A new survey of travel professionals has revealed the 20 most charming small towns and villages in New York State.
The harbour in Port Jefferson (Photo: Discover Long Island)
With approximately 19.5 million residents, New York is the fourth most populated state in the United States. While New York City obviously gets the lion’s share of media attention—two thirds of the state’s residents live in and around the NYC metropolitan area—the rest of the state has much to offer. Home to a diverse geographic landscape that encompasses old growth forests, rivers, scenic lakes, mountain ranges and ski areas, it is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts as well as lovers of history and culture.
We asked more than 100 writers, travel bloggers, photographers, vacation enthusiasts and other professionals who have spent time in the state to pick the five best small towns and villages in New York that they consider the most charming. Here, in alphabetical order, are the 20 most charming towns and small cities in New York based on our survey.
Alexandria Bay
With a population of just over 1,000 people at the last U.S. census, the village of Alexandria Bay is small, but mighty. A stone’s throw from the Thousand Island Border Crossing at the Canadian border, its total area of 1.53 square miles is split evenly between land and water. Many boat tours leave from the St. Lawrence River waterfront, and it’s easy to see why this area was a favorite hangout for pirates. Visit the family-owned shops, wineries and cafes or get up and away on a spectacular hot air balloon ride. The town also has an extensive events schedule with fun themes like Fish Day in the Bay, Roaring ’20s Weekend, and the Blues in the Bay Festival.
A sunset scene from Casino Island in Alexandria Bay (Photo: Nicolas Raymond via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)
Athens
Situated on the west bank of the Hudson River, Athens was once a mecca for shipbuilding, brick making and ice harvesting, and the village retains a strong community of makers and artisans today. Boasting more than 300 buildings on the national historic register, history and design buffs will appreciate its many exquisite examples of Greek Revival and Queen Anne Victorian architecture. A must-do is a visit to Athens Hotel at the Stewart House: enjoy farm-to-table fare on the banks of the Hudson River or sip craft cocktails at the vintage Art Deco bar.
Cape Vincent
Named for French Missionary priest Father Vincent Dablon, this village shares the St. Lawrence riverbanks with Ontario, Canada, which you can visit via car or ferry. Check out the Cape Vincent Fisheries Station (which features five large viewing aquariums), make a stop on the Thousand Islands-Seaway Wine Trail, or visit the stately Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, built in 1854. Cape Vincent’s rich French heritage is also celebrated every summer during its annual French Festival.
Catskill
Located 120 miles north of New York City, this charming village is best known as the home of Thomas Cole, the “Father of American Art.” Sharing a name with the surrounding mountain range, it is a gateway to the rest of Greene County and its abundant natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. Cool off during summer at the Zoom Flume Water Park, or check out the remains of what was the first private zoo in the United States, the Catskill Game Farm.
Visitors stroll the lawn at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site (Photo: Greatnortherncatskills.com)
Cold Spring
Walking through its quaint downtown district, it’s hard to believe Cold Spring was once a major artillery center during the Civil War. Now, it’s a fantastic outdoor destination. Take in views of Hudson Highlands State Park and Storm King Mountain from the Breakneck Ridge Loop by foot, or hop on a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard to experience the scenic river valley from the water. Gardening buffs will love the woodland, grass and cliff rock gardens at Stonecrop Gardens, and history aficionados will appreciate the West Point Foundry Preserve, an ironworks factory turned protected natural area.
Cooperstown
With its idyllic location at the southern tip of Otsego Lake, it’s easy to see why Cooperstown is known as “”America’s Most Perfect Village.” In addition to watersports and excellent golfing, the village offers plenty of cultural activities, including several popular museums. Immerse yourself in rural living at the Farmers’ Museum, a former working farm that depicts 19th-century agricultural life (there’s also a lovely hand-carved carousel for the kids). The Fenimore Art Museum features American folk art and a scenic garden with views of the lake. Copperstown’s main claim to fame, though, is the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, where you can check out interactive exhibits and historic sports memorabilia like the glove baseball legend Babe Ruth used in the 1926 World Series.
The luxurious Otesaga Resort Hotel is a vision to behold, especially lit up at night. (Photo: Visit Schoharie County)
Ellicottville
A year-round adventure destination, Ellicottville is a haven for active travelers. During winter, you can ski and snowboard at the town’s resorts (cross country trails are available, too); come summer, Holiday Valley transforms into a summer adventure park and the runs become hiking and mountain biking trails. For something on the calmer side, visit Nannen Arboretum with its meandering paths, Japanese stone garden and calming water features, then keep the Zen vibes flowing at Ellicottville Salt Cave Halotherapy Spa, a European-style salt cave boasting more than 20 tons of Himalayan salt.
A bustling street scene in Ellicottville (Photo: Nadine Saviano)
Greenport
Located on the north fork of Long Island, Greenport is a great spot for a family getaway. Explore the village’s rich maritime and railroad history at The East End Seaport Museum and lighthouse or delve into its railroad heritage at the satellite branch of the Railroad Museum of Long Island (kids love the model trains). One of the few places in the area where you can chuck your own oysters – diners are given a kit with oyster knives, knife-proof gloves and a metal bucket – Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market offers one of the most memorable dining experiences in the state. Top off the day with a ride on the antique carousel at Mitchell Park.
Revelers enjoying summer at one of Greenport’s outdoor festivals. (Photo: Village of Greenport Business Improvement District)
Lake Placid
Known for hosting not one but two Winter Olympic Games, Lake Placid is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Splurge on the Olympic Sites Passport, which includes access to the Olympic Center Museum as well as regular figure skating shows that are held at the Olympic skating rink. During winter, it also includes access to the Olympic speed skating oval, where you can get in a few laps yourself, if you dare. The Lake Placid Toboggan Chute is an adrenaline lover’s dream: the 30-foot-high converted ski jump trestle hurls riders down an ice-covered chute onto a frozen Mirror Lake. During the summer, the chute operates on wheels and you can stand-up paddleboard or hike the lake’s perimeter trail.
Naples
Another great spot for nature lovers, Naples is especially popular with hikers and anglers due to its abundance of trout-rich freshwater streams and waterfalls hidden in thick forests. But the fun isn’t limited to the water—it’s also a great destination for hot air ballooning, horseback riding, golf, leaf peeping and more. Oenophiles may want to visit in September during the annual Naples Grape Festival, which celebrates the region’s wine country, and foodies must try the region’s culinary claim to fame, Naples Grape Pie. It may sound strange, but trust us, it’s delicious!
Visitors peruse stalls at Naples Grape Fest (Photo: Visitfingerlakes.com)>
New Paltz
A great place to spend the day going where the wind blows you, New Paltz truly has something for everyone. Get in some retail therapy at the shops on Main Street, or take the kids to a show at John R. Kirk Planetarium. It’s great for outdoor types, too: Shawangunk Ridge, a massive bedrock formation that looms over the town, is one of North America’s premier rock climbing destinations. For something a little tamer, stroll the trails at Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary. This refuge is a haven to a variety of birds and other critters that call its wetlands and ponds home.
Port Jefferson
Located 50 miles east of New York City on the North Shore of Long Island, Port Jefferson is a favorite day trip destination. Its picturesque harbor, history, scenic views and rich maritime history gain it high marks on the charming scale, and we love that the town is so pet-friendly. A great way to explore the town is from the water, and several local tour companies offer boat tours, scuba diving and fishing charters. Obviously it’s a great summer destination, but the town stays buzzing during winter too: come fall, The Rinx at Harborfront Park transforms from a roller skating rink to an indoor ice skating park, and the annual Charles Dickens Festival is held every December. You can reach Port Jefferson by car, train, ferry or boat.
A decorative lighthouse overlooks Port Jefferson Harbor (Photo: Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce)
Potdsdam
Potsdam may be small in size, but it’s big on character. The city is home to several notable colleges including St. Lawrence Academy, Clarkson University and the State University of New York – Potsdam, while the village retains more of a small-town vibe. Learn about the history of one of New York’s smallest towns at the Potsdam Public Museum, which features artifacts and materials that tell the history of Potsdam and the surrounding areas. You can also find lots of ways to pass the time including mini golf, a visit to Roland Gibson Art Gallery (a.k.a. the Art Museum at the State University of New York) or simply spread out a blanket and people-watch at Lehman Park.
Saranac Lake
Named for the Upper, Middle and Lower Saranac lakes, which provide many recreational opportunities, this charming village has several unique and interesting attractions. Take, for example, the Saranac Laboratory Museum, which educates visitors about the town’s history as a tuberculosis treatment destination. There’s also a skateboard park, a fish hatchery and an antique carousel. The Wild Center, an 81-acre nature preserve, is regularly voted the People’s Choice top attraction in the Adirondacks, and features a wooden skywalk that hovers above the treetops. During winter, enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride, or go forest bathing with a local guide in one of the surrounding conservation areas.
Saugerties
Saugerties may seem sleepy at first, but look a little deeper and you’ll discover all sorts of treasures. The town’s most popular attraction is the Saugerties Lighthouse, which resembles a stately brick home and doubles as a bed-and-breakfast (it books up fast, so make reservations early). Other interesting attractions include the Catskill Animal Sanctuary, a 110-acre rescue center where formerly abused and neglected farm animals live out their days in peace; and Opus 40, American sculptor Harvey Fite’s awe-inspiring environmental sculpture park located in a former bluestone quarry. Foodies may want to visit during the annual Hudson Valley Garlic festival.
The Saugerties Lighthouse, a icon of tranquility, doubles as a bed and breakfast. (Photo: Town of Saugerties)
Skaneateles
Named for the Iroquois term for “long lake,” this village’s name is a nod to the adjacent 16-mile-long Skaneateles Lake. Life here revolves around the lake, and in the summer you’ll find locals and tourists alike taking advantage of the wide array of water sports and recreational activities. Public swimming access is available at Shotwell Park, where you can also enjoy a picnic under the shade trees. The village also holds several fun festivals including the Finger Lakes Antique and Classic Boat Show in July, a chamber music festival, and the annual Dickens Christmas, which features costumed Dickens characters and free carriage rides, roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate.
Sleepy Hollow
This village achieved legendary status as the setting of Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” and takes its reputation as one of America’s most haunted places very seriously. Like pretty much everywhere in the Hudson Valley, it’s great for outdoor pursuits, but for the full experience, visit during the Halloween when you can see gargantuan artworks (like a 100-foot-long sea serpent) created entirely from pumpkins at The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze. Also popular are cemetery tours, particularly Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where Washington Irving himself is buried. And he’s in good company: other inhabitants include Walter Chrysler, William Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie.
Tannersville
Known as the “painted village in the sky,” the tiny town of Tannersville clocks in at nearly 2,000 feet above sea level. This year-round destination is known for all manner of recreational activities, including skiing, snowboarding, ice-fishing, snowmobiling and biking, hiking, camping, water sports and golf. The Tannersville Bike Path—which is close to three miles long—follows the bed of the old Huckleberry Railroad and is a great place for walking, too. A number of festivals throughout the year showcase the town’s bustling art scene, food and music scenes.
Sunset over picturesque Tannersville, New York (Photo: Hunter Foundation, Inc.)
Watkins Glen
Known for its abundance of vineyards and estate wineries, Watkins Glen is tucked on the southern shore of Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes Region. Each year, nearly 100 vintners and wineries come to town to showcase their finest vintages. Take a lunch, dinner or cocktail cruise on Seneca Lake, take a hike through glacier-carved hills, or explore the area on horseback, discovering the region’s many waterfalls. Watkins Glen International is a mecca for car racing fans, and also hosts several festivals and celebrations throughout the year.
Woodstock
It may be famous for the eponymous 1969 music festival, but did you know that the epochal event actually happened 60 miles away? Still, hippies young and old flock to Woodstock to feel its legendary vibes. Check out the funky, independently-owned shops and cafes on Tinker Street, the main pedestrian thoroughfare. Other notable attractions include the world’s largest kaleidoscope (housed in a 56-by-38-foot silo), and Overlook Mountain, which offers awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains as a reward for the steep 2.5-mile trek to the summit.