9 Most Charming River Towns in Upstate New York to Visit in 2024

Upstate New York is home to charming towns with stunning landscapes that leave you in awe of nature. Lovers of the outdoors will fall in love with Upstate New York because there are many activities to do in this region where the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains are situated. 

This part of the United States differs from other parts of New York because of its rural and country features. If you are looking to have fun in a quiet and reserved town with endless beauty and timeless history, here are nine charming low-population towns near the river to visit in 2024. There is a lot to see and do in these towns for solo travelers, families, and friends. Come along with your hiking boots because there are many trails to discover.

Coeymans

The Hudson River marks the eastern town line of Coeymans. It was named after an early settler who was a patent holder of the area. In 1800, the town had a population of 400. In 2024, it has a population of 7256. From nature parks to historic homes, you are in for a fun time here.

Spend time at Joralemon Park. Enjoy the view of the park from under the pavilion or go hiking along the several miles of walking trail through the woods. Finished from the park, go on a guided walking tour, stopping by Mull House and Cemetery, Tobias Ten Eyck House and Cemeteries, and Coeymans-Bronck Stone House. Bring your day to an end by checking out the Valley Paper Mill Park in Alcove, which is 14 minutes from Coeymans. 

Beacon

Beacon was named in honor of the Beacon fires that blazed from the Fishkill mountain, alerting the Continental Army of the British troop movements. Beyond its history, Beacon is a beautiful river town worth visiting.

It is home to one of the largest museums in the United States, the Dia Beacon Museum. Go to the town's Main Street and join the long line of antiquers to hunt for rare antiques or savor the beautiful waterfront view of the waterfall of Fishkill Creek that runs through the area. Hiking up Mt. Beacon on the railway trail. Visit Beacon Historical Society to relish the rich, preserved tale of the town. If you are interested in glass sculpting, you should visit Hudson Beach Glass for classes and glass product shopping. Go to Scenic Hudson's Long Dock Park to get a beautiful view of the Hudson River while taking an evening stroll.

Westport

Westport is Located within the Adirondack Park. It stands as the birthplace of the Adirondack Chair. This picturesque river town has an eastern borderline formed by Lake Champlain. Get access to lake-side dining, hiking, biking, boating, and golfing. 

As the birthplace of the "Adirondack Chair." You get access to lakeside dining, hiking, biking, and golfing opportunities here.

Follow the Lee Park Trail hike up to the Hoisington Brook Cascade, a little fall under a stone bridge. Other trails to look out for are the Art Farm Trail, Long Valley Trail, Champlain Area Trails, and Field and Forest Trail.

Canandaigua

On the northern end of the Canandaigua Lake is the beautiful town of Canandaigua. The Finger Lake region of New York is known for its astonishing waterfront view, and Canandaigua is not left out. 

It is littered with small quaint shops, historic places, fine dining, and an amazing waterfront view. From swimming to boating, the town stands true to the meaning of its name, “the Chosen Spot.” Here are some places to look out for when you visit: Kershaw Park for picnics and relaxation, Granger Homestead & Carriage House Museum for a fun time-traveling historical experience, Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail for finger-licking meals and wine-tasting, etc. In the downtown area, visit the Canandaigua Farmers' Market on a Saturday for some farm produce shopping. Enjoy water activities like boating and fishing at The Canandaigua City Pier.

Poughkeepsie

Once called "The Queen City of the Hudson," Poughkeepsie is one New York town worth visiting in 2024. Shortly after the American Revolution, this city served as the second capital of the state.

Once recognized as the World's longest pedestrian bridge in the world until it was overthrown in October 2016, the Walkway over the Hudson is a sight to behold. It offers pedestrians the opportunity to enjoy the astonishing view of the Hudson River.

Explore the shops in the Downtown area and mingle with the locals and other tourists during your shopping spree. Go on a scenic drive at night on the Mid-Hudson Bridge and revel in the view of the river. Relish delicacies at Rossi Rosticceria Deli. The Poughkeepsie Public Library District is not just a library; it is an architectural site listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Kingston

Kingston is a town rich in history and culture. It lies on the west side of the Hudson River, about 54 miles south of Albany City.

Its story dates back to the 1700s when it became New York’s capital. Eventually, it was destroyed by fire during the infamous Saratoga campaign in the American Revolutionary War.

However, that did not end the town’s story. It later became a commercial town when cement was found in a part of the community. 

Kingston is packed full of diners, parks, museums, and shops where travelers can get all-round pleasure when in town. Visit the Hudson River Maritime Museum to see Mathilda, the 1898 steam tugboat, and several other notable boats. Take your kids to the Forsyth Park Playground, go with friends, or go solo and participate in sports activities like basketball, tennis, and baseball. At the Forsyth Nature Center, families and friends will have a great time learning about the different species of birds and reptiles.

Alexandria Bay

The picturesque Alexandria Bay is located in the Thousand Islands Region of Northern New York. This village has more to offer than beauty; a lot of history is built into the walls of the sites here. 

Starting from the Boldt Castle, a 120-room mansion built by George C. Boldt for his wife Louise, who unfortunately did not live to see its completion. It is open from May to October. Check it out if you are in town during that period.

The next stop is the Longue Vue Island, the only artificial island in the region. Explore the entire island and discover secrets that will lead you to the Ghosts that have been said to haunt the island. If you are in town in April, go wine-tasting at Dark Island Spirits.

Catskill

On the west side of the Hudson River is the beautiful Catskill village. From its main street to the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, there is a lot to see and do in this small, quaint area. The town has a population of less than 5000 people, offering visitors a peaceful and relaxing holiday.

The Rip Van Winkle Bridge is a six-mile bridge that runs over the Hudson River, connecting the Hudson town to Catskill. On the bridge, there is a pedestrian walkway that allows cyclists and hikers access to two monuments, the homes of two of Hudson’s River School Painters. Also, check out the Hudson River Skywalk while you are there. Enjoy the river view and a taste of history. 

Croton-On-Hudson

On the Hudson River's shores is another New York village you should look out for. Once called the town of Cortlandt but was later renamed Croton-On-Hudson. You should plan your visit to coincide with any of the annual events organized here, like Clearwater's Great Hudson River Revival, which is usually held in June.

Visit the New Croton Dam that stretches over the Croton River. The mountainous area around the dam offers a lot of recreational activities, from picnicking to cross-country skiing. This area is constantly booming, and life is going all year round. Croton Point Park is one of the largest parks in Westchester County. The park offers visitors cross-country skiing, hiking, walking, and fishing opportunities. Learn the town’s history at Van Cortlandt Manor Museum.

Discover Upstate New York's Hidden Highlights

Upstate New York comprises welcoming, nature-rich towns with charming landscapes and unending pleasurable activities for people of all ages. You can add each of these towns to your travel bucket list of places to go in 2024. You will learn about the history of these small towns and also discover new trails and piers. There’s a long list of things to do. Pack your bags and begin your adventure today.