8 Secluded Towns in The Adirondack Mountains
The Adirondack Mountains in northern New York have many secluded towns with many points of interest. Surrounded by natural beauty, the small hamlets and villages offer historical districts, charming downtown areas, stunning architecture, and more. Many visitors are attracted by the outdoor adventures, especially in the winter, but there are plenty more reasons to visit.
Numerous wineries and tasting rooms are located along with the many lakes, including the Finger Lakes region. The Lake Champlain Valley is considered the newest frontier in winemaking, adding to the small-town charm's mystique. Wine tours and tasting rooms are standard throughout the Adirondack area and are a big draw for many visitors. Check out eight secluded towns in the Adirondacks.
Saranac Lake
Tranquil Saranac Lake is in the northern range of the Adirondacks, known for its stunning natural scenery. The secluded town is one of the coldest in the United States and a winter sports destination. The charming downtown area is mostly brick and wooden storefronts, including the landmark town clock. The clock rests on Town Hall and is adjacent to Riverside Park, perfect for an afternoon picnic.
Several art galleries, like the Adirondack Artists Guild Gallery and Northwind Fine Art on Main Street, showcase the best of the local art scene. Guides have introduced many outdoor lovers to the lakes, forests, and various hiking trails since the 19th century, and these treks are the best way to soak in Saranac Lake's natural beauty.
Ticonderoga
Historic Ticonderoga is a bucket list destination in the Adirondacks Region, especially for American history buffs. The hamlet's name is derived from a Native American term meaning "between two waters" because of its proximity to Lakes Champlain and George. It was also pivotal during the Revolutionary War, where the first American victory was won at the landmark Fort Ticonderoga.
Many cultural points of interest, like the Star Trek Original Set, are worth noting. Tours take guests through the set, which includes photos from every room and Captain Kirt himself visiting in July 2025. For those looking for a secluded getaway, King's Garden offers six acres of manicured lawns, military garrison gardens, and a tranquil setting. Ticonderoga is famous for its small-town charm, numerous cultural sites, and natural scenery, making it one of the most visited villages in the region.
Tupper Lake
Tupper Lake is a scenic hamlet famous for its stunning scenery, which can be seen from downtown. Outdoor activities like hiking the Tupper Lake Triad and snow skiing are excellent ways to enjoy the solitude of this lake town. Surrounded by the same scenery, downtown is another ideal way to enjoy Tupper Lake.
Shopping and dining downtown is a favorite pastime in this region. Stores range from Adirondack furniture to antiques and fine art galleries like the Tupper Arts Center. The eclectic dining includes pub fare from 1892 Bar and Grille and innovative menu options from The Woodshed on Park. The local breweries also have a town pub crawl, a fun way to view this gorgeous town.
Lake Placid
Lake Placid is known for its lakes, gorgeous natural backdrop, and winter Sports. The Winter Olympics have been hosted here twice and remain a hallmark of the town's legacy. The legendary sites include Whiteface Mountain, the Olympic Center, the Olympic Jumping Complex, and Mt. Van Hoevenberg. Collectively, the sites are called the Lake Placid Legacy Sites.
Downtown is also legendary for its shopping and dining options. Main Street offers many stores for ski lovers, such as Adirondack Field and Locker Room 5. Coffee shops like First Origin Coffee stay busy during the colder months, while restaurants like The View serve excellent fine-dining fare.
Old Forge
Old Forge has a population under 1,00 but is also the "Adirondack Base Camp" for adventurers and those seeking seclusion. McCauley Mountain Ski Area is a popular destination for skiers, with a 633-foot vertical drop, 21 slopes, and numerous cross-country ski trails. There are several cultural attractions in town, which only add to Old Forge's charm.
The View Arts Center blends contemporary art exhibits with live performances and events like Christmas on Main Street. After a day on the slopes or hiking, Old Forge offers several attractive breweries and restaurants, such as Frankie's Taste of Italy and Dough-A-Deer, to wind down the day. Like other small towns in the region, Old Forge is ideal for a secluded trip with enough attractions and sites for an extended stay.
Lake George
Lake George is on the banks of the lake of the same name and is surrounded by old-growth forest. It is also near Million Dollar Beach, a serene 51-acre beach with a gorgeous view and amenities like a concession stand and picnic areas. Other outdoor activities include rail biking and tranquil dinner cruises on Lake George aboard the Lac Du Saint Sacrement.
The village's undeniable role in America's formation is displayed at the Fort William Henry Fort. Along with live reenactments from the French and Indian War, the historical fort offers exhibits and events like History and Holidays throughout Christmas. The walkable town feels like walking back in time while blending in modern points of interest.
Wilmington
Scenic Wilmington is a small village inside Adirondack Park. It has a stunning view on the West Branch of the AuSable River near Whiteface Mountain. More than half of the town is a State Forest Preserve. The summit of Whiteface Mountain starts in Wilmington and is only accessible via the Whiteface Memorial Highway.
With its panoramic view, the highway is also home to a fun theme park, the North Pole. Here, you will find Santa's Workshop and rides designed to accommodate smaller children year-round. The compact downtown embodies the region's spirit and is fun to explore, with charming restaurants like the Country Bear.
Long Lake
The small village of Long Lake is known for the 14-mile lake of the same name and gorgeous scenery. It is a highly sought-after destination for adventurers, anglers, and hikers, where seaplane rides are a standard mode of transportation. Main Street is home to the landmark Hoss's Country Store, one of the area's best outdoor gear retailers.
Main Street leads to Town Beach, a popular spot in the Spring and Summer and home to annual swimming races. Buttermilk Falls is another draw for those seeking outdoor serenity. The 1.5-mile trail leads to the tranquil waterfall and is safe for all skill levels. Long Lake is a stunning town with lots to do, and it is also ideal for a tranquil, relaxing stay.
The Adirondacks are one of the prettiest mountain ranges in the United States. These eight secluded towns embody the region's ruggedness while maintaining small-town charm and elegant amenities. Beauty lies in the panoramic views and lakes Saranac, Tupper, and George, among others.
The area is also packed with cultural and historical sites, like Fort Ticonderoga, a landmark structure that played a significant role in the Revolutionary War. The quaint downtown districts offer abundant wine-tasting rooms, art galleries, and other elegant points of interest. Whether looking for a historical retreat with small crowds or just getting out in nature, the Adirondacks have it all.
