New York State is home to numerous lovely towns and villages tucked away in woodlands and meadows. These best small towns in Upstate New York provide a serene contrast to the sights and noises of the Big Apple. They provide pure natural settings, and some significant historical and cultural treasures.
Whether it is visiting a museum, engaging in a recreational activity, or indulging in tasty cuisines, these best small towns in New York are ideal for families and couples alike. There are countless options available to escape the busy city and embrace a more tranquil aspect of New York living.
From simply gazing at the gorgeous hillside surroundings to historic sightseeing, and shopping, there are many things to do. You will never get bored of these best small towns in Upstate New York.
Beacon, NY
The charming small hamlet Beacon is a true jewel nestled on the banks of the Hudson River. It flourishes between Cold Spring in the south and Wappingers Falls in the north. Its location on the Metro-North commuter line makes it easier for residents and visitors to enter and exit New York. The Beacon you see today thrives with new farm-to-table restaurants, art galleries, museums, and collector shops despite its colonial roots. The city is also reviving the Hudson River greenways, which will include bike lanes.
Things to Do for Families in Beacon
In Beacon, there are numerous lovely public green spots where you may unwind with your kids. For instance, Mount Beacon Park, Long Dock Park, and the scenic Madam Brett Park. Explore the ruins of Bannerman Castle, Dennings Point Brickworks, and the Old Beacon Hat Mill. Visit Dia: Beacon, Hudson Beach Glass, or The Clutter Gallery for a contemporary art exhibit. Find local fresh products at the Farmers Market and spoil your kids with toys and crafts from Beacon Flea Market.
Things to Do for Couples in Beacon
Boasting an array of diverse landscapes, Beacon is the ideal place for romance. Catch a show at the Howland Cultural Center or watch your famous movie at the Story Screen Beacon Drive-In Theater. Enjoy live entertainment at Towne Crier Cafe while indulging in decadent sweet desserts and treats. Peep into some upscale shops and restaurants on Main Street. Capture a romantic photo on the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge with the stunning Hudson River as the backdrop. Do not forget to taste the finest spirits of Denning’s Point Distillery.
Places to Stay:
Greenport, NY
Greenport is a beautiful town situated on Long Island. It is a quaint escape for those who want to flee from the hustle and bustle of New York City. From being a popular destination that had a dominating oyster industry, Greenport currently thrives in shipbuilding. It is home to a renowned whaling port and a great fishing industry. Greenport is now also a place for people to relax and enjoy. From having all types of things shopaholics can dream of, to a range of activities that families and couples can enjoy, Greenport is worth visiting.
Things to Do for Families in Greenport
A great way to explore Greenport in its entirety is to visit the town with your family. Relax on the family-friendly beach of Norman E.Klipp Marine Park and watch the latest movie in the Greenport theater. A must-visit destination is the indoor antique carousel at Mitchell Park, where if any one of your kids is lucky, they can get a free ride once they get the brass ring. Dine-in at the Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market for food breaks. Embark on a lighthouse cruise for an educational tour of the East End Seaport Museum. Wander around the Greenport Jail and Police Museum to appreciate the heroes of the day. While at it, skate away from all your worries at the Skate Park in Greenport.
Things to Do for Couples in Greenport
A breathtakingly beautiful village, Greenport is easily one of the most romantic destinations for couples to be in. Visit the striking vineyards at Greenport with your better half, and enjoy a romantic picnic with some rich wine. Go on a museum date to explore the spectacular art in Nova Constellatio Gallery or the mesmerizing Cindy Pease Roe. You can also walk along the sandy beaches of 67-Steps Beach and enjoy the sunsets. Take it up a notch with some high-end dining at any of the Greenport restaurants. Whatever you do, you are sure to create intimate moments, every step of the way.
Places to Stay:
Cooperstown, NY
The delightful small town, of Cooperstown, is in the central region of the state. It is surrounded by majestic wooded hills and is situated on Lake Otsego’s shore. Home to countless writers and artists, it is a town of rural traditions, myriad cultural attractions, and restored historic buildings. Cooperstown was once a remote and less developed town. But now, it thrives with museums, restaurants, shops, and a Trolley System carrying visitors around the town. It is a bustling town for four seasons.
Things to Do for Families in Cooperstown
In Cooperstown, there are many intriguing highlights where you can spend quality time with your kids. Go for a swim and a picnic at Three Mile Point Park. Visit the Glimmerglass State Park, and witness the oldest covered bridge in America. Tour the Hyde Hall mansion, and kayak on Otsego Lake, and spend the night camping with your kids. Explore the museums in the town, the “Village of Museums,” especially the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Do not forget to stop by Cooperstown Barnyard Swing, an 18-hole western-themed miniature golf course, the perfect place for a family day out.
Things to Do for Couples in Cooperstown
Otsego Lake being its aesthetic centerpiece, Cooperstown is an ideal place for adventurous romance. Try out Goat Yoga with cute friendly little goats casually greeting you while you attempt to do a yoga pose. Go apple picking at Fly Creek Cider Mill and Orchard and taste the finest wines at the Ommegang Brewery. Attend the Glimmerglass Festival and enjoy the various musicals and operas hand-in-hand with your significant other. Stroll down Main Street in Cooperstown and visit Howe Caverns, the perfect date spot for a spunky couple. From relaxing by the lakefront to venturing into the historic sights, Cooperstown has it all.
Places to Stay:
Woodstock, NY
Located at the roots of the Catskill Mountains is the charming city of Woodstock. It is less than 100 miles north of New York City. Developed through the inhabitant of artist colonies, the quaint town attracts national attention due to its boosting creativity. Despite how its name was derived, Woodstock is now a haven for music lovers and artists from various backgrounds. This, one of the small towns in Upstate New York is also known for plenty of celeb sightings.
Things to Do for Families in Woodstock
Visit the vibrant Woodstock Byrdcliffe Guild for arts and crafts with your family and discover and hone your crafts. Expand your cultural horizons by taking part in the workshops and classes offered at the Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Support small local businesses by purchasing a handmade candle at Candlestick or a vintage treasure at Three Turtle Doves. Satisfy your family’s hunger by relishing a few tacos from Tinker Taco Lab or sandwiches from Sunfrost Farms. Finish your day by treating your kids to some sweets from Peace, Love, and Cupcakes, renowned for their award-winning desserts.
Things to Do for Couples in Woodstock
Stir up the romance by laying down at the world’s largest kaleidoscope at Emerson Resort and Spa and enjoy the ten-minute breath-taking show. Stroll down the paved walkway around the Ashokan Reservoir, embracing the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. Watch a show at the Woodstock Playhouse, Bearsville Theater, or the Levon Helm Studios. Visit the Opus 40 sculpture museum and enjoy a picnic at the adjacent park, which overlooks the stunning meadows. End your day by pampering yourselves at the Glo Spa and enjoy their rejuvenating facials or soothing massages. You can hike on mountain trails and amble through the weekly flea market. Regardless of how long you stay at Woodstock, you will have a variety of activities and adventures to experience.
Places to Stay:
New Paltz, NY
New Paltz is one of the most scenic of all, small towns in Upstate New York. A popular vacation spot for the city residents and is located miles north of Manhattan. This beautiful land is known among local hikers, classicists, and nature lovers for its richness of mountains, rivers, agriculture, and fascinating history. Its glorious landscape and incredible mountain views are a wonder to behold. Thanks to its historical origins, today’s New Paltz is prospering with outstanding cuisine, art galleries, museums, and antique shops. As the name says, this city is the most incredible spot to unload and say hello to a new beginning.
Things to Do for Families in New Paltz
New Paltz and its lush landscape is the perfect vacation spot for your family to strengthen its bonds. Start your family vacation by diving into the rich 18th-century history of the Seven Stone Houses within the 10-acre National Landmark Historic District. Spend the morning hiking on the spectacular bedrock mountains of Shawangunk Ridge. Then, go on a 12-mile horseback ride on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. Explore the Dorsky Museum to discover the latest exhibits on display, and educate yourself with some pretty fascinating tales. Visit the Barner Books bookstore on Church Street. Have a family reading session and inspire your kids’ imagination and spark their sense of adventure.
Things to Do for Couples in New Paltz
As charming, and heartwarming as it is, New Paltz is the perfect setting for couples to unwind. Go on a date night at the New Paltz Cinema and enjoy a romantic movie. Later, chat over dinner at a top-notch pizzeria. Visit The Mud Puddle cafe in Water St. Market to enjoy a delicious meal alongside a clear picture of the mountains behind you. Tour the vineyards of the Robibero Winery and enjoy a wine-tasting spree of their handcrafted artisan wines. Attend a day spa with your beloved one for a relaxing spa treatment during your stay. Do not forget to have a romantic adventure at Payne Farm Too while soaking in the breathtaking scenery from the comfort of a horseback ride.
Places to Stay:
Cold Spring, NY
Bound by the Hudson River, the village of Cold Spring is a perfect weekend getaway for all city dwellers. The old town is famous for its historic 19th-century landmarks that still give off the same pleasant, rustic vibe. The mesmerizing woodlands, grassy areas, and gorgeous variety of flora in Cold Spring are sure to catch your eye. Not to forget the lovely restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and hiking spots, offered to escape the chaos of the cityscape. From picnics, shopping, and sightseeing to a beautiful small-town atmosphere and friendly locals, Cold Spring has something to offer everyone.
Things to Do for Families in Cold Spring
Despite its historical roots, the small town of Cold Spring is the ultimate spot for a perfect summertime family vacation. Begin your tour from the 90-acre West Point Foundry Preserve, woven around Civil War ruins. Educate your kids about the town’s fascinating history. Hike the Breakneck Ridge Loop for a rocky adventure of steep climbs, rock ledges, and a good deal of clambering on both hands and feet. Stop in at Hudson Highlands State Park for some challenging treks and good old hobbies like birding, fishing, and hiking.
Things to Do for Couples in Cold Spring
No place is boring for a memorable romantic adventure, but Cold Spring is sure to step things up a notch. Have a picnic date on the lush grounds of the Foundry Dock Park, followed by a romantic paddle trip to Bannerman Castle. Stop at Little Stony Point while hiking in Hudson Highlands State Park. Stretch out and enjoy the breathtaking view of the nearby towns and sandy beaches. End your tour with a delicious outdoor meal at Main Street. While at it, do not forget to soak in the live entertainment and antique stores with vintage items.
With something for every soul, these small towns in New York are worth a visit at least once in a lifetime. Let it be a date or a family outing, adding these small towns in Upstate New York to your wishlist will not disappoint you.