7 Old-Timey General Stores In Upstate New York

There’s something undeniably magical about walking into a place where time seems to stand still—where creaky floorboards, candy counters, and shelves packed with everything from homemade jam to enamelware evoke a sense of nostalgia that’s increasingly rare in the modern world. Welcome to Upstate New York’s old-timey general stores: living relics of community life that once served as the heartbeat of every small town.

Tucked into the scenic landscapes of the Adirondacks, Catskills, and Hudson Valley, these charming shops are more than just retail destinations—they're pieces of local history wrapped in wood-paneled walls and peppered with personal stories. Whether you’re picking up penny candy at Northville Five & Dime, browsing for balsam-scented treasures at the Adirondack General Store, or enjoying breakfast on the deck at Hoss’s Country Corner in Long Lake, each of these stops offers a truly immersive, down-to-earth experience.

These general stores are beloved by locals and irresistible to travelers looking for a unique slice of Upstate charm, tucked among mountain trails, lakeside retreats, and scenic byways.

Hillsdale General Store

Set in the scenic Hillsdale Hamlet near the Berkshires, Hillsdale General Store is a thoughtfully curated destination for timeless home goods and gifts. Housed in a beautifully restored 1855 building, this old-style emporium offers a warm nod to simpler times—where quality, charm, and utility go hand in hand.

With shelves filled with classic cookware, heritage textiles, vintage-inspired tools, and décor that feels right at home in both city lofts and country cottages, the store celebrates enduring design. Every piece is selected with the belief that good things never go out of style.

Once a grocery, then a sporting goods shop, and even a video rental spot in the '70s, the building has evolved while keeping its roots firmly intact. Today, it anchors the heart of Hillsdale’s National Historic District alongside a beloved farm-to-table restaurant and an art gallery, making it a perfect stop for day-trippers, weekend wanderers, and design lovers alike.

Whether hunting for gifts, browsing beautifully made goods, or simply soaking up small-town character, Hillsdale General Store is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Hudson Valley or Berkshires region.

Old Forge Hardware

A visit to Old Forge wouldn’t be complete without stepping into Old Forge Hardware—a beloved institution that’s been at the heart of the community for over a century. Established in 1900 by Moses Cohen, this historic general store sits at the crossroads of Crosby Boulevard, Fulton Street, and Route 28, just a short stroll from Enchanted Forest Water Safari.

What began as a humble hardware shop has grown into a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. Over the decades, the store expanded its offerings from tools and stoves to snowshoes, handcrafted baskets, local artwork, books, and Adirondack keepsakes. Today, shelves brim with everything from cozy wool blankets and balsam-scented goods to gourmet treats, craft supplies, clothing, and home furnishings.

Old Forge Hardware is more than a store—it’s a living museum of regional history and small-town spirit. Whether you're hunting for the perfect souvenir, browsing local creations, or simply soaking in the charm of a bygone era, this Adirondack gem is a must-see stop for curious travelers.

Adirondack General Store

Tucked along the quiet edge of Schroon Lake, the Adirondack General Store has been a local staple since 1855. This charming, century-old stop blends small-town warmth with a curated selection of regional goods, making it a must-visit for travelers exploring the Adirondack Mountains.

Inside, shelves are lined with everything, from hand-poured syrups and small-batch jams to fresh deli sandwiches, picnic-ready snacks, and daily essentials. Guests can enjoy sit-down breakfast or lunch, grab a coffee, or stock up on groceries before heading out to the lake or trails.

Locally crafted souvenirs—like Schroon and Brant Lake apparel, Adirondack-themed home décor, jewelry, and maps—capture the spirit of the region and make perfect keepsakes. Whether gathering supplies for a cabin stay or hunting for hidden treasures, the Adirondack General Store offers a relaxed, nostalgic shopping experience with plenty of mountain-town character.

Marilla Country Store

Step into a slice of Americana at Marilla Country Store, a two-story general store brimming with character and charm. Located in the heart of Marilla, NY, this beloved landmark has been delighting visitors for generations with its nostalgic atmosphere and thoughtfully curated selection of goods.

Inside, guests will find shelves stacked with specialty foods, handmade jams, vintage-style candies, local cheeses, and seasonal décor—perfect for gifting or enhancing a cozy home. The store’s rustic interior, accented with wooden beams and antique displays, captures the warmth of a bygone era while offering modern-day treasures.

Upstairs, a small museum adds depth to the experience, featuring artifacts that reflect the area's history. Each landing and corner of the store invites exploration, from whimsical gift sections and pet-friendly finds to festive holiday décor that transforms the space throughout the year.

With friendly service, unique merchandise, and an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time, Marilla Country Store is a must-visit for travelers seeking charm, tradition, and a touch of countryside magic.

Hoss’s Country Corner

Located on Main Street in scenic Long Lake, Hoss’s Country Corner is a classic general store with a little bit of everything—and then some. Since the early 1900s, this year-round destination has served travelers and locals alike with its eclectic mix of goods and good eats.

From local cheeses, handmade crafts, and regional books to outdoor gear, groceries, and cozy apparel, the shelves are packed with surprises. Looking to stock the cabin, grab a souvenir, or find that perfect campfire snack? This is the place. Hoss’s even offers fishing licenses, tackle, firewood, and hard-to-find essentials for Adirondack adventuring.

In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy soft custard, hard ice cream, and grilled bites like sliders, hot dogs, and nachos under the covered deck—complete with free Wi-Fi and views of the surrounding mountains. Just steps away from Hoss’s Country Campground, it’s an easy stop whether you’re road-tripping, camping, or staying lakeside.

Quirky, welcoming, and filled with Adirondack personality, Hoss’s Country Corner is more than a store—it’s a Long Lake tradition.

Catskill Mountain Country Store

Nestled at 5510 Main Street in Windham, the Catskill Mountain Country Store is a beloved stop for travelers seeking a taste of small-town charm. Established in 1994, this family-run gem offers a warm mix of homemade food, unique gifts, and country ambiance that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

The store features shelves filled with gourmet treats, local jams, baked goods made from treasured family recipes, and thoughtfully chosen crafts from the region. Outside, guests can explore a seasonal garden center, scenic walking paths, and even a quaint petting zoo—making it a perfect spot for families and day-trippers alike.

In the cozy on-site restaurant, guests can enjoy hearty breakfasts and satisfying lunches, all served with mountain hospitality. The café has become a local legend for its comfort food, fresh flavors, and welcoming atmosphere.

With its charming setting, friendly service, and a little something for everyone, the Catskill Mountain Country Store is more than a shop—it’s a slice of the Catskills you won’t want to miss.

Northville Five & Dime

Step into the Northville Five & Dime and discover a nostalgic treasure in the heart of this Adirondack village. Located on Main Street in a historic brick building with floor-to-ceiling windows, this beloved store has been a local staple since 1907 and moved to its current home in 1914.

Inside, classic penny candy, house-made fudge, and vintage tunes set the mood for a shopping experience that feels like stepping back in time. The shelves are stocked with everything from kitchenware and books to gardening tools, sewing supplies, and camping essentials—perfect for both locals and visitors preparing for a lakeside retreat.

Whether you’re browsing for a gift, picking up forgotten essentials, or introducing the kids to five-cent sweets, the Northville Five & Dime offers a charming mix of practicality and nostalgia. Family-owned for generations, it’s a true piece of small-town history that continues to serve with heart.

In a world that’s gone digital and fast-paced, these seven general stores in Upstate New York continue to celebrate the art of slowing down. Places like Marilla Country Store, with its two floors of nostalgic goods and a tiny upstairs museum, or Catskill Mountain Country Store in Windham, where homemade pies and a petting zoo greet visitors with open arms, are not just retail businesses—they’re memories in the making.

These aren’t curated tourist traps—they’re real, working stores that still serve their communities. And yet, for visitors, they offer an experience that’s increasingly hard to come by: a personal connection to place, to tradition, and to the charm of everyday moments. So whether you're road-tripping through the Adirondacks, hiking the Catskills, or escaping city life for a weekend, make time to pop into one of these timeless spots.