Contrary to how it may seem when you consider New York City, there are many quiet places to live in New York, including charming small towns filled with familiar faces where no one is rushing around to get somewhere.

And some of the best small towns in New York don't even require that you live here in order to take them in. Consider a day or road trip to one (or all) of these!

1. Keene

After going back and looking through all of the small town posts I've previously done in an attempt to never repeat myself, I was surprised to discover that I somehow have gone without mentioning my favorite town, Keene. Fitting the description to a T, there's no better quiet place in New York State to visit than this one if you're looking to find nothing but peace, truly. Up here in the Adirondack Park, you'll find nothing but our highest mountains and breathtaking sights waiting for you. Check out this beautiful hiking trail in Keene if you are ever in the area.

2. Babylon

Found on the southern shore of Long Island in Suffolk County, this scenic village is one of the best small towns in New York. Out here you'll be able to enjoy boat tours, fantastic areas for fishing, and small parks that are perfect for strolling through to see our wildlife. Grab a bite to eat at the Post Office Cafe when you're in town.

3. Garrison

Right on the Hudson River, you'll find the tiny area of Garrison, one of our best kept secrets. Just across the river from West Point, here, you can discover peaceful places like the Russel Wright Design Center (pictured above), Boscobel House & Gardens, and even the Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary! With so many relaxing places to check out in this town, it's the perfect spot for a quiet place to live in New York. Read about what a hike at Constitution Marsh has in store for you.

4. Lily Dale

There's more than a good chance that you haven't heard of this small little gem and quiet place in New York State. Right near Cassadaga Lake, this area is great to visit during the summer and warmer months. Known for being a spiritual community, there's plenty to see throughout the town like a quirky Fairy Trail! Discover more about Lily Dale, NY.

5. Cape Vincent

Right on the St. Lawrence River near all of our beautiful Thousand Islands, you'll find the small but breathtaking town of Cape Vincent. It's hard not to instantly feel peaceful once you're out near the water like this. This is one of the best small towns in New York. One of our favorite places to visit while we're here is the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse seen above. Get some more reasons to love Cape Vincent, NY.

6. East Aurora

Just outside of the big city of Buffalo, you'll discover one of the many hidden treasures being kept out in Western New York. This peaceful village features historic museums, wildlife centers, and places for you to stay that look like they've just come out of a storybook. Learn more about the little village of East Aurora.

7. Trumansburg

Just west of Cayuga Lake, you'll find another quiet place to live in New York in the small village of Trumansburg. Here, there's a slow-paced lifestyle and old historic buildings. It's the perfect place to be if you're looking for something opposite of the big cities. One of the nearby attractions that draws in visitors to this place is the Taughannock Falls State Park, a beautiful place to get away from it all. Hungry? Check out some of the best restaurants in Trumansburg, NY.

8. Castile

Located out in Wyoming County, all you'll discover in this small village is open spaces, farmland, and a scenic state park. A great place for a getaway if you're looking to enjoy the peace and quiet of the outdoors. Take a trip to this quiet place in New York State and spend the day exploring the amazing Letchworth State Park. Discover some of the fun that can be had at Letchworth State Park.

9. Nyack

Another remote village worth visiting along the Hudson River, Nyack isn't too far away from the big city, but distant enough that you'll be able to find peace and quiet here. Our suggestion for your visit to one of the best small towns in New York? Spend the day out near the water exploring the beautiful Nyack Beach State Park. Check out this fun weekend itinerary in Nyack.

10. Watkins Glen

Generally speaking, almost all of our residents have a big sweet spot for this quiet place to live in New York. From an adorable farm sanctuary that's perfect for all animal lovers to visit, to our famous state park filled with waterfalls, there's plenty to enjoy out here in the Finger Lakes. Read more about Watkins Glen Park.

Have you been to any of these quiet places to live in New York State or have we missed any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments!

Didn't see you favorite place included on this list? Then perhaps it made it's way onto our list of 13 Super Tiny Towns That Most People Didn't Know Existed!