Ever felt the need to escape to a small town for a break but at the same time stay within the state of New York? Discover the most beautiful small cities in New York for your next vacation. Whether it is Saratoga Springs, Ithaca, Lake George, Skaneateles, Saranac Lake, or Lake Placid, these small cities in New York have something special for nature explorers.
From temporary moving to the countryside to immersing in different cultures of each small New York town and doing as many exhilarating outdoor activities, take a break from your everyday routine with your loved ones.
Saratoga Springs, NY
Saratoga Springs is a fashionable resort town located in upstate New York. The natural spring waters found in the town give Saratoga Springs its name, which is considered a top tourist attraction. The historically rich town is renowned for its performing arts, archaic architecture, spectacular nature trails, and its legendary racetrack. The endless places to visit and things to do means there is something for everyone in the bubbly little town.
Things to Do for Families in Saratoga Springs
Visit the Saratoga Race Course to view the race tracks or spend the day with the horses. If you are touring during the horse racing season, dress your Sunday best and feast lavishly with your kids. Do not forget to take up the various dining offers. Pay homage to Saratoga’s automobile history at the Saratoga Automobile Museum. Similarly, explore the National Museum of Dance and Hall of Fame or the Saratoga National Historical Park. Pop into the high-end boutiques or upscale restaurants that echo Broadway’s history. Delight yourselves by splashing around and participating in the numerous water sports activities offered at Saratoga Lake.
Things to Do for Couples in Saratoga Springs
Stroll with your significant other through the Italian and French-inspired Yaddo Gardens filled with vibrant flora and freshwater fountains. Walk down the streets and embrace the colorful architecture the town boasts of. Lay down by the Waterfront Park and savor a picnic basket or simply catch the warm hues of the sunset. Dip in the famous mineral waters at the Roosevelt Baths and Spa. Tone down your day by nestling in your vehicle to watch a movie at the drive-in theatre.
The friendly people, delightful restaurants, historic landmarks, relaxing parks, and exquisite shopping outlets are bound to capture your heart and leave you wanting to come back to this beautiful town.
Places to Stay:
Ithaca, NY
Although regarded as one of the small cities in New York, Ithaca is home to the renowned Ivy League, Cornell University, and is the largest town in Finger Lakes. If you and your loved ones appreciate the arts, Ithaca is the place to be in. With great museums, historical buildings, and dramas hosted in the village, learn the history and watch mystical stories come alive in this beautiful town. Do all this while you take in the natural beauty of Ithaca as you stroll along the village, sipping into the town-made rich wines.
Things to Do for Families in Ithaca
Besides getting your kids inspired to go to university in this college town, there are so many fun activities in store for those visiting Ithaca. For instance, embark on a trail to any of 50 waterfalls in Ithaca and have a refreshing swim. Or else, set off to fish at the lake or check off your bird list in Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary. As Ithaca is blessed with nature’s breathtaking creations, all of these and more outdoor activities are available for you and your family to try out and enjoy. If you head over to downtown Ithaca, you can enjoy some street performances and concerts, explore the museums, and indulge in tasty food.
Things to Do for Couples in Ithaca
Out of the many things you could do in Ithaca, venturing to Cayuga Lake is a favorite amongst lovebirds. From swimming, diving, surfing, kayaking, watching the sunset, and dining in the backdrop of the ocean, there are lots of opportunities for couples to connect in Ithaca. The Ithaca Falls especially provides a romantic ambiance for couples, whereas the town’s vineyards are a great place to have a picnic with rich wine. Additionally, if you both love music and dance, Ithaca’s nightlife will be just right for you.
With so many attractions and activities to engage in, Ithaca is not only a family-friendly small town. Instead, with its beautiful landscapes, every corner of the village makes Ithaca perfect for romantic getaways as well.
Places to Stay:
Lake George, NY
Nestled at the feet of the lofty Adirondack Mountains is the breathtaking town, Lake George. Rich in history, Lake George offers just the right spot to relax under clear skies and view the majestic Adirondack Mountains. It is also a hot spot for watersports during summer and houses shops, restaurants, historic sights, beaches, and adventure parks. Lake George, one of the picturesque small cities in New York, is worth visiting and taking in its beauty.
Things to Do for Families in Lake George
Lake George is a great place for families of all sizes. Experience life at a wilderness outpost at Fort William Henry and visit the House of Frankenstein Wax Museum. Have fun with your kids at the Lake George Expedition Park. While at it, explore the Magic Forest on a train and take a trip to the Jurassic Age. Sign up for an Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course at the Lake George Adventure Park. Challenge your kids with treetop obstacles, Tarzan swings, rib cages, and a long zip line over Alder Brook. If possible, unwind at the Million Dollar Beach before heading home.
Things to Do for Couples in Lake George
As adventurous as it is, Lake George is the best place for couples to engage in many interesting activities. Hike Buck Mountain together and cruise the lake on a steamboat. Set out on a parasailing adventure and bike along the Warren County Bikeway through the woods and Glenn Falls. Chat over a varied and delicious selection of New York wines at the Adirondack Winery. Visit the Lake George Lanes and Games Center and enjoy some arcade games. Take an evening walk down Canada Street with your partner, indulge in the town’s nightlife, and dine by the calm waters.
Regardless of with whom you escape the busy city, Lake George guarantees you a memorable experience.
Places to Stay:
Skaneateles, NY
Skaneateles is another one of the most scenic settlements in the Finger Lakes region. This lakeside town is stunning in every season. Lying on the lake’s northern end, Skaneateles offers a mix of nature, rich history, and culture. The charming Skaneateles waters, off a beaten path itself, make the town special. It is a rural community with farmlands and open spaces. Although it is rustic, it is peppered with well-preserved historic buildings, unique boutiques, small art galleries, and local restaurants. Skaneateles add up a variation to the adorable small cities in New York.
Things to Do for Families in Skaneateles
The quaint little town of Skaneateles offers a lot of things to enjoy as a family. Walk down the Charlie Major Nature trail and be mesmerized by the natural beauty. Navigate the Mid-Lakes along with a fun captain and a crew. Explore the Lockwood Lavender Farm, and while at it, visit Carpenter Falls. Paddleboard the Finger Lakes with your children and grab a diverse collection of American handcrafts from Imagine. Do not forget to have a picnic at the lakefront park. Before you leave for home, relax, cycle, hunt, and hike with your kids by Skaneateles Lake.
Things to Do for Couples in Skaneateles
There are some extraordinary romantic things and activities to do in Skaneateles. Of course, Skaneateles Lake is one of those. It offers the perfect spot to spend quality time with your lover. Enjoy wine tasting at Anyela’s Vineyards or the White Birch Vineyards Tasting Room. Bowl at the Cedar House Lanes and play golf at Mr. Pudder’s. Go on a boat trip to Clift Park and visit the John D. Barrow Art Gallery. Take your partner on a picnic date to Thayer Park, with fantastic views of the sunset and crystal-clear waters.
From soaking in the sun to appreciating nature and heritages, Skaneateles is full of wonders.
Places to Stay:
Saranac Lake, NY
Nestled amidst the Lake Flower and the Adirondack Mountains is one of the charming small cities in New York, Saranac Lake. The town boasts of its terrific scenery, reflective waterways, and its excellency throughout the year, regardless of the seasons. This is a picture-perfect place attracting many with its restorative mountain air, fun outdoor activities, and festive winter carnival. Aside from viewing nature, you can also visit its historic sights and art galleries and engage in watersports and concerts. Saranac Lake is sure to steal your heart with its one-of-a-kind culture and lovely old ‘cure cottages.’
Things to Do for Families in Saranac Lake
Elope with your family to Saranac Lake, where some pretty incredible activities keep you occupied. Start by kayaking and canoeing in Saranac Lake and mountain biking the Adirondack Mountains. Visit the famous Robert Louis Stevenson Cottage and Museum, a historic cure cottage containing the largest memorabilia belonging to the Scottish novelist. Ride the Adirondack Carousel, and do not forget the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. Enjoy the featured parades, fireworks, celebrations, and the famous Ice Palace grazing the Lake Flower. Do not forget to surprise your kids with a lantern-lit sleigh ride at the Lake Clear Lodge.
Things to Do for Couples in Saranac Lake
This cozy little town presents some amazing things you can throw yourselves into with your significant other. Sit back and let loose by the beautiful river and stroll by the unique shops at Saranac Lake. Catch a play at the Pendragon Theatre, and if interested, sign up for an acting lesson along with your partner. Trek Baker Mountain and make your trip the best with Adirondack river walking and forest bathing. Stop by the Blue Line Brewery and taste some local beer. Before returning, go on a train adventure at the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.
Whether it is to treat yourselves to the summer sun or the winter cold, Saranac Lake is the best choice out of all the small cities in New York.
Places to Stay:
Lake Placid, NY
Lake Placid is a spectacular resort town tucked away into the lush Adirondack Mountains. Setting up on a lake bearing the same name as its own, it overwhelms Mother Nature’s presence. The stunning landscapes, stupendous scenery, and clean mountain air is nothing less than a luxury treatment by Lake Placid. This small city in New York features unique cafes, local restaurants, cute little shops, and thrilling snow sports centers. It is also home to many significant historic events. Whatever the season, this small resort town is always up for some spine-chilling adventures and heart-racing activities.
Things to Do for Families in Lake Placid
Being an Adirondack town, Lake Placid offers plenty of opportunities for families to strengthen their bonds. Tour the famous sports complex, Lake Placid Olympic Center. Go on a family-friendly hike through High Falls Gorge. Explore Whiteface Mountain on a gondola. On your way, greet the Ausable River and Lake Champlain. Visit the Olympic Ski Jump Complex, followed by a stop at Herb Brooks Arena, a multi-purpose arena built for Winter Olympics. Also, sight the John Brown Farm, the house and final resting place of American abolitionist leader John Brown. Take your kids on a bobsled ride and stroll around Mirror Lake. Take a walk into the North Pole theme park, and remember to shop for souvenirs at the Alpine Mall.
Things to Do for Couples in Lake Placid
Lake Placid is one of the best romantic getaways for spunky couples. Put your feet up by Placid Lake. Climb up Mount Jo and navigate large rocks and huge roots. Trek a Brewster Peninsula Nature Trail with vantage points along with your partner. Hike Cobble Hill and ski at the Cascade Cross Country Center. Spend some alone time with your lover while riding a train through the greens of the Adirondack Mountains. Engage in zip line and aerial adventures at Experience Outdoors, LLC. Make sure to treat your taste buds to some quality wines from Goose Watch Winery or Swedish Hill Winery.
One of the most awesome small cities in New York, Lake Placid is truly one of New York’s great escapes with an adrenaline boost.
Places to Stay:
Sleepy Hollow, NY
Located further in Hudson Valley, Sleepy Hollow is a small town full of mystery. It is a popular choice among many due to the intriguing tales the town holds, as narrated by Washington Irving. Contrary to what you might think a ghost town should look like, it holds striking landscapes and panoramic views of the Hudson River, making it a beautiful village. All this indicates that visiting Sleepy Hollow with your family or your significant other will be a story you will not forget.
Things to Do for Families in Sleepy Hollow
One of the best times to visit Sleepy Hollow with your family is Memorial Day and Thanksgiving. This is because the town hosts its annual Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow Farmers Market (TaSH), whereby yoga sessions, crafts tables, competitions, nature expeditions, and so much more take place. An exhilarating experience includes the legendary Sleepy Hollow cemetery tours that are open all year round for all ages. Whilst there, you will also witness the legendary Headless Horsemen on the weekend.
Things to Do for Couples in Sleepy Hollow
The beautiful backdrop of Sleepy Hollow makes this a great choice for couples as well. Reconnect with your better half as you walk on the Governor Mario Cuomo Bridge or the breath-taking Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse. Unlike other towns, however, Sleepy Hollow indeed adds a bit of spice to your usual romantic getaway. Hence, in addition to having a typical romantic adventure, explore the town’s haunted past together as you visit the Headless Horseman Sculpture and the Headless Horseman Bridge.
One of the most unique small towns in New York you will come across, your kids and loved ones alike will treasure the memories you all will make at Sleepy Hollow.