Visit the Hidden Gem Small Town Right Next Door to Watkins Glen State Park in New York

The Finger Lakes region of New York, located roughly in the central part of the state far away from any big cities, is one of the most beautiful vacation spots in the entire country, if you ask me. And on the banks of Seneca Lake, tucked just outside of one of the state's most beautiful state parks, you'll find a small town near Watkins Glen State Park named... Watkins Glen. The park is world-famous for its amazing views and waterfalls, but the town is one of New York's best hidden gems.

With a population of just under 2,000, this charming lakeside town is the kind of place you come to visit and wind up wanting to stay. The waters of Seneca Lake and the beautiful state park next door are the main attractions, but the town also boasts a stunning downtown and one of the most unexpected attractions in this area of New York. If you're looking for a great home base for your next Finger Lakes vacation, Watkins Glen is perfectly poised to become a spot you come back to time and time again.

Why This Town Is the Perfect Base for Watkins Glen State Park

If you have any interest in nature, the odds are good you've heard of Watkins Glen State Park. This sprawling natural landscape, spread across 778 acres, is full of waterfalls and has what might be the most beautiful gorge hike in the Northeast. It's common for people to make a road trip to the Finger Lakes specifically for this unique adventure.

If you're looking for the perfect home base for your getaway to this part, head to the south of the nearby Seneca Lake. One of the most popular spots for boating and fishing in the state, this is where you'll find the town of Watkins Glen, a peaceful vacation hamlet with less than 2,000 full-time residents. A stay here gives you the best of both worlds — access to nature, with all the modern conveniences you'd like.

What to Do in Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen's downtown is small, dense, and easily walkable. The entire main street is full of stores and restaurants, all within walking distance of the town's many hotels and the waterfront. That makes this a great laid-back place geared towards the summer tourists who come every year.

Slightly outside of the main drag, though, you'll find two of the most unique attractions in the area. The town is home to one of New York's best farm sanctuaries, featuring hundreds of adorable rescued animals happily living out their days. The town is also home to the Watkins Glen International, a large competitive auto racing track, for those who want a more high-octane activity while they're in town.

What to Know Before You Go

Watkins Glen is most popular in summer, as tourist activity near the park and lake ramps up, but it's also a fantastic spot to visit during the fall. The fall foliage in the area is gorgeous, the crowds are smaller, and rates are typically lower at the local hotels. You'll be able to find plenty of accommodations in the area, ranging from reasonably-priced chain hotels and independent B&Bs in the town, to camping facilities by the lake and in the park.

Have you visited this charming small town near Watkins Glen State Park? If not, make sure to tell a friend about this article so you can plan a getaway to this great little lakeside town! You can find out more information about the town on the Watkins Glen town website, and visit the Watkins Glen State Park website for details on the park's amenities and accessibility. If you're driving to the area, make sure to take the Seneca Lake Scenic Byway for some of the region's absolute best views, wineries, and more.

Are you planning a longer road trip and looking for more unique stops like this one? Check out Only in Your State's list of the best small towns in the USA for your next favorite getaway!