9 Close-Knit Towns to Visit in The Adirondack Mountains
Upper New York's Adirondack Mountain range is one of America's most diverse outdoor destinations. People visit year-round for the stunning topography, lakes, outdoor adventure, and quaint towns and villages. Many historical and cultural points of interest are found in these tiny hamlets, making them a top destination in New York.
Millions visit the Big Apple annually, and for good reason, but the Adirondacks feel (and look) worlds apart. What makes these communities unique is the stunning natural beauty and warm sense of community that surrounds them. Find out more about these nine close-knit towns that embody the mountain spirit of the region and offer many charming attractions.
Lake Placid
The small village of Lake Placid lies just south of the lake, which shares its name and borders Mirror Lake more closely. It is a winter sports mecca with a Winter Olympics venue. The Lake Placid Legacy Sites include the Mt. Van Hoevenburg, Olympic Center, Olympic Jumping Center, and Whiteface Mountain. The famous outlet has hosted two Winter Olympic Games, the first in 1932 and the other in 1980.
Even though it's famous for its winter sports, Lake Placid is beautiful year-round, with scenic hiking and fall foliage. It is also the gateway to Adirondack Park, the largest protected area in the Lower 48, with an incredible six million acres of hiking trails, stunning vistas, and unspoiled forest. The community spirit comes alive on Main Street, boasting many dining and lodging options, like the View Restaurant at the Mirror Lake Inn.
Lake George
Picturesque Lake George is a friendly hamlet with many cultural attractions and a vibrant downtown. The walkable lakefront village is home to several restaurants, hotels, and museums, like Fort William Henry Museum. The fort has several exhibits and live reenactments that depict its significance during the French and Indian War and the importance of the waterway for transportation.
Several annual live events are ideal ways to interact with this close-knit community at Lake George Village. The Nationals Car Show is popular in late summer, while the (always entertaining) Polar Plunge is held every November. Live music is typical at the Beach Club and The Garrison. The Village also has lively bars and nightclubs like Duffy's Tavern and Lilly's Bar for late-night entertainment.
Ticonderoga
Historic Ticonderoga is best known for Fort Ticonderoga, a critical military installation during the Revolutionary War. The 2,000 property on the shores of Lake Champlain is one of the most historic complexes in America. The friendly hamlet has many walkable trails, like the Carillon Battlefield Walking Trail, that capture the historical essence of Ticonderoga like no other. Many cultural points of interest are worth visiting, too.
Sci-Fi fans cannot miss touring the original Star Trek set, where visitors are encouraged to wear their Star Fleet uniforms and snap memorable photos. Montcalm Street is the main drag through the historic downtown, lined with historic brick structures. Period actors dressed as Colonialists parade through the historic district, which adds a lovely contrast to the modern boutiques and eateries.
Tupper Lake
The quaint village of Tupper Lake is inside Adirondack Park with breathtaking scenery. It is a family-friendly place with attractions like The Wild Center. The 115-acre venue features the Pines Play Area, a playground in the forest, and walking bridges leading to treetops high above the Adirondack Forest. The town offers many other attractions and storefronts that should not be missed.
The bustling town center features diverse restaurants like Amado and Reandeau's Swiss Kitchen, both local favorites. One of the best places downtown is Park Street's Adirondack Sky Center and Observatory for stargazing. The center also includes a lab that has explored space exploration since its inception and takes visitors through a stressful launch and landing to recreate what astronauts go through. Tupper Lake has some of the most innovative events in the Adirondacks and should be at the top of the travel calendar.
Glens Falls
Lovely Glens Falls is steeped in history from the French-Indian and Revolutionary Wars, and many sites have been preserved. It is a sought-after road trip destination because of its natural scenery and historic buildings. The Church of the Messiah is a gorgeous example of Gothic Revival, completed in 1865, and the Neoclassical City Hall has been standing since 1900.
Three Squares Historic District features numerous buildings from 1902 to 1930 due to three destructive fires in the latter half of the 19th century. Significant structures include the Calvin Building and the First Presbyterian Church. Glen Falls is a beautiful example of a traditional Adirondacks town with a pleasant atmosphere and a strong community spirit.
Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs is a famous horse racing hub and home to the Saratoga Race Course and National Racing Hall of Fame and Museum. It is also aesthetically pleasing, with red-brick buildings lining the streets. The walkable downtown area features quaint restaurants like 13 North and the Olde Bryan Inn.
Olde Bryan Inn was established in 1773 and still carries that Old-world ambiance with an exceptional menu. Anne's Washington Inn is one of many graceful bed and breakfasts within a short distance of downtown. Built in 1943, the four-acre property embodies the cultural and artistic flair that defines Saratoga Springs.
Wilmington
Wilmington is inside Adirondack Park and is immersed in gorgeous scenery, especially when the leaves change color in the fall. Its tight-knit community embodies the spirit of this region. Whiteface Mountain, which looks over the hamlet, is famous for hosting the 1980 Winter Games and is a landmark feature.
The best way to experience the natural beauty is to take a 15-minute ride on the Cloudsplitter Gondola. It takes off at the base of Whiteface Mountain, and if it's lunchtime, the Maple Smoke BBQ food truck will take care of you. Numerous biking and walking trails with exceptional views make this town one of the prettiest in the Adirondacks.
Saranac Lake
Saranac Lake is one of the largest protected areas in the US. It is also a top winter destination known as one of the coldest places in the country. However, this is a gorgeous town with lakeside views, a lively downtown area, and fun events like the Adirondack Carousel, as well as the annual Turkey Trot.
Downtown includes notable restaurants like Sunset Bistro and cute boutiques like Piece by Piece Studio. Cabins, lodges, and inns are available, and camping options depending on the time of year. Gauthier's Saranac Lake Inn is an eco-resort with lake views that provides an authentic Saranac experience.
Old Forge
Old Forge is a historic hamlet with a pedestrian-friendly main street surrounded by almost 200 lakes. The town boasts many water adventures at Enchanted Forest Water Safari, the largest theme park in New York. Paddlers should visit during the annual 90-mile Adirondack Canoe Classic.
Cultural venues include the View Arts Center and the Strand Theatre, a downtown landmark structure. The View features contemporary exhibits and hosts several live events, including music, throughout the year. Old Forge is a fun and friendly town and one of the most welcoming communities in the region.
Experience the Adirondacks' Community Spirit Year-Round
The Adirondacks are one of the prettiest mountain ranges in the United States. The scenery is stunning year-round, though it gets the most attention during the winter. The hamlets and villages that make up the area are close-knit communities that passionately embrace the unique environment they live in.
Towns like Ticonderoga have historical significance and gorgeous scenery, making them memorable visits. Community spirit comes alive in the downtown areas, where the towns have a strong "shop local" vibe and eclectic eateries. There always seem to be live events and festivals throughout the Adirondacks, which is a great way to get to know the locals and see what makes the Adirondacks so special.
