11 Nicest Small Towns In New York
The Empire State is home to the United States’ most populous city, consistently drawing millions of tourists every year. Yet, beyond the bright lights and buzzing streets of Manhattan, New York State has a much to offer its visitors. Think world-class wines, era-defining music, wondrous waterfalls, and the beaches of surfers’ dreams, and we’re still merely scratching the surface of what makes it such a pleasant destination. Whether you’d like to ski down an Olympic-caliber mountain, roam the vineyards of a lakeside winery, or run into some A-list celebrities at a fancy oceanfront resort, you have plenty of options to enjoy a very nice time in any one of the 11 nicest small towns in New York.
Lewiston
Though Lewiston may sit just north of the more famous city of Niagara Falls and its eponymous landmark, don’t miss out on this Western New York town and its own unique offerings. To get to know Lewiston’s critical role in United States history, stop at the Lewiston Museum to learn more about the geographical conditions that lead to the formation of Niagra Falls around 12,000 years ago, major battles in the War of 1812, and one of the final stop along the Underground Railroad where enslaved sought refuge and freedom across the Niagara River in Canada.
Earl W. Brydges Artpark is one of the region’s premier performing arts venues, with its scenic amphitheatre that regularly hosts summertime concerts. In addition, here is where you can catch the Artpark Gorge Trail that connects to Devil's Hole State Park. Back in town, check into the Niagara Crossing Hotel & Spa for a lovely stay at a charming boutique hotel near Lewiston’s major attractions.
Medina
Located on the Erie Canal, about 45 miles northeast of Buffalo, Medina is a town where industrial tradition lives in harmony with tranquil nature. See for yourself by walking or biking the Erie CanalwayTrail, which runs over 400 miles between Buffalo and Albany. If that's a bit much, head to Medina Canal Basin Park for an accessible boat launch where you can get onto the water and paddle or cruise to your heart's content. If fully-motorized transport is more your speed, the Medina Railroad Museum has one of the largest model train layouts in the country, as well as a number of artifacts and events to celebrate this aspect of the region's history.
Downtown, you can walk around and appreciate the classic 19th century architecture and design of Medina. For a much more immersive historic experience, book a stay at Bent’s Opera House Hotel, an 1865 historic landmark that was recently restored and transformed into a chic boutique hotel with all the 21st century amenities within easy reach.
Penn Yan
Situated in the Finger Lakes region of Western New York, about 50 miles southeast of Rochester, Penn Yan is a lovely lakeside village in the heart of wine country. Hike, bike, or ride on horseback along the 6.8 mile Keuka Outlet Trail to see much of the area’s stunning natural beauty, including leafy woodlands and two waterfalls. Or, if you prefer to explore on open water, head down to Indian Pines Park for a nice swimming beach and nearby kayak launch point on Keuka Lake.
If all that activity on land and at the lake works up an appetite, treat yourself to the ultimate feast for the senses at The Windmill Farm & Craft Market, a bustling local marketplace where some 175 vendors offer a variety of fresh produce, artisan foods, craft beers, fine wines, and much more. For a more complete introduction to New York's wine country, hit the Keuka Lake Wine Trail and visit local wineries like Vineyard View Winery, where you can try some of their award-winning sustainable wines. And if a quick visit simply isn’t enough, you can book a stay at Vineyard View’s Vineyard House for the ultimate home-away-from-home experience.
Ithaca
Around 54 miles southwest of Syracuse, Ithaca is a revered college town full of world-class cultural amenities, yet it’s also a laid-back town in the Finger Lakes that knows how to have fun. Home to Ivy League Cornell University, you can stroll the campus and admire the waterfalls at Triphammer Falls, see an extensive collection of art from around the world at the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, and catch a concert at Bailey Hall. For a fuller view (and taste) of local culture, go to the Ithaca Farmers Market at the waterfront on weekends and enjoy one of the nation’s premier artisan food markets with plenty of fresh local produce, micro-restaurants, live music, and special events.
While there’s plenty to see and do in town, another world of wonder awaits at Taughannock Falls State Park with its 400-foot gorge adorned with layers of sandstone, limestone, and shale, along with a 215-foot waterfall and a refreshing swim spot at Cayuga Lake. To keep chasing waterfalls, go to Buttermilk Falls State Park to hike through a variety of landscapes, marvel at the namesake chutes that drop some 500 feet along a series of cascades, and swim at the base of the falls. Once you’re ready to call it a day, spend the night at The Statler Hotel, a refined luxury hotel that also serves as a unique teaching institution on Cornell's campus.
Lake Placid
Perched high in the Adirondacks of Upstate New York’s North Country, Lake Placid is an adventurous mountain town with an illustrious Olympic heritage. This town hosted both the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, and you can dive deep into this aspect of the town’s history at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. In addition, you can go to Mt. Van Hoevenberg to see the historic 1980 Olympic bobsled track and ride North America’s longest mountain coaster. At nearby Whiteface Mountain, explore some 299 acres of skiable terrain, where multiple Olympic skiing competitions were held and which continues to provide the greatest vertical drop east of the Rocky Mountains.
When you’re up to experience Lake Placid’s wilder side, head up to Adirondack High Peaks Wilderness Area to hike New York’s two tallest mountains: Mt. Marcy at 5,344 feet above sea level, and Algonquin Peak at 5,114 feet. If you’d rather stick to an easier hike, there’s still plenty of gorgeous mountain and forest scenery to enjoy. Then, head down to The Stagecoach Inn to find even more great mountain views, as well as tasty cuisine at their restaurant, luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, and a welcoming staff who can help make your stay extra special.
Lake George
Only about 60 miles north of Albany, Lake George exudes regal beauty and excellence as the “Queen of American Lakes.” To understand why this lake reigns supreme, hit Lake George Beach, which is often called the "Million Dollar Beach" for its gorgeous scenery, perfect sand, and fine waters for swimming, paddling, and boating. Just up the road from Lake George Beach, you can explore the area’s British Colonial era past at the Fort William Henry Museum, a reconstructed1750s military fort that came under seige and was surrendered to the French during the French and Indian War. The notorious event was dramatized in the award-winning film, The Last of the Mohicans.
There’s more beautiful mountain wilderness to be found along the Buck Mountain Trail, a challenging hiking trail that leads to jaw-dropping panoramic views at the summit. Or, for a more easygoing beach day, try Shepard Park for a pleasant spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. For even more quality time at the lake, check into The Erlowest for luxurious accommodations that are picture-perfect for romantic getaways and family-friendly vacations alike.
Narrowsburg
Perched on the banks of the Delaware River in between the Catskills and the Poconos, Narrowsburg is the ideal town to get away from it all, reconnect with nature, and tap into the region’s artistic side. There’s also some history to discover at the Fort Delaware Museum, which is a reconstructed mock colonial fort, built in the 1950s and designed to depict life in the 1750s during the French and Indian War. From there, you can head down to the Upper Delaware Scenic & Recreational River, which is protected by the National Park Service, and spend the day river rafting, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. And for excursions on land, hike the Tusten Mountain Trail for decent elevation gain and a scenic journey into the woods.
Back in town, you can also explore Narrowsburg’s local arts scene, and a key highlight here is Zane Grey Gallery, an art gallery that regularly features works from talented creators and hosts fun plein air painting workshops. Also look out for your own inspiration at the Blue Fox Motel, a boutique inn offering cozy and comfy digs with amazing mountain and forest views.
High Falls
It’s wild to think that a charming mountain village is less than 100 miles from the concrete jungle of New York City, yet High Falls really is that close to The Big Apple. Head to the Mohonk Preserve for an abundance of beautiful mountain scenery, 70 miles of carriage roads and hiking trails, and even opportunities for horseback riding in summer and snowshoeing during winter. If you’re an animal lover, you may really love Woodstock Farm Sanctuary and its robust community of cows, sheep, goats, rabbits, and other rescued animals.
For a different perspective on High Falls’ natural beauty, book a tee time at eco-friendly Stone Dock 9-hole golf course and feel better about supporting their mission of building a more sustainable future for this region. Also, check into nearby Mohonk Mountain House to experience a uniquely scenic and historic resort high in the Shawangunk Ridge, relax in your elegantly appointed room or suite in the resort’s iconic Victorian castle, feast on chef-driven cuisine, and indulge in healing spa services.
Amenia
Sitting in the Taconic Mountains and right across the Connecticut state line, the New York town of Amenia really does live up to its name, which is derived from a Latin word meaning “pleasant to the eye.” You will find a whole lot of pleasant scenery while hiking or biking the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. For even more spectacular views and challenging hikes, head south and cross the state line to reach Cobble Mountain, a gorgeous nature preserve whose trail provides 630 feet of vertical climb and panoramic Taconic and Berkshire mountain views. Or, if you prefer a more refined date with Mother Nature, head over to Wethersfield Estate & Garden for 1,000 acres of rolling hills complete with hiking trails, a traditional mansion and garden open for tours (with reservations), and even equestrian trails.
For being a small town in the Hudson Valley, Amenia is growing into quite a culinary powerhouse, and you can taste the passion for great local food at Isabela, a “seasonal bistro” from Michelin award-winning chef José Ramírez-Ruiz that extensively sources ingredients from nearby farms. Also, hit up Troutbeck for its storied culinary offerings, as well as cozy yet luxurious accommodations and its many wellness amenities, including spa treatments and regular fitness classes.
Rye
Situated on the shores of Long Island Sound in suburban Westchester County, Rye has all the amenities you'd expect from a city about 30 miles from Lower Manhattan, while also maintaining an element of coastal charm more akin to rural New England. Go to Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary for 179 acres of beautiful riparian habitat that the Audubon Society of New York recognizes as an Important Bird Area, and head to Crawford Park to tour the historic 1904 estate, wander the lush gardens, and follow the walking trail to lovely woodlands.
When you’re feeling a different shade of green, book a tee time at the nearby Harrison Meadows Country Club and play a round of golf, or spread out and enjoy the great views of the sound at Rye Town Park, where you will also find some tasty grub at The Barley Beach House.
Montauk
Nestled on the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk may be New York’s most iconic and most scenic beach town. If you’re looking to have some fun in the sun and the Atlantic Ocean, Ditch Plains Beach has some of the region’s best waves for surfing and bodyboarding, while Camp Hero State Park has a long expanse of rocky shoreline with great conditions for windsurfing and surf fishing, along with an extensive network of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. And while you’re at Camp Hero, it’s also worth the short trip to Montauk Point Lighthouse to see this original tower authorized by President George Washington in 1792 and take in the panoramic views at the top.
Over the years, Montauk has developed a reputation to “see and be seen” in the Hamptons, and The Crow’s Nest not only has a trendy celebrity scene, but it’s also a genuinely great restaurant centered on fresh fare made with local ingredients. From there, make your way to Gurney’s Montauk Resort, a uniquely Hamptons kind of oceanfront resort with beachy chic rooms, suites, and cottages, as well as the full service Seawater Spa & BathHouse, multiple dining options, and their own private beach reserved just for guests.
Make It Nice with a Sweet Trip to One of These New York Towns
New York State may be home to the city that never sleeps, but you won't want to sleep on the Empire State’s smaller towns that don’t skimp on big attractions and amenities. Go to Lewiston to see a different side of Niagara Falls, and try Penn Yan for a lovely, laid-back side of the Finger Lakes wine country. Head to the North Country to experience the Olympic pedigree of Lake Placid, and hit up Lake George for its signature “Million Dollar Beach.” Retreat to High Falls for a beautiful mountain town within easy reach of NYC, and escape to Montauk for the ultimate Hamptons coastal getaway. These are all among the nicest towns in New York, and they’re always nice options for a great vacation.
