Get there early. There is a lot to see and do during Harborfest, so get there by Thursday afternoon. Bridge Street, the main avenue through town, can be a nightmare by Friday, and you’ll want to be settled in before the crowds hit their peak. There are also park-and-ride locations if you are late getting into town.
Stay in the center of town. There are several lodging opportunities in Oswego: Econo Lodge is on East First Street and the Best Western is right next door. These hotels are in the prime location for the festival, so make reservations early. If you get locked out of these places, check out the Days Inn on Route 104 or the Scottish Inns and Suites on Seneca Street.
Bring your walking shoes. Up to 250,000 people convene on the city, according to estimates by the official Harborfest website, and there are multiple road closures, so driving around can be frustrating, at best. If you’re staying in town, you’ll be able to walk to everything you need and want to do. There is also a trolley service during the festival, as well as a water taxi.
Get a copy of the music schedule. There are music stages throughout the various parks in Oswego, so get a copy of the schedule to plan in advance. There is typically a free concert in Breitbeck Park that features a headlining act, but the crowds can be fierce. Luckily, you can hear the music by simply walking around the park, although you may not be able to see the performers.
Get to Breitbeck Park early on Saturday night to get a good seat for the fireworks. People begin setting up very early to claim their spots. You don’t need to be right against the shore of Lake Ontario to have a good view, but the closer you are, the more astounding the display.
