Nestled outside of New York City’s concrete jungle lie the extraordinary opportunities of northern New York state. Charming communities and stunning scenery await those wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle. These five towns are a must-see.

Saratoga Springs

North of Albany is the historic city of Saratoga Springs. Noted for its horse racing, fans can stroll among the trophies at the National Museum of Racing and spend a day at the Saratoga Race Course. For those that live life in a faster lane, there’s the Saratoga Automobile Museum. Simple pleasures include the Saratoga Performing Arts Center and the Saratoga Spa State Park.

Lake Placid

Host to more than one Winter Olympic Games, Lake Placid is an outdoor sports lover’s dream. Its Olympic Museum was the home of the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” hockey team. The town’s idyllic location among the Adirondacks offers lakes for swimming or fishing and trails for hiking and biking. The winter months bring snow skiing and sled riding.

Lily Dale

Halfway between Buffalo and the Pennsylvania border lies the spiritual haven of Lily Dale. This New Age nerve center has been deemed New York’s Seance Capital. Every year, thousands of visitors descend on Lily Dale to meet with mediums and explore spiritual healing. Sightseers can tour the Lily Dale Museum, which boasts historic details and artifacts, or stop by the activities at the nearby Lily Dale Assembly.

Sleepy Hollow

Made famous by Washington Irving’s legendary story, the village of Sleepy Hollow sits just outside Manhattan. This quaint town offers a place to step back in time to days long past. Visitors can journey back to colonial America at the Philipsburg Manor. They can venture among the famed residents of the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. Sleepy Hollow is an excellent place to get away without losing one’s head.

Hunter

Tucked away in the Catskill Mountains, the town of Hunter is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Hunter Mountain Resort hosts zipline adventures and a spectacular sky ride. Scenic trails for bikers and hikers wind around the fantastic mountain views. Waterfalls and streams make it an ideal place for camping and fishing.