These 8 Towns in Upstate New York Have Beautiful Architecture
If you’ve ever found yourself walking along in an unknown place marveling at the beauty of nearby buildings, asking yourself questions like “How did they build that?” or “What kind of material is that made out of?” then these eight towns in Upstate New York are perfect for you.
The portion of upstate New York is often surpassed by the bright lights of New York City, but the 27th-largest state in the country has much more to offer beyond the concrete jungle. So begin planning your trip North to Upstate New York to explore the hidden histories, cultures, and beautiful architecture in the state's lesser-known towns.
Saratoga Springs
Named after the renowned mineral springs located in the town, Saratoga has long been attracting weary travelers from across America. Whether it was the Wealthy New York elites traveling to their magnificent vacation homes or heading to town for the Horse Races, Saratoga’s unique past had led to some magnificent structures that can still be explored today.
Begin by watching a horse race at the Saratoga Racecourse, which is the oldest active sports venue in the nation. Afterward, take a stroll down Broadway Street and stand in awe at the massive Victorian homes that once housed New York’s most influential figures.
To witness even more elaborate structures, visit the Universal Preservation Hall, which is a community space for arts, entertainment, and community events in downtown Saratoga Springs. If you want to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, head over to Saratoga Spa State Park, stroll through the shaded forests, and maybe even cool off in one of the mineral springs located within the park.
Catskill
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a town with a more unique name than this historic town, but those who visit often find themselves glued to their cameras as they try to snap the perfect photo of the town’s colorful architecture in the downtown area.
Prominent destinations within the village include the Thomas Cole National Historic Site, the vibrant yellow house with a stunning wraparound porch that looks as if it was transported in time from the late 1800s. The site can be toured as visitors seek to learn more about the famous New York artist.
The town also has its share of scenic beauty that awaits exploration, so enjoy a peaceful walk through the nearby RamsHorn-Livingston Sanctuary. This sanctuary hugs along the banks of the Hudson and the outskirts of the town and is home to a variety of trails, which make it the perfect place for a walk or run.
Glens Falls
Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or an outdoor adventurer, the historic town of Glens Falls awaits your discovery as it hides amongst the towering Adirondack mountain range. Begin your visit with some adventure by visiting Cooper's Cave, which is referenced in the literary work of James Fenimore Cooper, a glimpse into the area's geological and literary history.
Check out the Hyde Collection, a legendary art museum that showcases an impressive collection of European and American art, including masterpieces from Rembrandt, Picasso, etc. Afterward, you can immerse yourself in one of the most important battles to ever occur on American soil by visiting the grand limestone Civil War Monument dedicated to those who fought and perished in the battle for freedom.
To explore the town’s origins as a logging community and its transformation into a premier vacation destination, visit the Chapman Historical Museum, which is housed inside the renowned Delong House.
Cooperstown
Synonymous with America’s favorite pastime, Cooperstown has long been a sought-after destination for those who cherish the game of Baseball, as the town is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. So, whether you’re an avid fan or someone looking for a new hobby, the three-story museum will catch you up to speed, from the game’s origins to recent greats.
Afterward, go check out the town’s Native American heritage during a visit to the magnificent Fenimore Art Museum. The building is a spectacle, but there is more to marvel at than just the exterior; venture inside to explore the unique creations influenced by Native American culture. Continue your exploration of the town’s history there, and step back into the early 19th century by venturing to the Farmers Museum, which showcases historical buildings and puts you in the boots of America’s earliest farmers.
For some fresh air, relax at the lakeside at Otsego Lake or hike through the nearby trails that wind through Glimmerglass State Park.
Lake Placid
The adventures and outdoor excursions offered within Lake Placid change with the season. As the snow melts along the peak of Whiteface Mountain, the ski trails give way to hiking trails, but one thing is for certain the historic town of Lake Placid has plenty of attractions to visit regardless of the season.
Lake Placid was once the host city of the Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980. The town still has several Olympic sites that are open to the public for tours. Start by visiting the Olympic Center, where you can explore the Olympic Museum, skate on the Olympic Speed Skating Oval, or ascend to the top of the Olympic Jumping Complex for panoramic views.
One of the best ways to tour the town is by grabbing a historic walking tour map and setting off. The tour commences at the Lake Placid History Museum, which is situated at the former New York Central train terminal on Station Street. It takes you throughout the village and focuses on the historic district of Upper Main Street.
Sleepy Hollow
Don’t let the name fool you; Sleepy Hollow is anything but sleepy, as it is home to some of the region’s most exciting attractions, ranging from dinner inside a castle to exploring local fables.
If you have heard the legends surrounding the town, then the perfect place to start your visit is at the Headless Horseman Monument. Fortunately, it is located directly beside the grand Phillipsburg Manor, so it’s efficient in the sense that you get to check out two historical relics with the timing of one.
Another must-see attraction is a tour through the Kykuit mansion. It was once the residence of one of the richest men in America, John D. Rockefeller. The mansion now serves as a historical site, and visitors can book a tour of the elaborate mansion.
Potsdam
Architect fanatics will have their hands full with all the magnificent structures hidden throughout the town. Starting with the grand Victorian homes lining the neighborhood of the town, the town’s distinct heritage can be seen by simply walking along the town streets. To explore the town’s history, visit the Potsdam Public Museum, which provides key insights into the past.
Potsdam’s location amidst the tail end of the Adirondack Mountain range provides the perfect opportunity for visitors to experience the great outdoors. Plan a hike through the trails along the banks of Raquette River, and bring your camera to capture perfect views of the rushing waterfalls. Or, for a more peaceful day, grab a blanket and fill the picnic basket before you drive 25 mins Higley Flow State Park and find the perfect patch of shade lakeside.
Woodstock
If you ever want to let loose and express your creative side, then Woodstock is the perfect place for you. The word Woodstock is often associated with one of the most popular music festivals to ever occur in America, which occurred in a different town called Bethel. So, let's explore the additional overshadowed pasts of this beautiful town.
To truly embrace the unique culture of Woodstock, take a stroll down Tinker Street, which serves as the town’s main hotspot and the perfect spot to grab a drink or a bite before your big day of exploration. After, head over to one of the numerous art galleries scattered throughout the town, the Woodstock Artists Association & Museum proves to be very popular amongst those who visit.
The town also has numerous historic attractions, such as the Judge Jonathan Hasbrouck House, which is composed of stone. The town sits atop a hill that provides the perfect vantage point of the town below. If you want to get out and explore the surrounding nature, take a hike to Opus 40, which is well worth the physical exertion as the beautiful sculpture garden provides the perfect reward.
These upstate towns prove to be destinations like no other; they promise an adventure filled with historic landmarks, natural beauty, and culture that converge to create an unforgettable experience for visitors willing to take a chance on the lesser-known destinations in the state. So, consider this your official invitation to get out and explore these beautiful towns in Upstate New York before the secret gets out.
