Looking for a unique vacation spot in the Empire State?
World Atlas, a website that publishes geographic resources and entertainment content, has revealed 11 quirky towns to visit in New York, including three in the Finger Lakes region.
Charming small towns dot the New York landscape, each with its own historical charm and unique character. Here are the 11 quirkiest towns to visit in New York, as determined by World Atlas.
Canandaigua, New York
According to World Atlas, Canandaigua is “rich with amenities that fill the quaint, rustic atmosphere.” Canandaigua in Ontario County is home to Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park and the Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum. The city of Canandaigua is also located at the northern end of Canandaigua Lake.
Alexandria Bay, New York
Located in Jefferson County, Alexandria Bay is located along the banks of the St. Lawrence River, across from Wellesley Island and the town of Lockport. Home to Boldt Castle and Boldt Yacht House, it is near Grass Point State Park and Mary Island State Park. Both parks offer a variety of opportunities for camping, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and more.
Woodstock, New York
Located in Ulster County in the Catskill Mountains, Woodstock is best known for lending its name to a particularly famous music festival in 1969, although the festival was actually held 60 miles away in Bethel, Sullivan County. It was held. According to World Atlas, “Today, Woodstock offers a variety of great opportunities to explore the endless outdoors.” Overlook Mountain and Catskill Center Thorn Preserve are also nearby. More's Flea Market, held every weekend, is also very popular.
Saugerties NY
Situated between the Hudson River and Catskill Park in Ulster County, Saugerties is never crowded with tourists, but it's a great place for adventure. The Catskills Game Refuge, Falling Waters Preserve, and Esopus Creek Conservatory are all located here. The Saugerties Lighthouse is still in operation and currently serves as a bed and breakfast.
Lake George, New York
This charming town is home to a variety of attractions, including Prospect Mountain and Lake George, a 52-mile spring-fed lake in the Adirondacks. Fort William Henry Museum is also in the area, and it's a 2.7-mile hike to Shelving Rock Falls.
Skaneateres NY
Filled with unique shops and restaurants, Skaneateles straddles the northern end of Skaneateles Lake in Onondaga County. Home to Carpenter Falls, Bahar Nature Preserve, and of course Skaneateles Lake, this town is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. At approximately 900 feet above sea level, Skaneateles Lake is considered one of the highest of the Finger Lakes, and Skaneateles is also home to several parks, including Cliff Park, Thayer Park, and Shotwell Memorial Park.
Sleepy Hollow NY
Located in Westchester County, 40 miles north of New York City, Sleepy Hollow is best known for being the primary inspiration for Washington Irving's “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Nearby natural attractions include Nyack Beach State Park and Rockefeller State Park Preserve, as well as historic sites such as Phillipsburg's Manor and Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, the resting place of Irving and many other notable souls.
Rhinebeck New York
Located on the east side of the Hudson River in Dutchess County, “Rhinebeck has a unique and rich history,” according to World Atlas. Rhinebeck is also home to God's Acre, the burial site of his 43 soldiers from the American Revolutionary War, along with the Wilderstein Historic Site and the Rhinebeck Historical Society.
lewiston new york
Located in Niagara County, Lewiston is a “heaven for unexplored adventure” according to World Atlas. Don't miss the Takarora Heroes and Freedom Crossing monuments. The Robert Moses Niagara Hydroelectric Plant offers tours year-round. The town's War of 1812 Bicentennial Peace Garden Trail showcases a variety of natural beauty, and Joseph Davis State Park offers hiking, fishing, and hunting.
Watkins Glen, New York
Watkins Glen State Park and its spectacular canyons and hiking trails, Watkins Glen, is located in Schuyler County at the southern end of Seneca Lake.
Saratoga Springs, New York
“Although the town of Saratoga Springs is best known for its extensive interest in horse racing, namely the Saratoga Horse Racing Hall of Fame, the town of Saratoga Springs also has several natural attractions: Yad Gardens, the Saratoga Farmers Market, and the Saratoga Springs Waterfront. According to Parkworld Atlas, all offer natural amenities, although each in its own way.