7 Unforgettable Small Towns to Visit in the Adirondack Mountains
The Adirondack Mountains sit in the northeastern part of New York, encompassing thousands of miles of hiking trails, lakes, and exhilarating wilderness, not to mention gorgeous small towns, all home to memories just waiting to be made. Steeped in history and beauty, the small towns of the Adirondacks overflow with adventures, such as the shimmering waters of Lake Placid or the unique sight of Fort Ticonderoga on Lake George. Visitors may find themselves charmed by the inviting main streets or the delights of the great outdoors. No matter whether it is the chance to escape the big city or explore nature, all of the excitement awaits in the unforgettable destinations of the Adirondack Mountains.
Lake Placid
Award-winning Lake Placid Lodge, the only hotel situated directly on the shores of Lake Placid, New York. Editorial credit: Leonard Zhukovsky / Shutterstock.com
Lake Placid is a small New York village, renowned for having hosted the Winter Olympics two times (once in 1932, then again in 1980), as well as its gorgeous lakes. Paddling, hiking, biking, and camping are all popular activities in the area, perfect for an outdoor adventurer. The town also boasts a vibrant arts scene, such as the Depot Theatre, which is a restored train station with views of Lake Champlain, as well as the Lake Placid Center for the Arts. Anglers will find themselves delighted with a trip to the area, with plenty of bass, perch, bullhead, and other species swimming in the sparkling waters. For those in search of an especially memorable visit, take a hike to High Falls Gorge, a 22-acre park home to four breathtaking waterfalls.
Ticonderoga
Interior view of Fort Ticonderoga, located on the shores of Lake Champlain in Ticonderoga, New York, USA, during the summer season. Editorial credit: debra millet / Shutterstock.com
Ticonderoga is the ideal destination for history buffs and the town is steeped in the memory of the capture of Fort Ticonderoga during the American Revolutionary War. Today, the fort offers special events and reenactments, access to museum exhibitions, as well as views of the beautiful landscape. The 1888 Heritage Museum is a great spot to delve even deeper into the area's history, while the Farmer's Market offers a literal taste of the modern day. Aside from its rich history, Trekkies may also revel in a trip for a Star Trek Original Series Set Tour, built using the original blueprints for the show, transporting visitors right into the show itself. For outdoor adventurists, La Chute River Trail and Waterfalls and Bicentennial Park offer plenty of scenic views.
Lake George
Steamboat cruising on the scenic Lake George in New York State, USA. Editorial credit: Enrico Della Pietra / Shutterstock.com
Lake George sits at the base of the Adirondack Mountains. Apart from its scenic beauty, surrounded by old forests and situated on the sparkling lake, the town houses Fort William Henry Museum & Restoration, a restored British fort, originally built in 1755. For art lovers, a visit to the Hyde Collection Art Museum and Historic House is a must, featuring works from famous artists such as Rembrandt, Picasso, and van Gogh. For a laugh or an interesting play or show, visit the beautiful Charles Wood Theatre. There are several outdoor areas for exploring, hiking, and biking, such as Gore Mountain, Warren County Bikeway, and North Creek.
Saratoga Springs
Landscape view of Adirondack Trust Company's double-faced street clock on Broadway in Saratoga Springs, NY, USA, with City Hall visible across the street. Editorial credit: Brian Logan Photography / Shutterstock.com
Saratoga Springs is one of the best destinations in Upstate New York, as it is a popular hub for horse racing and is home to the Saratoga Race Course. The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame details the stories of the exhilarating races, while Saratoga Spa State Park offers a more relaxing vacation in mineral baths and massage rooms. Camp Hudson Pines is a great place to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, while those looking to test their luck may find excitement at the Canfield Casino. For those interested in the beauty of the Hudson River, hop on a Dutch Apple Cruise and partake in a day of sightseeing on the water.
Queensbury
Six Flags Great Escape amusement park is located in Queensbury, New York, USA. Editorial credit: Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com
Queensbury is one of the most gorgeous Adirondack Mountain towns to visit, most well known for hosting the annual Adirondack Balloon Festival in September and often labeled the “Gateway to the Adirondack Region.” Apart from its colorful balloons in the sky, the town is home to the exciting Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor amusement park, perfect for the whole family. Travelers may enjoy the outdoors and embark on a challenge all at once with the Warren County Cycling Challenge, which includes 24 trails, and those who complete eight receive a certificate. Glen Lake is also a tranquil destination, ideal for canoeing, kayaking, or fishing.
Schroon Lake
Summer scene at Schroon Lake Beach, showcasing visitors enjoying the sunny weather, sandy shore, and refreshing water.
Schroon Lake is one of the best small towns in the Adirondacks to chill out, a charming hamlet home to a beautiful and unforgettable lake. On the lake, travelers might partake in fishing, with the opportunity to catch salmon, bass, and perch, as well as boating or paddling. There are also plenty of hiking and adventure trails, such as Mount Severance, the Hoffman Notch Trail, and Spectacle Pond. The town also boasts a rich arts and culture scene, hosting the annual Seagle Festival each summer, where opera trainees sing musical productions, as well as the Strand Theatre, which boasts an art deco design. The Natural Stone Bridge and Caves are a unique geologic wonder, home to a natural marble cave entrance, as well as waterfalls, with guided tours available.
Saranac Lake
Aerial view of Saranac Lake in the Adirondack Mountains, New York, showcasing vibrant fall foliage and scenic landscape.
Saranac Lake is one of the most charming towns in the Adirondacks, chock full of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. The Saranac Laboratory Museum was originally built in 1894; it was the first US lab built for researching tuberculosis, and it is now permanently open to the public with exhibits on scientific research. There is also room for art lovers at the Adirondack Artists Guild Gallery, featuring several unique exhibits throughout the year. Hiking, fishing, and biking along the shores of the lake are also popular activities, while a tour through the downtown core offers an opportunity to wander along the river or explore the Walk of Fame, featuring several plaques that detail the town's history.
Discover the Unforgettable Charm of the Adirondacks
The Adirondack Mountains delight with endless wonders of the world, ranging from rushing rivers to towering forests and rocky terrain, ideal for an adventure in the great outdoors. The small towns of the area offer an escape from city life, warm with charm and welcoming communities, as well as plenty to enjoy in the beautiful landscape of the Adirondacks. Whether it is the sunset over Schroon Lake that leaves its lasting impact or the Balloon Festival of Queensbury that makes its mark, these small towns of the Adirondacks are truly unforgettable.
