Things to Do in St. Lawrence County for Wedding Guests
If you're hosting a wedding in St. Lawrence County, NY, your guests are in for more than just a beautiful ceremony—they're stepping into a region filled with natural beauty, small-town charm, and plenty of things to do while they’re here. Whether they’re traveling from across New York State or flying in for a weekend wedding near Potsdam, Canton, or Massena, there’s something for everyone to enjoy before and after the big day.
Start with the river towns. The Grasse River in Potsdam and the Raquette River in Canton offer peaceful kayaking and canoeing options that are perfect for guests looking to unwind. Rentals are available locally, and early morning paddles are especially popular among families and couples staying for the weekend. Guests who enjoy fishing or waterfront views will love Robert Moses State Park in Massena, where picnic areas, nature trails, and scenic St. Lawrence River access make for a relaxing afternoon. Another great riverside destination is the town of Waddington, known for its charming main street and tranquil waterfront park, making it an ideal spot for a quiet walk or morning coffee before the festivities begin.
Art and history lovers visiting the area should make time for the Frederic Remington Art Museum in Ogdensburg, which showcases iconic American Western artwork and ties in beautifully with the region’s heritage. For a hands-on experience, the North Country Children’s Museum in downtown Potsdam is a hit with families attending weddings—it’s fun, interactive, and located near some of the village’s best shops and cafés. While in Potsdam, guests can stroll Market Street for boutique shopping, local gifts, and great coffee at spots like Park Bros, Jernabi Coffeehouse, or the locally beloved Big Spoon Kitchen.
If your wedding falls during the warmer months, be sure to mention Lampson Falls in the Grass River Wild Forest. Just a short drive from Canton, it’s one of the most scenic (and accessible) waterfall hikes in the North Country. Guests can also explore Stone Valley Trail in Colton, Azure Mountain in Waverly, or even venture slightly south into the Adirondack foothills for more adventurous hiking and photo opportunities.
Wedding weekends are the perfect excuse for scenic drives, and St. Lawrence County has some truly beautiful back roads. Guests can follow Route 56 south through Hannawa Falls or head toward Cranberry Lake for quiet pine-lined lakes and dramatic overlooks. If they're staying longer, a day trip to the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton or a castle tour at Singer Castle on Dark Island adds a unique experience right along the St. Lawrence River.
For more laid-back entertainment, guests may enjoy local events like the Potsdam Summer Festival, the Canton Farmers Market, or live music at local breweries and community spaces. Don’t forget to point them toward places like Hometown Café or Sergi’s in Canton for pizza and ice cream, or to Big Spoon Kitchen for farm-to-table meals. Many wedding parties also book group dinners at places like Jake’s in Hannawa Falls or 1844 House between Potsdam and Canton.
No matter where your wedding is—be it at a venue near Clarkson University, on a family farm outside Norwood, or by the river in Lisbon—giving your guests a chance to explore St. Lawrence County will make their trip that much more memorable. Whether they’re seeking outdoor adventure, a taste of small-town life, or just somewhere peaceful to relax, there’s no shortage of things to do before and after the wedding day.
If you’re planning your wedding in the North Country and looking for a local photographer or videographer who knows the area, I’d love to connect. I offer wedding coverage across Potsdam, Canton, Massena, and surrounding areas—and I’m always happy to recommend my favorite photo spots, coffee shops, or quiet trails.