23 Small Towns in NEW YORK (Quaint, Historical, & Relaxed)
While the Big Apple, New York City, is the most popular destination in New York, the state also has some of the most fascinating small towns in the country.
From the beautiful streets lined with restaurants, boutique shops, and buzzing cafes all serving some of the best local and intercontinental dishes and drinks, these towns offer a chance to get away from the busy cities of New York to experience a peaceful community where you can immerse yourself in some simple and quiet ways of living.
Though small, these towns have many exciting activities, tourist attractions, and history, offering a glimpse into the past and excitement in the present.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the Ghost Towns in New York.
Small Towns in Upstate New York
1. Catskill
Catskill is a small town in Greene County, Upstate New York.
The charming small town sits along a river, rich in history and vibrant culture.
This picturesque town has many art galleries and historical museums showcasing old and contemporary art and historical finds.
The Catskill Mountains welcome many tourists and local people looking to bike, ski, or hike.
One of the exciting places to be in Catskill is the Bridge street theatre, where dramas, concerts, and other exciting events are held all year.
Catskill Town owns restaurants and cafes serving some of the best finds in New York.
One of the most visited places for fresh farm products is the farmers’ market, where local vendors bring fresh fruits, vegetables, and many more.
The town is lively, peaceful, and fun.
Address: Greene County, Upstate New York
2. Lake Placid
Here is one if you need some time out in a picturesque and peaceful town.
Lake Placid is a small town in the Adirondack mountains of Upstate – one of the most delightful places for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an enjoyable getaway.
It offers world-class snowboarding, skiing, hiking, and biking.
This town is beautiful and enjoyable, with museums dedicated to the Olympic games.
It has fantastic centers for artistic performances and concerts.
Lake Placid is famous for making history as a town that has hosted the Olympics twice, in 1932 and 1980.
Its many tourist centers, museum schools, farm estates, wineries, and hotels make it a perfect destination for vacations, explorations, adventures, and content trips.
Ditch the stressful city and feel some peaceful living at Lake Placid.
Address: Adirondack Mountains, Essex County, Upstate New York
3. Clayton
Clayton is a town around the Lewiston River in Jefferson County, New York.
It is home to famous historical sites in the region, including the Thousand Islands Museum and Towers, Antique Boat Museum, Rock Island Lighthouse, and Boldt Castle.
Clayton also has a long list of tourist attractions which makes it a favorite place for many tourists, including Calumet Island, Frink Park, Cerow Recreation Park Arena, The Grange Reserve, and Namatjira Park ·
You can visit the Clayton Steakhouse for delicious local food and self-serve drinks.
Another historical building worth visiting in Clayton is the Clayton Historical Museum.
This museum showcases local business and organization records, old photographs, personal papers, early maps, church histories, genealogies, family bibles, Civil War sketches, artifacts, newspapers, history books, and more.
Address: Jefferson County, Upstate New York
4. Canandaigua
Canandaigua meaning The Chosen Spot is a town nestled on the Northern Canandaigua Lake shores.
From its delightful tourist centers to notable historical landmarks, hotels, restaurants, hiking areas, and wineries, Canandaigua is great for anyone looking to spend quality time and have fun in Upstate New York.
This town is scenic, with beautiful greenery, rivers, and mountains.
Some of the top sites in Canandaigua include the Sonnenberg Garden and the Mansion States Historical Park, Acacia Park, and the Canandaigua City Fire.
The Belhurst Castle in Canandaigua is a great spot for romantic dates.
You can also visit The Vintage drive-in theatre for some movies and the three brothers winery, which houses three different wineries serving visitors in beautiful, unique ways.
Spare some time to enjoy this beautiful town.
Address: Ontario County, Upstate New York
5. Cooperstown
Cooperstown is one of the charming towns in Otsego County, west of Albany, Upstate New York.
It is famous as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, a historical place for anyone looking to know the town better.
The Farmers’ Museum in town holds workshops, exhibitions, and other events.
You can join the Gimmerglass Opera Festival featuring musicals And Operas at the Lakeside Theatre.
The Cooperstown Distillery is the only one you would find in this town to date, but despite this, it has been serving high-quality handcrafted spirits for residents.
It is a town rich in history with scenic landmarks, an exceptional mix of natural beauty, rural traditions, local and intercontinental food, and cultural and historical attractions.
You won’t regret visiting this lovely town.
Address: Otsego County, Upstate New York
Also see our article on Abandoned Places in New York.
Small Towns in Western New York
1. Ellicottville
Established in 1820, Ellicottville is a small town in the Enchanted Mountains of Upstate in Cattaraugus County, New York.
It is a perfect place for an enjoyable and charming getaway and a popular winter destination for snowboarding and skin snowballing on its slopes and trails.
But it’s not all about the winter fun only; visitors can hike and bike on the nearby trails during Summer while exploring this small town’s picturesque views.
It is also a famous destination for summer vacations and fun getaways for golf enthusiasts.
If you want to loosen up and relax, comfortable lodgings, bed and breakfasts, and hotels are around.
The Ellicottville Brewing Company, Glen Burn Trail, and Allegany State Park are some of the major tourist attractions in this town.
Address: Cattaraugus County, Western New York
2. Aurora
Aurora is a town in Erie County known for its love for children.
It is home to one of the famous children’s delights, the Fisher-Price toys, in America’s most extended history in industrial manufacturing.
Aurora is home to one of the most popular toy brands, the Fisher-Price, which has been since 1930.
The atmosphere is welcoming, and the people in the streets are friendly.
Many interesting places, including restaurants, coffee, and shops, offer good street services.
If you need a place to buy wine and relax, the Roycroft Inn provides some of the finest accommodations, excellent customer service, and delicious dishes in East Aurora, New York.
Due to its peacefulness and easy access to transportation and other necessities, Aurora is a good place to live.
Address: Erie County, Western New York
3. Lewiston
Lewiston is a beautiful small town in Niagara County, Niagara Falls named after Morgan Lewis, a former governor of New York.
You can enjoy the scenic views of Lewiston as you travel around the town.
And if you love festivals, exciting festivals are held every year in Lewiston featuring music, dance, trade fairs, art, and yoga.
You could find the gigantic building of the Basilica of the Nationals Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, the Niagara Power Project visitors center, and the Art Park, watch concerts, hike, attend festivals, and walk the trails scattered throughout the town.
With its peacefulness and a population of over fifteen thousand in 2020, Lewiston is a good place to live and have a lot of fun while living simple.
Address: Niagara County, Western New York
4. Chautauqua
Chautauqua is home to teachers, arts educators and
The Chautauqua Institution was founded in 1879 and has become a place for creative and intellectual pursuits.
This town allows historical exploration and documentation.
You can tour its historic sites, museums, and art galleries, including the McClurg Museum and the Fenton history center, taking you back in time.
It had a population of 4000+ in 2020, making it a well-average town in New York.
The Chautauqua Lake is a beautiful 17-mile-long and popular spot for water sports, fishing, sailing, and boating.
This town has five waterways, 12 golf courses, over 20 wineries, local breweries, museums, galleries, scenic beaches, restaurants, and galleries.
Start planning if you’re excited and looking forward to visiting soon for fun on another level.
Address: Chautauqua County, Western New York
5. Westfield
Westfield, New York, is a beautiful town in Western New York worth visiting whether you want to explore for a weekend getaway or you’re planning a vacation with your family.
The Lake Erie vineyard near Westfield is a grape-growing region full of fresh juicy grapes used for some of the best wines in the town.
You would find some of the best wine-tasting and delicious food in restaurants and wineries in Westfield.
The Barcelona lighthouse is also one of the most beautiful places and tourist attractions in Westfield, New York; it is a picture-perfect building if you want to take a shot at some beautiful spots.
Westfield, New York, is a safe and perfect place to spend quality time and create beautiful memories with friends and families.
Address: Western Part of Chautauqua County, Western New York
6. Medina
You will find much to love in Medina, from the Victorian buildings to modern architecture.
Take a stroll to admire the stunning architecture, or stop at one of the many beautiful stores or boutiques for a newly found and fantastic shopping experience.
Established in 1832, this town is known for its outstanding tourist attractions, including the Medina Sandstone and Medina Railroad Museum, where you can create beautiful memories while touring on a train, with sights of the best model railroad displays.
Medina Falls is a beautiful waterfall with a sound that transcends you into a world of admiration as you watch from the Erie Canal, Medina Historical Society, and Leonard Oakes Estate Winery, a beautiful winery with knowledgeable staff serving exotic wines.
Medina is a fun-filled town.
Address: Orleans County, Western New York
Also see our article on Haunted Houses in New York.
Small Towns in Kingston, New York
1. Rondout
This town in Ulster County is most famous for its historic buildings, galleries, and museum.
You can also tour the Rondout lighthouse by boat for a more adventurous vacation.
After touring the lighthouse, you can stop by the Ship to Shore restaurant, Armadillo Bar & Grill, or at Savona’s Trattoria, which is less than a mile for a delicious meal and refreshing drinks.
You can also visit the Clove And Creek, Zephyr, and Next Boutique for an exciting shopping experience.
The Hampton Inn Kingston and Best Western Plus are some of the best hotels to lodge for a good rest when you’re on vacation in Rondout.
Some other exciting places to visit in Rondout are the TR Gallo Waterfront Park and Kingston Point Beach for a complete tour.
Address: Ulster County, Kingston, New York
2. Connelly
Connelly is another small town in Ulster County.
It is a quiet residential area for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the cities in New York; it is where the Connelly Fire Department started as Hasbrouck Engine Company One.
Connelly has some excellent boutiques and eateries like the Armadillo Bar & Grill, The Tortilla Taco Bar and pubs like The Duchess Pub and Garrison Pub.
For water adventures at Conelly, you can visit the Ophira Sailing or Tivoli Sailing for an exciting water trip.
The Trolley Museum in Connelly lets you learn about the town’s beautiful history and landmarks.
It is a peaceful town with good agriculture, economic strength, beautiful landscapes, and art and science scenes worth visiting for fun and educational purposes.
Address: Ulster County, Kingston, New York
3. Wilbur
Wilbur is rated one of the retiree-friendly towns in Kingston, New York.
This beautiful town offers many adventures and fun activities for its visitors.
The Wilbur Theatre, Bridge, and House are some of its historical landmarks that draw most people, but there is more to Wilbur it.
It is exciting, with hiking trails, ski slopes, and a golf course.
For irresistible local meals, turn to Doxie Dine In, Billy Burger, and · Alibi Pub and Eatery, or Via, Tap & Vine for refreshing drinks.
The Lighthouse Point Park, Sonrise Foursquare Church, and the Hesseltine Library are some of the tourist attractions in Wilbur.
When done exploring, you can head to the Eight Bar B Motel for a good rest and exclusive dining in its comfortable accommodation and lounge.
Address: Ulster County, Kingston, New York
Also see our article on Museums in New York.
Small Towns in Hampton, New York
1. Montauk
Start with a visit to one of its beaches when you enter Montauk.
This town is known for its beautiful soul-caressing beaches like the Ditch Plains, Gin Beach, and Navy Beach.
Catch the town’s scenic views on the go, and capture some great memories.
Visit Harvest on Fort Pond or Montauk Bake Shoppe Limited for a satisfying meal, or The Inlet Seafood Restaurant if you are curious about what seafood tastes like in Montauk.
Some of the tourist attractions in Montauk include the Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum and the Montauk Point State Park.
Ralph’s Italian Ices & Ice Cream is a mecca for people with a sweet tooth, and if you want to relax after a long day of moving from one place to another, you can visit the Montauk Salt Cave.
Address: Suffolk County, Hampton, New York
2. Greenport
The small town of Greenport is on Long Island, New York.
This town gets many tourists every year, every year, especially during summer, and it is not difficult to see why.
Greenport may be small, but it has many interesting and exciting places and to-dos, including fun on the water at Layla Sailing and informative tours around the East End Seaport Maritime Museum.
The historical places in Greenport include the Isabelle-Haran-Leonardi at Nova Constellatio Gallery, the Village Blacksmith Shop, and the Fireboat Firefighter Museum, which houses the award-winning fireboat that has existed for over seven decades in the region.
If you are a watersports lover, head to Norman E. Klipp Marine Park for exhilarating moments and activities you will never forget.
You don’t have to wait any longer.
Address: Suffolk County, Hampton, New York
3. East Hampton
It is little to no wonder why tourists choose East Hampton, a small town in Long Island, New York, as a regular tour place every year.
One of the famous tourist places in East Hampton is Main Beach, an ocean beach with lots of fun activities and a snack bar.
It is home to the famous Brazilian footballer Pele and celebrities like Sean Combs, Jerry Seinfeld, and Katie Couric.
Stop by one of the many famous boutiques, like Blue & Cream and Kirna Zabete, for a unique shopping experience.
Visit the largest winery in Long Island, Pindar Vineyards, for exceptional wine tasting and to learn more about wine and its making.
For local eats, head to any of the restaurants around serving delicious meals and drinks.
Address: Southeastern Suffolk County, Hampton, New York
Also see our article on Castles in New York.
Small Towns in Southern New York
1. Laurens
A trip to the Laurens would always be a good use of your time; you’d wish you’d come earlier.
Laurens is one of the most picturesque towns in Southern New York, with its verdant landscape, beautiful streets, galleries, museums, and parks.
During winters, you can go skiing, and during summer, you can hike or bike at the
The Yager Museum of Art and Culture is one of the most historical places in Laurens, featuring American artefacts, Venetian Renaissance arts, beautiful old paintings, and many more.
Some historical places in Laurens include the Old Stone Fort, the Historic India Church, and Hyde Hall.
Check-in for a good night’s rest at the Hampton Inn, which offers friendly accommodations, delicious food, and a feeling of home away from home.
Address: Otsego County, Southern New York
2. Esperance
One of Esperance’s most famous tourist attractions is the George Landis Arboretum.
In this beautiful and quiet garden, you can go back and forth to the trails and check the carefully collected plants, flowers, and flowers trees.
Esperance is a small town in Schoharie County, New York – home to some of the best wineries if you’re gunning for a unique wine-tasting experience.
This town is famous for its historical museum, displaying artifacts, antiques, scrapbooks, and old photographs.
Visitors take guided tours to explore the museum while getting answers to their questions and beautiful treasures to take with them from the museum.
From its stunning street beauty during the day and night to its amazing beaches and restaurants, parks, and classy boutiques, Esperance is a great destination for real fun.
Address: Schoharie County, Southern New York
3. Candor
Candor is a haven for fun lovers, explorers, and researchers.
The Iron Kettle Farm is a famous place that draws visitors to Candor.
Located in Tioga County, New York, this town is famous for its beautiful greenery, timbers, and farms, which attracted the first settlers to the city.
The Candor Historical Society is the ultimate place for history buffs to learn everything you need about the town, from books of history, antiques, historic buildings, newspaper clippings, old photographs, and more.
Restaurants and inns in Candor are Diner at the Bostwick Antique Mall, The Owego Kitchen, and Punk’s Place.
Head to La Tourelle Hotel & Spa for excellent dining and relaxation.
You would wish you visited this town earlier for its unmatched fun, peaceful environment, and quaint views.
Address: Tioga County, Southern New York
Also see our article on Hidden Gems in New York.
Small Towns in Long Island, New York
1. Southold
Pack your bags for an exciting experience in Southold, East New York.
This small town in Suffolk County, founded in 1640, is considered the first English Settlement on Long Island.
The town offers scenic and double-tap-worthy views of its verdant landscapes and flowing rivers.
If you are a vegan in Southold, find your way to Olive Branch Restaurant & Bar for a tempting lunch or dinner.
Take an information farm tour at Southold Bay Oysters to learn about oysters, enjoy wine and oyster tasting, and many more exciting packages.
Some tourist attractions in Southold are Horton Point Lighthouse Nautical Museum, Croteaux Vineyards, and Goldsmith’s Inlet Park.
The free library in Southold is an amazing place to find interesting books with a conducive environment for a good read.
Address: Suffolk County, Long Island, New York
2. Islip
When discussing the most famous small towns worth visiting in Suffolk County, East New York, Islip is one.
This peaceful town is one of the best places to live in New York, with its beautiful streets lined with bustling and charming boutiques, restaurants, hair salons, and other businesses providing excellent business.
Some celebrities from East Islip are Ken Marino, Chrisette Michele, Tobias Harris, and Doris Burke.
Sailors Haven and Heckscher State Park is a beautiful park with picnic spots, hiking trails, and comfortable places to relax, take sights of the charming bay and listen to the sound of the waves.
Step into Jackson Hall, The Lakehouse, or any other restaurant in East Islip; they all promise a more enjoyable, memorable experience.
Plan to visit soon.
Address: Suffolk County, Long Island, New York
3. Riverhead
Riverhead in Suffolk County is home to many beautiful tourist centers.
One of the main tourist attractions in Riverbend is the Long Island Aquarium which features a 76000-l capacity display tank with many living corals and plants on display.
Splish Splash Water Park, The Bug Duck, Cherry Creek Golf, and Safari Adventure, a children’s amusement park, are other exciting places to visit.
You would also find many posh boutiques selling trendy apparel and fashion accessories and high-quality restaurants serving some of the local American dishes and drinks.
Riverhead is great for vacations, school groups, educational tours, and historical research.
If you’re thinking of the best place to have a great and memorable vacation with your loved ones this season, this town awaits you with loads of fun.
Address: Suffolk County, Long Island, New York
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Attractions, National Parks, and State Parks in New York.
Looking beyond New York? Check out our article on the best Small Towns in Texas and Illinois.