9 Small Towns in The Adirondack Mountains with the Best Downtowns
The Adirondacks are famous for endless outdoor recreation, but some of the region's most memorable places can be found when the hiking boots come off. This includes grabbing a treat before a day at Water Safari in Old Forge or witnessing cannon demonstrations at the fort in Lake George. The Olympic history of Lake Placid and the wilderness of Speculator are just a few of the things that make these downtowns in the Adirondack Mountains so special.
Lake Placid, New York
One of the Adirondacks' most well-known communities, Lake Placid's downtown has a distinctive look that makes it worthy of a spot on this list. Its Main Street runs alongside Mirror Lake, with colorful buildings and mountain views to take in as you explore. Admire art by some of the region's most talented artists at Gallery 46, then head to the Olympic Center to learn all about the town's iconic Olympic History and see the rink where the 1980 "Miracle on Ice" took place. End your visit at Mid's Park, located between Main Street and Mirror Lake, and enjoy mountain views and fresh air.
Saranac Lake, New York
West of Lake Placid is Saranac Lake, an artsy little town with a colorful personality. Saranac Lake's downtown perfectly showcases the town's Adirondack charm, surrounded by mountains and lakes and full of family-friendly experiences. Learn all about the town's history as a tuberculosis research and treatment center at the Saranac Laboratory Museum, where visitors can explore both permanent and rotating exhibits. Grab a signature latte at Origin Coffee, and enjoy while strolling through Riverside Park, a downtown waterfront park with views of Lake Flower. Saranac Lake is an especially good choice for those who want their Adirondack visit to include art. The town is home to countless galleries featuring work from local artists, and prides itself on being a hub for creativity.
Tupper Lake, New York
Deep within the Adirondack Park, Tupper Lake has a more rugged, working-town vibe than some of its better-known neighbors. Walking Park Street, you'll find a plethora of shops and restaurants to explore. Head to Tupper Arts to find pieces by regional artists, and grab some gifts and a bite to eat at Spruce & Hemlock, a unique blend of Adirondack gift shop, cafe, and gathering place. Then, visit the Adirondack State Theater, which adds a nostalgic element to the downtown landscape. Tupper Lake is the perfect place for those looking for an Adirondack town that feels less polished and more laid back.
Old Forge, New York
Playfully referred to as "Adirondack Base Camp," Old Forge has one of the most recognizable vacation-town downtowns in the area. Visit the iconic Candy Cottage and indulge in all of the fudge your heart desires. Discover the rich history of Old Forge at the Goodsell Museum, which houses an annually changing feature exhibit and an ever-growing research library. For some family fun, spend a day at Enchanted Forest Water Safari, New York's largest water park, featuring over 50 rides and attractions. Old Forge stands apart because it embraces the classic Adirondack family vacation, complete with candy, souvenir shops, and water rides!
Schroon Lake, New York
For a quieter Adirondack town, Schroon Lake is hard to beat. The community's small commercial center sits close to the lake, creating a relaxed atmosphere that feels especially welcoming during the warmer months. Grab a sandwich from Schroon Sandwich Shop, or get a delicious iced latte from 9-Mile Coffee on Main Street. Schroon Lake has a storied history with the performing arts, and the Strand Theatre hosts plays and movies in an original art deco building. Once a classic resort hub, Schroon Lake remains rich in history and culture, and is an ideal spot for travelers who want an Adirondack town that feels distinctly lakeside.
Long Lake, New York
One of the oldest towns in the Adirondacks, Long Lake stands apart from other towns on this list for one reason: the lake is essentially part of the town center. Check out Hoss's Country Corner, the most interesting general store in the Adirondacks, and browse gifts, books, and homemade cheese. Grab a hoagie and a craft beer at Brookside Hops and Hoagies, then walk along the lakefront and enjoy views of the water and surrounding mountains right from the town center. If you're feeling extra adventurous, rent a boat from Adirondack Boat Works and get out on Long Lake for some fun in the water.
Lake George, New York
Situated on the southeastern base of the Adirondacks, Lake George is an energetic, tourist-friendly town with a downtown built around the waterfront. Shop for all kinds of antiques at Antiques Market Place, offering vintage, collectible, and decorative items. Relax at Shepard Park, a waterfront park complete with lawns and lake views. In the heart of Lake George is Fort William Henry, an 18th-century fort where visitors can take guided tours and witness cannon demonstrations, as well as its museums, where guests can learn all about life in a real British fort. End your visit with a rooftop dinner at the Rooftop Cabana Bar and Restaurant for a delicious lakeside dining experience.
Glens Falls, New York
A former mill town, Glens Falls sits on the bank of the Hudson River and is the perfect place for history buffs. Head to Park & Elm to enjoy a modern take on the classic restaurant experience, including a gourmet market with a curated selection of farm-to-table ingredients. Find European and American artwork at the Hyde Collection, one of the Adirondacks standout small art museums with rotating exhibitions. To learn about the town's fascinating history, check out the Chapman Museum, showcasing changing seasonal exhibits and real historic antiques. Downtown Glens Falls is developed around its industrial and paper-making history, and historic architecture can be seen along every street.
Speculator, New York
With only a few hundred residents, Speculator is one of the smallest communities on this list. The village's business district sits near Lake Pleasant and serves as a hub for the surrounding wilderness. Browse the Speculator Department Store, a longtime Adirondack business where you can find souvenirs, housewares, sporting goods, and more. Take a dip in Lake Pleasant or simply take in the surrounding mountain scenery, then head to Speculator Beach to relax and enjoy the water. Fans of the outdoors will have fun exploring the many surrounding Adirondack hiking trails. Speculator is full of old-fashioned Adirondack character.
The best towns in the Adirondacks aren't necessarily the biggest ones. What makes them memorable is the unique way each community reflects its surroundings and history. Lake Placid blends Olympic history with a lakeside Main Street, Saranac Lake combines art and history, and Tupper Lake celebrates its working Adirondack roots. From the classic charm of Old Forge to the serenity of Schroon Lake, these 9 small Adirondack towns prove that sometimes the best way to experience the mountains is by spending a few hours walking downtown.
