7 Slow-Paced Towns to Visit in Upstate New York

While New York City offers nearly everything one could desire, peace and quiet can be surprisingly hard to come by. As a result, city folk often seek escapes, especially during long weekends and holidays. Whether you hail from New York City or a smaller town, these upstate New York communities provide the perfect getaway for those in need of rest and relaxation. From rivers, mountain towns, art museums, ski slopes, and local breweries, these laid-back destinations make it easy to leave the hectic life behind—transforming the city into a distant memory.

Watertown

Situated along the Black River and close to several state parks and a wildlife management area, Watertown, home to roughly 24,000 residents, offers endless outdoor recreational opportunities. With water coming from the Adirondack Mountains, the Black River is a great place to go whitewater rafting or kayaking. The Black River Trail is a paved trail extending for about five miles along the river, perfect for those looking to stay dry. Visitors can easily lose themselves while admiring the historic downtown buildings, which showcase elegant mansions and notable museums, including the Jefferson County Historical Society Museum and the Flower Memorial Library, established in 1904 to honor the state’s governor.

Cooperstown

Cooperstown is a laid-back small town with a population of approximately 1,800, most famously known as being the birthplace of baseball. Those interested in sporting history must visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame, which explores the history of baseball through at least 8 exhibits and contains all 346 plaques of the Hall of Fame members. In the late fall and winter, Cooperstown has a lively brewery scene that keeps both residents and tourists warm during cooler weather. Brewery Ommegang is a local favorite, with a taproom and restaurant that frequently puts on live music and community events, such as a bingo night. Within Ostego County, travelers can also unwind by going ice fishing, Arnold Lake being one popular option.

Kinderhook

Originally settled by Dutch colonists in the early 17th century, Kinderhook has a rich historical background and today has a population of around 8,100. Visitors can spend a morning at the Martin Van Buren National Historic Site, once the estate of the country’s eighth president. The Olana State Historic Site is only a half-hour drive from Kinderhook as well, featuring a 250-acre estate owned and designed by Frederic Church, a major landscaping painting artist in the late 19th century. Looking for a new plant, homemade ice cream, or fresh produce? Samascott’s Garden Market in town is a favorite among locals, open year-round with a giant greenhouse and local market to explore.

Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake lies in the Adirondack Mountains region of northern New York, home to about 4,900 residents. With winter soon underway, visitors can enjoy a day on Dewey Mountain, where they can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or mountain bike. The town offers an abundance of cozy lodges, cabins, and cottages, including the Absolutely Adirondacks Cabins, which feature charming amenities such as fireplaces, a hot tub, an outdoor fire pit, and a picnic area. Fuel up for the day at one of Saranac Lake’s coffee shops or cafes, such as Origin Coffee Co., Bitter Bones, or Blue Moon Cafe.

Old Forge

Old Forge is a tiny mountain town at the foot of the Adirondack Mountains, home to a little under 600 residents, and is the perfect destination for those wishing to disconnect and enjoy the fresh country air. McCauley Mountain in Old Forge offers numerous outdoor activities, including cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and a scenic chairlift with views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes below. The View Center for Arts & Culture, established for more than 50 years, has year-round exhibits, performances, and workshops that will allow visitors to appreciate the local art scene. To fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the Adirondacks, visitors can take a seasonal train ride along the Adirondack Railroad, which offers scenic views of the region’s rivers, forests, and wildlife.

Sharon Springs

With a population of just 500 residents, Sharon Springs has an impressive variety of natural and historic attractions nearby to see. Howe Caverns, for example, is a series of cathedral-like chambers located about 15 stories underground, complete with an underground river where visitors can enjoy a boat ride. Glimmerglass State Park is only a 20-minute drive away from Sharon Springs and has a beach along Otsego Lake, campsites, bike trails, pavilions, and more. Those interested in the history of Mohawk Valley can visit the Arkell Museum, which has an American art exhibit, art collections from Bartlett Arkell, and rotating galleries from renowned artists. Enjoying the sunshine, visitors can tour the charming Beekman 1802 Farms, where they will see the local farm’s extensive vegetable garden, flower garden, historic house exterior, and more.

Glens Falls

Located along the Hudson River in eastern New York, Glens Falls has a population of approximately 14,500 residents and is renowned for its street festivals, creative culinary scene, and cultural activities. Some of the town’s most popular cultural events include the Adirondack Theatre Festival, Glens Falls Symphony Orchestra performances, and free outdoor cinema. In the summer months, the town also offers trolley rides for a dollar, making it easy to avoid traffic and have better connectivity to nearby attractions. For winter travelers, West Mountain boasts 32 trails for skiing and snowboarding, in addition to a snow tube park, cafeteria, bar, and restaurant. The Adirondack Brewery Barrel Fest is just one example of a fun festival, taking place in March of next year, with fireworks, a bonfire, craft beer, cider, and wine to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

With roughly 64% of New Yorkers living in the New York City metropolitan region, it is no surprise that the city is in constant movement. For those seeking an escape from the fast-paced urban life, these upstate towns guarantee a refreshing change, inviting visitors to unwind and connect with nature. Each destination—from the outdoor adventures in Watertown to the history of Kinderhook—offers a unique experience that showcases the region's diverse attractions. Whether indulging in local brews in Cooperstown or exploring the art and culture in Glens Falls, upstate New York presents endless opportunities that will leave travelers relaxed and rejuvenated.