along Lake Ontario of any other county in New York. Endless recreational opportunities await you like kayaking or rafting down the rapids of the Salmon River or jet-skiing and canoeing the north and south Sandy Ponds, the Salmon River Reservoirs and Lake Neahtahwanta.
If you head to Oswego, make sure to cruise through the locks of the historic Oswego River Canal as well! To enjoy an abundance of outdoor recreational activities surrounded in history, book with one of the hotels in Oswego. Whether you came to walk around or wade in the waters, you are sure to enjoy this New York city. Book with Choice Hotels in Oswego to make the most of your lakeside adventure. Reserve online now!