7 Towns in The Adirondack Mountains with Vibrant Downtown Areas
Hearing the name “Adirondack” might cause some confusion among the average traveler, but this mountain range is actually a popular hiking destination in New York state, formed from ancient rocks over a billion years old. The term Adirondack is believed to originate from the Mohawk word atirǫ́·taks, which translates to “eaters of trees”; however, the trees up there are alive and well, beautiful, and stretch as far as the eye can see. If you are a fan of birdwatching, skiing, and, of course, hiking, then you should know that The Adirondack Mountains are not just worth a detour but planning an entire trip around. The beauty of the towns there is rivaled only by the landscape itself. Get your gear ready and prepare to go backpacking because you will not be spending much time indoors while the majesty of the mountain awaits!
Saranac Lake
One of the larger small towns in the Adirondacks, this entire area known as Saranac Lake is surrounded by lakes and ponds, with the Saranac River running through as well. With so much to do in such a relatively small area, visitors might feel a bit overwhelmed, but it all boils down to making the most of the dreamlike qualities of the land itself. The downtown features an extremely pleasant river walk, and if you want to explore more, head over to the Baker Mountain Trailhead near Moody Pond. Saranac Lake’s downtown is a lively district featuring the Adirondack Artists Guild, a local gallery showcasing regional talent, and the Pendragon Theatre, offering live performances throughout the year. Visitors can also enjoy unique boutiques, cozy cafes like Origin Coffee Co., and the Waterhole, a popular venue for live music and events. There is also the Town of Harrietstown Bike Park for cyclists and the Saranac Lake Islands Campground if you are looking for a wild yet tame experience.
Lake Placid
With its downtown right alongside Mirror Lake, this slice of paradise really highlights the beauty of the Adirondacks. The town hosted two Winter Olympics (1932 and 1980), leaving behind an Olympic Museum and sporting venues that draw visitors. The impressive lake in the middle is a popular spot for water-based activities and is quite the centerpiece for events like fishing, wakeboarding, etc. Lake Placid’s downtown is a picturesque area with charming streets lined with boutique stores, gourmet restaurants, and the historic Palace Theatre. Stroll along Main Street to sample local cuisine or browse through shops offering Adirondack-inspired souvenirs. One can then head to Lake Placid Marina to really enjoy the waters or get a better view of the landscape on the Cobble Hill Trailhead.
Ticonderoga
Looking for an unbeatable view? Aside from being located on the border of New York and Vermont, Ticonderoga is home to the great Mount Defiance. Whether you are visiting to see Prison Island or passing through Snug Harbor Marina Inc. to take pictures of the Mossy Point Boat Launch, you simply cannot visit this destination without bringing a pair of binoculars and hiking up the mountain for a truly unforgettable experience. But there’s more to Ticonderoga than its surrounding nature. The town’s charming downtown, centered around Montcalm Street, features a variety of boutique shops, cafes, and the Ticonderoga Heritage Museum. Visitors can stroll past historic buildings or stop at a local diner for a bite. Don’t miss the Liberty Monument, which honors the town’s Revolutionary War history and serves as a centerpiece of the area. Believe it or not, the LaChute River Walk Trail is located in the middle of the town and runs through Montcalm Street, which is definitely worth checking out.
Old Forge
Although known to be the snowmobiling capital of the Adirondacks, Old Forge’s downtown enjoys year-round tourism thanks to its summer amusement attractions as well. In this small community of around 500, you can find the Old Forge Pond, the Strand Theater, and the best diners, all within 2 minutes of walking distance. This area is the starting point for the Fulton Chain of Lakes, which many boaters and anglers take from Rivett’s Old Marina. Old Forge’s Main Street embodies a classic small-town atmosphere, with specialty shops, family-run diners, and the historic Old Forge Hardware store—a one-stop shop that has served the community for over a century. Don’t miss the Strand Theatre, a vintage movie house with a rich history, or stop by the Adirondack Scenic Railroad depot for a scenic train ride through the region. It is also worth mentioning that you will find the Enchanted Forest Water Safari, New York’s largest water theme park, here—unless you prefer camping at the Old Forge Camping Resort.
North Creek
Historically a rail town, the North Creek Depot Museum commemorates its role in transporting Theodore Roosevelt to his presidency, so this community is more than a vacation hotspot. The Upper Hudson River Railroad offers wonderful train rides that are best enjoyed during the fall to really take in the views. North Creek’s downtown thrives due to its proximity to major ski resorts (like the North Creek Ski Bowl) and the town’s dedication to preserving its railway heritage. The downtown area itself is quaint, with specialty shops, cafes, and the historic North Creek Depot Museum. Stroll down Main Street to discover local art galleries and unique eateries, perfect for unwinding after a day on the trails.
Schroon Lake
Named after the lake, which rivals the town in size, Schroon Lake is a peaceful little hamlet with, of course, some of the best fishing spots in New York State. The Seagle Festival, the oldest summer vocal training program in the U.S., is held annually and attracts a unique mix of opera and theater fans. The lake itself stretches nine miles and is a major attraction for boating and fishing, drawing visitors to the town. You can take a boat ride to visit the Spectacle Pond Trailhead or camp near Gull Pond just across the lake for the best outdoors-focused experience.
Speculator
As remote as it gets, Speculator is at the heart of the Adirondacks, surrounded by miles of state forest land, creating the perfect conditions for hiking, camping, and all things outdoors. The downtown area includes some souvenir shops, grocery stores, and a few locally run restaurants like Logan's Bar & Grill. The Speculator Village Center, with its small-town charm, features the Speculator Department Store, known for its range of locally crafted goods and Adirondack-themed merchandise. Just a short walk away, the Speculator Ball Field and Pavilion hosts community events throughout the year, making it a lively spot for both residents and visitors. However, the true highlight of this trip is Lake Pleasant. Lake Pleasant Park offers a perfect starting point to truly connect with the land, while Cherry Beach Scenic View is the go-to for capturing those memorable photos and creating long-lasting memories
Finding Balance in the Adirondacks
It is not a trip to the Adirondack Mountains without a hike, a boat ride, or a stroll along the many rivers of this pristine and verdant landscape. All things considered, it’s also nice to have the options afforded by the downtown areas, even when the trip is all about connecting with nature. As with most things, it is best to find a balance; a journey up and down a mountain trail feels even better after exploring the local attractions and genuinely gaining a sense of the history of one’s destination before traversing its terrain. Fortunately, the Adirondack Mountains are rich in both history and scenery—with no small degree of dynamism.
