12 Best Charming Small Towns to Visit in New York

Amenia

Shaped foliage atop lawn near water garden in summer at Wethersfield, Amenia, New York
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Amenia, near the Connecticut border, offers charming architecture, antique shops, and stunning views. Its name, derived from the Latin for “pleasant to the eye,” fits perfectly with its scenic pastures and lush woodlands. Popular activities here include fly fishing, horseback riding, and hiking the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. For a relaxing stay, consider the historic Troutbeck, nestled on 250 acres.

Livingston Manor

Livingston Manor NY Forest and Beaverkill
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Livingston Manor, situated on the fringes of the Catskills, showcases a resurgence in charm with new lodging options like the Chatwal Lodge and Callicoon Hills. This revitalized area is home to popular local eateries such as The Kaatskeller, known for its wood-fired pizzas. Visitors can explore the beauty of the region with its many breweries and outdoor activities.

Mount Tremper

Exterior of a cabin at Kate's Lazy Meadow in Mount Tremper, New York
Courtesy of Kate’s Lazy Meadow

Mount Tremper, a quaint hamlet, is embraced by the Catskills and filled with outdoor adventures. Hikers will appreciate the trails that lead up the local mountain, and the nearby Phoenicia Diner offers a wonderful dining experience after a day of exploration.

Saranac Lake

Autumn in Saranac Lake, New York
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Centrally located in the Adirondacks, Saranac Lake attracts visitors with its outdoor allure. The town offers various activities year-round, whether camping in summer or skiing in winter. The picturesque village, with its preserved architecture and Main Street shops, creates a pleasant environment. For a luxurious escape, consider staying at The Point.

High Falls

View of Mohonk Preserve in New York
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Located just two hours from Manhattan, High Falls lures urban dwellers to its peaceful streets and stunning scenery. This charming hamlet allows for a myriad of outdoor activities, including visits to enchanting orchards and the Mohonk Preserve, which features beloved hiking trails like Bonticou Crag and Table Rocks loop.

Lake George

Lake George, nicknamed the Queen of American Lakes
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Lake George has long been a favored escape for nature lovers, offering abundant summer activities including kayaking and camping. Visitors can explore over 100 accessible islands and enjoy the surrounding pristine wilderness, which is part of the vast Adirondack Park.

Skaneateles

Skaneateles on the Finger Lakes in upstate New York in autumn
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With its charming lakefront and quaint Main Street, Skaneateles offers numerous activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, hiking, or simply savoring the delightful atmosphere among local shops and eateries. The combination of nature and small-town charm creates an idyllic getaway.

Chatham

Gazebo in public park, Chatham, New York
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Chatham is a quintessential upstate town nestled between the Hudson River and the Berkshires. This area features heritage sites, craft breweries, and excellent dining options. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit nearby Ghent and the impressive site-specific sculpture park, Art Omi.

Trumansburg

Dining room with set table at the Inn at Gothic Eves, Trumansburg, New York
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Trumansburg is known for its stunning architecture and fantastic local vibe. The village offers a variety of dining and shopping options along its attractive Main Street. For outdoor enthusiasts, Taughannock Falls State Park presents breathtaking hiking trails, including those that lead to mesmerizing waterfalls.

Pine Plains

An American flag on the side of the road in Pine Plains, New York
Alexander Farnsworth / Getty Images

Pine Plains is perfect for unwinding amidst nature. Visitors can hike the scenic trails, explore local antiquities, and appreciate the unique offerings of nearby sites like Stissing Mountain’s fire tower. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy the trails at Buttercup Farm Audubon Sanctuary, where various species flock.

Penn Yan

Seneca Mill Falls - Waterfall in Penn Yan, New York
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Penn Yan serves as a vibrant entry to the lake life around Keuka Lake. Strolling through its storybook Main Street, visitors can explore the Keuka Outlet Trail that features scenic waterfalls and historical mills. Enjoy local goods at the seasonal Windmill Farm & Craft Market.

Narrowsburg

Aerial view of Narrowsburg, NY
Courtesy of Welcome to Narrowsburg

Nestled along the Delaware River near the New York-Pennsylvania border, Narrowsburg is an outdoor paradise. The area is known for its river sports like rafting and tubing. An inviting stay is assured at local accommodations, such as Hotel Darby, providing a cozy retreat just outside of town.

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