The Best Small Towns in New York to Chill Out

New York has long been known for its range of landscapes and experiences. And what's not to love? With a city that never sleeps, an Olympic training center, vast wooded areas, and a thriving wine country, New York offers a wide range of landscapes and experiences. The Mohawk Valley, Adirondacks, and Finger Lakes are just a few of the regions that provide varied activities, dining options, and scenery. Whether you visit for a long weekend or a single day, there is no shortage of things to do. From quiet outdoor settings to small-town main streets, these are some of the best small towns in New York to chill out.

Ithaca

In upstate New York, the Finger Lakes region encompasses 14 counties and is centered around 11 long, glacially carved lakes. Ithaca is located within the Finger Lakes region and is known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor excursions. Enjoy an afternoon at Buttermilk Falls State Park. Separated into multiple sections, the park allows visitors to spend the day hiking through woodlands, along the gorge, and around the rim, before ending the night at the campground located by the natural pool. The campground is in the lower park, beyond which is Larch Meadows, a wetland area with a natural hiking trail winding through it.

Explore another feature of Ithaca at Cascadilla Gorge. Rock, water, and trees create a distinctive setting as Cascadilla Creek drops 400 feet from the Cornell campus to downtown Ithaca. The Cascadilla Gorge Trail winds through historic bedrock and passes six waterfalls.

For even more cascading scenery, visit Ithaca Falls Natural Area. A symbol of the town, the falls sit at a crossroads of deep gorges and stand over 100 feet tall and nearly 175 feet wide at their base. Sheer cliffs border the falls, which can be easy to miss when driving by. As one of the most accessible waterfalls in the Finger Lakes, Ithaca Falls can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Saranac Lake

Take in panoramic views of the town of Saranac Lake from the top of Baker Mountain. Less than one mile of uphill climbing provides views of the town, Lake Flower, and the High Peaks. Visitors can start the hike at Moody Pond or add an extra mile by beginning at Berkeley Green.

Enjoy a visit to the Robert Louis Stevenson Cottage Museum. Although the authors of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Treasure Island lived in Saranac Lake for only six months, their presence left a lasting mark that is preserved at the museum. The collection of Stevenson’s personal belongings and related materials is owned and operated by the Stevenson Society of America and is recognized as the world’s first site dedicated to Stevenson.

Another attraction that preserves historical entertainment is the Adirondack Carousel. The classic ride features 24 animals, all hand-carved by selected artists. The animals were designed to resemble creatures found in Adirondack Park, including a fox, frog, loon, moose, and otter.

Lake George

Located in the Adirondacks, the town of Lake George is situated on the lake with the same name. Being settled on a lake provides many opportunities for water-related activities and enjoyment. The largest and most popular beach on the lake is Lake George Beach, also known as Million Dollar Beach, which offers swimming and boating opportunities. The 51-acre beach sits on the southernmost shore of Lake George and includes a bathhouse and concessions, allowing visitors to spend the day along the shoreline.

At the beach, visitors can take advantage of several activities on the water. Parasail Joes offers parasailing for those interested in seeing Lake George from above. The company features the longest tow lines on the lake and has been family-owned and operated for over 30 years. Visitors can also take a boating trip with the Lake George Steamboat Company. Guests may board the Minne Ha-Ha, the MV Mohican II, or the company’s flagship, Lac du Saint Sacrement, and cruise across the lake with views of the surrounding Adirondack Mountains. Operating on Lake George for over 200 years, the Lake George Steamboat Company offers daily cruises with dining, narration, music, and drinks.

Ticonderoga

History buffs may want to visit Ticonderoga to learn more about the town’s heritage and military roots. Visitors can explore Fort Ticonderoga, which functions as a cultural center, museum, historic site, and learning space. The grounds feature reenactments of army marches, encampments, and battles across 2,000 acres of historic landscape. Guests can also travel up Mount Defiance for an elevated view of the fort. The summit of the 840-foot hill is accessible by car or on foot and includes cannons overlooking the site.

To gain additional insight into the town beyond its military past, visitors can stop at the Ticonderoga Heritage Museum. The museum focuses on the area’s industrial history and includes exhibits related to the Ticonderoga Pulp & Paper Company, International Paper Company, American Graphite Company, and the Delaware & Hudson Railroad.

Lake Placid

Home of the first Winter Olympics in North America, Lake Placid has become a well-known destination for winter sports. Olympic enthusiasts and sports fans can learn about the 1932 and 1980 Games at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. The exhibits cover topics ranging from the journey of the Olympic torch to Lake Placid to what it takes to become an Olympian, along with artwork from the Games.

For a different perspective, visitors can stop at the Olympic Jumping Complex. Casual visitors can participate in zip lining or the Skyride Experience. A gondola carries guests to the base of the jumps; then a glass-enclosed elevator takes them to the observation deck of the HS 128-meter ski jump tower, and offers panoramic views of Lake Placid and the Adirondack Mountains.

Outside the Olympic Village, the John Brown Farm State Historic Site provides hiking trails, tours, and reenactments at the former home of the abolitionist. The site includes Brown’s gravestone and an exhibit titled “Dreaming of Timbuctoo,” which tells the story of a local farming community created by abolitionist Gerrit Smith for Black families to homestead in the Adirondacks.

A Slower Side of New York

Visit a part of New York that offers a different pace. Scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and lakeside beaches give visitors options beyond what many expect from the Empire State. For a slower-paced trip that includes outdoor activities, historical sites, or relaxed ways to spend the day, these small towns provide a range of experiences. Whether planning a weekend trip or a short day trip from the city, visitors will find plenty of ways to fill their time.