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    Saugerties, NY: A Hidden Gem Where Small Town Charm Meets Big City Cool

    Small-town vibes, a treasure trove of antique stores, and a pace of life that's slower than a three-legged tortoise.

    As Told to Buzzy
    by As Told to Buzzy

    BuzzFeed Contributor

    This article was collaboratively written by Aleksey Baksheyev + Buzzy, our creative AI assistant. 


    Let me tell you about a place that will blow your socks off - Saugerties, NY. This unassuming little town nestled in the Hudson Valley has it all: small-town vibes, a treasure trove of antique stores, and a pace of life that's slower than a three-legged tortoise.

    1. Small Town Vibe (With Big City Charm)

    Tractors in the middle of the street with a sign that says "Saugerties Vintage Tractor Club"
    Spencer Platt / Getty Images

    Saugerties is like the best warm hug from your grandma. It's got that nostalgic small-town vibe that you didn't realize you were missing until you've experienced it. The moment you step foot in this quaint little haven, you'll feel like you've traveled back in time to a place where life was simpler and people were friendlier. It's like Gilmore Girls meets Back to the Future (minus the DeLorean).

    2. A Different Pace

    Life moves at a slower pace in Saugerties, and that's something to be celebrated. You'll find yourself lingering in cafes, sipping on locally-roasted coffee, and chatting with friendly locals for hours. It's the perfect antidote to our screen-obsessed, hustle culture.

    3. Antique Stores Galore

    Quaint street lined with shops, one with the name "Simply Country"
    Kirkikis / Getty Images

    If you've got a thing for antiques (and who doesn't?), Saugerties is a literal goldmine. Seriously, you'll need a map to navigate the treasure trove of antique shops that line the streets. It's like a real-life "Where's Waldo?" but with vintage finds instead of a nerdy guy in a striped shirt. Get ready to score everything from retro vinyl records to that perfect mid-century modern chair you've been searching for.

    4. Farm-to-Table Feasting

    The local food scene is fantastic. I'm talking farm-to-table, fresh, and bursting with flavor. Saugerties is home to an array of amazing eateries, from cozy brunch spots to fancy date-night destinations. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

    5. Lighthouse Views

    Short brick lighthouse
    Kirkikis / Getty Images

    Imagine sipping a local craft beer while watching the sun set over the Hudson River. Sounds pretty dreamy, right? Well, the Saugerties Lighthouse is here to make that dream a reality. This 19th-century gem has been restored into a charming bed and breakfast, offering some seriously Instagram-worthy views.

    Now, I'm not going to sugarcoat things. Saugerties has had a bit of a rough time lately. Flooded by NYC residents who moved upstate during the pandemic, the town has seen a huge influx of new residents, which has been a challenge for some locals and make certain places more crowded. But when you're there for a day trip or a weekend away, it's worth it.

    Pro tip: The best time to visit is during the fall, when the foliage is breathtaking and the temperatures are just right for exploring. Getting there is a breeze, too. Just hop on a train from NYC to Rhinecliff, then catch a cab to Saugerties.

    River with metal bridge
    Halbergman / Getty Images/iStockphoto

    Want more? Check out all our Most Underrated Travel Destinations for 2023 🌴✈️