Why This One Tiny Town Is Secretly The Best Place In New York

For an important reminder about judging a book by its cover or size, consider Aurora NY. This lovely town proves some of New York's smallest places are the destinations with the most to offer visitors. For trips out along the water surrounded by amazing views and shopping at such unique places as MacKenzie-Childs in Aurora, the small towns that make up the Finger Lakes Region are some of the most charming you'll ever stumble upon. Let's discover why you need to pack up and head out to Cayuga County!

1. Cayuga Lake

Peacefully sitting along the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake, one of the best small towns in New York — Aurora, NY — has about 700 residents. Like so many lakes that make up this scenic region, the water in Cayuga Lake is absolutely stunning. Aurora is just one of several amazing towns found around this lake, also referred to as Aurora-on-Cayuga.

2. History

The charming town is full of historical markers that give a bit of insight into the local history, teaching something new every time you turn a corner! In 1980 the Aurora Village-Wells College Historic District, covering roughly 50 buildings in town, was added to the National Register of Historic Places. From monumental pieces of our local past to important buildings, these historical markers offer proof that Aurora is a fascinating place to live and visit and one of the best small towns in New York. Find out more about the history of Aurora, NY, and all the reasons why you'll want to come to one of our best-kept secrets, on the Aurora Historical Society website.

3. The Aurora Inn

Out of all the wonderful places to visit in Aurora, NY, one of the spots you'll instantly hear about is this luxurious inn. With a gorgeous view of the water, the Aurora Inn is one of the most popular places to stay in town. For more about this lovely place, visit the Inns of Aurora website.

The handsome building dates back to 1833 adding character to the elaborate furnishings.

Each room offers an out-of-this-world coziness with minute attention to their soft details, especially a crackling fire on a nippy evening.

4. 1833 Kitchen & Bar

And best of all — the Aurora Inn has a world-class restaurant that's also one of the most scrumptious places to eat in Aurora, NY, with the most sophisticated style. The 1833 Kitchen & Bar offers a phenomenal menu that changes with seasons and features ingredients sourced from the local area.

Enjoy this surprising light dish from the fall à la carte menu.

Sauteed scallops in brown butter and bacon vinaigrette with fennel apple slaw, carrot puree, and white beans never looked prettier. See what other cuisine is offered on the 1833 Kitchen & Bar Facebook page.

5. MacKenzie-Childs

For a joyful, leisurely activity there's no better place to relax and shop than MacKenzie-Childs in Aurora. Other states may have their own MacKenzie-Childs stores, but the heart of this company lies on a farm in Aurora, one of the best small towns in New York. Like something out of a painted picture, the scenery and buildings that make up the MacKenzie-Childs' property will positively charm you.

The gorgeous Farmhouse was built in the late 1800s as the homestead for a prosperous dairy farm, and is now open for free 40-minute tours throughout the year, giving a look at 15 different rooms on three floors.

The property at MacKenzie-Childs in Aurora contains so much history, such as the former Cornell horse barn, beautiful gardens, open fields, a historic greenhouse, and a pond.

And every summer the famous MacKenzie-Childs Barn Sale draws people from all over to Aurora, NY.

We like the eclectic, one-of-a-kind inventory that can only be found here. Discover more about this enchanting store on the MacKenzie-Childs website.

6. Rowland House

Just a quick 5-minute walk from the Aurora Inn, the Rowland House, dating to 1903, is another amazing place to stay that makes the town of Aurora so delightful and one of the best small towns in New York.

The inn features 10 rooms that are all unique and four whimsy guestrooms— along with a private lounge —that are decorated with the playful designs of Mackenzie-Childs in Aurora.

If a town in New York was crowned as the place to have the most inns with amazingly chic and cozy rooms, Aurora would probably take the cake. And speaking of food, this inn also has an incredible dining room. To find out more about this extraordinary place, visit the Inns of Aurora website.

7. The Village Market

One of the best things about the town of Aurora, NY, is that most everything worth visiting is within walking distance and right along Main Street. The Village Market is the quaint, small-town shop you've always dreamed of, offering all sorts of delicious sweets, fresh produce, and other delicious items. Discover more on the The Village Market Facebook page.

8. Fargo Bar & Grill

Aurora, NY, has a handful of mouthwatering restaurants to visit, and one place you won't want to forget about is Fargo Bar & Grill.

From the juicy, well-loved burgers to finger-lickin' good wings, it's easy to find something to feast on at this casual eatery.

Check out the interesting menu on the Fargo Bar & Grill Facebook page.

From interesting boutiques to historical sites, charming inns, waterfront views, and great restaurants, it's impossible not to fall in love with one of the best small towns in New York.

What are some of your favorite qualities about Aurora, NY? If you've visited, please share your experience in the comments.

And discover even more fun activities in Aurora, NY. For another memorable scenic destination along with excellent cuisine, head up to this secluded waterfront restaurant in New York — you'll be glad you did.