The 26 Best Towns in New York

There are nearly a thousand small towns scattered across New York State — each with its own unique character and special features. They are the ultimate vacation destinations for anyone that craves a more personal atmosphere. 

As a native New Yorker, I spent much of my childhood exploring its adorable towns and cool places around the state. My hometown is actually one of the beautiful towns coming up on this list. 

Out of the hundreds of options, I’ve narrowed it down to just a handful of my favorite New York towns. I’m going to break down what makes each one stand out and who they’re best for. Let’s get into it!

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26 Best Towns in New York

Ithaca

Home of Cornell University, over 100 waterfalls, and the Finger Lakes wine country.

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Ithaca is a small, laidback town that’s embraced its gorgeous nature, like many of the towns in Upstate New York. 

It’s situated right next to the enormous Cayuga Lake in the heart of the Finger Lakes region. This area features gorges, state parks, and some of the best waterfalls in New York State. Specifically, I’d recommend stopping by Buttermilk Falls or Ithaca Falls. 

Beyond the beautiful nature, Ithaca is known for being home to Cornell University and several interesting cultural attractions. Such as the Museum of the Earth, the Sciencenter, and the State Theater of Ithaca.

Woodstock

A hippie-dippie dreamland that built its reputation off the famous festival from the ‘60s.

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Woodstock is probably the most universally recognizable name on this list. It’s steeped in infamy for its connotation with the world-famous ‘60s festival. Fun fact, though: the Woodstock concert didn’t even take place in the little town. It actually happened over an hour away in another cute town called Bethel. 

Regardless, Woodstock is still one of New York’s most charming towns and one of the best places to stay in the Hudson Valley. It’s also where I grew up! If you’re in the mood for a small community atmosphere that’s not lacking in personality, head to Woodstock. 

This little Hudson Valley town is hardly more than a few blocks long, but it packs a punch. Along Main Street, you’ll find loads of artistic flare, local restaurants, a few bars, and plenty of spots to relax. 

In recent years, there’s been a huge problem with littering and disregard for the locals, though. So, when you visit, please respect the area. 

New Paltz

A rock climbing hotspot in the Shawangunk Mountains with a surprisingly lively nightlife scene and lots of amazing shops. 

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New Paltz provides an escape into nature that’s still connected to the comforts of the real world. It’s actually one of the best places to stay in New York because there are a bunch of accommodations and things to do. 

Particularly, New Paltz is a hub for outdoor adventures like rock climbing, biking, and kayaking since its located on the Shawangunk Ridge. After building up an appetite, Main Course or Lola’s Cafe will surely satisfy your tastebuds. 

At night, there are several bars in town that live it up well into the night such as McGillicuddy’s and Jar’d Wine Pub. Alternatively, you can check out Robibero Winery or Kettleborough Cider House if you’re into a more low-key experience. 

Another reason why New Paltz is one of my favorite New York towns is that there are so many quirky, independent shops to check out. Inquiring Minds Bookstore is a lovely spot to pick up your next read and the chocolate from Krause’s is unmatched.

👉 Pro Tip: The best time to visit New Paltz is during the fall. The leaves start turning a million shades of reds and oranges, but it’s not super cold yet. If you’ve never experienced autumn in Upstate New York, it’s incredible. However, this is the most popular time to visit. So, book early! 

Cold Spring

A quaint town on the Hudson filled with tasty restaurants and historic places only an hour from NYC.

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Cold Spring is a cute small town located right on the banks of the Hudson River, only a short, hour-long drive from New York City. For the outdoorsy folks, there’s plenty of kayaking and hiking in the area. 

The nearby historical buildings and landmarks make it a popular stop among history buffs, such as Bannerman Castle and the West Point Foundry Preserve. It’s also a lovely spot for foodies with diverse eateries from fancy dinners at Riverview to brunch at the Cozy Corner Cafe. 

All in all, Cold Spring isn’t the place for partying the night away. But it’s great for a little easygoing relaxation.

Beacon

An artsy village next to the Hudson River with a delicious array of restaurants, hikes, and easy access to NYC. 

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Beacon is home to many of the best things to do in the Hudson Valley, all in one convenient location. You’ll find everything from outdoor activities to breathtaking artistic attractions. Boat rentals on the Hudson River are in full supply during the summer. Hudson Highlands State Park and Madam Brett Park have plenty of hiking trails to keep you busy. 

Then there is Dia Beacon, a modern art museum housed in an old factory that is one of the town’s major highlights. There are lots of other smaller art galleries as well, like Marion Royale Gallery, the KuBe Art Center, and Hudson Beach Glass Inc. 

Stroll along Main Street to discover excellent American-style restaurants like Lyonshare Public House or Meyer’s Olde Dutch. Alternatively, it’s just as easy to find international fare at amazing places like Ziatun for Middle Eastern food and La Barbirria for tacos. 

You can also head to Hudson Valley Food Hall for a choice of several different yummy vendors if you’re traveling in a group.

👉 Pro Tip: The train from Beacon will take you right to Manhattan’s Grand Central Station in about 1.5 hours. So, it’s a perfect place to stay for quick day trips into NYC.

Saratoga Springs

An ideal weekend getaway with horse racing, resorts, and shopping.

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Saratoga Springs has a little more of a lively vibe than some of the other small towns around New York. It’s less than an hour north of Albany, the New York state capital. 

The biggest attraction in the town by far is the Saratoga Racing Course where you can go to see horseback riding races. Many people head over there to place their bets, but races only occur from mid-July to early September.

Saratoga Springs also has a pretty big resort called the Saratoga Casino Hotel. It’s complete with a casino, live music performances, and an array of restaurants to choose from. You can basically spend your entire time at the resort and enjoy a lot of the things that Saratoga Springs has to offer. 

Kingston

A multi-faceted city with loads of personality that was New York’s first state capital.

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Kingston is technically a city, but it still manages to have that intimate feel that charming towns cultivate. 

Located on the west bank of the Hudson River, Kingston is an area that’s steeped in history. It was actually the state’s very first capital. A lot of the architecture around the city still has that Victorian feel. 

Today, Kingston has definitely leaned into being more trendy. In uptown and along the Kingston waterfront, you’ll find endless upscale restaurants and happening bars to choose from.

Kingston isn’t necessarily the escape into nature that you might get from going farther up into northern or western New York. However, it’s still close enough to all these places that it makes for an excellent home base. 

Lake George

A mecca for water activities like rafting, boating, waterskiing, parasailing, and more.

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Lake George is a sweet town that’s practically a paradise for anyone craving a little outdoor adventure. It’s one of the most popular nearby family vacation spots for local Upstate New Yorkers. Accommodations are abundant, but there are also a bunch of places to camp if you prefer. 

The biggest activity in Lake George is the lake itself. There’s tubing, boating, kayaking, wakeboarding, parasailing, and much more. It’s the perfect place to do any water sports activity you’ve been meaning to try. Alternatively, you can just relax on the sandy beaches. 

If you’re more interested in history, check out ​​Fort William Henry and its coinciding museum. Or, for breathtaking views, take a drive on Prospect Mountain Highway.

Sleepy Hollow

A charming, little town made famous for an 1800s legend about the Headless Horseman.

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Sleepy Hollow is a little town with an infamous story attached to it – The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. The legend tells the story of the headless horseman who was decapitated by a cannonball in battle. 

There are still a bunch of spots around the area that honor its namesake, like Sleepy Hollow Cemetery and the Headless Horseman Bridge. That’s why the best time to visit is around Halloween. 

Besides celebrating all the lore, Sleepy Hollow has several other non-legend-related things to do. Such as wandering the Rockefeller State Park Preserve and visiting the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse.

👉 Pro Tip: Sleepy Hollow takes the month of October very seriously. If you’re planning on visiting around that time, be sure to check out their events calendar!  

Nyack

A walkable waterside town less than an hour north of Manhattan with cute boutique shops and boating clubs.

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Nyack is a laid-back town with a fun boutique shopping scene that’s right on the banks of the Hudson River. There are lots of cute clothing stores to peruse along Broadway, including The Editor, Honor & Blume, and By Land & Sea. 

Nyack has diverse restaurant offerings, from American joints like Strawberry Place to Peruvian cuisine at Maura’s Kitchen. There is also a big boating community thanks to Nyack’s proximity to the river. Visitors can hit the water in a rented vessel from Nyack Boat Charter. 

Rhinebeck

A walkable cultural hub with art galleries, museums, historic buildings, and amazing places to eat. 

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Rhinebeck is one of my favorite small towns in New York to eat. There is such a wide range of yummy eateries all within walking distance of each other, like aroi for Thai food, Gaby’s for Mexican, and Aba’s Falafel. 

This area also has some of the coolest historical museums in the state, like the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome. The town also has a bunch of historical sites, such as the Wilderstein Historic Center and the Delameter House. Along with art galleries, independent film showings, performing arts centers, and much more.

Cooperstown

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is just one fun thing to do in this cozy township.

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Cooperstown is best known for being home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, so it’s an obvious stop for baseball lovers. But you can still have a blast even if you’re not the biggest fan of baseball. 

There are quite a few different museums to peruse, like the Fenimore Art Museum and The Farmers’ Museum. If you’re in the mood for a drink, there’s the Cooperstown Distillery and the nearby Red Shed Brewery. 

Plus, the area is surrounded by enticing places for nature lovers. Otsego Lake is a beautiful spot for a boat tour, and nearby Glimmerglass State Park has a few lovely New York hiking trails.

Watkins Glen

Home to one of the most picturesque New York State Parks and a famous car racing track.

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The village of Watkins Glen is best known for the huge state park of the same name. Watkins Glen State Park is probably the most famous park in the Finger Lakes Region for its exceptional beauty. A visit to the state park will weave you through remarkable greenery with cliffs and waterfalls along the way.

Watkins Glen is also home to a world-renowned car racing track. It hosts the Formula One Grand Prix and other major races in the United States every year.  When you’re done exploring nature and racetracks, pop in for a glass at one of the wineries along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.

Greenport

A fishing village with incredible oysters and other seafood nestled right on the Peconic River.

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Greenport is an easygoing town located on the northern fork of Long Island. There are a number of museums, pretty views, and enough wineries and breweries to get your drink on. 

The thing that sets Greenport apart from other little NY towns is its location. It’s a seaside village that’s right next to all the action of the big apple. So, it’s very convenient to just take the train to Manhattan, yet distant enough to still be calm. 

To accompany the beautiful marine views from all sides, Greenport also has delectable seafood. Specifically, you have to check out Little Creek Oyster Farm and Market if you’re in the area. It’s a super fun thing to do on Long Island.

Montauk

A beachy town on the eastern tip of Long Island that’s perfect for summer getaways with water activities, golfing, and fresh seafood. 

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Montauk is the perfect town to relax in during the summer. It’s situated on the Eastern tip of Long Island surrounded by public beaches, like Ditch Plains Beach and Kirk Park Beach. 

The possibilities for water activities in Montauk are endless — surfing, jet skiing, sailing, fishing, scuba diving, and more. You can even join a whale-watching tour with the Viking Fleet to spot the gentle aquatic giants in their natural habitat. 

There’s plenty of stuff to do on dry land, too, like visiting the Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum and playing a round at the 18-hole Montauk Downs State Park Golf Course. Be sure to enjoy a seafood feast at Harvest on Fort Pond or South Edison after a day of fun.

Saranac Lake

A gorgeous lakeside vacation town with live music and year-round events in the Adirondack Mountains.

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Saranac Lake is a cozy town in the Adirondacks with a long-standing history as one of New York State’s most beloved towns. It was actually ranked as the 11th-best small town in America back in the ‘90s. It’s still held onto that charm today.

You can find exciting, outdoorsy things to do in the town year-round. From live outdoor music shows in the summer to skiing and tubing at Mount Pisgah in the winter. 

Saranac Lake also has a fantastic local shopping scene. There are a bunch of local brands and antique stores that sell clothes and souvenirs to remember your time in town. Drip Vault Jewelry Coffee and Adirondack Trading Co are good places to start your spree.

📚 Related Reading: 7 Day Road Trip Itinerary for New York. Or, get your free printable New York itinerary here!

Lake Placid

A two-time former host of the Olympics that totes awesome natural views and loads of outdoor activities.

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The village of Lake Placid was put on the map after hosting the Olympic Games – twice! You can still visit the Olympic Ski Jump Complex, which holds year-round training for athletes.

Today, it’s known as a hub for everything outdoors. If you’re a skier, you’ll definitely want to spend a day or two on the slopes at Whiteface Mountain. It’s the fifth-highest in the entire state. 

Then, there are the summer activities. Even though the town itself is called Lake Placid, one of the main natural attractions is another waterfront called Mirror Lake, which is one of the best lakes in New York. 

There is also a myriad of hiking trails throughout Mount Jo, the Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails, and other peaks throughout the area.

👉 Read Next: Best Places to Stay in New York City

Piermont

A charming village with a breathtaking pier and great restaurants, just under an hour from New York City. 

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Piermont is a small village with a ton of beauty located in the town of Orangetown, just under an hour from New York City. Visit during the spring and summer to enjoy plenty of waterfront dining on the Hudson River. 

The restaurant scene in Piermont is quite impressive for such a small place. Two of my favorite places to eat are Cornetta’s Restaurant & Marina for seafood and Sidewalk Bistro for French cuisine with garden dining. 

Be sure to check out Piermont Pier, one of the most unique places in the town. It’s a hand-built pier from the 1800s that offers spectacular views of the Hudson River [Source]. With plenty of walking spaces, great food, and a warm community – Piermont is also a great place to live in New York State.

Warwick

A historical hub in the Hudson Valley known for wineries, apple picking, and a scenic drive-in theater. 

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Warwick is a lovely town with a ton of history in the Hudson Valley region of New York State. There are plenty of fun things to do all year round and many unique shops, galleries, and restaurants to explore.

I love walking through Main Street to peruse shops like Frazzleberries and Soul & Summit. The food scene is incredible, with Grappa Ristorante and Eddie’s Roadhouse being my favorites. The Warwick Valley Winery is a beautiful destination to spend the day during the summer and fall. 

Warwick has plenty of outdoor recreation activities, too. You can take on challenging hikes on the Appalachian Trail, go cross-country skiing in the winter, and go sunset gazing at Bellvale Farms Creamery. Warwick is also a great weekend escape from NYC.

Suffern

A small town nestled 31 miles northwest of Manhattan with a famous theater, lively downtown, and plenty of nature. 

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Suffern sits right on the border between New York and New Jersey. The appeal of this charming and tranquil village is the local feel that contrasts with the larger surrounding towns.

Lafayette Avenue is Suffern’s main street with plenty of restaurants and local shops to enjoy. Java Love is a coffee roastery and cafe that serves a deliciously impressive cup of joe. One of the most unique things to do in this town is visit the Lafayette Theatre. Built in 1923, the theater regularly shows classic films, special events, and first-run movies. 

If you’re craving an outdoor adventure, hike the 23.2-mile Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail for a challenge and some gorgeous scenery.

Plattsburgh

A historic town with fun breweries and wine bars in Upstate New York between the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain. 

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Plattsburgh is a college town in Upstate New York. It’s best known for its historic attractions like the Kent-Delord House Museum (open seasonally) and the War of 1812 Museum. Get to know Plattsburgh’s lively nightlife scene at spots like 1Up Arcade & Pub, Irises Cafe & Wine Bar, Monopole, and OVAL Craft Brewing. 

Plattsburgh is a terrific location for outdoor activities, too. Enjoy watersports on Lake Champlain to the East and plenty of hiking in the Adirondack Mountains to the West.

Goshen

A Hudson Valley gem with LEGOLAND, a historic race track, and fantastic local cuisine.

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Goshen is a picturesque town in the Hudson Valley just 60 miles northwest of New York City, making it an ideal day trip. The colonial village is a medley of unique shops, small businesses, farmland, and eye-catching architecture. 

There’s no shortage of things to do for all ages while admiring the surrounding beauty of the Hudson Valley. If you have children, the LEGOLAND New York Resort has seasonal attractions, theme park rides, and shows. The Goshen Historic Track is the oldest horse-racing track in North America that’s continuously operated. Surrounded by greenery and manicured to perfection, the track sits adjacent to the village. 

The village of Goshen has an impressive amount of cuisine, like Limoncello for Italian and Elsie’s Luncheonette for brunch. The area prides itself on community support, offering frequent farmer’s markets, seasonal events, Trailside Treats Creamery for delicious ice cream, and thrift shops for finding unique treasures.

Pleasantville

A quaint village in Mount Pleasant home to Rockefeller State Park Preserve and The Jacob Burns Film Center. 

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Pleasantville is a lovely small town in Westchester County, just an hour and a half from New York City. The area caters to different interests with small boutiques, restaurants, and a thriving artsy downtown area. 

The Jacob Burns Film Center is a five-screen cinema and education center built in a Spanish mission-style theater and is one of Pleasantville’s main attractions. The town has beautifully maintained historic homes, such as the Marmaduke Forster House built in 1775. 

If you’re a fan of the outdoors and long walks, The Rockefeller State Park Preserve is one of New York’s best state parks. It’s also a top choice for horseback riding. Pleasantville is boutique heaven, with shops like Rhoda for women’s clothes, Kimberly House for gifts, and The Village Bookstore. 

When you finish shopping and have an appetite, check out Root2RiseNY for vegan dishes or Bistro 146 if you fancy seafood. Or, grab a table at Jean-Jacques’ Culinary Creations in the AM for the best breakfast in Westchester County.

Fayette

A picturesque Finger Lakes town, famous for wineries with Seneca Lake to the west and Cayuga Lake to the east. 

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Fayette is one of my favorite places to visit for wineries and breweries. The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail has over 130 wineries throughout the Finger Lakes Region, so there is no shortage of options [source]. Even for a drive, the scenic views of Cayuga and Seneca Lake make this the perfect spring, summer, and fall destination. 

If you’re not a fan of wineries, the area has plenty more to offer. Rose Hill Mansion is a beautiful National Historic Landmark and a former 19th-century farm with daily tours. Seneca Lake is one of the best lakes in New York and nearby Seneca Lake State Park has boating, fishing, and swimming.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, check out Muranda Cheese Company. Located in a refurbished rustic barn, you can sample different varieties of cheeses. A bonus: bring a furry friend and enjoy their seasonal events like live music.

Trumansburg

A lively village in the Finger Lakes Region home to Taughannock Falls State Park, vineyards, and hospitable locals.

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Outdoor adventure enthusiasts will love this nature-filled village in Tompkins County situated in the center of the Finger Lakes Region. The main attraction is Taughannock Falls, arguably one of the best waterfalls in New York and the largest free-falling cascade with a 215-foot drop. 

If you plan on spending more than a day, Taughannock Falls State Park has campsites and cabins for activities like hiking, cross-country skiing, and boating on Cayuga Lake.

Trumansburg is a local community with a daily farmers market and the annual Trumansburg Fair in August. The downtown area has eclectic stores like Sundrees, a cute gift shop for hand-crafted items. For food, Hazelnut Kitchen is a local favorite for seasonal dishes if you have an appetite.

Newburgh

This culinary city is known for its diversity, historic landmarks, and scenic views of the Hudson River.   

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Nestled in Orange County and sitting on the Hudson River, Newburgh is a diverse town that feels part-city, part-rural. Just 60 miles North of New York City, Newburgh makes a fantastic day trip to check out historical sites or enjoy the popular eateries on the water.

I highly recommend visiting Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site for an educational experience surrounded by picturesque nature. If you want to experience the area from the water, Hudson River Cruises offers daily boat tours.

Newburgh’s best features are the eateries and nightlife. Hudson Taco for Mexican cuisine and Blu Pointe for seafood both cater to large groups and private parties. Billie Joe’s Ribworks is popular among young people and a busy summer spot. The restaurants offer waterfront views of the Hudson River, making it ripe for local tourism.

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Have you visited any of these charming New York towns? Tell us about your experience in the comments below! If you’re looking to find somewhere in the state that you can call home, don’t forget to check out our guide to the best places to live in New York.

Niamh Hayes contributed to this post.