Most People Don't Know These 6 Super Tiny Towns Near Buffalo Exist
By Lea Monroe|Published January 25, 2019
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Lea Monroe
Author
Writer for Only In Your State. Scribbling about all things New York and Buffalo related while also keeping you updated on the latest travel news! Inquiries: Lmonroe@onlyinyourstate.com
Buffalo is a fantastic place on its own, but the Queen City also happens to be surrounded by some pretty cool small towns. In fact, we feature them quite frequently here at Only In Buffalo! Part of what makes Buffalo so great is that we’re lucky to live in a region that offers so much to explore, all within a short drive from home. Day trips beyond the city limits give us a chance to discover hidden gems that most people would never even know exist. It’s fun to be in on the secret – and to support these underrated places that we’re proud to call our neighbors. We went on a search for cool, tiny towns near Buffalo (those with fewer than 1,000 residents) that don’t get nearly enough love. Have you ever visited a town with a population of say… 38? We’re not joking – check this out:
All the way down in Cattaraugus County, Red House is home to fewer than 40 residents - how crazy is that? This is the smallest town you’ll find in all of New York, and it’s located just an hour and a half south of Buffalo. While you certainly won’t find the abundance of attractions that we’re used to in Buffalo, there’s a something special about this lovely town, which was settled back in 1827 and has maintained much of its original charm. Plus, the surrounding Allegheny River is absolutely beautiful. Visit Red House when you need a break from the hustle and bustle of big city life!
Hit the road and head south to Chautauqua County to experience a different kind of lake life than we’re used to. Bemus Point is located about an hour and a half from Buffalo and is home to fewer than 400 people, but its lakefront location on Chautauqua Lake makes it a beautiful place filled with small-town charm and incredible scenery. We suggest making stops at places like Long Point State Park and Midway State Park, both of which are fun for the whole family.
Just an hour south of Buffalo in Cattaraugus County, the small town of Otto has a population of roughly 800 residents. Though it’s situated out in the middle of nowhere, you’ll find that there are plenty of perks that come along with visiting or living in a secluded town like Otto. During the wintertime, head on over to places like the R&R Dude Ranch; a small-town attraction that offers winter horseback rides through the forest. What's not to love?
More Great Lake views await you up in the small town of Barker, where a lucky 500 people call this scenic place home. Tucked up near the shores of Lake Ontario, you'll find many people heading to this village to enjoy the amazing scenery. Barker is also home to a beautiful lighthouse that offers a seemingly endless view of the lake. When in town, you absolutely must visit spots like Golden Hill State Park, which remains open all year long and is lovely in every season.
Home to roughly 500 residents, the small town of Salamanca is one of many just outside of Buffalo that's filled with incredible history. Just over an hour away from us, the town of Salamanca sits along the northern outskirts of amazing attractions like New York's Allegany State Park. If you're ready to explore the great outdoors and are looking for a small town that puts your near Western New York's stunning scenery, Salamanca is a wonderful place to check out.
A village that roughly 800 people call home, Angelica is a destination that you'll wish you’d discovered sooner. Situated right in the middle of Allegany County, it'll only take you an hour and a half to make it out to Angelica from the heart of Downtown Buffalo. Those who visit the village can go for strolls down Main Street, where you'll pass everything from country stores and chocolate shops to picturesque benches where you can stop, sit, and soak in all the charm of this town.
Which of these teensy-tiny towns have you heard of – or better yet, visited for yourself? Share your experiences with us in the comments below!
