Not only is New York State home to the famous Big Apple monuments that alter your perception of the city, but it also boasts quaint little towns for road trips and weekend escapes. Each of these New York tiny towns offers a distinct personality and history, whether you're interested in outdoor recreation, lively seasonal events, distinctive shopping possibilities, or family-friendly excursions.
Many have an unparalleled art culture, interactive museums, and the best historic downtowns in New York State. See why the residents of one of the eight little New York communities return again and time again.
These eight of New York's greatest tiny towns are all conveniently located near New York City.
Rhinebeck
: Explore ancient properties in a charming town setting, enjoy award-winning restaurants, and shop locally.
The picturesque Hudson Valley of New York is home to the quaint historic town of Rhinebeck, which is situated just east of the Hudson River. Rhinebeck was the trendy weekend getaway in the Hudson Valley even before places like Beacon drew New Yorkers.
Rhinebeck's thriving cultural scene and strong enthusiasm for independent cinema, live theater, dance, and music have now led to its resurgence. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the hiking and bike paths.
The Beekman Arms Inn, America's oldest inn, is located in this charming Hudson Valley hamlet. The Hudson River Historic Landmark District's Victorian residences can be seen by taking a leisurely walk along the riverfront estates to learn more about the city's past.
Top Attractions: | Beekman Arms Inn, Wilderstein Historic Site, Ferncliff Forest trails |
Population: | 2,693 |
Average Temperatures: | June: 68°F, December: 32°F |
Cold Spring Harbor
: Savor tranquil waterfront vistas, outdoor exploration, and an insight into the history of whaling.
Cold Spring Harbor, located roughly 40 miles east of New York City, was a whaling village before being transformed into a resort town during the Victorian era. With only 2,979 residents, the small hamlet is rapidly growing in popularity as a weekend vacation spot for city folks.
Enjoy the many outdoor activities this town has to offer, such as kayaking, cycling, fishing, and stand-up paddle boarding. Visit the town's several museums, such the Whaling Museum & Education Center, to discover more about its whale hunting history, or browse the numerous boutique stores to avoid inclement weather.
Top Attractions: | Cold Spring Harbor Fire House Museum, Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, Cold Spring Harbor Park |
Population: | 2,979 |
Average Temperatures: | June: 69°F, December: 37°F |
Saratoga Springs
: Discover natural springs and horse racing in the Adirondack Mountains' foothills.
Saratoga Springs, renowned for its ancient racecourse and mineral springs, is another favorite among New Yorkers. Following the discovery of the therapeutic waters, the town rose to prominence as one of the nation's most upscale spas.
Today, people can still enjoy the water from more than 20 public mineral springs located throughout the city.
Saratoga Spa State Park is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is home to some of the town's most popular attractions in addition to being designated as a Historic Landmark.
During all seasons, visitors can take advantage of hiking trails, attend a performance at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, or unwind in the Roosevelt Baths and Spa.
Top Attractions: | Saratoga Race Course,Saratoga Lake, Roosevelt Baths and Spa |
Population: | 28,505 |
Average Temperatures: | June: 66°F, December: 29°F |
Woodstock
: In this creative sanctuary, take in live music performances and art exhibits.
Many people associate Woodstock with rock music, hippie-style attire, and a laid-back atmosphere. Despite what many people think, Bethel, a little upstate village in New York, was the original location of the legendary music festival that took place in 1969.
The town still has a thriving art scene and upholds its artistic heritage. Art enthusiasts can browse unique boutiques, take art classes at the Woodstock Byrdcliffe Guild, or go gallery hopping.
Take a hike in the Catskills. Hike the Overlook Mountain Trail for sweeping vistas of the Hudson Valley, or choose the Kaaterskill Falls Trail to witness one of the state's tallest waterfalls.
Top Attractions: | Woodstock Artists Association & Museum, Overlook Mountain Trail, Art Gallery Hopping |
Population: | 2,873 |
Average Temperatures: | June: 66°F, December: 30°F |
Saugerties
: Visit horse events, window shop for antiques, and unwind by the Hudson River.
The classic New York seaside village of Saugerties is tucked away between the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains' foothills. Throughout the year, outdoor enthusiasts can go ice-skating at Cantine Field, kayak or paddleboard on Esopus Creek, or explore the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve.
The charming Partition strip, a hip strip with distinctive shops, pop-ups, and eateries, is a better option than Main Street.
Lianna Tedesco, Managing Editor of TheTravel, one of our own, explains why Saugerties is the ideal New York little town. She explains, "It's a really underappreciated gem nestled between the Adirondacks and Catskills, making it incredibly scenic without even trying." In the winter, it's the ideal small mountain village, and in the summer, it's a center of interesting stores and entertaining restaurants!
Top Attractions: | Saugerties Lighthouse, HITS-on-the-Hudson, Esopus Bend Nature Preserve |
Population: | 3,892 |
Average Temperatures: | June: 68°F, December: 32°F |
Greenport
: Discover Greenport's maritime past while relaxing in the historic fishing village's vineyards.
With its charming waterfront and a plethora of attractions crammed into a mile-long square, Greenport, which is tucked away on Long Island's North Fork, is a tranquil haven for those looking for a quiet, beachside retreat.
Savor fresh seafood, visit one of the numerous museums dedicated to marine history, or visit the local farmer's market at Mitchell Park. In addition, there are more than 40 wineries in the region, which is well-known for its vineyards.
This town is such a charming beach town, with its own carousel overlooking the waterfront, charming ice cream shops, vintage and antique hunts, tiny boutique stores, and amazing seafood stops!"
Sleepy Hollow
: In a charming riverbank village, there are many historic sites, haunting historic sites, and stories.
Most famously, Sleepy Hollow is a haunted village that was immortalized in Washington Irving's well-known story, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow." This little New York town has more to offer than just eerie attractions, including year-round haunted and historical excursions.
With sites like the Old Dutch Church and the Philipsburg Manor, it is also rich in colonial history. Visit the riverfront Kingsland Point Park to see the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse, go hiking, and enjoy some fantastic overlooks.
Due to the village's history and its year-round key attractions, not just in the fall this tiny village is so beautiful all year round and is especially serene in the off-season. It's full of history but slow whimsical attractions and is plenty walkable for anyone who doesn't feel like driving everywhere!
Top Attractions: | Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Rockefeller State Park Preserve, Old Dutch Reformed Church |
Population: | 10,396 |
Average Temperatures: | June: 70°F, December: 35°F |
Beacon
: A tight-knit community surrounded by nature, emerging art galleries, and museums
Beacon has been growing in popularity among local New Yorkers for years and is conveniently located near public transportation. It's a hipster haven for the art and antiques scene, with its Victorian architecture and small-town Americana feel.
Explore the galleries and the well-known Dia Beacon, a museum of modern, post-1960s art that has made the city famous. The village, which is situated beside the Hudson River, is well-liked by those who enjoy the outdoors.
The relatively difficult climb up to Mount Beacon Park offers stunning panoramic views of the Hudson Valley. Additionally, Beacon is conveniently located on the Metro-North commuter line, making it easy to get here in approximately 1.5 hours if you're traveling from New York City.
Top Attractions: | Dia:Beacon, Mount Beacon Trail, Long Dock Park |
Population: | 13,876 |
Average Temperatures: | June: 69°F, December: 33°F |
TIP : There is no need for a car because the town is simply walking. Take the Beacon's Free Loop, a bus route that operates all day and is primarily intended for visitors who wish to see the city's major attractions.
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