These 12 Towns In New York Were Ranked Among US Favorites In 2024
New York remains one of the most visited regions of the United States in 2024. From its gorgeous natural landscapes to buzzing downtown areas spread throughout, there is so much to see and do outside of New York City (although New York City is still worth visiting, particularly for those who have never been). This article focuses on the smaller communities in the Empire State that have been rated the best in 2024 and showcases why they are America’s favorite destinations.
Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs, located in eastern New York state, has long been celebrated for its revitalizing mineral springs, thoroughbred horse racing, and natural beauty. The historic Saratoga Race Course is a must-visit if you're in town. As one of the oldest racetracks in the United States, it draws visitors from across the country during its summer meet. For further history, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame provides a deeper dive into the equestrian heritage that defines the town.
The city’s natural allure is equally captivating for tourists. Saratoga Spa State Park is home to scenic walking trails, the Roosevelt Baths & Spa, and performing arts venues, including the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. The park’s historic architecture and lush landscapes make it a popular spot for relaxation and recreation all year long, especially in the fall season when the foliage begins to change color.
Lake Placid
Nestled near the center of the Adirondack Mountains in Upstate New York, Lake Placid is a small town renowned for its Olympic history and exceptional opportunities for outdoor activities in both summer and winter. Twice hosting the Winter Olympics, in 1932 and 1980, the town preserves this legacy through attractions like the Lake Placid Olympic Museum and the Olympic Ski Jumping Complex, where you can witness thrilling ski-jumping events or soak in unobstructed views from the top of the observation deck.
Beyond its Olympic fame, Lake Placid is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Mirror Lake, located near the town center, is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or ice skating in the winter without having to stray very far. On the other hand, the High Peaks trails attract more adventurous hikers year-round, offering breathtaking views of the Adirondacks' densely forested hills.
Hudson
Hudson, a riverside gem in New York’s Hudson Valley, has evolved from a historic whaling port to a quaint tourist destination north of New York City. Warren Street, Hudson’s central artery, is filled with various art galleries and shops. Food lovers will find an array of farm-to-table restaurants, cozy cafes, and craft cocktail bars that highlight the region's agricultural roots. Wunderbar Bistro is just one of many local eateries that serve tasty food and cold drinks.
While downtown, many also choose to pay a visit to the Hudson Hall, which hosts music, theater, and cultural events year-round. Nature is never far in Hudson as well, with sweeping views of the Catskill Mountains and access to the Hudson River at hand. Olana State Historic Site, just a short drive away, contains trails and the magnificent home of landscape artist Frederic Church. The Greenport Conservation Area is a more nature-oriented green space just north of town, which features a mix of meadows, forestlands, and marshes.
Ithaca
Ithaca, located in New York’s Finger Lakes region, is celebrated for its lakeside beauty, educational institutions, and thriving downtown area. Home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, the town enjoys a lively atmosphere fueled by students, academics, and artists alike. Downtown Ithaca blends urban appeal with small-town charm. The Ithaca Commons, a pedestrian-only area, features unique shops and locally owned restaurants. It is also worth checking out the nearby farmers’ markets along the waterfront, showcasing produce and other goods from many farms.
Nature takes center stage here, with over 150 waterfalls scattered across the region. Ithaca Falls, a towering cascade near downtown, and Buttermilk Falls State Park are two of the main highlights. Cayuga Lake, the largest of the Finger Lakes, provides further opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterfront exploration along its many trails. The nearby Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, dotted with vineyards and tasting rooms, is another draw for visitors looking to try some local products. Six Mile Creek Vineyard is a popular locale with a great selection of wines and a scenic landscape to enjoy.
Skaneateles
Sitting on the northern shore of its namesake lake, Skaneateles is a jewel of the Finger Lakes region known for its pristine waters, historic charm, and inviting atmosphere. Skaneateles Lake, renowned as one of the cleanest in the United States, is a focal point for recreation, with several key spots for launching your boat, fishing, and lakeside picnics.
The town’s downtown area features well-preserved 19th-century architecture and a variety of locally-owned shops, galleries, and restaurants. If you like art, see The Barrow Gallery, which houses a massive collection of over 400 works from oil paint artist John D. Barrow. Need a place to stay the night? Look no further than the Sherwood Inn. Overlooking the lake, this inn has welcomed travelers since 1807 and remains a central historic landmark for the area. Seasonal events, such as the Skaneateles Festival for music lovers or the Dickens Christmas celebration if you're here during the holiday season, add to the town’s reputation as a favorite New York destination in 2024.
Sleepy Hollow
Sleepy Hollow, located along the western bank of the Hudson River in Westchester County, is famed for its connection to Washington Irving’s classic horror tale, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. This small town celebrates this fun and spooky legacy with attractions like the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where Irving himself is buried, and guided tours that delve into the lore of the Headless Horseman. It is an especially great destination to check out around Halloween in New York.
Other historic landmarks dot the area, including the 17th-century Philipsburg Manor, a restored colonial estate that the public can visit. Nearby, Kykuit, a Rockefeller family estate, features impressive gardens, art collections, and fantastic views of the nearby Hudson River. Be sure to also drive out to Rockefeller State Park Preserve, where miles of trails wind through woodlands and around serene lakes.
Cooperstown
Cooperstown sits on the picturesque shores of Otsego Lake in central New York. This small town is lauded as the birthplace of baseball, and because of this, it is a major hub for American sports fans. The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is perhaps the town's biggest attraction, attracting fans from around the world eager to explore the sport’s history through artifacts, exhibits, and annual induction ceremonies.
Beyond baseball, Cooperstown is known for locales like the Fenimore Art Museum, which features an impressive collection of American folk art and Native American artifacts. The Farmers’ Museum, on the other hand, showcases what 19th-century rural life was like in this region through interactive exhibits.
Brewery Ommegang, a short drive from the village, is a highly sought-after nearby attraction that all beer fans should visit. With its Belgian-style brews, events, and incredibly beautiful grounds, it is perhaps the best place in New York to enjoy a beer in 2024. Otsego Lake, often referred to as Glimmerglass, is another must-visit near Cooperstown. Take a nice long look at it from Lake Front Park, or embark on a boat tour with the Glimmerglass Queen Tour Boat Company Inc.
Beacon
Beacon, another idyllic town along the Hudson River, has transformed into a cultural hotspot while maintaining its small-town vibe. Main Street serves as the heart of Beacon’s community, featuring an eclectic mix of art galleries, vintage shops, and locally-owned restaurants. For a sweet treat, Glazed Over Donuts is the spot for a box of donuts and a coffee. On the other hand, for craft beer fans, Hudson Valley Brewery is close by for a taste of the region’s rapidly growing brewing scene.
Outdoor recreation is also a favorite pastime for residents and visitors in Beacon. Hiking trails on Mount Beacon lead to incredible views of the Hudson Valley. Nearby, the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve has more trails ranging from family-friendly walks to challenging climbs. Beacon’s location also provides easy access to the riverfront, which is ideal for kayaking and canoeing.
Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck is a historic town that was first established all the way back in 1686. This community boasts over 400 historic sites, including the Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn, which is recognized as the oldest continuously operating inn in the United States. Modern culture also thrives in Rhinebeck through institutions like the Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, which hosts theater productions and concerts, and Upstate Films, a beloved independent cinema.
Seasonal farmers’ markets and events like the Hudson Valley Wine and Food Fest further highlight Rhinebeck’s connection to its surrounding farmlands. For outdoor lovers, nearby Ferncliff Forest offers hiking trails and a fire tower with sweeping views of the valley. Tivoli Bays also sits nearby, a New York state park along the Hudson River with a huge selection of trails and canoe launches, all with views of the Catskill Mountains across the water.
Kingston
Kingston, the original capital of New York State, is certainly worth a trip for those who want to know a little more about the longstanding history of the Empire State. Divided into three distinct neighborhoods—Uptown, Midtown, and Downtown—each area offers a unique look into the town’s past and present.
The Uptown Stockade District features landmarks dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, many of which now house commercial spaces, and the historic Senate House, which played a pivotal role in the state’s founding. Midtown serves as Kingston’s more artistic hub, housing a variety of galleries, studios, and the Ulster Performing Arts Center, a venue for live music and theater.
Down by the town's riverfront, the Rondout District showcases Kingston’s connection to the Hudson River. Here, you can take a nice walk along the waterfront, dine at riverside restaurants, or explore the Hudson River Maritime Museum. Seasonal events like the Kingston Farmers Market and the O+ Festival are also hosted nearby throughout the year. With the nearby Catskill Mountains, hiking and camping near Kingston are other activities that can conveniently be accessed by anyone in the area, too.
Cold Spring
Cold Spring is a historic village in New York with many favorite state parks located nearby. The locale is known by many New Yorkers as a gateway to the Hudson Highlands, and hiking trails like Breakneck Ridge attract outdoor adventurers throughout the year. For a more leisurely experience, Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary features walking trails and boardwalks for all skill levels, along with excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
Cold Spring’s Downtown waterfront provides a tranquil spot to unwind, with parks and picnic areas overlooking the Hudson River as well. Dockside Park and Mayor's Park are both highly recommended and located just steps from the downtown core. With all this in mind, Cold Spring has been rated a near-perfect spot for day-trippers from New York City.
Greenport
Greenport rests on Long Island’s North Fork and combines New York's wonderful Atlantic coastline with a lively small-town atmosphere. Once a hub for whaling and shipbuilding, the town today is a destination for tourists seeking waterfront views, historic sites, and fresh seafood.
The downtown area in Greenport is highly walkable, and locales like Claudio’s, a historic waterfront eatery operating since 1870, and Mitchell Park, home to an antique carousel, are must-visits while in town. Visitors should also explore the East End Seaport Museum, which celebrates the region’s maritime history and offers tours to the iconic Long Beach Bar “Bug” Lighthouse. The nearby Orient Beach State Park is also very much worth a visit in the summer months.
Greenport’s location makes it an ideal base for visiting some of Long Island’s underrated wineries, many just a short drive away. Kontokosta Winery is a unique one, with amazing views over the ocean from its tasting room. You can also book a tour with Long Island North Fork Wine Tours, which will take you to various spots of interest in the area for wine lovers.
Experience the Best New York Has to Offer in 2024
New York State’s highly diverse collection of small towns shows the rich history, unique cultures, and natural beauty that continue to captivate travelers year after year. From the Adirondacks to the Hudson Valley, the Finger Lakes to Long Island, each town mentioned here on this list offers an unforgettable experience to residents and visitors alike to the Empire State. Whether it’s exploring scenic landscapes, learning about historic landmarks, or enjoying cozy yet thriving downtowns, these 12 towns exemplify why New York remains a favorite tourist spot on the East Coast.
