The best places to visit in New York State are full of small-town charm

17.09.2023 - 06:27 / lonelyplanet.com

Striking American landscapes, quirky antique stores, fabulous hikes and some of the best bakeries you’ll ever find. Welcome to New York State! From one end to the other, the Empire State is crammed with outdoor adventures, cool art, great food and friendly people.

Not sure where to start? Check out these ten top New York State locations and you won’t be disappointed. 

Best for small-town charm

In Columbia County, about 45 minutes from the state capital of Albany, the quaint city of Hudson overflows with vintage storefronts and small-town charm. The strip along Warren Street is known for its fine collection of boutique shops housed in historic buildings, each with a unique twist. Start with Spotty Dog Books and Ales, a not-so-average bookstore with a full bar inside.

Peppered throughout the neighborhood are cute antique shops and a variety of cafes and coffee shops, including Supernatural Coffee + Bakery, home to the best lavender honey latte on the strip.

Outside town are some of the best hiking trails in the Hudson Valley, including the route through the High Falls Conservation Area, a moderate 1.5-mile hike through rocky terrain, with a stunning waterfall at the end.

For accommodations, The Maker is an 11-room luxury boutique hotel with themed rooms designed to reflect the area's creative population of artists and writers, decorated with antique pieces and bits of history throughout each space. The cafe serves flakey sweet pastries such as twice-baked pistachio croissants from Bartlett House.

The Amelia Hotel, about two blocks from Warren Street, is another fantastic option, with a heated outdoor pool, huge soaking tubs, a beautiful lounge and complimentary beverages and baked goods.

Our favorite New York historic parks and monuments 

Best for fine art and fine dining

A stop at the Dia: Beacon gallery is a must when day-tripping to Beacon, NY. This light-filled, 300,000 sq ft space in a converted factory hosts large-scale conceptual art by Gerard Richter, Louise Bourgeois and Richard Serra. Storm King Art Center, a 500-acre outdoor sculpture garden, is a short drive away, bringing together fine art and fresh air.

When you've had your fill of creativity, there are plenty of ways to fill your stomach. The most charming place to eat is Roundhouse, a farm-to-table restaurant overlooking a waterfall. Inventive dishes such as Spicy Lobster Mac n’ Cheese pair nicely with a signature cocktail or a glass of wine. After your meal, stroll up the street to the trendy HÅKAN Chocolatier for artisanal chocolate that is well worth the trip. For lunch, dinner or drinks, head to Max's on Main for pub food and local beer.

Planning tip: Located about 70 miles north of New York City, Beacon is easily reached by car (a