A Tiny Village In New York Combines Vintage Charm With Hip Cafes And Scenic Trails

When most travelers who are not familiar with New York think about a low-key, small town getaway, the Empire State is one of the last destinations that springs to mind. They think Times Square, the Empire State Building, taxis, and Carrie Bradshaw. And while New York City is iconic in its own right, full of culture and spectacle, it's not all that the state has to offer.

When you venture outside the city, you'll find cozy suburbs, gorgeous nature, and the cutest college towns. New York is not a state that should be overlooked when planning a quiet and relaxed vacation. Those looking to explore more of what the state has to offer, or just looking for a quick, stress-free getaway, should check out the tiny village of Tivoli.

This underrated small New York town located right on the Hudson is 1.5 square miles of the perfect mix of traditional and modern. The town is rooted in and celebrates age-old culture while local businesses bring a sprinkle of youth. Though it's right by Bard college and is popular among students, it's far from your typical, boisterous college town. It's not a plain old boring suburb either. Tivoli is the perfect location for travelers looking for a quiet reprieve away from the city hustle and bustle.

Once you take a scenic road trip up to Tivoli, you'll find that the calm of a small town is a breath of fresh air. This charming town was founded 150 years ago as a small village of about 1,000 people, and has mostly maintained that population size since. Despite its quaintness, Tivoli has much to offer for all kinds of travelers.

Nature lovers can head over to Tivoli Bays for hiking trails and water activities such as kayaking. Stay past sundown to witness breathtaking sunsets. Travelers who love culture can catch performances at Kaatsbaan Cultural Park or take a peek at the Tivoli Artists Gallery. Bard College is also a hub for cultural enrichment, and often hosts author readings, speaker series, classical music concerts, staged performances, and more.

Take a walk down Broadway, the town's main street, and explore a unique array of eclectic shops, restaurants and other local businesses you won't find anywhere else. Stop by a tiny mobile coffee shop called All That Java for your caffeine fix. If you want a stronger drink, head over to Traghaven, a bar with a modern take on a traditional Irish pub. There you'll find the largest selection of Irish whiskies in the U.S. If you're in the mood for shopping, go to Tivoli Mercantile for a fun selection of oddities and commodities. If you're planning to spend a few days in town, book a stay at Hotel Tivoli, a boutique hotel owned by local legends and renowned artists Brice and Helen Marden. And once your visit is complete, you'll understand how the town earned its slogan, "We like to say Tivoli backwards: I-lov-it."