11 Most Overlooked New York Towns For 2025
Big-name destinations like New York and Los Angeles may always shine in the spotlight, but across the country, America’s small towns are quietly stepping forward. In 2025, more travelers are turning their attention to places off the beaten path, seeking to explore less crowded, lesser-known destinations on their next getaway, in search of meaningful and authentic experiences. Whether you are drawn to outdoor adventure, warm community vibes, or hidden history, here are the 11 most overlooked New York towns for 2025 that are worth discovering.
Skaneateles
On the northern shores of pristine Skaneateles Lake in the Finger Lakes region, Skaneateles is a breathtaking NY town that boasts crystal-clear waters, charming elegance, and a luxurious yet understated atmosphere. Its appeal lies in a combination of historic architecture, idyllic lakefront parks, boutique shopping, and refined calm that often escapes larger travel spotlights. Although just about 2,500 people officially call Skaneateles home, the town’s population swells to twice that size in the summer, when vacationers flock to its sparkling lakefront cottages.
Highlights include strolls along the scenic Thayer Park and sampling delightful pastries and meals at local favorites such as Doug’s Fish Fry and Skaneateles Bakery. Culture lovers explore the Skaneateles Historical Society's museum, or wander through the largely intact 19th-century buildings in the Skaneateles Historic District. At the same time, outdoor enthusiasts will revel in boating or swimming in the lake and venturing out to nearby Carpenter Falls for a peaceful experience of natural beauty. In summer, the Skaneateles Festival fills the air with world-class chamber music throughout the month of August, and the beloved Dickens Christmas transforms the town into a festive Victorian village from Thanksgiving through December 24th.
New Paltz
New Paltz is a vibrant college town of around 8,000 residents, with a population swelling seasonally due to SUNY New Paltz, which infuses the community with youthful energy. Amid the scenic Shawangunk Mountains, the town is a gateway to world-class outdoor adventures, from hiking and rock climbing at the iconic Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park to cycling trails and river kayaking.
Visitors enjoy biking or walking along the 22-mile Wallkill Valley Rail Trail that runs through town, and browsing its many boutique shops and cafés. History buffs can explore Historic Huguenot Street, where well-preserved stone houses from the 1700s sit on 10 acres alongside artifacts that tell the story of the early settlers. Towering above the landscape, the iconic Mohonk Mountain House is a grand lakeside resort surrounded by forest and mountain views, with the adjacent Mohonk Preserve providing miles of trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing in winter. In town, Water Street Market invites visitors to stroll through galleries, antique shops, and eateries, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
Jamestown
Between the Allegheny National Forest and Lake Erie, Jamestown offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and rich history. Known as “The Pearl City,” it is home to nearly 28,000 residents, making it the largest hub in Chautauqua County. Visitors can wander its lively downtown filled with inviting shops and restaurants, then dive into one-of-a-kind cultural experiences.
The National Comedy Center celebrates the legacy of American humor and Jamestown’s own Lucille Ball, born here in 1911, while the stately Governor Fenton Mansion, built in 1863, preserves the county’s heritage in its museum. The city’s historic downtown showcases elegant architecture that reflects its past as a thriving furniture manufacturing hub, and venues like Northwest Arena and the beautifully restored Reg Lenna Center for the Arts deliver big-city entertainment in a small-town setting.
Pawling
If you love fairytale-style getaways, the town of Pawling offers a true storybook experience. Here, you’ll find a replica Hobbit House inspired by The Lord of the Rings, where you can live out your Shire dreams. In the foothills of the Berkshires along the Appalachian Trail, this unique town has long been a retreat for those seeking peace and privacy, once attracting celebrities with its spacious estates and charming village. Nestled along the Harlem Valley, it stands out for its access to nature, arts, and unique local experiences.
Today, a new wave of city transplants is discovering its appeal, drawn by the easy Metro-North commute, less than 90 minutes from Manhattan's Grand Central Station, and the abundance of outdoor adventures and scenic hot spots. Locals swear by McKinney & Doyle for its legendary brunch, while Daryl’s House has become the go-to destination for lively Friday nights filled with music, good food, and craft brews. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Pawling Nature Reserve and its stretch of the Appalachian Trail, and Lakeside Park provides a wide range of options, from swimming and fishing to pickleball and disc golf.
Tivoli
Tucked along the Hudson River, Tivoli, a village of around 1,000 residents, is a charming town with a colorful character that has long attracted artists, actors, producers, and students alike. At the heart of its creative spirit is the Kaatsbaan Cultural Park, where artists come together to live, create, perform, and hone their craft year-round. The town also nurtures diverse artistic expression through venues like the Tangent Theatre Company, making Tivoli a true haven for the arts.
The village is home to intriguing historic sites as well, like the Watts De Peyster Fireman’s Hall, a striking Romanesque former firehouse now serving as the village hall. Tivoli’s downtown has grown in recent years, with more restaurants, shops, and a vibrant arts scene highlighted by the Tivoli Artists Gallery, which showcases around 40 local painters, sculptors, jewelers, and photographers in monthly rotating exhibits. Just a short drive away, the Fisher Center at Bard College draws performing arts enthusiasts with student-led shows housed in a striking Frank Gehry-designed building. Meanwhile, nature lovers can explore Tivoli Bay, a lively estuarine wetland perfect for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching, before indulging in a sweet treat at Fortunes Ice Cream to cap off a perfect day.
Aurora
Aurora, just 27 miles north of Ithaca, is a picturesque village on the shores of Cayuga Lake. With a population of only about 600, it offers the kind of historic charm and quiet beauty that make small towns so inviting. Established in 1795 and incorporated in 1837, Aurora invites visitors to wander its quaint Main Street lined with well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings, or enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the lakefront.
Wine lovers will especially appreciate the nearby Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, where afternoons can be spent tasting local vintages while soaking in stunning views. History buffs can tour the historic Aurora Inn, while art and boutique lovers will enjoy the village’s small shops and galleries. For outdoor recreation, kayaking, sailing, and fishing on the lake are popular, and nearby parks provide perfect spots for picnics, birdwatching, and photography. The town also offers cozy cafés and farm-to-table restaurants, like 1833 Kitchen and Bar, making Aurora a well-rounded destination for a relaxing day or weekend getaway.
Cooperstown
Right in the heart of upstate New York, Cooperstown offers a welcoming escape from the usual tourist traps and trails. With a population of just under 2,000, it combines small-town charm with a rich cultural and historical legacy, deserving more attention from travelers seeking authentic experiences. Cooperstown is best known as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, established in 1936, making it a must-visit for sports enthusiasts. With interactive exhibits and rare memorabilia chronicling “America’s Favorite Pastime,” it’s an unforgettable experience for die-hard baseball enthusiasts and casual fans alike.
Beyond baseball, visitors can step into the past by exploring the Historic District, where landmarks like the Fenimore Art Museum, housed in the former home of famed American novelist James Fenimore Cooper, invite a closer look. Stroll along scenic Otsego Lake, or step back in time at the Fenimore Farm and Country Village, which showcases 19th-century rural life.
Beacon
Beacon is a lively, art-filled town just an hour and a half from New York City, perfect for a day trip, weekend getaway, or even a full vacation. Once a factory town, Beacon has reinvented itself as a creative hub, while still keeping its small-town charm. From waterfront parks with sweeping Hudson River views to imaginative uses of old industrial spaces, Beacon captures the architectural character and creative spirit that echo Manhattan’s legendary downtown, all while offering a more relaxed, small-town experience.
Its biggest highlight is Dia Beacon, a massive 300,000-square-foot museum inside a former Nabisco factory by the Hudson River, showcasing modern art in a space that's larger than New York City's Guggenheim, Whitney, and MoMA combined. Beyond the museum, history buffs enjoy the Mount Gulian Historic Site, a Revolutionary War landmark and reconstructed Dutch manor house, while outdoor enthusiasts can hike the challenging but rewarding Mount Beacon Trail for sweeping views of the Hudson Valley. For a treat, head to Hudson Valley Marshmallow Company, or sample local beers at Two Way Brewing Company.
Hudson
Hudson, the town named after the river, is a haven for antique lovers and artists alike. It also holds a notable place in US history, being the first city incorporated after the original 13 states. Its natural harbor on the Hudson River initially made it a hub for whalers and marine traders, later transforming into a center for heavy industry, including ironworks and factories. Today, around 6,000 residents enjoy Hudson’s enduring historic architecture, from Federal-style buildings to Victorian and Nantucket-inspired houses, making it a uniquely appealing destination.
Warren Street serves as the main artery downtown, stretching for about a mile and lined with shops, bars, antique dealers, restaurants, and more. Strolling along this vibrant street offers numerous opportunities for photography and immersing oneself in the town’s charm. Visitors can take in the Hudson River waterfront for scenic walks and sunset views, and art lovers will appreciate the Hudson Opera House, a beautifully restored 19th-century venue hosting performances and community events. Nature enthusiasts can venture just outside town to the Olana State Historic Site, the stunning home of famed landscape painter Frederic Edwin Church, offering both architectural beauty and panoramic views of the Hudson Valley.
Lake Placid
Lake Placid in the Adirondack Mountains is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The town offers some of the best hiking in the Northeastern United States alongside an adorable downtown filled with shops and restaurants. Summer is particularly inviting, with lush green mountains and pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring the trails or unwinding at local resorts and spas.
Despite its small population of fewer than 3,000 people, Lake Placid gained international fame as the host of both the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. Visitors can dive into Olympic history at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, located on Main Street, which also boasts an array of local boutiques, cycling shops, a maple syrup emporium, and specialty stores. The town stands out for its world-class ski slopes and year-round outdoor activities, from hiking in the High Peaks to boating on Mirror Lake. Meanwhile, The Olympic Center offers figure skating and hockey year-round for those who want to live their own Olympic dream.
Saranac Lake
Often called “The Capital of the Adirondacks,” Saranac Lake has an authentic, lived-in character rather than a flashy tourist vibe, yet it still offers excellent dining, unique shops, abundant recreation, and beautifully preserved architecture. A walk through town reveals the iconic “cure cottages,” homes built in the early 1900s with wide porches and balconies where tuberculosis patients once took in the crisp mountain air as part of their treatment. Visitors can learn more about this fascinating chapter of medical history at the Saranac Laboratory Museum.
Another highlight is the Charles Dickert Memorial Wildlife Museum, which houses over 100 examples of the taxidermist’s work, featuring local fauna from deer to herons. For outdoor activities, the nearby ski hill provides winter fun on the slopes and transforms into a mountain biking destination during the warmer months, ensuring year-round adventure. Visitors can also enjoy a canoe or kayak along Lake Flower, stroll the scenic and accessible Riverwalk through downtown, and visit the literary-historic Robert Louis Stevenson Cottage, a museum dedicated to the life of the author who penned such classics as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Treasure Island.
For anyone looking to discover hidden gems, enjoy a slower pace of life, or explore the state’s rich cultural tapestry, New York’s most overlooked towns for 2025 offer a chance to experience the Empire State beyond the usual crowded destinations. Their small populations and preserved architecture give a sense of community and tranquility, while attractions like museums, wine trails, historic inns, and galleries ensure there’s always something to explore.
