9 Adorable Small Towns In The Adirondack Mountains to Visit in 2024
There is no denying that the landscapes around the Adirondacks Mountains, with their gentle rolling hills, quiet ponds, and whispering brooks, can set any heart aflame. What is not usually mentioned is that this heart-melting expanse of New York is dotted with a gorgeous array of small towns, many of which are just as adorable. From Lake Placid, where adventure and relaxation meet — to Keene Valley, known for its world-class rock climbing opportunities, discover below 2024’s most adorable small towns in the Adirondack Mountains.
Lake Placid
With its pine-speckled hills, Lake Placid will make one think she is in the West, when the town is among the East’s most swoon-worthy venues. One of America’s prettiest towns is fringed by two crystal lakes, features a rugged, whimsical backdrop, and is among the most enjoyable winter playgrounds in the Western Hemisphere. Soulshine Bagel, at a sweet spot on Main Street, serves finger-licking bagels at great prices. For some melt-in-the-mouth pancakes, The Farmhouse Café is an excellent breakfast alternative. Sample local art at Gallery 46, including an excellent selection of high-end traditional art. Take a tour of the Olympic Museum, and learn how the US men's ice hockey team, then an underdog, obtained a thrilling victory against the Soviet Union at the 1980 Winter Olympics. High Falls Gorge, which features views that are hard to come by, is just about 8 miles from downtown Lake Placid.
Saratoga Springs
Christened Queen of the Spas, Saratoga Springs is a long-running resort town whose features have drawn notable personalities such as Martin Van Buren, the eighth president of the United States — and J.P. Morgan, the world-famous financier and investment banker. Saratoga Performing Arts Center, one of America's most prestigious outdoor amphitheaters, has hosted celebrity artists, including Harry Belafonte, who took part in its first non-classical concert, and Whitney Houston. Spend some time ambling through Saratoga Spa State Park, which also features a theater, golf course, and a farmers market. One can swim at the beach or explore Bog Meadow Brook Nature Trail, which offers two miles ideal for early-morning walks. Do not miss a relaxing bath at Roosevelt Baths & Spa, named for the president who was at the forefront of preserving the baths in the area.
Au Sable Forks
A first-time introduction to Au Sable Forks is guaranteed to rekindle a vacationer’s spirit of wanderlust, reawaken the artist in everyone, and set taste buds tingling. This peach of a town is tucked away at the confluence of the East and West branches of the Ausable River — the sparkling water body from which the town gets its name. One can start with exploring the uniquely carved Ausable Chasm, a gasp-inducing canyon that features Potsdam sandstones scientists believe are 500 million years old. Then there is the option of floating on the Ausable River — or just taking an evening stroll along its tasty shores. Before the curtain falls on the day, check out the Graves Mansion on the corner of Church and College Streets, once the homestead of a general who died a few days after being wounded at the Battle Of Oriskany during The Revolutionary War. To crown the day, spend the final minutes of daylight at 20 Main Tavern, a lovely place to get a drink, mingle with locals, and enjoy live music.
Wilmington
The adorable town of Wilmington, known as the “mountain bike capital of the Adirondacks, reclines on the Ausable River, a short drive from Au Sable Forks. Rent a bike at Downhill Mike's, about 3 miles from downtown Wilmington, and hit the Hardy Road Mountain Biking Trails, which features some of the sweetest single track east of The Big Muddy. Alternatively, The Flume is just as picturesque even if a bit more exacting. , for a tad more challenging but scenic adventure. But there is another beautiful trail, and it is not a preserve of the cash-strapped: the Poor Mans Downhill Trail. When hunger pangs begin to set in, The Hungry Trout Resort will be beckoning. The soothing hum of the Ausable River, a magical sunset over Whiteface, and a plate of pan-seared rainbow trout with fresh shallots, all combine to produce a memorable experience. For a gentle hike through the woods, Cobble Lookout will come in handy. But one can also opt for Copperas Pond.
Old Forge
Looking for a quiet, peaceful place to decompress? Consider taking a trip to Old Forge, one of the most adorable towns in the Adirondacks. Layered in nature, Old Forge is also an ideal place for rip-roaring outdoor fun and adventure, the reason it is billed as the “Adirondack Base Camp”. A hot breakfast at Keyes' Pancake House should pave the way for the Enchanted Forest Water Safari, New York's largest water theme park. It has been a feature of the town for nearly 70 years. Expect more than 50 rides and attractions, including a good number of heated outdoor water rides. Alternatively, get wet at Old Forge Lake — whether via swimming, boating, or fishing. To sniff some fresh, playful air, hit up the trails of Bald Mountain and Moss Lake, where delicious vistas will make every minute count. As the sun bows out, and the horizon bursts into one of its most scintillating glows, consider spending the night at Great Pines Resort, which features rustic charm with a dash of modern touches.
Lake George
This adorable Adirondack queen is nestled on the shores of the “Queen of the American Lakes,” where more than 100 miles of shoreline, a delightful array of restaurants, and the iconic Prospect Mountain — among other attractions — often leave visitors spoilt for choice. One can spend a lazy afternoon at the aptly named Million Dollar Beach, sip a glass of wine at the Adirondack Winery (they are famous for their vast selection of fruit wine), and step back into time at a restored Colonial fortress of the French and Indian War era. If looking for some adrenaline-pumping adventure, Parasailing Adventures will see you soaring high in the sky over the lake and is often quite a thrilling experience. Alternatively, climb the summit of Prospect Mountain and inhale some of the most delicious views in the Empire State.
Glens Falls
Welcome to Glens Falls, an Adirondack eye candy that rests on the picturesque shores of the Hudson River less than 50 miles north of Albany. This town was once christened “Hometown, USA” — and more than 70 years later, the label endures. Novelist James Fenimore’s piquant description of the 60-foot cascades near the town thrust Glens Falls into the public limelight. Sit down to a hearty breakfast at Gourmet Cafe on Glen Street or opt for SPoT Coffee a few steps away, especially if looking for an energetic atmosphere and a chance to people-watch. With breakfast out of the way, discover the fascinating history of Glens Falls at Chapman Historical Museum, explore Cooper's Cave, and swim at Haviland Cove Beach, before catching a mood-lifting show at the Adirondack Theatre. And that is just a tiny fraction of this town’s offerings.
Speculator
The peaceful shores of the beautiful Lake Pleasant — and the natural beauty of the Adirondack landscape — are among the features that earn Speculator a spot among the most adorable towns in the Adirondacks. One of the most picturesque towns in the Adirondack Mountains boasts a population of less than 500. Expect, therefore, an intimate feel, small-town charm, and authentic experiences. The austere grandeur of Speculator Mountain, a prime destination for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing, defines the town’s backdrop. There is the mini Route 66, an eye-catching replica of America’s Mother Road. Chill out at the Logan's Bar & Grill, an easy-going hangout known for tasty burgers and a relaxing atmosphere. Sacandaga Park, with its picturesque river-walk trail, will be worth checking out as well.
Keene Valley
Although easy to miss with a blip, Keene Valley packs a punch. Nature’s warm embrace is hard to miss here — and sites such as the historic Adirondack Trails, whose limbs meander through the town — add to the town’s rustic charm. One can drop a line at the trout-filled Ausable River, enjoy a home-style meal at the iconic Ausuble Inn, a quaint and rustic space known for its cozy and warm atmosphere, or check out the nearby Jay Covered Bridge, one of a few left in the Empire State. If spending the night, work with Snow Goose Bed and Breakfast, which is well located for easy access to many hiking trails. Remember to get a memento at the Adirondack Quilts & Gifts, most of which are inspired by the Adirondack Mountains.
The Takeaway
Do not underestimate it. The Adirondacks Mountains region, where hills peep over hills, and the glitter of the water melts the heart, is among America’s most awe-inspiring spaces. There is the austere grandeur of the Whiteface Mountain, the uniquely carved Ausable Chasm, and one piquant spot after another. Then there are charming towns, many of which are endearingly small and adorable. If looking for specific recommendations, Lake Placid, Saratoga Springs, and all the other towns highlighted above — are 2024’s most adorable small towns in the Adirondack Mountains.
