Upstate New York's 9 Most Underrated Towns to Visit in 2024
In New York State, the touristy spotlight shines on New York City and other big cities such as Rochester and Buffalo. Consequently, the smaller towns and villages in Upstate New York are often overlooked, with many off-the-beaten paths and attractions waiting to be explored. Towns like Massena and Plattsburgh are by the banks of picturesque rivers and lakes, flaunting waterfalls, lush forests, trails, and riverfront beauty. With a small-town population and vibe, these natural attractions are always airy and pristine to explore. Visitors can retreat from the hustle and bustle of New York City to find natural charms in these nine underrated towns in Upstate New York.
Millerton
Millerton is a small town with less than a thousand people; however, its proximity to Taconic State Park makes it a base camp for tourists who love the outdoors. This park is a hub for biking, hiking, hunting, skiing, and sightseeing activities. It is also home to the Rudd Pond Area, featuring a small beach, picnic areas, a campground, a fishing pier, and a boat ramp. Back in town, history buffs can embark on a walking tour of historic Millerton to see various historic houses and sites, including the Irving Farm and Irondale School House. Meanwhile, the Mountain Valley Farm beckons visitors to indulge in its horse riding offers on the several trails in the Hudson Valley, which also features restaurants, cozy cafes, and accommodations.
Plattsburgh
Plattsburgh is a picture-perfect lake town on the north-western shores of Lake Champlain, with the Saranac River flowing through it. Visitors here will be thrilled to discover many parks and recreational activities, which make it just as exciting as any other upstate New York town, if not even more exciting. This town is home to Plattsburgh City Beach, one of the longest freshwater beaches in the state, which features a boardwalk for sightseeing and a swimming area. Away from the beach, Trinity Park is a cool space to relax on picnic tables amid greenery and tree shades while gazing at a war memorial. Champlain Park is another option in town, but more scenic, with a bike path to explore the area, a gazebo, and picnic tables. For tales of old, visit the Samuel Champlain Monument Park, which was dedicated to the first European traveler to explore the region. For those who visit in March 2024, the Storage Wars Auction and Easter Egg Hunt are must-visit events.
Cooperstown
Cooperstown in Otsego County may be unsung, but it is big on history and iconic national attractions. For one, it is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, which houses the rich history of baseball in the United States. In this museum, visitors can see many historic baseball artifacts and exhibits, including memorials of outstanding individuals who have contributed immensely to the sport's growth. The Farmers’ Museum is another highlight attraction and home to over 23,000 artifacts reflecting 19th-century farm life in New York. Art lovers in this town can explore the Fenimore Art Museum, west of Otsego Lake, to immerse themselves in a world of 19th-century American folk and fine arts. For more adventures, visit Glimmerglass State Park, which features picnic tables, a beach, a nature trail, and a covered bridge to explore, among other great outdoor endeavors.
Massena
Massena is a scenic river town featuring the mighty St. Lawrence River and the Grasse and Racquette rivers, great places to enjoy fishing, kayaking, boating, and canoeing. On the town's northern end, near the US-Canadian border, the Robert Moses State Park promises an exciting experience with its picnic tables, hiking trails, and boat ramps. The park also has a fishing site and campgrounds for extended stays. For more adventures in town, head to Eisenhower Locks to watch ships or Massena Town Beach to relax on the soft sand. End the day with a drink at the Gristmill Brewer for a fun day in New York State. Visitors in 2024 can also join in on the Massena Total Eclipse, set to take place on the 8th of April.
Rome
Rome is a lively town at the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains in the Mohawk Valley that promises to leave visitors entertained. This town is rich in history and is home to attractions like Fort Stanwix National Monument, which opens in summer to commemorate the role of Rome in the American defense against British Forces during the Revolutionary War. The Rome Arsenal is another historic attraction and fortification house in Rome featuring barracks, arsenal magazines, workshops, and other buildings from the War of 1812. For recreational endeavors, head to Delta Lake State Park, which features picnic areas, a beach for swimming in summer, camping facilities, a shoreline for trout fishing, and a boat ramp for boating adventures. Bellamy Harbor Park is an alternate option but less active for laid-back visitors with its picnic areas, boat landing, and landscaped areas.
Medina
Medina is a tiny town that was birthed thanks to the construction of the Erie Canal. Upon arrival, visitors can check out Bent’s Opera House and Harvest Restaurant and enjoy some meals before walking through downtown, shopping, and admiring the colorful structures. Next, head to the Medina Railroad Museum to see an old model train and learn about the town’s railroad history. For some natural scenery, go to Medina Falls and then proceed to the walk through the tunnel under Eerie Canal. Plan your trip in July to take part in the local Pirate Weekend, a bundle of fun with both locals and tourists.
Cold Spring
Cold Spring is a chilled-out village north of New York City that offers an escape from the city's bustle. The historic town is positioned by the Hudson River and features astonishing views of mountains such as the Breakneck Ridge and Mount Taurus. Adventurers in this town can head to the Hudson Highland State Park to enjoy boating, fishing, and birdwatching experiences. The park is also home to over 70 miles of hiking trails ranging from medium to challenging, including a part of the Appalachian Trail. For hikers, this town is also home to the Breakneck Ridge Loop trail, which rewards adventurers with unparalleled views of the Hudson River and its lush surroundings. Next, visitors can kayak or canoe from the Hudson River to the ancient Pollepel Island to see Bannerman Castle, built in the 1900s. End with some history at the West Point Foundry Preserve - where cannons, parrot riffles, and other important industrial equipment were made during the Civil War era.
Lockport
Lockport is a charming town in Niagara County famous for the historic Erie Canal locks within the city. These locks were designed to help canal boats easily traverse the Niagara Escarpment, and the town was named after them. Visitors to this town are welcome to embark on boat rides with the Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises to see these locks and learn some history at the Lockport Erie Canal Museum. The town is also home to the Lockport Cave and visitors can enjoy a unique underground boat ride inside the cave and see some canal locks as well as unique geological formations. If there’s still time, be sure to head to the Arrowhead Spring Vineyards to cool off with some delicious wine.
Ithaca
Ithaca is an adorable town on the shores of Cayuga Lake in the Finger Lakes region and home to Cornell University. However, the town's natural beauty and attractions are more pronounced than its college-town status, and it is a surprise that this town is overlooked. For starters, Buttermilk Falls State Park is just outside the town and is home to beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, a campground, natural pools, and play areas. Ithaca Falls is another stunning destination in this town, where visitors will witness the water cascading down a natural amphitheater to form a splash pool and creek beneath. For plant and nature lovers, Ithaca is home to the Cornell Botanical Gardens, featuring varying plant species and an Arboretum. Visiting this botanical garden in spring is especially beautiful and sure to be a highlight activity. Those visiting in 2024 will surely enjoy the Trivia Night and Animal Feeding events set to take place in April.
Conclusion
The smaller towns of Upstate New York often hide under the shadows of their bigger siblings, and that's a shame because these towns are full of natural charms that tourists will be stunned to find. They are blessed with nature's prettiest offerings, like the Adirondack mountains and several lakes and rivers. With nature on one side and lively events full of vibrance on the other, these small towns in Upstate New York promise unforgettable experiences.
