8 Prettiest Towns To Visit In The Adirondack Mountains

Many towns dot the Adirondack Mountains of the United States; some prettier than the rest, some quainter than others. Most of these towns are small and charming, slow-paced and adorable. They can serve as perfect bases from which to explore the region’s shimmering lakes, craggy peaks, and awe-inspiring parks. Then again, while some of these towns, including Saranac Lake, are big names in vacation circles, others are less known and will come as a surprise. Starting with Lake Placid, discover below, in no specific order, the 8 prettiest towns to visit in the Adirondack Mountains.

Lake Placid

Featuring stand-out outdoor venues such as the glimmering Mirror Lake, so aptly named; the eponymous Lake Placid, and East Lake, Lake Placid’s setting is the dream of any watercolor painter. The air is fresh and playful; the views to die for. A finger-licking meal at Soulshine Bagel often sets the pace for an adventure that will involve spots such as Gallery 46, the Olympic Museum, which is one of a handful in the United States; and the nearby High Falls Gorge, arguably the Adirondacks' most breathtaking 30-minute walk. Consider spending the night in one of the town’s chalet-style lodgings, including the rustic Timber Haven, a secluded getaway just 4 miles from downtown Lake Placid.

Au Sable Forks

One of the finest exhibits of a pretty town is Au Sable Forks, a storybook community tucked away at the confluence of the East and West branches of the Ausable River, a waterbody whose enchanting beauty has drawn visitors to the area for centuries. Features such as the Ausable Chasm, a popular destination for sight-seers, make Au Sable Forks a much sought-after travel getaway. One can float down the Ausable River, stand in awe of Graves Mansion, once the most stately house in the area for miles, chat up locals at the lively 20 Main Tavern, or catch a show at Hollywood Theater, where the popcorn is always fresh; the tickets reasonably priced. Hollywood Theater has been around since 1937, and hence; often feels like stepping back into time.

Saratoga Springs

From the shops and restaurants along the historic Broadway District — to the world-famous race track just up the road, Saratoga Springs easily earns a spot among the prettiest towns to visit in the Adirondacks. Before ambling through the iconic Saratoga Spa State Park and exploring its delightful array of attractions, make a detour to the Uncommon Grounds Coffee, a buzzy, storied hangout that serves top-tier bagels and house-roasted coffee. The New York State Military Museum, which displays artifacts from every war the US has been in, is often criminally overlooked. Spend the final minutes of daylight at the aptly named Waterfront Park, before sliding inside some clean bedsheets at the Saratoga Casino Hotel, whose rooms are well-appointed, clean, and spacious.

Wilmington

Wilmington is mostly quiet and slow-paced but homey and adorable. Known as the “mountain bike capital of the Adirondacks,” this town rests on the Ausable River, just about 15 minutes from Au Sable Forks. Speaking to the town’s biking fame, exploring the Hardy Road Mountain Biking Trails is often an exquisite revelation. Wilmington Recreation Park is next to fantastic trails as well — and is an awesome spot to while away the time. Enjoy classic rootbeers and a luscious strawberry shake at the A&W Family Restaurant, a short walk from downtown Wilmington. Outdoor venues include Cobble Lookout, known to provide spectacular views of the Ausable Valley and the surrounding mountains; and Copperas Pond, about halfway between Lake Placid and Wilmington.

Glens Falls

Glens Falls is cute and compact, relatively walkable, and loved for its endearing small-town feel. This Adirondacks gem reclines on the picturesque shores of the Hudson River, a short drive from Albany. Once christened “Hometown, USA,” — that congenial ambiance is still hard to miss. The neck-straining cascades near the town, made famous by Novelist James Fenimore, once caused a stir in the state’s vacation landscape. Clasp hands with Picasso and Rembrandt at the unassuming Hyde Collection, a great museum that displays an insane collection of old European Masterworks across many centuries. Discover some heart-gripping history of Glens Falls at Chapman Historical Museum, which is open every day of the week except Mondays. Crown the day with some kick-ass sushi rolls at Mikado, a laid-back Japanese steakhouse conveniently located on Glen Street.

Speculator

A quaint, dainty town of less than 500 residents, Speculator rests on the calm shores of Lake Pleasant, whose presence adds a layer of rustic allure to an already beautiful spot. Strolling through the downtown area — all the way to Sacandaga Park — which features a tasty riverwalk trail, is an adventure that will reveal Speculator’s underrated beauty. Proceed to the beach, where a sliver of warm sand, shallow waters, and gentle waves curate an experience that will thrill all shades of water lovers. Before retiring at Lake Pleasant Lodge or the Cedarhurst Motor Lodge, wash down a yummy meal with a drink at the Lemon Tree Brewery, located steps from the water. In the backdrop, Speculator Mountain raises its misty head, as if inviting seasoned hikers to explore its many trails.

Saranac Lake

A four-season destination with lots of mind-bending natural beauty, Saranac Lake is quaint, small, and full of character. Expect multiple local breweries, including the much sought-after Blue Line Brewery; a top-notch music scene at spots such as Waterhole Music Lounge, and exceptional art galleries such as NorthWind Fine Arts Gallery, a well-curated space with art of many kinds and styles. No wonder Country Living named Saranac Lake the second-best town to visit in New York for an idyllic getaway. There is the lure of its heart-melting scenery as well — and awesome architecture. Moose Pond Trail is short but scenic while the Wild Walk, which spans more than 80 acres, provides tasty views of Whiteface Mountain and the Seward Range. The trick is to arrive early so you can take it all slow and easy — and with a good camera.

Keene Valley

Rounding off the list of the 8 prettiest towns in the Adirondacks is Keene Valley, an often overlooked gem located in the picturesque Ausable Valley Region, not far from Elizabethtown. In the backdrop of the town are fantastic outdoor venues such as Mt Marcy, Giant Mountain Wilderness, and the Ausable River, which flows along the town's eastern edge. Keene Valley is small, quaint, and rustic. Some limbs of the historic Adirondack Trails meander through the town, offering a variety of outdoor fun and adventure. There is the nearby Jay Covered Bridge as well, one of a handful left in the Empire State. Before spending the night at the iconic Ausable Inn, pick a thoughtful memento at the Adirondack Quilts & Gifts, a space known for an exceptional selection of fabrics, threads, notions, and Handi Quilter machines.

The Takeaway

There you have it. The Adirondack Mountains often get attention because of its mind-bending mountain views, shimmering lakes, verdant valleys — and its pines and parks. What is not mentioned, or hyped as they should, are the many pretty towns that dot the region, some of which will leave a first-time visitor completely blown away. If you are looking to max out on your experience and want to focus on the prettiest towns in the Adirondacks, check out the towns highlighted here, including swoon-worthy spots such as Saranac Lake.