Fall foliage by Lake George, New York at sunset.

The Best Small Towns To Retire In the Adirondack Mountains

Are you looking for a place to spend your retirement years? Do you love the outdoors and want to bask in the beautiful mountain scenery? The Adirondack Mountains could be the perfect location! With small towns that offer plenty of outdoor activities, these quaint hamlets are ideal places to retire. Explore why you should consider the Adirondacks when searching for small-town retirement living. From lush mountains and lakes teeming with wildlife to the friendly locals who make their home here, there is something special about these North Country villages that make them hard to pass up!

Plattsburgh

Aerial panorama of Plattsburgh in the northern part of New York State
Downtown Plattsburgh at dusk.

Plattsburgh, a small town nestled in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State, is one of the best places to retire for those looking for modern amenities and access to nature. With a population of just under 20,000 people, Plattsburgh offers plenty of entertainment and recreational activities, ranging from shopping districts to restaurants, that make it an ideal location for retirees who want both convenience and beauty.

The city's proximity to Lake Champlain provides an array of activities like fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, and more, while nearby trails offer hiking and biking opportunities. Shopping is plentiful with numerous boutiques specializing in antiques as well as retail stores, such as Walmart Supercenter and Target. Plattsburgh also offers a variety of eateries, including traditional American and Mexican cuisine to international dining.

Furthermore, Plattsburgh has a thriving medical community with a great hospital, Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), as well as numerous clinics throughout the city. It also boasts plenty of educational opportunities through its local university, SUNY Plattsburgh, and Clinton Community College for retirees looking to continue their education.

North Creek

Fall foliage along the upper Hudson River near North Creek in the New York Adirondack Mountain Park.
New York Adirondack Mountain Park near North Creek. Image credit Alan B. Schroeder via Shutterstock

North Creek is an ideal spot for retirees looking for a quiet environment and interesting things to do. Located in Warren County, New York, this charming mountain village boasts a population of just over 600 people and plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking and skiing to golfing and fishing. With its rich history as an important hub for rail transportation during the 19th century, North Creek is one of the best small towns to retire in the Adirondack Mountains.

The friendly community of North Creek offers numerous services and amenities that can make retirement relaxing and fulfilling. There are great restaurants, shopping centers, health care facilities, parks, and more, all within easy reach of downtown North Creek. The town also has access to some of the most beautiful views and outdoor activities in the Adirondacks, including golfing, fishing, hiking, and skiing.

For those who want to explore North Creek's history, there is no shortage of opportunities. The town was named after North Creek Station, one of the earliest railroads that served Warren County during the 19th century. There are a number of historic attractions to explore, such as the rail line itself and its many old stations, as well as several museums that showcase artifacts from North Creek's past.

Saranac Lake

Main Street in village of Saranac Lake in Adirondack Mountains, New York
Saranac Lake in Adirondack Mountains, New York. Image credit Wangkun Jia via Shutterstock

Saranac Lake, located in Essex and Franklin County, New York, is one of the best small towns to retire in the Adirondack Mountains. This picturesque village has a population of just over 4,800 people and boasts stunning scenery in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. This small town has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventures; from skiing and snowshoeing during winter months to swimming, canoeing, and kayaking during summer.

There are also many cultural attractions such as art galleries, the Small Fortune Studio, and theaters, that make this area even more enjoyable for those who want to relax and enjoy retirement life. With its abundance of breathtaking landscapes, recreational activities, and cozy restaurants serving up local cuisine, Saranac Lake is an ideal place to retire in the Adirondack Mountains.

Tupper Lake

Houses along Tupper Lake, USA
Homes along Tupper Lake.

Tupper Lake offers a serene setting of natural beauty with easy access to modern amenities. With a population of just over 3,000 people, Tupper Lake provides a peaceful atmosphere for retirees looking for an escape from city life. Surrounding the town are lush forests and mountainous terrain, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. For those who enjoy more leisurely pursuits, there are also several golf courses, like the Tupper Lake Country Club and parks where one can relax and take in all that nature has to offer.

The area also features several shopping centers and restaurants, which make it possible to stay connected with family and friends without venturing too far away. And while it is relatively rural compared to other towns, Tupper Lake still offers all the modern conveniences of urban life without sacrificing its serene charm.

Lake George

Aerial view of Lake George sports
Water sports on Lake George.

Lake George in Warren County, New York, has a population of just over 3,400 people and rests among stunning views of the mountains and lakes that make it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection. There are numerous trails, beaches, museums, restaurants, and shopping districts within the city limits for those looking for adventure or entertainment.

Retirees can enjoy a slower pace of life as well as access to modern amenities here in Lake George without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds or overwhelming noise levels. Plus, with so many recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming in nearby lakes like Lake George itself, visitors have plenty of options to take in the great outdoors. The city is also host to numerous festivals throughout the year, like the Lake George Jazz Weekend, Lake George Balloon Festival, and more.

Retirees will find that Lake George offers a charming atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to explore nature nearby and enjoy all kinds of different activities. With its proximity to Albany, Saratoga Springs, and other major urban centers, retirees looking for a suburban setting can find all they need here as well.

Keene Valley

Bridge over the river at Hulls Falls, Keene Valley, New York
Hulls Falls, Keene Valley, New York.

Keene Valley, located in the Adirondack Mountains of Essex County, New York, is an excellent choice for retirees seeking a quiet mountain town. With a population of just over 1,000 people and easy access to outdoor activities like skiing and hiking, this small community is ideal for those looking to enjoy nature while having amenities close by.

Retirees will appreciate the stunning views of the valley that Keene Valley offers while they explore galleries, shops, and restaurants throughout town. Residents can also take advantage of nearby local state parks, including Ausable Chasm State Park, and nearby lakes such as Lake Placid for fishing or boating during warmer months. There are plenty of opportunities for golfing as well at places like Keene Valley Country Club. Keene Valley is also home to several historic sites, such as the 13th-century Church of St. Hubert. With so much to explore and an inviting small-town atmosphere, it is easy to see why Keene Valley is one of the best small towns in the Adirondack Mountains for retirees. ​

Old Forge

Inside the Enchanted Forest Water Safari in Old Forge, New York inside the Adirondack National Park, Old Forge, New York
Adirondack National Park, Old Forge, New York. Image credit debra millet via Shutterstock

Old Forge is a small town in the Adirondack Mountains that offers an idyllic retirement getaway. The town, situated in Herkimer County, New York, has a population of just over 600 people and is rich in culture and history. It was once an industrial center and still boasts many cultural attractions, from restaurants to shops.

For those looking for outdoor activities, Old Forge provides plenty of opportunities for fishing, camping, and other recreational pursuits. There are also plenty of trails for hiking and biking nearby. In addition to being a great spot for retirees looking to enjoy nature, Old Forge is perfect for anyone who wants to appreciate the history of the area. There are numerous museums, such as the Adirondack Experience and the Goodsell Museum.

For those looking for a peaceful retirement spot with plenty of things to do, Old Forge is the perfect place in the Adirondacks. With its unique culture and history, as well as an abundance of recreational activities nearby, it is no wonder that so many people choose this rural paradise to spend their golden years.

Bolton Landing

Aerial view of Bolton Landing, New York
Bolton Landing, New York.

Bolton Landing is a picturesque small town located on the eastern shore of Lake George in Warren County, New York. With a population of just 400 people, it is the perfect destination for retirees looking to enjoy a tranquil setting while still having plenty of amenities nearby. The town has numerous restaurants, shopping districts, and recreational activities that provide something for everyone to enjoy. From golf courses and marinas to trails and beaches, Bolton Landing offers an unforgettable Adirondack getaway filled with outdoor activities as well as local festivals and events throughout the year.

Whether you are looking to relax or explore, Bolton Landing provides visitors with a variety of opportunities that make it one of the best small towns to retire in the Adirondack Mountains. In addition, its close proximity to larger cities like Glens Falls and Saratoga Springs makes it easy to access all the attractions they have to offer. With so much to see and do, Bolton Landing is the spot for retirees looking for a peaceful place to call home.

Ticonderoga

Exterior of Ft. Ticonderoga, site of French and Indian wars, Lake Champlain, New York
The exterior of Fort Ticonderoga. Image credit Joseph Sohm via Shutterstock

Ticonderoga, located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, is a small town with a population of about 5,000 people. Its charm lies in its history and culture, which dates back to the early 1700s when it was occupied by the British during their fight for control over North America. Today, Ticonderoga is best known as home to the Star Trek-The Original Series set tour. It offers visitors a chance to experience life on an authentic 1960s-style film set up close.

For those looking for a quiet place to retire, Ticonderoga provides great amenities that come with living in a smaller community. Its residents frequently engage in activities such as fishing at the nearby lake, hiking in its forests, or visiting historical sites. Additionally, there are many local shops and restaurants that bring in tourists and locals alike. Furthermore, there are also plenty of job opportunities available due to its proximity to larger cities such as Albany and Burlington.

The Adirondack Mountains are a great choice for those looking to retire in small-town living. Many of these towns have beautiful vistas, a calm atmosphere, and plenty of amenities that seniors need in order to lead an enjoyable lifestyle. With so many options to choose from, it is no wonder why people are choosing small towns nestled in the Adirondacks to retire in. Whether you are looking for a quaint mountain village or something larger with more activities and amenities, there is sure to be something perfect for you in this area. Don't wait any longer to plan your new life of ultimate retirement relaxation.

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