From quiet lakeside escapes to postcard-perfect mountain getaways, New York State is full of hidden gem hamlets, towns, and villages that come alive in the fall. Sip coffee in a Gilmore Girls-worthy village in Central New York or escape to a slow-paced Catskill Mountain town surrounded by vibrant foliage. Whether you’re looking to cross off new spots on your fall bucket list or just want something a little off-the-beaten path, read on for 10 of New York’s most under-the-radar towns to visit this fall. Photo credit: @visitoneidacounty on Instagram
Lewiston (Greater Niagara)
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This fall, discover this hidden gem town along the Niagara River, just 10 minutes north of Niagara Falls. Kick off your trip with a stroll down Lewiston’s main drag, Center Street, where you’ll find a collection of antique shops, brunch stops, coffee shops, boutiques, restaurants, and more. If you haven’t experienced fall along the Niagara River Gorge, follow one of the Niagara Gorge Hiking Trails, offering options for all ability levels. A stop at Artpark is a must, home to intriguing outdoor art installations and a renowned amphitheater and mainstage which sees big name artists every summer. You may even catch one of the last shows of the season if you’re visiting in September! Add some thrills to your getaway with a high-speed jet boat cruise through Class V rapids with Whirlpool Jet Tours, open through October 12, or sip back and relax on a tour through Niagara Wine Country at nearby wineries like Bella Rose Vineyard or A Gust of Sun Winery.
Aurora (Finger Lakes)
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Located on a quiet corner of Cayuga Lake, sits the storybook village of Aurora. Start with a stroll downtown, where the streets are lined with historic buildings, and pop into charming shops like the Mackenzie-Childs Ceramics and The Village Market. If you’re planning to stay overnight, the Inns of Aurora (pictured) are a must-stay, offering six different accommodation experiences. Day trippers can make an appointment for the spa for body treatments, energy work, facials, massages, and more. You can’t beat the fall colors surrounding Cayuga Lake this time of year, so plan to take to the water with Biaconi Tours (through October 19). Fall foliage charters are also available for an unforgettable experience. Venture into Finger Lakes Wine Country along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, home to stops like Montezuma Winery and Buttonwood Grove Winery. Get a taste of farm-to-table dining at 1833 Kitchen & Bar or try Fargo Bar & Grill for one of the best burgers in the Finger Lakes.
Keene and Keene Valley (Adirondacks)
Nestled in the picturesque beauty of the Adirondack Mountains are the neighboring towns of Keene and Keene Valley. Just outside of Lake Placid, these mountain towns blend outdoor adventure with small town charm. Get your bearings at a variety of locally-owned shops like Dartbrook Rustic Goods, The Birch Store, and Black Rooster Maple. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, stop at the popular Noon Mark Diner or one of the many bakeries. Spend a Sunday morning perusing 50+ local vendors at the Keene Farmers Market, open May-October. You just can’t visit the Adirondacks in the fall without hitting the trails! Advanced hikers may want to tackle one of the High Peaks, while beginners can unlock spectacular views on the Adirondack Rail Trail or shorter, moderate trails like Balanced Rocks on Pitchoff Mountain and Baxter Mountain (pictured).
Clinton (Central New York)
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For Gilmore Girl fans who ever dreamed of visiting Stars Hollow, this adorable Central New York town is for you! Named after New York’s first governor and home to Hamilton College, Clinton is located just 15 minutes outside of Utica. If you’re “an autumn,” start off with a pumpkin spice latte from Utica Coffee Roasting Co. and take a stroll through the historic district with local shops and restaurants like Artisans’ Corner, Almost Local, or Lucky Dog Bistro. When you’re ready for a sweet treat, hit up The Cremeria for authentic Italian gelato. Stop by the family-owned Clinton Cider Mill to see a real cider press in action and afterward, sample some fresh cider and cider donuts for yourself. Wander through Root Glen Arboretum to admire fall colors throughout the forests surrounding Hamilton College. If you’re looking for more local goodies, the Clinton Farmers Market takes place every Thursday through October 2, with everything from fresh produce to handmade candles to floral bouquets.
Troy (Capital-Saratoga)
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While not technically a town, this vibrant riverside city is still an under-the-radar treasure that blends rich history, diverse cuisine, and a thriving arts scene. Wander through charming streets, where you’ll find independent bookstores, cozy coffee shops, and local art galleries like the Arts Center of the Capital Region, Martinez Gallery, Two Selves Gallery, and Broken Mold Studio. Dive into the city’s past at the Hart-Cluett Museum, where you can learn about Troy’s legacy as “The Collar City.” Take a self-guided brewery tour and stop at popular spots like Brown’s Brewing Company, Ilium Brewing, or Mean Max Brew House for fall brews. If you’re on the hunt for seasonal colors, try Peebles Island State Park. It’s the place where the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers meet, making it the perfect place for a fall hike. Don’t leave without making a stop at the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market held every Saturday, where you’ll find fresh local produce and handmade products.
Mayville (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
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Nestled at the northern end of Chautauqua Lake, Mayville is a quiet lakeside village where small town charm meets the peaceful outdoors. Admire fall colors surrounding Chautauqua Lake on a cruise aboard the historic Chautauqua Belle (open through October 18), or spend some time soaking up the dazzling views at Lakeside Park. If you’re looking to spend more time outdoors, explore Chautauqua Rails to Trails, where you can walk, hike, or bike on scenic paths that were once railroad tracks. When it’s time for something sweet, hit up Webb’s Candies for chocolates, sea salt caramels, gourmet pretzels, and region famous Sponge Candy. The renowned Chautauqua Institution’s stunning grounds (pictured) are free to roam in the off-season, and each year they hold an Oktoberfest in late October with German cuisine, live music, dancing, and more.
Shelter Island (Long Island)
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Tucked between Long Island’s North and South Forks is a tiny hidden gem island only accessible by ferry. While only 27 square miles, Shelter Island is teeming with natural beauty, making it the perfect spot for a fall adventure. Visit the Mashomack Preserve for amazing foliage on a walk or hike through acres of tidal creeks, mature oak woodlands, fields, and freshwater marshes. Explore the island’s calm, protected creeks and harbors on a two-hour kayak tour (open through early November), where you may spot wildlife like osprey, turtles, and fish. Be sure to head into town and pop into some local shops like Black Cat Books, Cornucopia Gift Shop, and Marika’s Eclectic Boutique. When you’re ready for a bite to eat, the Pridwin Hotel & Cottages awaits, located on the tranquil Crescent Beach. Enjoy fresh seafood alongside the ocean breeze from The Terrace and for a real treat, stop by for their Fall Sunday Suppers for open-air dining on the lawn (available through October 12).
Potsdam (Thousand Islands-Seaway)
Set at the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, this historic North Country college town comes alive in the fall with bright colors. Potsdam is home to Clarkson University, State University of New York (SUNY) Potsdam, and a downtown that has more than 30 restaurants and shops. Discover hidden treasures at Rustic Trout Antiques, browse clothing boutiques like Isle of You, and stock up on New York maple products at Maple Run Emporium. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, stop for a bite to eat at 3 Bears Gluten Free Bakery, Foster the Plant Cafe, or Maxfields. Take a family-friendly foliage walk along Raquette River on the Munter Trail, one of the eight trails on the STLC Great 8 Challenge. If you’re looking for even more waterside views, head to Ives Park–they also hold a farmers market here every Saturday morning through October!
Feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie when you visit this artisan hamlet in the Hudson Valley. About an hour outside of New York City, a stroll through Sugar Loaf will lead you through picture-perfect, century-old buildings turned into artist studios and shops. Discover handmade treasures like hand-dipped candles at The Candle Shop or jewelry from Collage. When you’re ready for a bite to eat make a stop at the Sugar Loaf Tap House for a cozy tavern vibe, craft brews, and comfort food. The Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center is the place to go for live performances and festivals and nearby Applewood Winery is well-known for its wines, ciders, and meads. Up for a fall hike? The Appalachian Trail runs right through the neighboring town of Warwick, featuring amazing Hudson Valley views. Visit during October 11-12 for Sugar Loaf Fall Festival with unique vendors, family-friendly activities, live music, a witches parade, and more.
Craving an escape to a slower pace? Take a journey into western Catskill Mountains to the charming village of Margaretville. This little-known gem bordering the Catskill Park is your quintessential mountain town, less than 20 minutes from Plattekill and Belleayre Mountains, where you can go hiking, mountain biking, take scenic chairlift rides through foliage, and go skiing in the winter. Breathe in the fresh fall air on nearby hiking trails like Kelly Hollow Loop or Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower. Relax on a stroll through the downtown, lined with historic buildings and eclectic local shops like Honeybee Herbs & Apothecary, Catskill Mountain Artisan Guild, and Margaretville Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop. In nearby Arkville, climb aboard the Delaware & Ulster Railroad for a scenic fall foliage train ride (offered through October 17) through the Catskill Mountains during peak foliage. On Saturdays through November, the Pakatakan Farmers Market has locally-produced goods from organic and sustainable farms as well as handcrafted jewelry, soaps, woodwork and more.
Don’t forget to post photos of your New York adventures on Instagram and X with #iSpyNY or #NYLovesFall, and tag us on Facebook!
