13 Off The Beaten Path Upstate New York Towns
New York State is an ever-evolving human landscape influenced by trends, including those that dictate which towns in Upstate New York are the most popular tourist destinations. But, just as some towns used to be the most desired vacation locals, such as Catskill (and the entire Catskill Mountains region), many have fallen out of favor and no longer have a booming tourist industry. In this same pattern, so too have many communities in this region become the hot tourist ticket, so to speak. However, finding that perfect, hidden gem town can be difficult, but have no fear; we have compiled our top picks for you, so all you have to do is pack a bag!
Saugerties
In 1832, when this village was incorporated, it went by the name Ulster. Not until 1855 was its modern name given to Saugerties, New York. For those who love unique experiences, consider staying at the Saugerties Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast, which, as the name suggests, used to be a functioning lighthouse. For history and architecture lovers, there are some lovely sites to visit, particularly the 1727-built Kiersted Stone House, now home to the Saugerties Historical Society and the Saugerties Public Library, which is still in use. There are also some great hiking trails on the outskirts of Saugerties, particularly in Esopus Bend Nature Preserve, Falling Waters Preserve, and the Cantine Hiking Trails Park.
Skaneateles
With a name like Skaneateles, this Upstate New York town draws attention even on paper. Its name, as well as the local lake's name, comes from the Iroquois language and means 'long lake'. Skaneateles, New York, is one of the farthest south communities considered to be part of Upstate New York and was founded in 1830, before which it was part of the township of Marcellus. The downtown area of Skaneateles is a historic district that includes buildings that date back to 1795 when it was still a part of Marcellus. Must-see buildings include St. James's Episcopal Church and the Thayer House. In the center of Skaneateles, there are also some luxurious hotels and inns to stay at, especially for those looking for honeymoon accommodations. From 34 State Suites, Arbor House Inn, and Packwood House, the accommodations in Skaneateles are some of the best in Upstate New York.
Lake Placid
If you are looking for a gorgeous community to visit all year round, the town of Lake Placid, New York, is a great option. With a population of 2,250 residents, Lake Placid is most recognizable as the hosting site of the 1980 Winter Olympics. Founded in 1800 and then abandoned in 1840 due to severe crop failures, Lake Placid was turned into a summer retreat in 1850. Functioning for decades as simply a tourist destination, Lake Placid lost popularity after WWII. Today, this region has begun to draw tourists once more, particularly during the summer months when visitors can enjoy the crystal clear waters of Lake Placid's namesake body of water.
Pitcairn
The jewel of St. Lawrence County, Pitcairn, New York, has a population of around 880 residents. It was founded in 1836 when portions of the settlements of Edwards and Fowler were combined to create this classic Upstate New York community. Pitcairn is the perfect place to stay if you are looking to slow down and get back to nature. Around town, there are multiple parks and designated forest areas available to explore, including Toothaker Creek State Forest, Bonapartes Cave State Forest, Greenwood Creek State Forest, and Cold Spring Brook State Forest. Just a 10 minute drive southwest of Pitcairn, you will find the public access point of Lake Bonaparte, which is the perfect place to spend a day out on the lake fishing or even just exploring the shoreline by kayak or canoe.
Saranac Lake
With a population of around 5,000 residents, Saranac Lake, New York, is a lovely honeymoon destination all year round, especially due to its spectacular and luxurious hotel accommodations, including The Point, Saranac Waterfront Lodge, and Hotel Saranac. Close to this community, there are some great hiking trails, such as the Saranac River to Moose Pond Trail, Baker Mountain Trail, and Oseetah Lake Trail, each within a 10 minute drive of the center of Saranac Lake. If you are able to go a little farther afield, you will find Seymour Mountain Trail to the south of town and Azure Mountain Trail to the northwest, both under an hour's drive from Saranac Lake.
Lake George
For those with a passion for American history, a visit to Lake George, where you will find the William Henry Historical Fortress and Museum, is certain to be the highlight of your vacation. Around the fort, there are great accommodation options that span from rustic to luxurious. In and around the community of Lake George, New York, you will find the sophisticated Inn of Lake George, rentable rustic cabins at Seven Dwarfs Cabins, and for those looking for a camping or RV option, Lake George Battleground State Campground can be found along the southern border of Lake George. This historic area also has some fantastically preserved buildings to explore, including the Old Warren County Courthouse Complex.
Ticonderoga
Home to the historical Fort Ticonderoga, where you can spend the day exploring this fort turned living museum, modern Ticonderoga is minutes to the west of the state of New Hampshire. For those who have a love of science fiction television, there is an unexpected museum in Ticonderoga just for you. Ticonderoga is home to the Star Trek Original Series Set, of which you can take a tour and learn about the filming of this cultural staple. Outside of Ticonderoga, there are some gorgeous beaches to explore on the shores of both Lake George and the southern portion of Lake Champlain. There is also Black Point Beach, which is less than a 10 minute drive south of Ticonderoga and is frequented by locals throughout the summer.
Canandaigua
Made up of the 'Town of Canandaigua' and the 'City of Canandaigua,' Canandaigua has a combined population of just over 11,000 residents. The name Canandaigua comes from the Seneca language and means 'The Chosen Spot,' and with its gorgeous natural attractions, it is not hard to see why. In town, Canandaigua has a lovely historic district, as well as some unique Victorian-style homes that you can visit. Some of the most beautiful homes include the Cobblestone Manor, which has been turned into the Canandaigua Cobblestone Cottage Bed and Breakfast, and the Granger Homestead, which is now the Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum. The most popular historic home turned Bed and Breakfast in Canandaigua is 1840 Inn on The Main, this being one of the most luxurious Bed and Breakfasts in New York State.
Lowville
For those looking for a base camp as they explore the Black River Valley region, there is no need to look further than Lowville, New York. Near town, there are many lush forested parks and preserves to hike in, such as Whittaker Falls Park and Roaring Brook Falls Trail to the south, Lowville Forestry Demonstration Area to the north, and Mill Creek Falls Trail to the west. After spending a long day out hiking the innumerable local trails, you will want to slow down at one of the historic Bed and Breakfasts in Lowville, including Judge's Quarters Bed and Breakfast and, 20 minutes west of Lowville, the more rustic Inn The Boondocks.
Tupper Lake
Sharing the same name as the local lake, the community of Tupper Lake in Franklin County, New York, has a population of approximately 3,300 residents. The west border of Tupper Lake meets the east shore of Raquette Pond (this being the name of the east part of Tupper Lake) and is a great place to canoe and kayak in the summertime. In and around town, there is lots to do, with Adirondack Sky Center and Observatory being less than 10 minutes north of Tupper Lake. There is also the Wild Center, where you can spend a day visiting the animals and exploring the Wild Walk, and Tupper Arts, where you can view a range of art by regional artists. If you are willing to go farther afield, the Adirondack Experience, where you can learn about the geology, history, and modern culture of the region, is a 40 minute drive south of Tupper Lake.
Massena
As the founding of American towns have gone through the past two and a half centuries, Massena, New York, is a distinct outlier. Rather than being founded by a man, it was Annabel Faucher who founded Massena in 1792, leasing the land from an Indigenous people of Canada. This region of Upstate New York, being very close to the Canadian border, is filled with untouched forests and tall grass fields. As such, Massena is the perfect place for those who have a passion for the outdoors. During the summer, there are some wonderful campgrounds minutes away from town, including Massena International Kampground, Hillside Campground, and, a little farther away, Robert Moses State Park Campground. On those hot summer days, a visit to Barnhart Isle Beach or Massena Town Beach is the perfect activity. But do not forget to bring along flotation devices for everyone, as there are no lifeguards regularly on duty.
Alexandria Bay
In its early years, the village of Alexandria Bay was a vital fueling station for steamships traveling along the St. Lawrence River. With its prime location beside the Canadian-New York State border, this village thrived for decades until this mode of transport fell to the wayside of history. Today, most water traffic near Alexandria Bay is from pleasure crafts, boating being a popular summer activity for locals and visitors. Attractions in and around Alexandria Bay include Boldt Castle on Heart Island and Singer Castle on Dark Island, both accessible by water ferry. This village is an excellent location for those looking for a relaxing vacation but also want some adventure. From Alexandria Bay, you can take a snorkel or scuba dive tour of the St. Lawrence River in the morning and then take a helicopter tour from the local NCH Heliport of the Thousand Islands region in the afternoon.
Ellenburg
Known at its inception as 'The Forge,' the village of Ellenburg gets its name from the daughter of the primary local proprietor at the time of this village's incorporation. Comprised of four separate hamlets, the oldest hamlet of Ellenburg dates back to the mid-1700s. Today, there are lots of wonderful sites to visit that will be fun for the entire family. Moon Pond State Forest is a local staple amongst locals looking for a place to relax and swim, Lewis Preserve Wildlife Park is a highlight for children of all ages, and Lyon Mountain has some of the best local trails, including Lyon Mountain Firetower Trail and the two trails that take you to the summit of Lyon Mountain.
The Take Home
If the craziness of visiting popular tourist destinations in Upstate New York has become overwhelming, consider exploring some of the fantastic, off-the-beaten-path towns in this region. These towns have the quintessential Upstate New York charm everyone who visits this region revels in, as well as having high-quality museums and attractions, not to mention the thriving Upstate New York art scene. Each of these communities is worthy of a visit and will not let you down, and maybe you will find a new favorite Upstate New York escape.
