11 Serene Getaway Spots in New York

While Manhattan is known for its skyscrapers and busy streets, New York State offers many quaint and peaceful towns perfect for a weekend retreat. According to World Atlas, these towns combine natural beauty, history, and small-town charm.

Lake Placid – Located in the Adirondacks, Lake Placid has twice hosted the Winter Olympics and is a hub for outdoor sports including skiing, triathlons, skating, and hiking. The village sits on the southern shores of Lake Placid, near the smaller Mirror Lake, and offers scenic wooded trails, quaint shops, and restaurants. Fall foliage is especially spectacular here.

Crown Point – Situated in Essex County on the western shore of Lake Champlain, Crown Point is historically significant. The French built Fort St. Frederic here in 1737, and the British took over in 1759, constructing a new fort. Today, remnants of the forts are preserved as the Crown Point State Historic Site, with the Champlain Memorial and Lighthouse nearby.

Clayton – In Jefferson County’s Thousand Islands region, Clayton stretches along a serene waterfront. Wellesley Island State Park, just north of town, offers camping, hiking, and a sandy swimming beach. The town’s harbor and marina sit along the St. Lawrence River, near the elegant 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel and Zenda Farms Preserve, a historic farm turned bird habitat with open trails.

Ithaca – At the southern end of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca blends a progressive city vibe with small-town charm. It is home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, featuring landmarks like Sage Hall and Barnes Hall. The Ithaca Commons, a pedestrian mall, serves as a central hub for shopping and dining.

These towns provide a mix of outdoor activities, historical sites, and cultural experiences, making them ideal escapes from the bustle of New York City.

World Atlas highlights eight more towns in New York for serene retreats, each offering unique experiences for travelers seeking calm, scenic getaways.