New York’s small towns with big impact.
New York’s more than just the city. The state’s got these cool little towns, each with its own vibe. Never been to some of these? Well, now’s the time. Here’s the rundown
Ithaca
“Ithaca is Gorges” isn’t just a slogan, it’s the truth. Over 100 waterfalls, yeah, you read that right. Robert H. Treman and Buttermilk Falls are the big names, but there’s so much more. Cornell’s been here since 1865, and with it comes some serious culture.
Oh, and don’t miss the Museum of the Earth. You can walk through 4.5 million years of history if that’s your thing.
Cold Spring
It’s just 50 miles from NYC—Metro-North makes it a no-brainer for a weekend getaway. Cold Spring’s got 70+ businesses on Main Street, from shops to restaurants.
If you like the outdoors, you’ll find plenty of hiking and kayaking. And, just outside town, there’s the Magazzino Italian Art museum, full of post-war and contemporary Italian art.
New Paltz
Founded in 1677 by the Huguenots, and you can still see their history on Huguenot Street. The Shawangunk Ridge’s world-class rock climbing attracts climbers from everywhere.
Oh, and the Empire State Trail runs through, giving you killer views along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. Wineries are big here too, especially Robibero Family Vineyards. Don’t skip it.
Skaneateles
Skaneateles Lake’s one of the cleanest, supplying water to Syracuse. The town’s a big deal in history. It was a stop on the Underground Railroad. In the 1840s, it even had its own utopian community.
Dickens Christmas is also big here. Think actors in period costumes, a perfect winter scene. And the Skaneateles Festival? Some serious music talent on display.
Cooperstown
This is “America’s Perfect Village,” and for good reason. Cooperstown’s packed with 19th-century charm. Founded in 1786 by William Cooper, it’s home to the Fenimore Art Museum, showcasing American folk and Native American art.
Otsego Lake’s the heart of the town, perfect for fishing or just chilling. The Glimmerglass Opera and Farmers’ Museum? Absolutely worth a visit.
Saugerties
This town’s got an artsy edge with a side of outdoor adventure.
Opus 40 is this huge stone sculpture park that’ll blow your mind. The 1869 Saugerties Lighthouse is perfect for some quiet time and great photos. And don’t forget, Saugerties was once named one of America’s coolest small towns.
It’s the first U.S. business district listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And yes, the Hudson Valley Garlic Festival’s as good as it sounds.
Saratoga Springs
Nicknamed “the Queen of the Spas,” Saratoga Springs has been drawing health seekers for ages. It’s got 21 mineral springs, each with its own taste.
Fun fact: it’s the only place east of the Rockies with naturally carbonated springs. “Health, History, and Horses” is the town’s motto and you’ll get why. The Saratoga Race Course is the oldest in the U.S., so you’ve gotta check it out.
Sleepy Hollow
Not just for spooky stories. Sleepy Hollow’s also one of the safest small cities in the U.S. It was known as North Tarrytown until 1996 when it got its current name to honor Washington Irving.
The Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is the final resting place of Irving, Andrew Carnegie, and Elizabeth Arden. Don’t forget Philipsburg Manor. It’s part of a 52,000-acre estate back in the day. And the Old Dutch Church is the icing on the cake.
Lake Placid
One of only three places in the world to host the Winter Olympics twice, in 1932 and 1980. The Olympic Jumping Complex offers a sky-high view from its 120m jump tower. Whiteface Mountain’s got the largest vertical drop east of the Rockies.
Lake Placid hosts the Festival of Trees, transforming the place into a winter wonderland. And if you’re into Olympic history, the Lake Placid Olympic Museum has all the highlights, including the “Miracle on Ice.”
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