8 Delightful Towns to Visit In Upstate New York
Fresh air, historic districts, lush surroundings, and main streets dotted with charming shops are just some of the things that make Upstate New York one of the country's prettiest regions. One should not miss the wondrous views of the Finger Lakes, the creative atmosphere of the Catskills, or even the world-class skiing up in the Adirondacks. It is a serene escape, especially for city folks looking to de-stress, but everyone is welcome. Have a look at some of the most delightful towns to visit in Upstate New York below.
Ticonderoga
The characterful town of Ticonderoga lies in the middle of Lakes George and Champlain. This town in southeast Essex County aptly gets its name from the Iroquois word "cheonderoga," which roughly translates to "where the waters meet." Its position between the lakes made it an important name in trade and travel over the centuries.
You could first hop on a history tour of the town by visiting the legendary Fort Ticonderoga, once named Fort Carillon, built by the French at the time of the North American theater of the Seven Years' War. Afterward, stop by the Ticonderoga Heritage Museum to further acquaint yourself with the town's roots.
Come summer, Ticonderoga bursts alive with the Best 4th in the North Celebration. Bicentennial Park is peppered with live music and performances, fun rides, an arsenal of cuisine, and various adrenaline-pumping games. The parade and impressive fireworks display are not to be missed.
Winter brings a different kind of magic to this little town. Embrace the cold breeze by participating in the Ticonderoga End of Winter Carnival. Fill up on s'mores, bring out your ice skates, get cozy by the campfires, and enjoy a handful of winter festivities.
Skaneateles
Skaneateles, a town fringing its massive namesake lake, is a prime destination for outdoorsy folks and history enthusiasts. Skaneateles Lake, a stunner with its 16-mile blue-green water, is perfect for an adventurous, relaxing day out and offers boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding opportunities. Visitors can make the most of their day maneuvering a pontoon boat from Skaneateles Marina, and hikers of all levels can hit the trails that wind around the lake, including Staghorn Cliffs trails with its dramatic view of the waters.
For a more casual excursion, stroll along the Charlie Major Nature Trail. This short path unveils railroads, dams, and even mills that were major roleplayers in the town's industrial history.
Another natural wonder to enjoy in Skaneateles is Guppy Falls. Its clear trails will reveal a hidden gem, where cascading waters create a postcard-worthy scene. You can take a dip at the base of the falls or just bathe in silence and take in the fresh breeze.
Lake Placid
Lake Placid might ring a bell to some as it is an established name in winter sports history, having hosted two Winter Olympic Games, in 1932 and 1980. These events have been commemorated at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum ever since.
You could relive those historic moments yourself and step onto the ice at the iconic Olympic Oval and glide across the same surface where speed skating history was made. Complete the winter rituals at the Olympic Center, a sprawling complex with ski jumps, bobsled and luge tracks, and more. Of course, a trip to Lake Placid will not be complete without a heart-pounding ride down the exhilarating Lake Placid Toboggan Chute.
Aside from winter activities, curious minds can step back into the past at the John Brown Farm State Historic Site. Explore the home and resting place of abolitionist John Brown and learn about his fight against slavery.
For a nice, quiet time, travelers can opt for a casual day out at Mirror Lake, a place most residents consider to be the heart of the village. You could paddle a kayak across its glassy surface or simply relax on the shoreline and soak in the stunning mountain views.
On the other hand, adventurous spirits can turn to ADK Aquatics for exciting activities, ranging from wakeboarding and water skiing to paddleboarding and tubing.
Alexandria
Alexandria, a town on the shores of the captivating St. Lawrence River, is deemed as the pulse of the Thousand Islands region. Nature lovers can bask in the beauty of Heart Island, a spot flourishing with greenery. At the heart of the island is the majestic Boldt Castle, where you can stroll along the trails, capture breathtaking panoramas of the surroundings, or simply admire its architecture. The adjacent yacht house is an equally impressive place to visit.
When you cannot get enough of nature, drop by Kring Point State Park. Travelers can spend a laid-back day camping, picnicking under a canopy of trees, or casting a line for a fresh catch.
For a taste of local culture, Dark Island Spirits is an ideal hangout. This distillery concocts a variety of handcrafted spirits, with a specialty in bourbons and whiskeys. You could take a tour to witness the distilling process firsthand and sample their award-winning creations in the tasting room.
This town is often a destination for weddings, but anyone who appreciates nature is guaranteed a pleasant time. The sweet blend of nature, historical intrigue, and local flavors will make Alexandria worth the drive.
Cape Vincent
Cape Vincent, located close to the border of the US and Canada, is as cinematic as a riverside town can get. Its location along the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario calls for laid-back days, but this unassuming town offers so much more than that. It is a place where history whispers through grand structures and nature unfolds in breathtaking landscapes.
The town's most prominent attraction is the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, which has been guiding ships for over 150 years. Part of the Great Lakes Seaway Trail, it remains functional even today and holds a record of using an original Fresnel lens.
Get to know the town even more when you drop by the Cape Vincent Historical Museum. It showcases artifacts and exhibits, depicting the town's role in the War of 1812 and its evolution as a vital center for trade and commerce.
Cedar Point State Park calls those who seek adventures in nature. This scenic park offers an easily accessible pier for aspiring anglers to cast their lines. Tourists can hike or bike along its numerous trails, take a refreshing dip in the lake, and lay back on the sandy shores to take in the peaceful atmosphere of the Thousand Islands region.
If you wish to venture out further onto the water and explore the labyrinthine beauty of the islands, go to Cape Vincent Marina, a bustling hub for boaters and water enthusiasts. The town is also a haven for migratory birds, so keep your eyes peeled for a variety of birdlife soaring through the skies.
Saranac Lake
Saranac Lake is a vibrant resort town within the peaks of Adirondack Park. Named after the pristine Saranac River that flows through its center, the village is home to year-round adventures, so visitors can expect fun activities whichever season they visit.
Mount Pisgah awaits those on the hunt for a winter wonderland. Its ski slopes transform into smooth hubs for downhill and cross-country skiers. Summer paints the mountain a lush green, revealing multitudes of hiking and biking trails with breathtaking vistas.
The glassy surface of Lake Flower, located beside Saranac Lake, is an inviting spot to launch a kayak. Alternatively, you can explore the Riverwalk, a scenic path that meanders alongside the river. For pure relaxation, Lake Colby Beach is a family-friendly haven that boasts shallow, warm water ideal for a lazy afternoon picnic or a refreshing dip.
For the curious, the Charles Dickert Memorial Wildlife Museum showcases a fascinating taxidermy collection of Adirondack animals throughout the years. History also comes alive at the Saranac Laboratory Museum. This former tuberculosis research center chronicles the fight against this disease. Tourists can explore the lab, learn about groundbreaking medical discoveries, and discover more of the town's one-of-a-kind history.
Of course, Saranac Lake caters far beyond outdoor pursuits. The famous Village Mercantile offers a motherlode of handcrafted goods and local products inspired by the region's natural beauty. You will find unique souvenirs, artwork, and creations that capture the essence of the Adirondack North Country. Feel the community spirit with a visit to the Saranac Lake Village Farmers Market, a seasonal market with vendor-grown produce, freshly baked goods, and handcrafted creations from regional artisans.
New Paltz
The Historic Huguenot Street should not be missed when one visits New Paltz. This landmark has been preserved throughout the centuries and is home to original 17th-century stone houses, a reconstructed stone church, and even a burial ground. You could relive the town's founding by French Huguenot settlers and make your way through the picture-perfect district.
For nature enthusiasts, the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is a great place to get your sweat on. Its paved 23.7-mile path is perfect for cycling or a scenic walk. The trail follows the Wallkill River, bathed in beautiful scenery and opportunities for birdwatching. When you cannot get enough of outdoor adventures, take some time to visit Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary, a fairly short trail that has lots of diverse wildlife along the way.
Finally, no New Paltz trip is complete without exploring the Mohonk Preserve. This park has over 75 miles of trails that wind through open fields and lush forests; you will be spoiled with amazing views, especially in the fall. Bonus for dog lovers: it is totally pet-friendly.
Rhinebeck
The dreamy town of Rhinebeck in Hudson Valley wows visitors with its mix of history, nature, and charming local shops. Outdoor fiends should hike through the serene Ferncliff Forest, a 400-acre preserve with scenic trails and diverse wildlife. Travel to the past and explore the Wilderstein Historic Site, a grand Victorian mansion that once belonged to Margaret Suckley, a confidante of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
After your adventures, give into your sweet tooth at Samuel's Sweet Shop. This local favorite, co-owned by actors Paul Rudd and husband-and-wife Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Hilarie Burton, boasts classic and seasonal candies, decadent chocolates, and delicious baked goods. Pick up a cup of their signature coffee for your caffeine fix. Who knows, maybe you'll run into them and snap a few photos!
For cinephiles and art enthusiasts, catching a movie at Upstate Films is a must. This independent theater showcases a curated selection of independent, foreign, and classic movies.
Why Upstate New York?
There is so much beauty in Upstate New York that these places are just a quick glimpse of the magic this region has to offer. Explore the enchanting labyrinth of the Thousand Islands, channel your inner athlete at the Olympic Oval in Lake Placid, mingle with the friendly residents in Rhinebeck, or unwind into blissful serenity at the riverbanks of Cape Vincent. The possibilities for unforgettable experiences are at arm's reach when you set foot in these delightful towns upstate.
