7 Darling Small Towns in Upstate New York
Upstate New York separates itself from the southern, more metropolitan, portion of the state with its vast natural wonders and small towns that are notable for their warmer, friendlier vibe. It has served as a vacation spot for those living in New York City and other East Coast metropolises for generations and continues to wow all who visit with its seemingly endless amounts of cultural, historical, and natural destinations and landmarks.
While traveling in this unique region, you will likely be looking for a place to stay for a night or two. Here are 7 of the most darling small towns to visit in upstate New York on your next trip throughout it.
Aurora
Seated on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake in the renowned Finger Lakes Region, Aurora's roots date back to the early 19th century as a farming community, a place for higher education, and a relaxing retreat by the water.
Wells College, founded in 1868, plays a central role in Aurora's identity and had many come not only to attend but to tour its beautiful grounds as well. Visitors can still explore the beautiful campus or relax at the nearby lakeside Aurora Inn, another historic landmark that dates back to 1833. This inn, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is in the heart of dowtown Aurora along its Main Street and is within easy walking distance to the lakeshore and restaurants like the popular Fargo Bar & Grill.
Further explore the natural sights of this area of upstate New York, at Long Point State Park, which features a beach on Cayuga Lake, a boat launch, and picnic facilities.
Skaneateles
Situated on the northern tip of Skaneateles Lake, sits another great town in the Finger Lakes area. The town of Skaneateles is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as having a downtown area in which one can easily spend an afternoon walking around.
A walk through town reveals landmarks like the Sherwood Inn, which has been welcoming guests since 1807, and the historic gazebo in Clift Park, offering unbeatable views of the nearby lake. Skaneateles also draws visitors in the colder months with the annual Dickens Christmas Festival, where costumed actors bring Victorian England to life during the holiday season.
Learn more about this town at the Skaneateles Historical Society, or find out more about the surrounding wildlands at spots like the Baltimore Woods Nature Center, just a short drive east. A walk along the nearby Guppy Falls Trail is another great way to spend the day outdoors.
Cold Spring
The Hudson Valley has long made for a wonderful natural escape close to New York City. Many small towns that run along the banks of the Hudson River have charm that you simply cannot get in the big city, and Cold Spring is among the best. The town’s proximity to hiking trails in Hudson Highlands State Park also makes it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Another popular, and slightly easier park to navigate is the Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary, where a network of boardwalks will allow you to explore this wonderful wetland on foot.
One of Cold Spring’s highlights is the scenic walk along the waterfront, which features several panoramic viewpoints over the Hudson River and the nearby West Point Military Academy. For history buffs, the town’s Foundry Dock Park and the West Point Foundry Preserve will give you an up-close into Cold Spring’s once-thriving industrial past.
Cazenovia
Cazenovia was founded during the earliest days of the country in 1793. This historic village is known for its beautifully preserved architecture, including Federal-style homes and a number of elegant inns that are still hosting guests to this day. Nearby natural features, like Cazenovia Lake and a collection of state and country parks, also make it an ideal place to journey to for some outdoor adventure.
One of Cazenovia’s key attractions is Lorenzo State Historic Site, the 19th-century estate of John Lincklaen, the town’s founder. The sprawling grounds and gardens contain a web of walking paths and are open to visitors, providing all with something to do that is both active and educational. Other outdoor activities abound, with kayaking, fishing, and hiking in and around Cazenovia Lake.
Delphi Falls County Park is also a short drive just south of town and among the most popular places in the area for hiking and landscape photography.
Tivoli
Perched along the Hudson River, Tivoli blends its vibrant artistic scene with its beautiful natural surroundings. Tivoli’s creative atmosphere is shaped in large part by its proximity to Bard College, whose presence brings a youthful vibe and has helped facilitate a number of local galleries, theater performances, and music events. be sure to pay a visit to locales like the Fisher Center at Bard, a popular performing arts theater with regular shows, with tickets available to all at its box office. Another option is at the historic Kaatsbaan Cultural Park, a former dance retreat, that is now also open to the public
Get outside in this hilly riverscape at the nearby Tivoli Bays Wildlife Management Area, a nature preserve with scenic hiking trails and places to launch your boat on the Hudson River. Venture a little further north up the banks of the river and you will yourself at the Clermont State Historic Site, a preserved mansion that was first constructed all the way back in 1750! Make sure to explore the pathways and gardens on its massive 500-acre grounds.
Lake Placid
Tucked in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is mainly associated with the Olympics and its wonderful mountainous setting, full of activities in both the summer and winter. Known for hosting two Winter Olympics, in 1932 and 1980, you can learn more about its history at attractions like the Olympic Center and the historic bobsled and ski jump facilities. You can tour these sites and take a look at many of the curated exhibits within them that relate to the games.
Beyond its Olympic legacy, Lake Placid is packed with natural landmarks. Mirror Lake is one of the easiest to access, being located at the town's center. Here you can embark on a paddle boat ride (with rental shops nearby) in the warmer months and go ice skating when the lake freezes over. The nearby Adirondack Park is home to several notable hiking trails that lead to unobscured mountain views over the High Peaks region.
Skiing at renowned resorts like White Mountain keeps Lake Placid busy all year round, so be sure to book your hotel in advance no matter when you decide to visit.
Saranac Lake
Another one of the most idyllic towns in the Adirondack Mountains, the town of Saranac Lake is certainly less busy than Lake Placid while still offering natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere that is sure to make your trip visit a memorable one. Originally a retreat for tuberculosis patients in the late 19th century, many of the town’s historic "cure cottages" still stand, offering a glimpse into its past as a place of healing. It still is widely considered a spot that is good for your health, but now it is mainly for city slickers looking to destress in the quiet nature of upstate New York.
The Saranac River Walk, a peaceful path along the waters of the river that flows through town, is a great way to soak in the scenery and allows you to walk as far as you'd like granted you decide not to hike the entirety of the Saranac River, which spans 81 miles. Mount Baker Peak, which rests just east of town, is a highly popular hike that gives you perhaps the best views of the area from up above the trees.
Explore Upstate New York's Small Towns Today
What makes these destinations truly special is the balance they strike between preserving their intriguing history and embracing modern comforts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat into nature or a vibrant cultural experience, these small towns in upstate New York make for memorable getaways, regardless of which corner of the state you are in. From Cold Spring to Lake Placid, fun is certainly at hand for whoever decides to travel the Empire State. How many of these darling locations will you visit this year?
