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World Atlas names 10 little-known towns in NY. See the list

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World Atlas names 10 little-known towns in NY. See the list

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Skyscrapers reach toward the clouds in Manhattan and cascades rumble in Niagara Falls at the Canadian border. But between those two cities lies much of what makes New York unique – from the majestic Adirondack mountains to the magnificent Finger Lakes and surrounding natural beauty. Here are 10 little-known towns in New York, as determined by the World Atlas.

Narrowsburg NY

Located on the Delaware River and at the foot of the Catskills in Sullivan County, this hamlet is tiny but mighty. Narrowsburg has a “rich tapestry of natural beauty and a strong sense of community that radiates from every corner,” according to the World Atlas.

Historic architecture, hippy art-painted barns and a variety of small-town businesses line the idyllic Main Street. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking and canoeing on the Delaware to hiking trails that offer views of the Poconos. There are several museums in the area, including the Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History.

Aurora NY

Located on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake, Aurora is a small village (of roughly 735 people) with a rich culture and landmarks, including the notable Aurora Inn. The village is home to Wells College, which for years was a women-only liberal arts college and closed earlier this year. Also known as Aurora-on-Cayuga, the village is filled with lakeside inns and estates, eateries and shops. Visitors can also enjoy lakeside recreations and water sports on Cayuga Lake.

Phoenicia NY

Tucked in the Catskill Mountains within Ulster County, Phoenicia was once a bustling lumber and logging town. Today, however, it has “evolved into a serene mountain getaway, ideal for those looking to escape the hectic pace of modern life,” according to the World Atlas. The Tanbark Trail offers a moderate climb with rewarding views of the town and Esopus Creek is a popular spot for trout fishing, kayaking and tubing. The expansive Catskill Forest Preserve surrounds Phoenicia, offering a network of trails for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Cold Spring NY

Located in Putnam County, Cold Spring is on the Hudson River and is best known for its stunning landscape and quaint atmosphere. Nearby is one of the Hudson Valley’s most famous hikes – Breakneck Ridge, a challenging trail with steep climbs. Other notable spots are the West Point Foundry Preserve, an outdoor museum that offers a view of the village’s industrial history through ironworks and the Magazzino Italian Art Museum, which features post-war and contemporary art. The central part of the village is on the National Register of Historic Places due to its many well-preserved historic buildings that date back to the 1800s.

Greenport NY

A scenic coastal town in Suffolk County on Long Island, Greenport is known for seaside and surrounding beaches. Learn about the community’s maritime heritage at the East End Seaport Museum or head outside to enjoy a swim or picnic on the beach or hike the forest of Orient Beach. The community also boasts a robust culinary scene – especially with an array of eateries lining the waterfront. Greenport’s harbor is another highlight, where many enjoy strolls on the docks that frame views of nearby Shelter Island and Peconic Bay.

Skaneateles NY

Skaneateles, with its unique shops and restaurants, sits astride the northern tip of Skaneateles Lake in Onondaga County. Home to Carpenter Falls and Bahar Nature Preserve and of course Skaneateles Lake, the town is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Skaneateles Lake is considered to be one of the highest Finger Lakes, at almost nine hundred feet above sea level, and there are also several parks in Skaneateles, including Cliff Park, Thayer Park and Shotwell Memorial Park. The town also boats a quaint historic district, which hosts a Charles Dickens-themed festival each December. The historic district boasts a wealth of well-preserved 19th century buildings and has been a part of the National Register of Historic Places since 1984.

Lewiston NY

Located in Niagara County, Lewiston is known for its pivotal role in the Underground Railroad, according to the World Atlas. The Tuscarora Heroes and Freedom Crossing monuments are must-sees and the Robert Moses Niagara Hydroelectric Power Station, offers tours available year round. Old Fort Niagara, a historic site is a testament to colonial struggles and military strategy. The town’s War of 1812 Bicentennial Peace Garden Trail, showcases a variety of natural beauty and Joseph Davis State Park offers opportunities to hike, fish and hunt.

Saranac Lake NY

The village of Saranac Lake spans three towns in two counties – Franklin and Essex counties – and is the largest community within the Adirondack park in northern New York. This quaint town is often overshadowed by its more frequented neighbor, Lake Placid, yet it offers an equally captivating charm with far fewer crowds. Winter transforms Saranac Lake into a snowy wonderland, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who can go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking on nearby Dewey Mountain. Local cafes, galleries and shops are aplenty here as well.

Tarrytown NY

This Westchester County village was the backdrop for Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Tarrytown’s storybook ambiance is second-to-none each fall, particularly near the stately Lyndhurst Mansion, whose dramatic Gothic Revival architecture and sweeping views of the Hudson River echo tales from another time

Cooperstown NY

Often described as “America’s hometown,” this Otsego County town is known for its small-town charm, lakeside draw and baseball. Cooperstown is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and is somewhat of a pilgrimage for sports fans. The town sits at the foothills of the Catskill Mountains and rests on the shores of Otsego Lake – known as “Glimmerglass.” The popular annual Glimmerglass Festival celebrates opera and music in a stunning lakeside venue – and will mark its 50th anniversary in 2025. Cooperstown’s historic district has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1980 and includes more than 200 properties and buildings, including Doubleday Field, several inns and a still-operating post office.

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