Each community has its own vibe – but of these small towns offers a welcoming atmosphere, according to the World Atlas. Here are the 11 friendliest towns in New York, according to the publication.
Hammondsport NY
A village within the town of Urbana, Steuben County, Hammondsport is located at the southern end of Keuka Lake.
The community was the birthplace of Glenn H. Curtiss, a pioneer in aviation and flight enthusiasts may want to visit a museum in his name here that looks at the advancement of aviation.
Hammondsport is also home to some world-class wineries and breweries — including Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars, one of the first vineyards that introduced Rieslings into the region.
The village’s main street is also bustling — there are art galleries, quaint cafes and boutique shops. Depot Park, a former train depot that was transformed into a community park, is a favorite spot for locals.
Ellicottville NY
This Cattaraugus County village is a ski haven in western New York. Only one square mile, the village packs a punch with a collection of unique eateries and shops and “genuinely friendly” folks. Holiday Valley resort drives the community’s seasonal buzz with downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and tubing in wintry weather and an aerial adventure park. Walk through the paths and visit a Japanese Garden at the Nannen Arboretum. Ellicottville also hosts seasonal community events, including Winter Carnival and Fall Festival weekends and music-themed gatherings.
Northville NY
This little known village is in the northern portion of Franklin County in the Adirondacks. Less than 1000 people call the community home, according to the U.S. Census. The community is an outdoor haven and Great Sacandaga Lake pushes right into town with docks, launches, and open shoreline including Northville Waterfront Park, which has a small public beach. Fishing, boating, ice skating, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular here. It’s also where the 133-mile-long Northville-Placid Trail begins, “which gives the village a steady undercurrent of trail talk,” according to the World Atlas. Northville is also home to the oldest Five and Dime variety store in the nation, which opened in 1907.
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 on nearby Dewey Mountain. The village’s annual winter carnival celebrates snow activities and camaraderies and a community-built ice palace. Warmer weather brings on activities such as hiking and kayaking. Local cafes, galleries and shops are aplenty here as well.
Saratoga Springs NY
Known primarily due to extensive interest in horse racing, namely the Saratoga Racing Hall of Fame, the town of Saratoga Springs also boasts cultural depth, including the popular Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Broadway Street, which forms the town’s core, is bustling and lined with unique boutiques, cozy cafes and art galleries. Saratoga Springs also has natural mineral springs, which have attracted visitors seeking wellness for centuries. The Saratoga Spa State Park also offers a tranquil retreat.
Beacon NY
Located along the Hudson River in Dutchess County, Beacon is known for its art scene, natural beauty and small town charm. The community has a historic Main Street with numerous boutiques, eateries, contemporary art galleries and museums. There’s an open-air farmers market on Sundays. It is also near the historic Bannerman Castle, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and Mount Beacon, which offers plenty of hiking options.
Hudson NY
Located in Columbia County, the aptly named city of Hudson is roughly 2.5 hours north of New York City, on the Hudson River. The city boasts a historic downtown area, with an eclectic array of shops that add a modern vibe. It’s also home to a variety of landmarks: Olana State Historic Site, where acclaimed painter Frederic Edwin Church lived; Henry Hudson Riverfront Park; and the nearby outdoor Art Omi Sculpture Park.
Rhinebeck NY
Located on the east side of the Hudson River in Dutchess County, “Rhinebeck is home to a rich history all its own,” according to the World Atlas. Along with the Wilderstein Historic Site and the Rhinebeck Historical Society, Rhinebeck is also home to God’s Acre, the burial place of 43 soldiers of the American Revolution.
Corning NY
This Steuben County town is home to the well-known Corning Museum of Glass and also the Rockwell Museum. The downtown district, or Gaffer District, is vibrant – with museums, galleries, historic buildings, eateries and shops. Its picturesque streetscapes are a draw for many, including the nearby Centerway Bridge, Corning’s historic walking bridge that spans the Chemung River.
East Aurora NY
This Erie County village is one-of-a-kind. Located southeast of Buffalo, East Aurora is known for its family-friendly vibe, its arts and crafts era imprint and walkable village center. The Roycroft Campus, a National Historic Landmark since 1986, is a key part of the Roycroft legacy, which remains visible in East Aurora buildings, programs and an annual art/antique show held each June, according to the World Atlas. It’s also home to Vidler’s 5 & 10 Store, a massive variety store. East Aurora also boasts its presidential connection, including the home of and built by Millard Fillmore, America’s 13th president.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: See which in Hudson Valley made World Atlas’ 11 friendliest towns in NY
Reporting by Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
