Pulaski Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat and drink, and where to stay, along with cultural and historical information, safety and health tips, and transportation options to make your visit to Pulaski a memorable one.


Introduction to Pulaski

Pulaski, a small town in Central New York, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Nestled amidst lush forest and the sparkling Salmon River, Pulaski offers a variety of activities to suit all kinds of travelers. Whether you want to learn about the town’s rich cultural heritage, go hiking, fishing, or simply relax amid scenic beauty, Pulaski is the perfect destination.

List of Places to Visit in Pulaski

Here are some must-visit places in Pulaski:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Salmon River International Sport Fishing Museum: This museum houses a fascinating collection of exhibits related to sport fishing, including antique lures, reels, and fishing equipment, alongside displays of the area’s commercial fishing past.
  • Pulaski Historical Society & Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Pulaski and its surrounding areas, featuring exhibits that cover everything from the town’s founding to the present day, showcasing the town’s rich industrial, economic, and social history.

Natural Attractions of Pulaski: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Salmon River Falls: The breathtaking Salmon River Falls, located just outside Pulaski, are a popular spot for hiking and picnicking, with multiple viewing platforms and overlooks showcasing the powerful force of water as it flows through the gorge.
  • Selkirk Shores State Park: This beautiful lakeside park offers plenty of outdoor activities, including swimming, hiking, and boating, as well as plenty of opportunities to relax in nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pulaski

If you love to hike or bike, there’s no better destination than Pulaski. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Salmon River Falls Trail: This scenic 2-mile trail winds through lush forest before leading to the breathtaking Salmon River Falls, with multiple viewpoints to capture the perfect photo.
  • River Walk Trail: This 0.5-mile paved trail is ideal for biking or taking a leisurely stroll, following the picturesque Salmon River through Pulaski.

Best Things to Do in Pulaski: Activities and Tours

Pulaski offers plenty of exciting activities and tours for all ages. Here are some favorites:

  • Fly-fishing on the Salmon River: The Salmon River is renowned for its exceptional fishing, and Pulaski is a premier fly-fishing destination, with plenty of outfitters and guides offering tours of the best fishing spots along the river.
  • Pulaski Historical Walking Tour: You can explore the town’s rich history on your own or with a guide, learn about its industrial past and the local people who shaped the town.
  • Snowmobiling: In the winter, Pulaski is a popular destination for snowmobiling, with miles of trails through scenic forests and along the river.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pulaski

Day 1 - Explore the Pulaski Historical Society & Museum and historic downtown. Day 2 - Go fly-fishing on the Salmon River or take the 2-mile Salmon River Falls Trail for breathtaking views. Day 3 - Go hiking or boating at Selkirk Shores State Park. Day 4 - Take a guided walking tour of the town and its historic sites. Day 5 - Go snowmobiling in the nearby Tug Hill Plateau. Day 6 - Visit the Salmon River International Sport Fishing Museum and go shopping for local souvenirs. Day 7 - Relax at a local park or by the river before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Pulaski

Pulaski is known for serving up traditional northern New York State cuisine, which typically features hearty portions and local ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried perch: A classic dish in Pulaski featuring moist, flaky, and crispy perch, with tarter sauce, cole slaw, and French fries
  • Cheese curds: These fresh curds of cheese, particularly those from nearby dairy farms, will surely satisfy your taste buds.
  • Pasty: A traditional British pasty recipe that was brought to the local miners who worked in the area’s Iron Ore industry.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Pulaski is home to several microbreweries, where visitors can enjoy locally-brewed craft beers in a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Wine: Pulaski also has several wineries that produce a variety of local wines.

Where to Stay in Pulaski: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best places to stay in Pulaski:

  • Tailwater Lodge: A stunning, riverside boutique hotel located in the heart of Pulaski, offering luxury accommodations and easy access to the Salmon River.
  • Whitaker’s Sport Haven: This cozy guesthouse offers comfortable rooms for an unforgettable stay in Pulaski.
  • Salmon River Lodge: The newly renovated lodge offers modern amenities and comfortable, spacious rooms ideal for the Pultaki experience.

What to Buy in Pulaski: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re in Pulaski, don’t miss the chance to bring home some unique souvenirs and local products, such as:

  • Local Maple Syrup: Pulaski is known for its delicious maple syrup, which you can sample and buy from syrup farms or local shops.
  • Handcrafted gifts: Pulaski has a thriving arts and crafts community, with many artisans creating beautiful and unique home décor, pottery, and jewelry.
  • Salmon meat and locally sourced food

Local Culture and Customs of Pulaski

Pulaski is a friendly, laid-back town, with a strong sense of community and pride in its heritage. Visitors are welcome to participate in local events and festivals celebrating the town’s culture, such as the Salmon River Festival and the annual Fall Salmon Run.

Best Time to Visit Pulaski

Early autumn provides an ideal atmosphere for outdoors activities, particularly for fly-fishing and enjoying scenic views. The winter’s snowmobiling activity is another popular attraction. During spring and summer, visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, festivals, and seasonal cuisine.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pulaski

Do:

  • Respect local nature and wildlife, and follow any posted guidelines in parks and natural areas.
  • Sample locally brewed beer and wine.
  • Learn about the town’s history at Pulaski Historical Society & Museum or the Salmon River International Sport Fishing Museum.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash in public areas or natural habitats.
  • Trespass on private property or violate posted warnings in natural habitats.
  • Speak too loud or make any noise that may disturb the local communities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pulaski

Pulaski is a relatively safe community, but visitors are recommended to take standard safety precautions, such as:

  • Locking car doors and securing valuables
  • Avoiding deserted areas after dark
  • Following health and safety protocols regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Health in Pulaski

Pulaski has several medical clinics and pharmacies, and visitors can find quality medical care in nearby towns.

Getting to Pulaski: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pulaski is easily accessible by car and has several transportation options within the town:

Airports Near Pulaski

  • Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR): Located approximately one hour’s drive from Pulaski, SYR is a convenient choice for travelers flying into the area.

Bus Stations Near Pulaski

  • A Greyhound Bus station is located in Syracuse, approximately one hour’s drive from Pulaski.

Other Options

  • Rental cars and taxis are available for transportation to and around Pulaski.

How to Get Around in Pulaski

Pulaski is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or bike; however, to reach popular attractions outside the town, it’s recommended to rent a car or take a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Pulaski: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lake Ontario: Just a short drive north of Pulaski lies the stunning Lake Ontario, boasting crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports.
  • Thousand Islands: Just a little farther north of Lake Ontario follows the Thousand Islands, another beautiful region renowned for its boating, fishing, and Island parks.
  • Syracuse: Located within an hour’s drive of Pulaski, Syracuse offers plenty of shopping, dining, and attractions, such as the Rosamond Gifford Zoo.

Conclusion

There’s no shortage of activities, natural beauty, history, and culture in Pulaski, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway, a family vacation or a romantic getaway. By following this guide, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience in this charming town in Central New York.

View of the Salmon River near Pulaski View of the Salmon River near Pulaski