The Best Small Towns in the Adirondack Mountains to Chill Out In 2024
Far from the crowded streets and soaring skyscrapers of New York City, upstate New York is a reprieve of the state’s natural charm. This scenic region is home to many landmarks showcasing the Adirondack Mountains' natural majesty. To this end, it has been a popular tourist getaway for generations, and the small towns that dot its landscape welcome visitors with unmatched beauty and charm. Each town has something fresh to offer, whether a slice of untouched wilderness or a slice of delicious local cake. Check out 2024’s list of the best Adirondacks towns to chill out, get in touch with nature, and have some fun.
Lake George
The town of Lake George and its namesake lake offers an outdoor abode intertwined with history. The town sits at a strategic location once protected by Fort William Henry, which served as the backdrop for the 1750s-set novel "The Last of the Mohicans" by James Fenimore Cooper. The local fort was reconstructed and opened as a museum in 1953, providing a connection to the past in much more peaceful surroundings. For nature enthusiasts, calm, clear, and cool Lake George is one of the best waterways in the Adirondacks for boating, fishing, or just relaxing on the shore. Meanwhile, the town’s paved streets boast a nice mix of shops and eateries. Fans of name-brand discount shopping can also head to the nearby Outlets at Lake George.
Ticonderoga
Like the town of Lake George, Ticonderoga was the site of a strategic and contested colonial-era fort. This town of 5,000 lies in Essex County, along the Lachute River between Lake George and Lake Champlain. Here, Fort Ticonderoga, the remnants of which are now a state historic site, hosts programs, tours, and battle reenactments throughout 2024. If you prefer outdoor adventure to history, opt for kayaking along the river or boating on the lakes. With so many bodies of water to choose from, the options range from a relaxing swim to an extreme session of kayaking. And, if you are a fan of classic sci-fi, be sure to check out Ticonderoga’s Star Trek museum, which includes an accurate recreation of the original 1960s TV series set.
Au Sable Forks
Au Sable Forks is a laid-back community just one hour north of Ticonderoga. This town once housed a huge paper mill that was powered by the churning waters of the Au Sable River as they rushed toward Lake Champlain. This past as a wealthy factory town left a great deal of fine architecture in Au Sable Forks, ideal for history enthusiasts. One can visit the grand (but under restoration) 1870s Graves Mansion, which is the most famous example. Nearby, downtown Au Sable Forks is perfect for a relaxing stroll, but it is worth the added effort to hike the trails in the Au Sable Chasm, which offers stunning cliffside views, soothing waterfalls, and other natural wonders.
Lake Placid
For those looking to enter the Adirondack’s world of outdoor activities, Lake Placid is the place to be. The name Lake Placid is synonymous with winter sports, having hosted the Winter Olympics in both 1932 and 1980. Thanks to its world-class sports venues and challenging ski slopes, Lake Placid remains a mecca for winter sports athletes. In fact, the town is a year-round sports destination, as it hosts both a marathon and triathlon during the summer. However, if you are more of a sports fan than a participant, check out the Lake Placid Olympic Center’s exhibits on the 1980 ice hockey “Miracle on Ice” and much more. And, no matter the time of year, Lake Placid’s cute downtown is perfect for a relaxing meal, with spots like Origin Coffee Co. and Downtown Diner offering amazing ambiance and food.
Saranac Lake
Located about 10 miles away from Lake Placid, the Adirondacks’ winter sports mecca, the town of Saranac Lake is the region’s classic summer vacation destination. Vacationers of every type, including famous names like Albert Einstein and Mark Twain, have sought out Saranac Lake’s clean air and cool breezes for well over 100 years. Victorian-era vacation homes, both simple and grand, share space with more modern accommodations along the lakeshore, giving you a range of options for a relaxing stay. Namely, spots like the Saranac Waterfront Lodge and Colden Lodge stand out, with comfortable rooms, spa services, access to eateries, and more. Outside of these resorts, one can either head into the lake for a relaxing swim or walk to Broadway for some shopping and food. Those with some extra energy can accept the challenge of ascending the 5-mile-long Ampersand Mountain Trail to get a spectacular view of the area.
Queensbury
Home to just under 30,000 people, Queensbury is a bustling hub hidden within the Adirondack Mountains. Most visitors who come to Queensbury during summertime end up at Six Flags Great Escape, one of the best amusement parks in the mid-Atlantic region. Those who wait for the snow to fall opt for West Mountain, one of the premier ski areas in the Adirondacks. While these are both great travel options, consider coming in autumn 2024 to see Queensbury at its most beautiful, with endless yellow, red, and brown leaves scattered across the landscape. Be sure to travel the Warren County Bike Path to discover some of the region’s best fall foliage viewing. Or, to really chill out, take in the autumn sights from a boat on the nearby Hudson River or Lake George.
Plattsburgh
Plattsburgh has a slightly different feel from most other Adirondacks towns. Similar to Queensbury, it is a bit bigger, with around 20,000 residents, mixing urban vibes with a rural environment. More notably, Plattsburgh has a strong French Canadian influence due to its location and history, which is still indicated by bilingual road and shop signs and local businesses that would suit a small Quebec town. That said, Plattsburgh’s main draw is its intricate history and surroundings. The town’s location on the Saranac River and near Lake Champlain made it a battlefield during the War of 1812, and one can learn more about it at the War of 1812 Museum. Similarly, the Kent-Delord House Museum and Plattsburgh State Art Museum offer insight into local history and culture. Those looking for an outdoor retreat also adore its waterside location and can opt for boating, swimming, and other watersports in Lake Champlain.
Paul Smiths
While only home to 400 residents, Paul Smiths does not lack energy, thanks to the local Paul Smith’s College. Paul Smith’s College, named like the town for a resort hotel owner from over a century ago, has about 700 students and sits on a huge 14,000-acre campus. The vast majority of the campus is forestland, criss-crossed by more than 25 miles of nature trails, several of which lead to the calming shores of Lower St. Regis Lake. To this end, it is a lovely place to explore in the Adirondacks, offering both friendly, youthful faces and tons of natural scenery. Downtown Paul Smiths is also quaint and inviting, but taking a long, leisurely nature trail walk on a crisp autumn day is the definition of “chilling out!”
Wrapping Up
During 2024, somewhere around 10 million visitors are expected to visit the Adirondacks to experience its natural wonders, explore its historical and cultural attractions, and set aside some time just to relax and enjoy the scenery. You cannot go wrong picking any Adirondacks town for your 2024 vacation, but give one of these eight picks a try if you are looking to really chill out. Whether it is the historic charm of Paul Smiths or the Olympic-level activities in Lake Placid, each town is a fresh way to experience the mountain range. Just be warned—you may never want to leave.
