![Downtown Ithaca, New York. Editorial credit: Spiroview Inc / Shutterstock.com](/upload/da/79/7e/shutterstock-1582690027.jpg)
7 Beautiful Small Towns in Upstate New York to Visit in 2024
Upstate New York is stunning in its natural beauty, no matter the season. From the historic Hudson Valley to the Finger Lakes Region, this is one of the prettiest areas in North America. The towns that make up the region exemplify this beauty while adding their own unique charm.
You will find Niagara Falls, the Catskills, the Adirondack Mountains, and more here, but Upstate New York is more than just raw beauty. The historic areas, quaint downtowns, and architectural styles add to the region's charm. Here are the seven most beautiful towns in Upstate New York.
Ithaca
![Downtown Ithaca, New York.](/r/w768/upload/0f/d6/ab/istock-966546544.jpg)
Ithaca borders Cayuga Lake and is home to Cornell University. The Cornell Botanical Gardens is part of the university and offers seasonal exhibits and daily tours. There are over ten natural waterfalls in Ithaca, including Ithaca Falls. The 150-foot waterfall is one of the town's signature attractions.
In addition to the natural scenery, there is much to do in town. The downtown area is a hub of activities and seasonal events. It is divided into sections: The Commons, Restaurant Row, and Press Bay, among others. The town is also very walkable, which is one of the best ways to soak in its beauty.
Watkins Glen
![Seneca Lake at Watkins Glen, New York.](/r/w768/upload/d0/01/99/adobestock-134902848.jpeg)
The small village of Watkins Glen is known for its 19 waterfalls, the Gorge Trail, and Watkins Glen International Racetrack. The Gorge Trail is one mile long and follows the Taughannock Creek before reaching Taughannock Falls, the tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. Another notable waterfall is the 150-foot Rainbow Falls, located off the Gorge Trail.
Watkins Glen International is a historic racetrack that opened in 1948. The Glen, as it is known, hosts several racing events and live concerts throughout the year, which always draw big crowds. For a quieter experience, visit Castel Grisch Winery for a guided tour and taste some of the best wine in the region.
Saratoga Springs
![Historical center of Saratoga Springs, New York.](/r/w768/upload/d5/b2/1b/mceclip1.jpg)
Saratoga Springs is a charming town known for thoroughbred horse racing. Fittingly, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is also located here, showcasing the sport's history through art, exhibitions, and trophies. The town is also known for the 2,379-acre Saratoga Spa State Park.
The park is a National Historic Landmark because of its architecture, mineral springs, bathhouses, and the well-known Saratoga Performing Arts Center. SPAC, as it is known, has hosted over 1,000 performances over the past 50 years and hosts weekly events. The ten museums, boutique shops, and antique stores add to the charm and beauty of Saratoga Springs.
Cold Spring
![Sidewalk scene in Cold Spring, New York](/r/w768/upload/57/e3/e5/shutterstock-1845134986.jpg)
Fifty miles outside Manhattan on the Hudson River is the scenic town of Cold Spring. One of the biggest attractions is Main Street, which features over 200 businesses that run to the Hudson River and include antique shops, boutiques, and restaurants along the route.
Main Street connects to the Historic District, which includes the Hudson River Village and gives Cold Spring its charming character. You can also take a hike along the West Point Foundry Preserve. It is a gorgeous trail along the Hudson River and serves as an open-air museum of ironworks that once served the West Point Military Academy.
Sleepy Hollow
![Downtown Sleepy Hollow, New York.](/r/w768/upload/ca/f7/0f/shutterstock-2047310699.jpg)
Sleepy Hollow is primarily known as the setting for Washington Irving's novel, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow." It is also a quaint Hudson Valley town with many attractions within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore. Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate, is one of many meticulously preserved historical landmarks.
The Old Dutch Church is another notable historic structure. Built in 1685 and organized as a Dutch congregation in 1697, it served the community for 150 years until a new church was constructed in nearby Tarrytown. Many cultural landmarks complement the historical ones, like the Headless Horseman Bridge, which is fun to discover. This makes Sleepy Hollow one of the most beautiful small towns in Upstate New York.