8 Coziest Towns to Visit in Upstate New York in 2024
Upstate New York, encompassing the regions north of the New York City metropolitan area, is known for its diverse landscapes, including the Adirondack Mountains, the Catskills, and the Finger Lakes. This area boasts a rich history, with many towns established during the colonial era and flourishing through the Industrial Revolution. The region is characterized by its rolling hills, lakes, and dense forests.
The region's cozy small towns are steeped in history and charm, often featuring well-preserved architecture, quaint main streets, and welcoming communities. The natural beauty of the area enhances the appeal of these towns. These eight are the coziest of them all.
Skaneateles
Skaneateles, located on the northern shore of Skaneateles Lake in central New York, is a village with clear waters and a historic downtown. The town has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century and has been a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in the Finger Lakes region. Skaneateles has preserved its small-town charm with beautifully maintained historic buildings.
Anyela's Vineyards is the only vineyard on Skaneateles Lake—a unique wine-tasting experience with views of the lake. Carpenter's Falls is a lesser-known spot near Skaneateles Lake, with towering waterfalls and hiking trails. Charlie Major Nature Trail runs along an old railroad. It is ideal for walking, bird watching, and exploring historical sites.
Cooperstown
Cooperstown, on the shores of Otsego Lake in upstate New York, is known as the birthplace of baseball. The town's history dates back to the late 18th century when it was founded by William Cooper, the father of famous novelist James Fenimore Cooper.
Fenimore Art Museum features a collection of American folk art and Native American artifacts set against the backdrop of Otsego Lake. The Farmers' Museum is an interactive, living history museum that showcases rural life in the 19th century with hands-on demonstrations and exhibits. Glimmerglass State Park, located at the northern end of Otsego Lake, is for hiking, swimming, and views of the lake.
Lake Placid
Lake Placid, situated in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, is a small town with a long history, notably as the host of the Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980. This village is surrounded by nature, including lakes, mountains, and forests, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
High Falls Gorge is a natural attraction near Lake Placid with walking trails and viewing platforms to see cascading waterfalls. John Brown Farm State Historic Site, the home and final resting place of abolitionist John Brown, has educational exhibits and a peaceful farm landscape. Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex allows visitors to watch ski jumpers train or take an elevator ride to the top of the ski jump towers for panoramic views.
Saranac Lake
Saranac Lake, in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York, has a history as a health resort town known for its tuberculosis treatment centers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Surrounded by lakes and forests, the town has evolved into a community that embraces its historic roots while offering a wide range of outdoor activities and cultural attractions.
Adirondack Scenic Railroad departs from Saranac Lake station and has rides through the picturesque Adirondack Mountains. Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial Cottage and Museum was the summer home of the famous author and now serves as a museum dedicated to his life and work. Saranac Laboratory Museum, America’s first laboratory built for the study of tuberculosis, is now a museum with local medical history exhibits.
Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck, along the banks of the Hudson River in New York's Hudson Valley, is a town with well-preserved 19th-century architecture. Established in the late 17th century, Rhinebeck has a rich history and has become a cultural and artistic hub with its arts scene.
Wilderstein Historic Site is a Victorian mansion with preserved interiors and landscaped grounds overlooking the Hudson River. Omega Institute is a holistic retreat center offering workshops and experiences in wellness and personal growth. Poet's Walk Romantic Landscape Park is a park with rustic bridges, wooded paths, and river views, inspired by the romantic landscape movement.
Aurora
Aurora, a small village located on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake in the Finger Lakes region of New York, is known for its lakeside setting. Founded in the early 19th century, Aurora has preserved its historic architecture and is home to Wells College, adding to its cultural and educational appeal.
Wells College, founded in 1868, has a lakeside campus with historic buildings and views. Long Point State Park, located on Cayuga Lake, has boat launches, fishing spots, and hiking trails for outdoor activities. MacKenzie-Childs Estate is known for its whimsical pottery and home furnishings, set in a historic farmhouse with tours available.
Cold Spring
Cold Spring, located on the banks of the Hudson River in the Hudson Highlands of New York, is a village with well-preserved 19th-century architecture. The town's history dates back to the early 19th century when it became a hub for the iron industry, particularly with the establishment of the West Point Foundry. This foundry played a crucial role in producing artillery for the U.S. Army, especially during the Civil War.
Breakneck Ridge is a challenging hike known for its steep climbs and rewarding views of the Hudson Highlands. Stonecrop Gardens is a public garden with diverse plant collections, greenhouses, and landscaped grounds. Foundry Dock Park is a small park offering views of the Hudson River and opportunities for kayaking and fishing.
Old Forge
Old Forge, in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, is a small town that dates back to the 19th century when it thrived as a logging and mining community, supplying timber and minerals to the surrounding areas. As these industries declined, Old Forge transformed into a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors with its access to the Fulton Chain of Lakes and an abundance of hiking trails.
McCauley Mountain Scenic Chairlift has views of the surrounding Adirondack Mountains. Visitors can enjoy the fall foliage from above or partake in winter skiing. Bald Mountain is a well-known hike leading to a historic fire tower, where hikers are rewarded with views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes. Old Forge Lake Cruises offers guided boat tours on the Fulton Chain of Lakes, giving visitors the chance to explore the waterways while learning about the region's history and diverse wildlife.
In Summary
Upstate New York's cozy small towns, each with its own character and attractions, provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. From picturesque lakeside villages to historic mountain communities, these towns invite visitors to explore their well-preserved architecture and scenic vistas. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, historical insights, or simply a peaceful retreat, one of these eight Upstate New York's cozy towns is sure to meet your needs.
