St. Lawrence County Local Guide - Potsdam, Canton, Ogdensburg, Massena

Explore St. Lawrence County

Your guide to universities, attractions, dining, and accommodations in Potsdam, Canton, Ogdensburg, and Massena

University Life in Potsdam

Potsdam, NY

Potsdam stands as St. Lawrence County's educational hub, home to two prestigious institutions that shape the character of this vibrant college town. The community thrives on the energy and innovation brought by thousands of students each year.

Major Universities:
  • Clarkson University - renowned for engineering and technical programs
  • SUNY Potsdam - features the nationally recognized Crane School of Music

The universities contribute to a dynamic atmosphere with cultural events, athletic competitions including top-quality college hockey at Cheel Arena, and a thriving arts scene. Downtown Potsdam offers easy walking access to campus facilities, making it an ideal location for visiting students, families, and academic travelers.

Where to Stay & Eat in Potsdam

Potsdam, NY

Visitors to Potsdam will find a welcoming range of accommodations and dining options that cater to families, business travelers, and university visitors alike.

Recommended Hotels:
  • Best Western Potsdam University Park Inn - adjacent to Clarkson campus
  • Hampton Inn Potsdam - modern amenities with complimentary breakfast
  • Local B&Bs including Maple Rock B&B
Popular Dining:
  • Maxfields - full-service American cuisine
  • Sergi's Italian Restaurant - classic Italian fare
  • 3 Bears Gluten Free Bakery - specialty baked goods and meals
  • Jake's on the Water - scenic riverside dining in nearby Hannawa Falls

The Village Diner and Soul Waffle offer unique breakfast experiences, while Cactus Grill and Cantina serves authentic Mexican cuisine. Most restaurants are within walking distance of major hotels.

Canton's Academic Excellence

Canton, NY

Canton, the county seat of St. Lawrence County, is home to two distinguished universities that attract students from across the nation and globe. This charming village blends historic architecture with modern educational facilities.

Universities:
  • St. Lawrence University - private liberal arts college with a beautiful campus and championship golf course
  • SUNY Canton - offers two and four-year degrees with strong technical programs

St. Lawrence University's Appleton Arena hosts exciting Saints hockey games, while the campus features the impressive Crane School of Music. Both universities contribute to Canton's vibrant cultural calendar with concerts, lectures, and athletic events throughout the year. The village's historic business district provides easy access to campus facilities and local amenities.

Canton Hotels & Dining Scene

Canton, NY

Canton offers comfortable lodging options and diverse dining experiences, many within the historic downtown area and along the scenic Route 11 corridor.

Accommodations:
  • Best Western University Inn - features County Seat Restaurant and 18-hole golf course
  • Holiday Inn Express Canton - modern facilities with fitness center
  • Fairfield by Marriott Canton
  • Local B&Bs including Felician House and 24 East Main Street
Dining Options:
  • County Seat Restaurant - American dining with golf course views
  • Little Italy - family-friendly Italian cuisine
  • The Hoot Owl - historic college bar in converted train station
  • St. Lawrence Brewing Co. - local craft beer and pub fare

The Hoot Owl, ranked among northern New York's best dive bars, offers a unique atmosphere with free popcorn and local beer selections. Visitors appreciate Canton's walkable downtown with easy access to shops and restaurants.

Ogdensburg's Rich History & Arts

Ogdensburg, NY

Ogdensburg, a historic port city on the St. Lawrence River, offers visitors a unique blend of American history and world-class art. The city's location on the international border with Canada makes it an ideal gateway for cross-border exploration.

Major Attractions:
  • Frederic Remington Art Museum - comprehensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and sketches
  • Fort de la Presentation - reconstructed French colonial fort with river views
  • St. Lawrence River waterfront - scenic walkways and marinas
  • Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge - minutes from downtown

The Frederic Remington Art Museum houses the world's largest collection of works by the renowned Western artist, including bronze sculptures, oil paintings, and personal correspondence. The museum is located in a historic 1810 building that once housed Remington's wife after his death in 1909.

Staying & Dining in Ogdensburg

Ogdensburg, NY

Ogdensburg provides comfortable accommodations and diverse dining experiences that showcase both local flavors and international influences from its border location.

Lodging Options:
  • Sherman Inn - historic bed and breakfast near Frederic Remington Museum
  • Comfort Inn & Suites Ogdensburg - modern hotel close to downtown
  • Quality Inn Ogdensburg - convenient location with full amenities
Dining Highlights:
  • The Freight House - converted historic landmark with unique atmosphere
  • Wimpy's Inn - local institution famous for "Wimpy Sauce" burgers
  • Little Italy - authentic Italian pizza, pasta, and seafood
  • Phillips Diner - classic diner near the museum
  • Emiliee's Sweets - independent coffee shop with lattes and ice cream

Hosmer's Marina offers waterfront dining with docking facilities for boaters. The city's walkable downtown makes it easy to explore shops, cafes, and the riverfront on foot.

Massena's Seaway Attractions

Massena, NY

Massena stands as St. Lawrence County's hub for engineering and industrial tourism, offering visitors a front-row seat to one of the world's most impressive waterway systems. The town's location on the St. Lawrence River provides unique opportunities to witness international maritime commerce.

Must-See Attractions:
  • Eisenhower Lock System - watch international cargo ships navigate the locks
  • St. Lawrence Seaway Visitor Center - interactive exhibits on engineering and trade
  • Hawkins Point Visitors Center - learn about the Moses-Saunders Power Dam
  • Robert Moses State Park - recreation along the St. Lawrence River
  • St. Lawrence River Trail - 6-mile scenic walking and biking path

Over 3,000 international ships pass through the Eisenhower and Snell locks annually, making Massena an ideal destination for maritime enthusiasts. The power dam jointly provides electricity to both the United States and Canada, showcasing international cooperation at its finest.

Where to Stay & Eat in Massena

Massena, NY

Massena offers a range of accommodations from modern chain hotels to local favorites, along with dining options that reflect the area's diverse community and proximity to Canada.

Accommodations:
  • Blue Spruce Motel - locally owned with spacious rooms
  • St. Lawrence Hotel - downtown location near restaurants and shops
  • Super 8 by Wyndham Massena - budget-friendly with daily breakfast
  • SureStay by Best Western Massena - pet-friendly option
  • Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort - full-service resort with gaming
Dining Venues:
  • Gristmill Brewery - housed in restored historic gristmill
  • Highland Restaurant - quality breakfast and dinner options
  • Akwesasne Casino restaurants - multiple dining venues
  • St. Lawrence Centre Mall - various chain restaurants and food court

Massena's proximity to the Mohawk Casino, just 12 miles away, provides additional entertainment and dining options. The town's commercial district along Route 37 offers convenient access to shopping and services for travelers.