Main Street in downtown Lake Placid, New York. Image credit: Karlsson Photo / Shutterstock.com.

7 Picture-Perfect Main Streets In New York

Between magnificent metropolitan landmarks, an extraordinary mix of cultures and cuisines, and the breathtaking scenery of the Adirondacks, "The Empire State" is a wonderful place to visit. However, if you go beyond the well-beaten path and head into smaller towns, you will discover vibrant cultures and stunning sights you would not have expected. From Rhinebeck to Geneva, open your world up to new adventures on these 7 picture-perfect main streets in New York.

Market Street, Rhinebeck

East Market Street in Rhinebeck, New York. Image credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com.

Welcome to Rhinebeck, a historic village in the heart of the Hudson Valley. Explore the lively cultural scene as you meander through Market Street, discovering local pieces of fine art at Art Gallery 71 or admiring the dreamy watercolor paintings of Betsy Jacaruso Studio & Gallery. Next, taste some mouth-watering Italian food at Market St. Restaurant. You have to try their signature Neopolitan-style pizzas made in a wood-burning brick oven. Satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade chocolates, nostalgic candy, coffee, and baked goods at Samuel's Sweet Shop, a place the entire family will love.

Main Street, Lake Placid

Main Street in downtown Lake Placid, New York. Image credit: Karlsson Photo / Shutterstock.com.

Spend some time in Lake Placid, an enchanting village in New York’s Adirondack Mountains. Between beautiful boutiques, lovely restaurants, a rich history hosting the Winter Olympics, and fascinating festivals that take place all year-round, you will find plenty to keep you occupied in every season. Here lies one of the most picture-perfect main streets in New York. Admire the remarkable interactive exhibits of the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, where artifacts from both the 1932 and 1980 Games are displayed. Shop for delicious fudge, truffles, turtles, hot chocolate, hand-dipped pretzels, and boxed assortments at Adirondack Chocolates, whose history dates back to 1977. Finally, enjoy a fine wine, craft beer, or signature cocktail with tasty small plates and stunning views of the mountains from Top of the Park, a Lake Placid bar with an expansive deck overlooking Mirror Lake.

Main Street, Saranac Lake

Main Street in Saranac Lake, New York. Image credit: Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com.

Discover Saranac Lake, where natural Adirondack beauty meets vibrant, small-town culture. Make your way through Main Street as you explore the beautiful downtown area filled with creative, historic, and culinary treasures. Stop by Adirondack Artists Guild Gallery to see fine art exhibits made by incredible local artists, or get inspired by extraordinary pieces in the NorthWind Fine Arts Gallery. Blue Moon Café is a lovely spot to sit back and enjoy a delicious breakfast or dinner in a cozy setting. Grab some tickets to a show at Waterhole Music Lounge for an evening of music and dancing to top off your trip.

Ithaca Commons, Ithaca

Fall colors in Ithaca, New York. Image credit: Steve Cukrov / Shutterstock.com.

Make your way to the southern shores of Cayuga Lake, one of the 11 Finger Lakes, to discover Ithaca. This captivating city features the incredible Ithaca Commons, a four-block pedestrian-only area in the heart of downtown. A mecca for shopping, entertainment, and restaurants, you will be blown away by the number of activities available. Start by exploring the Sagan Planet Walk, a 1,200-meter-long scale model that will teach the whole family about the Solar System. Treat yourself to some delectable Pan-Asian tapas, seafood plates, and specialty cocktails at Mia Restaurant, followed by a peaceful walk through DeWitt Park, a city oasis nearby.

Broadway Street, Saratoga Springs

Algonquin Building on Broadway Street in Saratoga Springs, New York. Image credit: Popova Valeriya / Shutterstock.com.

If you would like to see extraordinary Victorian-era structures, visit unique museums, and soak in rejuvenating hot springs, Saratoga Springs is the destination for you. In the heart of downtown, you will find Broadway Street, one of the most picture-perfect main streets in New York. Admire the beautiful Beaux-Arts style architecture of the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center, set in a historic former trolley station. Enjoy a refreshing drink amidst stunning decor in the Tree House Brewing Company, before you head slightly west to Saratoga Spa State Park. This exquisite National Historic Landmark offers incredible classical architecture, a Historic Victoria Pool, an 18-hole championship course, and much more to keep you occupied.

Genesee Street, Skaneateles

Downtown Skaneateles, New York. Image credit: PQK / Shutterstock.com.

Another of the Finger Lakes’ most enchanting villages, Skaneateles, seamlessly blends natural beauty with historical treasures. The village was incorporated in 1833 and boasts a beautiful mix of Victorian, Gothic, and Greek Revival architecture, many of which can be seen from Genesee Street. St. James Episcopal Church, its current stone structure built in 1873, is a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture. Believed to have been constructed around 1840, Hannum House (now listed on the National Historic Register) later underwent a significant renovation, with its style changing from Greek Revival to Colonial Revival. Uncover magnificent views of Skaneateles Lake from Thayer Park, a peaceful place to breathe in the fresh lake air or stroll by the waterfront.

Linden Street, Geneva

The thriving downtown area of Geneva, New York. Image credit: PQK / Shutterstock.com.

Situated on the northern shore of Seneca Lake, this hidden gem offers activities for every type of traveler, with an enchanting European atmosphere. While South Main Street is full of historical treasures, Linden Street offers its own modern magic. This captivating brick-lined street closes its path to vehicles on summer weekends, making the pedestrian shopping and dining experience extra special. Soak in the lively atmosphere as you enjoy fine wines, sip on craft beers, and try tasty homemade bar snacks at Microclimate Wine Bar. Find charming souvenirs to take home at Finger Lakes Goods, a one-stop shop offering everything from apparel to ornaments, drinkware, bath and body, and home items. If you would like to experience an American tavern, The Hog Wallow Tavern serves superb drink deals and appetizers in a cozy setting.

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Explore New York

Whether you are interested in seeing historic structures dating back centuries in time, tasting delectable dishes from a wide range of cuisines, or seeing mesmerizing mountainous backdrops as you head from shop to shop, The Empire State is filled with gems. From the awe-inspiring art of Rhinebeck to the charming pedestrian-only pathways of Ithaca and the wide range of eateries in Geneva, here are 7 picture-perfect main streets in New York you will want to visit ASAP.

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