These 9 Towns In New York Have The Most Breathtaking Scenery In The State
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Lea Monroe
Author
By now you know that New York has an endless list of fascinating towns that all feature their own unique attractions. With warmer weather on the horizon, it’s time for all of us to start planning which adventures we’re going to take this year. If you’ve been feeling like you don’t know where to start, then try taking a look at these beautiful towns in New York that are like little pieces of paradise.
Watkins Glen, NY, USA
When it comes to breathtaking destinations in New York, you'll almost always hear people discussing the town of Watkins Glen. Right on the southern shore of Seneca Lake, the town is filled with beautiful waterfront views and is home to the jaw-dropping Watkins Glen State Park. From exploring the park's magnificent Gorge Trail that's filled with nineteen waterfalls to taking strolls out onto the Seneca Lake Pier, there's not a view you won't love in this area.
Lake Placid, NY 12946, USA
One of the most jaw-dropping destinations that you'll find within the Empire State, Lake Placid is made up of views that will amaze you. Surrounded by some of New York's tallest mountains, visitors will be able to enjoy these iconic Adirondack views while they explore the area. The town has a Main Street that's equipped with charming little shops and restaurants that will provide you with everything you could ever want. So if you're looking for the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, you'll want to visit here ASAP.
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Windham, NY 12496, USA
There are so many gorgeous destinations worth visiting in the Catskills, but if you're looking for a town that's filled with beauty and adventure then this is where you'll want to be. During the winter, the town comes to life as visitors flock to the area to take advantage of the popular mountain resort where you'll have sweeping views of the area. It's nearly impossible to drive through Windham without pulling over at least once to soak in the sights or take a photo of what's before you.
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Alexandria Bay, NY, USA
For most of our residents it can be a bit of a hike to get all the way up to Alexandria Bay, but boy is it worth all the travel time! A part of the stunning Thousand Islands, this particular area is home to Boldt Castle that looks like someone ripped a page out of a fairy tale and made it come to life. Surrounding you with endless views of the St. Lawrence River, you'll never forget a trip to this tiny town.
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Skaneateles, NY 13152, USA
You'll find plenty of small towns out in the Finger Lakes that will leave you speechless, but there's one particular waterfront town that's known for having views of the amazingly blue water. All throughout the year, Skaneateles draws in visitors with its charming attractions and small town sights that seem too good to be true. Sitting on the northern shore of Skaneateles Lake, you'll be doing double takes trying to digest how beautiful the water looks!
New Paltz, NY 12561, USA
One of the many gems of Ulster County, New Paltz is one of New York's most picturesque adventure towns. All throughout the year you can find our adventurous residents and out-of-town visitors exploring the area and taking advantage of all there is to do and see here in the great outdoors.
Montauk, NY 11954, USA
It's next to impossible to visit Montauk without instantly falling in love with this truly breathtaking town. Located all the way at the end of Long Island's South Shore, the town is home to the iconic Montauk Light and has never-ending views of the ocean. If you're looking to take an unbelievable getaway that will leave you with salt in your hair and happiness in your heart, you'll want to plan a trip to here.
Garrison, Philipstown, NY 10524, USA
Right along the Hudson River you can find the small but stunning town of Garrison. A part of Putnam County, many of our residents are familiar with Garrison's beauty because they've explored the incredibly peaceful Constitution Marsh. Just across the way from West Point, you'll find unique waterfront views here and secret natural wonders that you'll wish you had visited sooner.
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Orchard Park, NY 14127, USA
Step outside the big city of Buffalo and you'll find a variety of charming small towns in the surrounding area. Orchard Park is a great place to visit if you're looking for small town adventures in Wester New York. The area is home to the beloved Chestnut Ridge Park and is also where waterfall chasers can find the epic Eternal Flame Falls.
Which town in New York always manages to steal your breath away? To add one more delightful destination to your bucket list, check out The Fascinating Town In New York That’s Straight Out Of A Fairy Tale!
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More to Explore
Towns in New York
What are the best towns in New York for a weekend getaway?
New York is well-known for our variety of small towns. There’s so many charming little villages and hamlets, particularly in the upstate area. You could spend every weekend visiting one and still not see all there was to explore! In addition to the delightful towns listed above, here are some fun towns in New York perfect for your next weekend getaway:
- Cooperstown. We may be biased, but we think Cooperstown has one of the best Main Streets in the entire country. The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is one of the biggest sports-related attractions in the country, but there's so much more to Cooperstown. There's a few other great museums here, and the scenery is astoundingly gorgeous. Cooperstown, New York, is a great place for a weekend day trip!
- Rhinebeck. The town of Rhinebeck, New York, is filled with tons of history. The oldest inn in New York is located here. They've got great restaurants, and of course, a lot of outdoor areas to burn off those calories!
- Woodstock. Woodstock is such a cute little town! There's so much charm here, and the atmosphere is perfect for artists and writers. This spot will really get your creative juices flowing. The weekly flea market is incredible and especially shouldn't be missed. There's a lot to see and do in Woodstock, New York!
What towns in New York have the best Main Streets?
While New York is home to what is perhaps the most famous Main Street in the country (hello, Times Square!), the heart and soul of the Empire State really does lie in its small towns, such as:
- Lake George is such a fun area. Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors, relax on the beach, or shop at the outlets, there's a lot to do here. The Lake George Village is famous for its campy kitsch atmosphere. You don't even need your car: there's a convenient trolley that will transport you throughout the town.
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Trumansburg is definitely one of our favorite small towns in New York. Fun fact: the village's name is actually a misspelling of the founder's (Abner Treman). They've got some great restaurants and antique stores, and aren't far from the beautiful Taughannock Falls.
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Cold Spring is only about an hour outside of New York City. The adorable little Main Street area borders the Hudson River and is a scenic, nostalgic reminder of times gone by. The Victorian architecture is gorgeous, make sure to admire all the detail as you stroll through downtown! Check out the town's website for more information.