9 Small Towns Near New York City That Are Downright Delightful
The Big Apple is a feat of civic engineering, a world-famous tourism hub, a mega-community that is unmatched in diversity, and an all-around amazing city. However, it is big, loud, chaotic, and sometimes a bit much. For residents who want to exchange the fast-paced life of New York City for something else, or for visitors to the region who want to bypass the metropolitan immediately, there are plenty of unique towns that are but a stone's throw away.
Sleepy Hollow, New York
Sleepy Hollow is located on the Hudson River's eastern shores and is only about 32-miles from New York City. This picturesque and colorful village forms a part of the ironically and eerily-named town of Mount Pleasant in Westchester County. Jump-start your psyche by checking out the Headless Horseman statue, and then watch your back as you peruse the rest of Sleepy Hollow's spooky but lovely scenery.
Maplewood, New Jersey
The town of Maplewood is a mere 30 - 40 minute commute from New York City. Its closeness means that it does attract attention, especially post-pandemic. However, Maplewood is still under-the-radar by New York standards, as evidenced by the modest population of around 26,000. For anyone willing to escape the noise of the city for a few days, the quiet and captivating streets of the downtown Maplewood Village will be a most welcome respite. Book a stay in one of the enchanting inns or B&Bs, shop for local produce at the summertime farmer's market, and generally enjoy a slower pace of life in a place where jaywalking is not an extreme sport.
Cold Spring, New York
The Hudson River village of Cold Spring resides within Philipstown, in Putnam County. If that does not already sound quaint enough, this settlement is home to less than 2,000 residents. The half-mile-long Main Street is packed with various old-fashioned businesses such as general stores/bookshops/apothecary/restaurants, etc. The cute community is engulfed by inspiring and lush mountain scenery that must be explored on foot. One must try the famous Breakneck Ridge for beautiful views of the river valley. One must also check out Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island and all of these are just over an hour away on the Hudson Line.
Woodstock, New York
This Ulster County town is only a 2-hour drive from the Big Apple and showcases live music, vegan culture, and a score of neat mom n' pop shops all along Tinker Street. Woodstock has been known as a place for artistic expressions ever since the town's first artist colony was established in 1903.
Mystic, Connecticut
Around 150-miles from New York City lies the charming New England village of Mystic. This shoreline settlement was once a seaport and safe harbor for building ships and weathering storms. The old captain's homes are still peppered throughout town. Nowadays, the seaport vibe reverberates strong and authentic while also accommodating modern attractions such as the Mystic Aquarium and the Mystic Museum of Art. And, of course, a waterfront New England village will have plentiful eateries. Clam chowder might be the first instinct, but do not overlook the steam-powered Clyde's Cider Mill, which is a fall favorite for hot apple cider and fresh donuts.
New Paltz, New York
New Paltz is the second Ulster County town to make to this list for its beauty. The charming town sits adjacent to the Wallkill River. There are shops and boutique cafes along Main Street that attract people of all ages. One must also admire the 17th-century architecture of the Historic Huguenot Street. Nature lovers can visit the Mohonk Preserve, which uses a series of trails and carriage roads to explore the Shawangunk Mountains. Located nearby is the spectacular Mohonk Mountain House, which sits above Lake Mohonk, with a backdrop of infinite evergreen forest.
Montauk, New York
"Meet me in Montauk," a romantic hamlet on the tip of Long Island. Star-crossed lovers or passionate singles can reenact a bit of magic from the movie, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Peer out into the North Atlantic Ocean and go for walks along the pristine beaches while pondering loves, both lost and found, and what futures lie ahead. Montauk is only about a 3-hour train ride away, which is an obligatory mode of transportation committed to recreating the movie fantasy.
Hyde Park, New York
The town of Hyde Park pops with historical significance. The town hosts the Springwood Estate, which served as the residence of Franklin D Roosevelt, and Eleanor Roosevelt. Tourists can also visit the Beaux-Arts-style Vanderbilt Mansion, which tells stories about the contributions of the Vanderbilt family to the state's development. Lastly, one can visit the hamlet of Staatsburg, which was founded in 1693, after Captain Henry Pawling bought a small plot of land from the Native Americans. Hyde Park is in Dutchess County, just less than 100-miles from New York City.
Asbury Park, New Jersey
This New Jersey Shore beach town (technically a small city) was immortalized by Bruce Springstein's early work, particularly the hit song, 4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy). Not only did "The Boss" set up shop in Asbury Park back in the day, but he still lives nearby and can sometimes be spotted along the boardwalk. Other legends of rock n' roll played shows for the ages here, including The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, The Who, The Doors, Black Sabbath, and The Clash. Asbury Park is still known for its music, Memorial Day carnival, arcade scene, and an all-around beautiful shoreline and fantastic, retro feeling set-up. All of this fun and leisure is just 2-hours away via the New Jersey Coast Line, or even less by car.
Plenty of small towns circles around the concrete jungle of New York City. Thanks to the efficient train lines and zippy roadways, these character-rich places can be reached in the time it takes to absorb an engaging podcast. Take a break and jump to a community that is downright anything you want it to be.
