If we could bottle up the feeling we get while on a road trip we wouldn’t hesitate to. From quick day trips to weekend getaways as much as love NYC we also love rolling the windows down and feeling the wind whip through our hair as we escape the craziness for a bit, and if you’re looking to travel a bit off the beaten path we’ve got you covered.
These are some of the more underrated towns in New York that are lesser-known but absolutely worth a visit! And don’t worry, though we love ourselves a roadtrip–especially since New York is the 2nd best state in the U.S. to go on one–you can get to these towns with or without a driver’s license.
1. Mount Tremper
Mount Tremper is about a two and a half hour drive from NYC, and here you’ll be surrounded by all the natural beauty of the Catskills. If you’re looking to get some exercise in the town is home to a 5.9-mile trail, which is a popular area for birding, hiking, and snowshoeing.
However, if working up a sweat isn’t really your thing, here’s a fun fact: Mount Tremper is home to the world’s largest kaleidoscope, housed in a giant farm silo!
🚗 ~2.5 hour drive
🚇 Closest train stop: Poughkeepsie Amtrak Station
2. Cazenovia
Founded in 1793, Cazenovia is a charming, picturesque Norman Rockwell style village located at the southeast end of Cazenovia Lake. Home to many quaint shops, restaurants, lodging, history, and more, there’s tons to do here. Those looking for an adventure can rent kayaks and stand up paddleboards at Cazenovia Lake or head to Chittenango Falls State Park to hang by a gorgeous waterfall.
Or if you’re looking to just relax outdoors you can check out Critz Farms Brew & Cider Co. or the picturesque Owera Vineyards. Plus, Cazenovia is located right along Route 20, making for a gorgeous, scenic drive.
🚗 ~4 hour drive
🚇 Closest train stop: Syracuse Amtrak Station
3. East Aurora
Located in Western New York, just 25 miles from downtown Buffalo and 45 minutes from Niagara Falls, East Aurora has a rich history and is known for its beautiful parks and historic architecture, and is one of the cutest towns in upstate New York. A journey down the town’s bustling Main Street will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, with specialty shops, restaurants, churches, and carefully preserved homes.
Visitors will also find a good amount of art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants.
🚗 ~5.5 hour drive
🚇 Closest train stop: Buffalo-Exchange Street Amtrak Station
4. Skaneateles
The picturesque town of Skaneateles is located in New York’s Finger Lakes region, making it a gorgeous lake town in New York. With a population of just over 7,000, the town has a rich history that dates back to revolutionary times and is home to a vibrant downtown, with its main street lined with historic buildings that house unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
Skaneateles is situated on the shore of Skaneateles Lake, one of the country’s cleanest and most beautiful lakes, making it one of the most underrated towns in New York.
🚗 ~4 hour drive
🚇 Closest train stop: Syracuse Amtrak Station
5. Ellicottville
As “Western New York’s playground for outdoor fun and adventure,” Ellicottville is a thrill seeker’s dream destination. Visitors can enjoy enjoy skiing and snowboarding, golf, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, paddle boarding, and kayaking before heading back to the village for an amazing meal or to peruse the many eclectic shops.
The town also hosts a ton of fun year-round events, including a summer music festival, smorgasbord, fall festival, a Christmas stroll, and more.
🚗 ~5.5 hour drive
🚇 Closest train stop: Buffalo Amtrak Station