9 Underrated New York Towns That Deserve A Second Look
We love planning trips to our big cities that are full of life and excitement, but sometimes we need to take a getaway that will come with a little bit less chaos. With amazing small towns being found all over New York, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when it comes to picking out which one you should actually take the time to visit. Helping you to narrow things down, take a look at these underrated destinations that deserve your attention.
Due to its close proximity and well... its name, you might assume that natural wonders like Chittenango Falls lie within the town of Chittenango. But to some of our residents surprise, this magical state park actually falls within the town of Cazenovia. A charming place to visit out in Madison County, the town is right along the scenic Route 20 that makes for a beautiful drive. Surrounded by rolling hills and secluded scenery, the area is one that you shouldn't overlook!
Interested in taking a weekend getaway to a town that will surround you with natural beauty in the Catskills? Then try visiting the lesser-known town of Mount Tremper. Here you'll have the option of staying at luxurious locations like the Emerson Resort where you'll find the World's Largest Kaleidoscope or more laid back accommodations that can be found at the whimsical Kate's Lazy Meadow. Right along Esopus Creek, this town is perfect to visit during the summer.
Taking you out along the water, the town of Clayton can be found up in Jefferson County amongst the 1000 Islands. A waterfront adventure that's nothing short of relaxing, those visiting the town can make trips to the local Antique Boat Museum or get out on the water by experiencing a Glass-Bottomed Boat Tour that will give you a lifetime's worth of memories.
Right on the eastern shores of Onondaga Lake is the town of Liverpool. Home to just over 2,000 residents, the town can be found just 10 minutes outside of Syracuse. A destination that's best to visit on an empty stomach, in town you'll find tasty destinations like Heid's of Liverpool, our very own Salt Museum and the waterfront Onondaga Lake Park.
Down along the eastern shores of the Hudson River is a beautiful town that has lots to offer visitors. In town you'll find magical places like Stonecrop Gardens that will take you away from it all, as well as a general store that features a modern twist. An amazing stop to make along the Metro-North Railway, you'll find that there's plenty to keep you busy in the scenic town of Cold Spring.
Out in Yates County at the northern end of Keuka Lake's eastern branch lies one of our favorite towns to visit out in the Finger Lakes region. The small town of Penn Yan has a population of just over 5,000 residents and features a diner that serves up savory home cooked dishes and even has a fantastic waterfront hiking trail that will lead you to beautiful serene spaces.
Sometimes we're not always looking to visit our big cities and need a more remote getaway to one of our wonderful towns. Just 15 minutes outside of Rochester, the town of Pittsford is home to our absolute favorite dairy farm. Pittsford Farms Dairy is a great place to check out during this time of year, where you can get some of the most delicious scoops of ice cream that you've ever tasted in New York.
Another great destination to visit if you're looking to escape our big cities, Lewiston is less than 20-minutes outside of Niagara Falls and a half-hour drive from Buffalo. Lewiston is great to visit if you want to spend some time outside or even underground! Two popular attractions to visit in the area are the Artpark and the National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Fatima, while thrill seekers will naturally gravitate towards the town's adventurous boat tours that take you into the Niagara Gorge.
One of our most unique and intriguing towns that you'll find in New York, Lily Dale is far from ordinary. A gated community that's only home to mediums, visitors from all over the country flock to this town when it opens itself up to guests during the summer. Interested in seeing what all the fuss is about, many come here to experience the town and meet with local mediums. Take the time to walk around Lily Dale and you'll find a pet cemetery, fairy trail and quaint places to shop and dine at.
Looking for another small town that’s worth visiting in the Empire State? Then head to Herkimer because The Best Biscuits In America Are Right Here In This Small New York Town!
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