Small town just an hour from NYC named a top ‘charming’ gem to visit — and you don’t even need a car to get there

Big “charm” comes in small packages — and sometimes, on small budgets.

A quaint small town just a short train ride from NYC has been called one of the most “charming” places in the United States to visit without breaking the bank — a secret Hudson Valley residents already know.

Picturesque Cold Spring has enjoyed a decades-long run as a top day trip from the Big Apple — with or without a car.

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A little over an hour away by train, the creatively inclined village of fewer than 2,000 inhabitants is known as a perfect escape from the city’s hustle without the hassle of driving.

MarketBeat surveyed 3,011 travel professionals to rank the best so-called “bougie-on-a-budget” destinations — and the historic hideaway on the banks of the mighty Hudson made the number three spot on the list.

Two other spots in New York also made the nifty list of 50 — Saranac Lake in the Adirondacks and Hammondsport in the Finger Lakes region.

“Travel doesn’t have to derail your financial goals,” Matt Paulson, founder of the financial media company, said in a statement.

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“These destinations show that it’s possible to enjoy a high-end vacation feel without the high-end price tag. For budget-conscious travelers, it’s a smart way to make memories and keep your savings on track.”

The beautiful burg of Cold Spring is served by Metro-North’s Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal, and its quaint streets are lined with antique shops, cozy cafes, and inviting boutiques that invite leisurely strolls and discovery.

The town’s historic architecture and stunning river views create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and refreshingly peaceful.

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Outdoor enthusiasts will love hiking in nearby Hudson Highlands State Park, where trails offer breathtaking vistas of the river and valley.

The next Empire State spot on the list is Saranac Lake, up in the Adirondack Mountains at No. 6.

While a bit farther from New York City — about a five-hour drive — this scenic town is still accessible without a car thanks to convenient bus and train options, making it an easy escape for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.

The last New York destination on the list is Hammondsport at No. 43.

The delightful small town — nicknamed “Little Lake Como” — is tucked along the southern tip of Keuka Lake in the Finger Lakes region.

Known for its quaint streets and stunning waterfront views, Hammondsport offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and local charm. 

It’s also a five-hour drive from New York City.

The town is famous for its wine culture, with several award-winning wineries and tasting rooms nearby where you can sample some of the Finger Lakes’ best vintages.

Outdoor lovers will enjoy kayaking on Keuka Lake, hiking scenic trails, or renting bikes to explore the rolling countryside.

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History buffs can dive into the town’s unique past at the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, dedicated to the aviation pioneer who called Hammondsport home.

America’s top charming spots to visit, according to experts

1. Twin Lakes, Colorado

2. Kaunakakai, Hawaii

3. Cold Spring, New York

4. Mount Dora, Florida

5. Cape May Point, New Jersey

6. Saranac Lake, New York

7. Grand Rivers, Kentucky

8. Paris (and Kentucky Lake), Tennessee

9. Dauphin Island, Alabama

10. Los Alamos, California