7 Prettiest Downtown Strips In The Adirondack Mountains
The Adirondack Mountains are known for their stunning scenery, epic winter sports, and romantic hamlets with lakefront views and charming downtown districts. As far as downtown scenes go, it is hard to stand out in this area, but these seven towns are among the best downtown strips. Each one adds a unique signature to the rustic atmosphere and natural scenery, featuring distinctive finds and local venues.
Visitors can often gauge a town by its central gathering hub, typically located in the city's center. Here, you'll find boutiques, attractions, and small-town diners that give each community a distinctive feel. Villages like Lake George have a romantic atmosphere, with compact walkways and lake views that make them some of the best in the Adirondacks. From historic sites to fun live events, these hamlets and villages should not be glossed over; however small, these seven towns have some of the prettiest downtown strips.
Lake Placid
Scenic Lake Placid is renowned for many things, and its Main Street area is one of the best in the region. Along with restaurants and eateries, downtown hosts many annual events to celebrate with the community. Stop by Origin Coffee or Capisce Coffee and Espresso Bar to fuel up before starting your day in town. Charming stores along Main Street include Pure Placid and Man and Beast, among many others.
There is a good chance you will be in town during a live event, so be sure to check the calendar and plan your stay accordingly. This is an outdoor community, so athletic events top the list, such as the Wilmington Whiteface 100K and 50K Bike Race. The 4th of July in Lake Placid is another unforgettable event that provides an excellent opportunity to see the community in action.
Saranac Lake
Downtown Saranac Lake is lined with classic brick buildings, colorful awnings, and walkable roads. There is a distinctively eclectic array of venues ranging from galleries to historic sites. Saranac Lake Artworks and the Adirondack Artists' Guild Gallery are situated in the heart of downtown, showcasing the work of local and regional artists. As you continue down Main Street, stop by the Walk of Fame.
The Walk of Fame is a series of bronze-colored plaques honoring Americans, including Christy Mathewson and Robert Louis Stevenson. Nature is also abundant here, and paddlers love the proximity of Saranac Lake to the downtown, where they can go from shopping to paddling in a few minutes. As with all great small towns, there are many dining options, including Boathouse Saranac Lake Pub at Voco and The Ganzi.
Saratoga Springs
If strolling through a historic, vibrant entertainment district with cultural sophistication is high on your list, Saratoga Springs is the place for you. It is difficult to say where to start, but Congress Park is the best place to begin. The landmark park, situated along Broadway, Circular, and Spring Streets, features mineral springs and a wooden carousel and hosts live events. It is also easy to find self-care options, such as spas and wellness centers.
Complexions Spa has been a mainstay for 38 years, while the Roosevelt Baths and Spa at the Gideon Putnam is a historic, 42-room oasis for a classic experience. Art galleries surround this area, including Crafters Gallery and Flores Art Gallery, both of which provide a pleasant way to spend an afternoon in this lively town. Dining is also an experience in Saratoga Springs, with options such as Salt and Char, Morrissey's Lounge and Bistro, and many others.
Tupper Lake
Charming Tupper Lake's downtown (known as uptown to the locals) is renowned for its historic architecture, artisan shops, and lumberjack-style dining. Swiss Kitchen is an excellent recommendation for starting the day. Locals spend the mornings here, where the walls are adorned with historic photos and vintage tools from the small town.
The Washboard Donut Shop & Laundromat is also home to Shenandoah Indian Arts and Crafts, offering an interesting shop that should not be missed for its local finds. After exploring the sophisticated culinary offerings in Amado or Little Italy, relax at Tupper Lake Municipal Park. The park is situated in the heart of downtown and offers stunning views, making it an ideal spot for a picnic with gourmet treats.
Glens Falls
Downtown Glens Falls is so charming that it once earned the nickname "Hometown USA." The Americana brick commercial buildings are home to numerous local boutiques and elevated dining options. Visiting the Glens Falls Farmer's Market when it's open is a premier opportunity to mingle with the locals and pick up fresh produce and crafts. Whisper Boutique and Laura's Vintage are two more options for discovering local goods a short distance from the market.
After building up an appetite, dine at Park and Elm for a sophisticated lunch. It is a multi-concept eatery featuring a gourmet market and deli located in the heart of downtown. Lodging is plentiful and includes the Bell House Inn. It is a short walk from uptown, offering scenic views and a cobblestone exterior that complements the town's ambiance.
Old Forge
Downtown Old Forge is considered a shopper's paradise, renowned for its vibrant venues, including the Front Door Diner and Back Door Bar, both located on Main Street. The diverse town offers a range of attractions, from the family-friendly Enchanted Forest Water Safari to wine shops like Montezuma Winery and Hidden Marsh Distillery. The family park features water rides and go-karts, providing an entertaining afternoon, and is conveniently located near the main venues.
Restaurants are plentiful here, ranging from the fun Adirondack Pizzeria and Arcade to Billy's Italian American Restaurant. Nighttime is ideal for nightlife at Archie's Alley or Slicker's Adirondack Tavern, embodying the town's rugged and playful spirit. Old Forge has one of the most fun downtown strips in the Adirondacks and provides an ideal way to unwind after some time in the mountains.
Lake George
Historic Lake George is bordered by old-growth forests, casting a beautiful scenery on this quaint and rustic village. A short walk or trolley ride will get you anywhere you need to go, from Adirondack Winery to Nina's Sweet Shop. Lodging options range from the luxurious Fort William Henry Hotel to historic bed-and-breakfast inns.
The Erlowest, built in 1898, offers 10 king-bed suites in an elegant mansion with lake views, fireplaces, and a 12-foot-tall, 100-year-old-plus stained glass window. Art and culture hold a prominent place in town, with galleries like the Lake George Arts Project aiming to bring art programming to the region. Lake George is a romantic town to explore, and the compact village adds to its aura.
The Adirondack Mountain region is one of the prettiest in the nation, and these seven hamlets make it even better. Between historic sites, cultural gatherings, and unique venues, the small towns add unparalleled charm to the already beautiful surroundings. The downtown strips are the hub of activity, making for an unforgettable visit.
Another striking aspect is the downtown's proximity to beautiful lakes like Saranac Lake, where kayakers can shop one minute and paddle the next. The district also has a unique Walk of Fame, making a downtown stroll somewhat of an Easter egg hunt. Whether it's top-of-the-line dining, unique finds, or beautiful scenery, these downtown strips elevate the region and should be at the top of any traveler's calendar.
