With the busy holiday season right around the corner, it’s safe to say most New Yorkers are already craving a little calm.
And according to World Atlas, one lakeside gem in upstate New York might just be the perfect place to find it.
Meet Westport, NY — a postcard-worthy village perched on the western shore of Lake Champlain, recently named one of the most laid-back towns in the state.
Nestled between the Adirondack Mountains and the water, it’s the kind of place where time slows down, the views stretch for miles, and the loudest thing you’ll hear is the sound of sailboats gliding by.
Known as the “Gateway to the Adirondacks,” Westport blends small-town warmth with spectacular natural scenery.
Its quiet main street is lined with local cafés, antique stores, and art galleries — all just steps from the waterfront.
And fun fact: the Adirondack chair was invented here back in 1903, which feels pretty on-brand for a town that’s mastered the art of relaxing.
Locals and visitors typically start their days with coffee by the docks or scenic walks through Wilson Woods, then spend afternoons kayaking, fishing, or just soaking up the views at the Westport Marina.
For dinner, Portside at the Marina and the Westport Yacht Club Restaurant serve unfussy eats and cocktails with unbeatable lake views — think lobster rolls, craft beer, and Adirondack sunsets that are even incredible during the fall.
The perfect slow escape, especially in fall
While summer brings sailboats and sunny picnics, Westport might be even dreamier in the fall.
The roads around Lake Champlain explode with color, making it a favorite spot for scenic drives and leaf-peeping without the crowds.
And once winter hits, the town turns into a cozy wonderland for cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice fishing.
How to get to Westport, NY from NYC
Westport is a mere five-hour drive or scenic six-hour Amtrak ride from NYC, so it’s close enough for a long weekend but far enough to feel like another world.