While New York City is gorgeous in its own way, from its stunning skyscrapers to its many beautiful parks, you have to admit there’s something charming and cozy about a quaint small town. And though we’d all remain loyal to NYC, there’s nothing wrong with embarking on a quick little getaway every now and then!
But where to go?
Travel & Leisure recently released their list of the 23 most beautiful small towns around the world, including everything from popular spots to more secluded, hidden gems, and New York is home to one of them!
New York’s Lake Placid found its way on the list, being considered the twelfth most beautiful small town (It was also named one of the best mountain towns in the US by Architectural Digest!)
Lake Placid is a peaceful and picturesque village in New York’s Adirondack Mountains that’s centered around an idyllic lake. Beyond the beauty of the water, it has rolling hills, dense forests, meadows, and a cute Main Street. An average 103 inches of powder annually transforms this glorious upstate getaway into a real-life snow globe that’s ripe for outdoor pursuits like cross-country skiing. When all that frosting melts, it’s time to hit the scenic trails for magnificent views. Don’t miss leaf peeping in the fall.
And beyond the area’s picturesque scenery and abundance of nature, Lake Placid is home to the longest mountain roller coaster in the country–perfect for thrill seekers!
About 288 miles separate NYC from Lake Placid, and a drive there would take just under five hours.
For those who aren’t too keen on driving (or just don’t have a car because, like, we live in NYC) travel via Amtrak is also possible with tickets that include a bus ride via Adirondack Trailways from the Saratoga station directly to Lake Placid.
Adirondack Trailways also offers service from New York City and Port Authority Terminal with a drop-off location in the center of Lake Placid and Saranac Lake.
As for what other towns made the list, many of them aren’t surprising. From Gordes, France and Oia, Greece to Guatapé, Colombia and Grindelwald, Switzerland, all we know is that we now have a pretty long travel bucket list!
New York City, you’re still #1 to us, but we mayyyy be gone for a couple days in the near future…