These 7 Towns In The Adirondack Mountains Have Bustling Main Streets
The Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York are celebrated for their stunning natural beauty, featuring soaring peaks, lush forests, and sparkling lakes. The region is also home to charming small towns that are rich in history and culture, each with a bustling Main Street business district that reflects its unique character. From outdoor adventures to lively festivals to local shopping and dining, these seven towns provide an ideal getaway for travelers looking to explore the heart of the Adirondacks.
Plattsburgh
Nestled along the scenic Saranac River and near Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh played a key role during the War of 1812. Today, visitors are drawn to its bustling downtown area, with local retailers like Gem Goddess Emporium spiritualist store and A Beautiful Mess gift shop, and eateries like The Twisted Carrot family restaurant and Arnie’s Italian restaurant. The nearby SUNY Plattsburgh campus also helps create a dynamic community vibe. The town's unique French Canadian heritage is evident in its bilingual signage and delicious French-inspired cuisine (such as at Quiche et Crepe), making it feel like a charming extension of Quebec. Plattsburgh's downtown also serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
Lake George
Lake George, known for its breathtaking lake and the historical significance of the reconstructed Fort William Henry (now a museum), boasts a vibrant downtown that attracts visitors year-round. Strolling along the main business district, which is only a short walk from the lakefront, you will find a great selection of local shops and eateries like 163 Taproom, Hello Sunshine bagel bistro, Winklepicker’s kitchen store, and the Village Mall variety store. The town's old rail station, courthouse, and jail are highlights of any architectural tour of downtown, and the beautiful beaches are always close by. Meanwhile, the nearby factory outlets provide great shopping in addition to the downtown retailers.
Lake Placid
Lake Placid is renowned as the host of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, establishing itself as the sports hub of the Adirondacks. The town’s Main Street is home to the Lake Placid Olympic Center, which celebrates the history of winter sports and hosts events throughout the year. Main Street also buzzes with activity due to local shops like the Imagination Station game store and eateries such as Generations tap and grill and the Dancing Bears American restaurant. For fans of colonial revival architecture, the 1935 Post Office building on Main Street stands out as a highlight as well. Lake Placid's charming downtown corridor, combined with its outdoor recreational opportunities, make it a perfect year-round destination.
Saranac Lake
Just a short distance from Lake Placid, Saranac Lake stands out for its historic charm and vibrant summer culture. This town was a popular health resort in the late 1800s, attracting notable figures like Mark Twain and Albert Einstein. Main Street showcases numerous Victorian-era homes, larger Victorian treasures like the Trudeau House and the Hotel Saranac, and local retailers such as T.F. Finnigan’s menswear shop, The Book Nook, and Village Mercantile. The scenic beauty surrounding Saranac Lake, particularly from the 5-mile Ampersand Mountain Trail, offers a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. In February, the town comes alive with its popular Winter Carnival, making it a lively hub of activity in the colder months.
Ticonderoga
Ticonderoga, steeped in history, features a vibrant downtown that echoes its storied past. Once a strategic military location, the remnants of Fort Ticonderoga now attract history buffs with reenactments and tours. Not far away, the primary business district along Montcalm Street is lined with charming shops and eateries like Marinelli’s Italian Market, Sugar and Spice country store, Hidden Treasures antique store, Burleigh's Luncheonette, and Hot Biscuit Diner. Montcalm Street is also home to the impressive neo-Georgian style Town Hall, built in 1927, as well as a quirky museum with a meticulously recreated Star Trek set from the original sci-fi TV series. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Lachute River, perfect for kayaking and other water activities. This blend of history and unique attractions makes Ticonderoga a distinctive Adirondacks destination.
Au Sable Forks
Nestled along the Au Sable River, Au Sable Forks exudes a quaint charm that invites exploration. The downtown area is a showcase for historic architecture, especially the impressive Graves Mansion. A short walk away, the business district along Main Street and Au Sable Street includes a fun mix of local shops such as Lance’s Place pizzeria, 20 Main Tavern, and Arts and Antiques gallery, as well as three lovely stone churces (Methodist, Episcopal, and Catholic). The nearby Au Sable Chasm offers breathtaking trails, waterfalls, and stunning cliffside views, making it perfect for hiking and photography. The combination of picturesque scenery and a tight-knit community atmosphere makes Au Sable Forks perfect for those seeking tranquility and adventure.
Queensbury
Queensbury serves as a vibrant gateway to the Adirondacks, featuring popular attractions like Six Flags Great Escape and West Mountain Ski Area. Not to be outdone by these big tourist draws, the business district along State Route 9 (Glen Street) includes great local eateries like Queen NYC Deli, Jack’s Bistro, Uncommon Grounds coffee shop, and Good Vibes juice bar, and gets a youthful boost from the nearby SUNY Adirondack campus. Freedom Park and Hovey Pond Park, two of Queensbury's several great public parks, are also just a short walk from the business district. During your visit, be sure to take a walk or ride along the scenic Warren County Bike Path, especially during the stunning fall foliage season. With its proximity to Lake George and the Hudson River, Queensbury is also a favorite among boaters and outdoor enthusiasts.
Despite the fact that around 12 million tourists visit the Adirondacks each year, there is ample room for exploration beyond the more crowded spots. Each of the seven small towns highlighted here offers its own vibrant Main Street corridor, showcasing the unique culture and history of the Adirondack region. Whether you are drawn to the stunning landscapes or the lively community feel, these charming towns are ready to welcome you, no matter the season.
