9 Best Small Towns in Upstate New York For A Weekend Escape

The best small towns in Upstate New York are heavenly escapes from busy urban lifestyles and sun-blocking concrete buildings. They offer a balance of everything one can look for in their time away, from community gatherings and events to historical museums and architecture; the small towns of upstate New York have a relaxing vibe for every visitor. 

These towns are mostly accessible by car from New York City and require you to travel along scenic highway routes filled with greenery and nature. Although they're located in the United States, where cars are sometimes necessary, these towns are easily walkable and great for exploring on bikes, especially when visiting their downtown areas and main streets.

Corning

Corning is often listed among the best small towns in New York, celebrated for its stunning natural scenery, small-town charm, and friendly residents. Known as "Crystal City," it owes its nickname to being a leading glass producer in the U.S. Visitors can enjoy several attractions, such as the Glass Museum to explore Corning’s history, browse its charming downtown shops, and visit local craft breweries. The quaint downtown resembles the classic Main Street, USA scene from Disneyland, filled with diverse bookshops, local fashion boutiques, and cozy family-owned cafes and eateries. 

Ithaca

Named one of America’s top college towns, Ithaca is a must-visit destination that caters to students with its vibrant nightlife, local cuisines, and cozy short-term rentals. Renowned for its waterfalls and natural beauty, the city boasts over 150 waterfalls within its scenic parks and preserves. Key attractions include its downtown commons, a hub for small businesses, entertainment, and vendors. Notable seasonal events include the Ithaca Apple Harvest Festival in fall and the Downtown Ithaca Chili Cook-Off in winter.

Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen, situated at the southern end of Seneca Lake, is renowned for its natural beauty, proximity to wineries, and charming downtown area. N. Franklin St serves as the town’s main commercial street, featuring many small, locally-owned shops that offer a unique shopping experience to draw visitors. The city is primarily focused on outdoor and nature activities, boasting some of the top hiking trails in New York State. Notable trails include Indian, Finger Lakes, and Gorge Trail, which takes hikers along and beneath stunning waterfalls that are among the most picturesque in the region.

Geneva

Geneva, New York, not the one in Switzerland, is famous for being one of the best fishing towns in the area and is nicknamed the “Lake Trout Capital of the world,” Geneva sits at the tip of Seneca Lake, one of the well-known finger lakes, and has its whole escape experience based around watersports and activities. Just like a few other small New York towns, Geneva is famous for its surrounding wineries and vineyards. The town's Visitor attractions include the Rose Hill Mansion Historical Museum, the South Main Street historic district, and the Smith Opera House. Additionally, the city has a beautiful Victorian architecture that can be enjoyed by simply walking its famous streets and embracing your surroundings.

Auburn

Auburn has a rich historical background, being home to notable 19th-century figures like New York Governor William H. Seward and Harriet Tubman. South Street in Auburn is celebrated for its historic architecture, located just south of the city’s business district. The neighborhood features many Victorian buildings from the early 1800s. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along charming streets and explore the local shops within the Business Improvement District (BID). This district supports small businesses, offering a variety of coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques. Auburn is an ideal, quiet small town for those seeking a peaceful escape that combines history and nature.

Aurora

Aurora is a picturesque town with beautiful historic buildings of Victorian architecture that sits along the shores of Cayuga. Voted the best lake town in New York by Orbitz, Aurora is the perfect relaxing weekend escape by the waters. The town balances small-town community vibes with a beautiful nature-centric aesthetic with the cutest small businesses that inhabit small residential buildings, turning them into a small homely shopping boutique. Places to visit include visiting the town’s local vineyards, such as the Long Port Winery, going for a dip, or a fishing trip in Cayuga Lake. 

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs stands out on small-town lists across New York for many reasons, including its natural mineral springs and the historic Saratoga Race Course. It is the perfect spot in Upstate New York to unwind, with many attractions featuring spas and resorts. Besides its relaxing atmosphere, the town offers a walkable downtown shopping strip and numerous parks and scenic picnic areas. Notable green spaces include Saratoga Spa State Park, Historic Congress Park, and Waterfront Park along Fish Creek Pond. 

Beacon

Just an hour and a half drive from New York City, this art-filled town sits on the shore of the Hudson River. Beacon is known for its contemporary art galleries and museums, with its most notable being the Dia Beacon Art Display and other galleries such as the Husdon Glass and The Clutter Gallery. However, water views and galleries aren’t everything the town offers, as it has one of the most charming main streets, a local produce farmer’s market, and the historic remains of the Bannerman Castle. Beacon is among the best options for an all-inclusive getaway to enjoy everything Upstate New York offers in one place. 

Woodstock

Finally, Woodstock, a favorite among tourists, is a well-known destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat with a rich history. Once a central hub for Hippie culture, Woodstock still reflects the tranquil atmosphere left by that movement. Visitors can explore pop culture shops selling vintage music merchandise, visit museums, or attend street events celebrating the Woodstock concerts of 1969 and 2001. The town is famous for its lush green landscapes, with main street lined with trees and small residential houses that have been transformed into boutiques for locals and families. 

Ultimately Upstate New York is known for its breathtaking nature and rich history and offers something for every taste and interest. These small towns guarantee a memorable experience and can be whatever you plan them to be; whether you’re looking for a chill town on the water or want to explore new trails and paths, New York will not disappoint.

Yet your best bet to fall in love with upstate New York is to go for a town that offers a balance of everything, so if you don’t like its beach or parks, its main streets and museums will keep you from thinking of heading back to the city.