From lakeside villages to mountain hamlets, several towns across New York State are being highlighted as ideal destinations for fall travel. The New York State Division of Tourism has released a list of ten lesser-known towns and villages that offer unique experiences during the autumn season.
Lewiston, located along the Niagara River near Niagara Falls, features a main street with antique shops, restaurants, and boutiques. Visitors can hike the Niagara Gorge trails or attend performances at Artpark. Jet boat cruises on the river and tours of local wineries are also available through mid-October.
In the Finger Lakes region, Aurora sits by Cayuga Lake and offers historic downtown shops such as Mackenzie-Childs Ceramics. The Inns of Aurora provide various lodging options, while visitors can book spa treatments or take foliage charters on the lake until late October. The area is known for its farm-to-table dining and access to the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail.
Keene and Keene Valley in the Adirondacks attract those seeking outdoor activities. Locally-owned shops line the streets, and hikers can choose from advanced High Peaks routes or moderate trails like Balanced Rocks and Baxter Mountain. The Keene Farmers Market operates through October.
Clinton in Central New York is described as reminiscent of Stars Hollow from “Gilmore Girls.” The town features a historic district with coffee shops, boutiques, and a cider mill offering fresh cider donuts. The Clinton Farmers Market runs every Thursday until early October.
Troy, part of Capital-Saratoga, is recognized for its history and arts scene. Museums such as Hart-Cluett Museum detail Troy’s industrial past. Peebles Island State Park provides hiking opportunities where the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers meet. A farmers market takes place every Saturday.
Mayville in Chautauqua-Allegheny sits at Chautauqua Lake’s northern end. Activities include cruises on the Chautauqua Belle steamboat until mid-October and walking or biking along converted rail trails. The Chautauqua Institution hosts an Oktoberfest event each year in late October.
Shelter Island on Long Island is accessible only by ferry and offers natural attractions like Mashomack Preserve’s tidal creeks and woodlands. Kayak tours run through early November, while local businesses such as Black Cat Books serve visitors in town.
Potsdam in Thousand Islands-Seaway comes alive with fall colors each year. Home to Clarkson University and SUNY Potsdam, it features more than 30 restaurants and shops downtown. Outdoor enthusiasts can walk along Raquette River or visit Ives Park’s weekly farmers market through October.
Sugar Loaf in Hudson Valley is known for artisan studios housed in century-old buildings. The hamlet holds a Fall Festival in mid-October with vendors, music, parades, and activities for families. Nearby Warwick provides access to Appalachian Trail hikes.
Margaretville in the Catskills offers proximity to Plattekill and Belleayre Mountains for hiking or biking among fall foliage. Downtown Margaretville includes local shops selling handmade goods, while nearby Arkville features scenic train rides through peak foliage periods.
The New York State Division of Tourism encourages travelers to share their experiences on social media using #iSpyNY or #NYLovesFall.
