A Visitor's Guide to the Adirondacks

leroy w.
Driving through the Adirondacks, the scenic views offer a panorama of undeveloped mountains full of trees, streams of water clear to the bed rock, and post card covered bridges. Along the highways and side roads, the Adirondacks open up into vacation stops for the curious and points of interest for everyone with leisure time to relax and enjoy natural and man made attractions. Roadways traverse the Revolutionary War forts and battlefields with a myriad of leisure activity in any direction, such as the Mineral Baths and horse racing at Saratoga; cruises on Lake George; reflections of past Olympics at Lake Placid and countless museums presenting the past. There are places where kids' imaginations can run wild, as in the Enchanted Forest, Santa's Work Shop, the Wild West and crazy water parks.

There are many forms of fun places scattered throughout the Adirondacks, so save on gas by plotting a journey that connects your points of interest with minimal driving. Spread the lodging and camp sites on your trip to rest and take pleasure being in the Adirondack Mountain Range. For more information:

43 Broadway
Saranac Lake, New York 12983
Phone: 518-891-3745 Fax: 518-891-3768
E-Mail: Adirondacks.com

FORT WILLIAM HENRY MUSEUM
Canal Street, Lake George, NY 12845 --- Sitting atop a small rise, Fort William Henry commanded the southern end of Lake George from November 1755 to August 1757. Guided Tours, Archeological Dig in Progress and Museum full of artifacts and history.
website: www.fwhmuseum.com/ (518) 668-5471

GREAT ESCAPE THEME PARK
Lake George, NY. Featuring fun for the whole family. Ride the Steamin Demon Corkscrew Coaster, see the attractions and don't forget the daily shows of the Super Circus, High Divers, Street Action and the Magic Show, just to name a few. Take a raging river raft ride Desperado Plunge. New York's largest Theme Park. (518) 792-6568

LAKE GEORGE STEAMBOAT COMPANY
Lake George, NY. A cruise on Lake George, is something you will not soon forget. Whether you take a daytime cruise, or one of our special moonlight cruises, the experience is memorable. May - Oct., 9-10PM. (518) 668-5777 (800) 553-BOAT

MARCELLA SEMBRICH OPERA MUSEUM
Bolton Landing, NY. Learn about the life of one of the world's great opera singers. There is a pretty extensive summer lecture series that is a not to be missed for opera enthusiasts. For the upcoming lectures, check our "adirondacks.com" button "calendar of events". (518) 644-9839

PTRIVATE'S COVE ADVENTURE GOLF
2115 State Route 9, North Lake George ,NY 12845 - Voted "Best Miniature Golf Course in the Capital Region" in 2003 and 2004. Transport yourself into an authentic, sleepy 18th century village--under the occupation of pirates! Upon entering our grounds, you will instantly be placed into the world of legendary pirates--sunken ships, gorgeous waterfalls, dreaded pirate dungeons, lush vegetation and romantic buccaneer lore! Website: http://www.piratescove.net/location/19

ENCHANTED FOREST - WATER SAFARI
3183 State Rt. 28, Old Forge, NY 13420 --- New York's Largest Water Theme Park! Over 50 Rides & Attractions including 31 Heated Water Rides • Fun Food • Exciting Games • Storybook Characters • Family Circus Show & More • Great Rates for Group Outings • Specializing in Corporate Outings • Youth Groups • Birthday Parties & School Groups • Open June 16 - Sept. 1 2008 More info www.WaterSafari.com (315) 369-6145

ADIRONDACK SCENIC RAILROAD
Climb aboard and experience a ride in vintage passenger cars along the Moose River and through rock cuts and forest. Call to see when there staged train robberies will go on, or the Choo Choo Craft and Collectible Fair will go on. There is excitement for everyone as well as magnificent views of the Adirondacks. - (315) 369-6290

ADIRONDACK SADDLE TOURS
Spend the day horseback riding in the Adirondack Mountains, through the forest and beautiful meadows. - (315) 357-4499

OLD FORGE LAKE CRUISES
Historic Narrated Cruises From Old Forge... Sightseeing Cruises (2 hrs) Mailboat Cruises (3 hrs) Kids' Cruises (1.5 hrs) & Fireworks Cruises (74/ & 9/4) From Inlet's Arrowhead Park... 4th Lake Cruises (1 hr) Cruising the Fulton Chain of Lakes, nestled in the heart of the Central Adirondack mountains. Cruising Memorial Day thru Columbus Day -- Rain or Shine Panoramic lake & mountain vistas, Adirondack Great Camps, flora & fauna you'll only see while cruising with Old Forge Lake Cruises. You'll learn about the Adirondack's colorful history & folklore, too. www.oldforgecruises.com (315) 369-6473

VISITOR INFORMATION
Saratoga
County Chamber of Commerce
494 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY - 800-526-8970

SARATOGA SPA STATE PARK
The first people to appreciate the unique mineral springs of the Saratoga Springs were the Iroquois in the fourteenth century. By the mid 1800's, bathing in the mineral rich waters was thought to provide health benefits. In the mid 1930's, the buildings that we know today were completed, and thought to be modeled after the spas of Europe. People from all over the world enjoy the spa every year.

The Mineral Baths -Reservations should be made in advance for the Lincoln and Roosevelt bathhouses. Both bathhouses offer mineral water baths, and massages.

Walking -Strolling through the Park is an enjoyable experience for the serious nature lover, as well as the casual hiker. The gently terrain takes you by beautiful streams, and over gently rolling hills. To participate in any of the historical walks during the months of July or August, please contact the Park Office for days and times.

Running -A variety of running events are attracted to the Park by certified> 5 and 10 k courses.

Golf - An 18 hole championship course, and a 9 hole executive course offer any golfer the opportunity to play on one of the most beautiful courses in the State. 518-584-2535

SARATOGA PERFORMING ATRS CENTER
The New York City Opera, the Philadelphia Orchestra and the New York City Ballet, call "SPAC" their summer home. Throughout the summer, the musical venue includes Pop, Rock, Country, Classical, and the annual Kool Jazz Festival. Newly renovated, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center boasts theatre and lawn seating (518) 584-9330

SARATOGA RACE TRACK
Considered one of this countries most beautiful racetracks, Saratoga has in recent years expanded it's racing season to include the last few weeks of July, and the entire month of August. The best of the best race at Saratoga, and the racing is enjoyed by dedicated race fans, as well as family's enjoying an exciting day in a beautiful park. SaratogaRacetrack.com

SARATOGA HARNESS RACING
Nelson Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY - 518-584-2110

SARATOGA RACE COURSE
Union Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY - 518-584-6200

PUBLIC GOLF COURSES

ALICE T. MINER COLONIAL COLLECTION & MUSEUM
Chazy, N.Y. (on Route 9 north of Plattsburgh) Opened in 1924, the museum was created by Alice T. Miner, a pioneer in the colonial movement and wife of William H. Miner, railroad industrialist. You will see 15 rooms filled with period furniture, miniature furniture, a vast china collection, porcelain and glass, a superb collection of early samplers and other textiles, War of 1812 muskets, Revolutionary War cannon balls, dolls and other early Americana. (518) 846-7336

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BIKEWAYS
Visitors Center, 814 Bridge Road, Crown Point, NY 12928 Lake Champlain Bikeways' mission is to promote bicycling throughout the Lake Champlain regions of New York, Vermont and Quebec for the purposes of increasing opportunities for bicycle recreation. Cyclists who ride in the Champlain Valley know it has all the right ingredients for a premier bicycle touring destination: peaceful country roads, picturesque villages, breathtaking scenery, charming B&B's and inns, country stores and farm stands, bicycle tour outfitters, impressive historic sites and museums, lovely shoreline parks and campgrounds, convenient connections to passenger rail lines and ferry crossings, and access to numerous lakes and rivers. Fax: (518) 597-4648

CLINTON COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
48 Court Street, downtown Plattsburgh, N.Y. The museum interprets the area's history on Lake Champlain. Collections feature Redford glass, Staffordshire china, portraiture, photographs and textiles. Exhibitions regularly presented. Open All Year. Tues-Fri.12-4. Sat. 1-4. (518) 561-0340.

1812 HOMESTED
Located in Willsboro, the Homestead is a fascinating working farm and museum of the 1800's. The complex includes a farmhouse originally built as a tavern in 1812, where you might sample cornbread from the hearth; a woodshop where you might help the hired man make cedar shakes or split rails; a cabin, where you might hand dip your own candle; and a one room schoolhouse. The 1812 Homestead Nature Trail is designed for curriculum-related ecological study. Special events include craft workshops, a spring Maple Sugaring Festival., a fall Apple Fest, a Hearthside Thanksgiving and a Carol Sing in December. Open: Daily from July 1 to Columbus Day, 12-4pm.-Speclal tours & events may be arranged year-round. (518) 963-4071.

ART MUSEUM at PLATTSBURG STATE
Plattsburgh State University, Plattsburgh, N.Y. An extensive array of permanent and changing exhibits. Among its features are the Rockwell Kent Gallery, housing the largest collection anywhere of works by Rockwell Kent; the Nina Winkel Sculpture Court, the largest space in the nation devoted to the sculpture of one woman; the Burke Gallery, used for changing historical and contemporary exhibitions; the Myers Lobby Gallery, used to display student art; the Sculpture Park and Sculpture Terrace. Open All Year except major holidays. Daily, 12 - 4. (518) 564-2813

BATTLE OF PLATTSBURGH INERPRETIVE CENTER
Located in City Hall, downtown Plattsburgh, N.Y. The Center features a diorama and exhibits telling the story of the Battle of Plattsburgh in 1814. It is an excellent place to begin your exploration of the rich military history of Plattsburgh and the Champlain Valley. (518) 562-3534.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF THE ADIRONDAKS
Betsy Lowe
PO Box 897
Tupper Lake,NY12986
Franklin County Phone: 518-359-2533

SANTA'S WORKSHOP
Stephanie Gates
Whiteface Memorial Hwy
North Pole, NY 12946 Phone: 518-946-2212

SPIRIT OF PLATTSBURGH
Gwendy Lauritzen
348 Flynn Ave
Burlington, VT 05401-5015 Phone: 518-566-7447

WHITEFACE MOUNTAIN SKI CENTER
Bridget Hinman
PO Box 1980
Wilmington,NY12997
Essex County Phone: 518-946-2223

ADIRONDAK MUSEUM
Ann Carroll
PO Box 99
Blue Mountain Lake,NY12812
Hamilton County Phone: 518-352-7311

ADIRONDAK SCENIC RAILROAD
Doug Masters
PO Box 84
Thendara,NY13472
Essex County Phone: 315-369-6472

THE AUSBLE CHASM
PO Box 390, Ausable Chasm, NY --- Step back in time as you walk the nature trail through primeval Adirondack Forest. Stroll past Rainbow Falls, Elephant Head, Column Rock, Hyde's Cave and the erie quiet of Mystic Gorge. Descend hundreds of feet on natural stone walkways and gaze upon centuries of geologic history etched in stone. Board a raft and float the crystal waters of the Ausable River through a maze of breath taking rock formations sculpted across eons by the river's currents. email: info@ausablechasm.com (518)834-7454 Toll Free: (800) 537-1211 Toll Free (Camping): 1-866-RV-CHASM (866) 782-4276 Summer Fax: (518)834-1104 Winter Fax: (518)834-9990

HIGH FALLS GORGE ADVENTURE CENTER
Wilmington, New York. 700 Feet of waterfalls provide year round stunning scenery you won't want to miss! View ancient granite cliffs formed over a billion years ago. Bridges, walkways and groomed paths provide safe access. info@highfallsgorge.com (518) 946-2278

OLYMPIC CENTER ICE ARENA
Lake Placid, NY --- Both the 1932, and 1980 rinks are open to the public, and check the schedule for upcoming events.
foil@orda.org Phone (518) 523-1655 Fax (518) 523-9275

OLYMPIC VENUES - ORDA
Lake Placid, NY Olympic Regional Development Authority offers Olympic Venues: Bobsledding, Luge, Take an elevator ride up the 90 meter jumps, see the Lake Placid Olympic Museum and more.
foil@orda.org Phone (518) 523-1655 Fax (518) 523-9275

JOHN BROWN FARM STATE HISTORIC SITE
Lake Placid, NY --- The famed abolitionist John Brown, apart of the underground railroad and one who opposed slavery, lived and worked this farm. (518) 523-3900

LAKE PLACID CENTER FOR MUSIC, DRAMA & ART
Lake Placid, NY Year round enjoyment of music, theatre, dance, and a variety of exhibits. www.lakeplacidarts.org Phone: (518) 523-2512

WHITEFACE MOUNTAIN AERIAL CHARILIFT
Whiteface Mountain, NY --- An incredible and exciting view of the entire surrounding area. Open June through October, weather permitting. (800) 903-4045

PENDRAGON THEATRE
Saranac Lake, NY --- Regional theatre at it's best. Check our "adirondacks.com" calendar of events button for upcoming performances, or call for a schedule. (518) 891-1854

THE ADIRONDACK VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTER
Paul Smiths, NY --- VIC's extensive trail system offers everyone views of water, mountains and wildlife. A great place to learn about the Adirondacks and its history. The VIC also offers exhibitions, classes, workshops, and festivals, for all ages. The VIC hosts the Wildlife Festival, and is home to the first butterfly house in the U.S. (518) 327-3000.

SIX NATIONS INDIAN MUSEUM
Onchiota, NY --- Paintings, drawings, maps and artifacts that reflect the historic and contemporary aspects of the Six Iroquois Nations Federacy culture (Haudenosaunees).-the Mohawks, Senecas, Onondagas, Oneidas, Cayugas, and Tuscaroras. (518) 891-2299

COLD RIVER RANCH
Tupper Lake, NY --- Whether you prefer to stay in a cozy Bed and Breakfast, or take an overnight trail ride, this is the place for you. (518) 359-7559

WHITE PINE CAMP
Paul Smiths, NY --- This exceptional Adirondack "Great Camp." served as Pres. Coolidge's 1926 Summer White House. Two-hour guided tour includes architecturally unique lodges, cabins, boat houses, bowling alley, etc. in an enchanting lakeside setting. Orientation video, interpretive exhibits. Lodging available. Tours daily at 10:00am & 1:30pm, June 27 to October 15. WHITE PINE CAMP (518) 327-3030.

GREAT CAMP SAGAMORE - HISTORIC ADIRONDACK GREAT CAMP
Raquette Lake, NY --- Dating from the Gilded ages at the turn of the century, Great Camps are considered the "Jewels of the Adirondacks". For more than 50 years, Great Camp Sagamore served as the summer retreat of the Alfred G. Vanderbilt and Margaret Emerson Family. Sagamore is the only Great Camp open to the public for residential programs and tours. Group Tours are available by arrangement.
sagamore@telenet.net Phone: (315)354-5311 Fax: (315)354-5851

ADIRONDACK PARK VISTOR CENTER
Newcomb, NY --- Great place to learn about the Adirondacks and its history. They offer exhibitions, classes, workshops, and festivals, for all ages. (518) 582-2000

THE ADIRONDACK MUSEUM
Blue Mountain Lake, NY --- Offering the History of the Adirondacks; area's logging, transportation, boating, mining, farming, schooling, etc. Plan on spending the whole day exploring and don't for get to take a walk over to the restaurant - There is a most magnificent view of Blue Mountain Lake. Great for the whole family! (518) 352-7311

CHAPMAN HISTORICAL MUSEUM
348 Glen Street Glens Falls, NY --- Take a walk through southeastern adirondack history. Galleries, exhibits, etc. Open year round. (518) 793-2826 Fax (518) 793-2831

THE ADIRONDACK THEATER FESTIVAL
P.O. Box 3203, Glens Falls, NY. 12801 (ATF) is a professional summer theater for the Northeastern United States, which had its inaugural season in 1995. The Festival produces two main-stage productions, one play and one musical, and supplements them with solo performers, cabaret, readings, and children's workshops between mid-June and early July. Performances are held in the Old Woolworth Building on Glen Street in Downtown Glens Falls. Phone: (518) 798-7479 Fax: (518) 793-1334

WORLD AWARENESS CHILDREN'S MUSEUM
229 Glen Street, (Lapham Place Entrance 3rd Floor), Glens Falls, NY 12801 The museum, which consists of changing interactive exhibitions based on children's art from around the world, acquired through our International Youth Art Exchange Program. Uniquely structured to be educational and fun, we feature hands-on exhibits and artifacts children can explore and touch with care. Admission is $2.00 per person (518) 793-2773

SKATELAND FAMILY CENTER & AQUA ADVENTURE WATER SLIDES
Queensbury, NY - Visit our Skateland Family Fun Center, for water slides, kiddy water play area, picnic area, etc. Call for schedule. 518-792-8989.

GLENS FALLS FEEDER CANAL TRAIL
Glens Falls, NY 12801 - Bicycling path along canal. Trail connects to Warren County Bikeway. Canoeing, kayaking. (518) 792-5363

GREAT ESCAPE AND SPLASHWATER KINGDOM
1172 State Rte 9, Lake George, NY 12845 - Over 125 rides, shows, attractions including a full water park. 5 roller coasters including the Boomerang Coast to Coaster, The Comet, Alpine Bobsled. (518)792-3500

HAYFIELD QUALITY TOURS
10 Oakwood Dr, Queensbury, NY 12804 - Full Service Receptive, Tour Operator, Professional Step-Ons, Meeting Planner. Specializing in Senior Tours, family, military, school reunions. Day and Overnight Packages; Itinerary Planning.
(518) 798-1253 (888) 721-8555

HYDE COLLECTION ART MUSEUM
161 Warren St, Glens Falls, NY 12801 - A collection of European and American art, including works by Raphael, da Vinci, Rubens, Rembrandt, Renoir, and Picasso displayed in an 18th c. Florentine villa. (518) 792-1761

LAKE GEORGE DINNER THEATER
Rte 9, Holiday Inn-Turf, Lake George, NY 12845 - This professional equity dinner theatre, celebrating its 36th season, performs popular comedies and musicals in an intimate setting at the newly renovated Holiday Inn Turf at Lake George. The show this year is the nostalgic comedy "Over The Tavern". (518) 668-5781

LAKE GEORGE SHORELINE CRUISES
2 Kurosaka Lane, Lake George, NY 12845 - All at one location; Shoreline Restaurant, King Neptune's Pub, U-Drive Boats and Waverunner Rentals, & Parasailing adventures.1 to 2 1/2 hour day and evening sightseeing, sunset, entertainment cruises. (518) 668-4644

MAGIC RIDES & INDOOR GOLF
275 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845 - Motion simulator, indoor mini-golf, 3-D Theater. (518) 668-3777

PROSPECT MOUNTAIN VETERANS MEMORIAL HIGHWAY
Rte 9, Lake George, NY 12845 - 5.5 mi scenic highway. 100-mi view of the Adirondacks including beautiful Lake George region. (518) 668-5198

TERRACE ROOM DINNER THEATRE
384 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845 - 200-seat dinner theatre overlooking Lake George. Located at The Georgian Resort. (518) 668-5401 (800)525-3436

WATER SLIDE WORLD
2136 Rte 9, Lake George, NY 12845 - 12-acre waterpark, over 35 waterslides, attractions and services. Includes 600,000-sq ft wave pool, lazy river tube ride, toddlers' area, activity pool, sand and water volleyball, picnic pavilion. (518)668-4407

WILD WEST RANCH & WESTERN TOWN
Bloody Pond Rd, Lake George, NY 12845 - "An 1800's Ranch Experience". Horseback riding, wagon and pony rides, petting zoo; Wild West Show & Saloon, shops and ice cream parlor. Open Year Round. Free admission. (518) 668-2121

Published by leroy w.

Born in a small town in Vermont. Had a successful career in technology working for different companies in different locations. Raised two children who are happy and successful in their lives. Been in recover...  View profile

  • This guide encompasses all sections of the Adirondacks with something of interest for all age groups
  • Mineral baths, horse racing, Revolutionary War forts and battlefields, Lake Placid Olympic sites.
  • The kids will enjoy the Enchanted Forest, Santa's Work Shop, Wild West Town, and Great Escape.
Since the Adirondack area dates back to the French and Indian War, as well as the Revolutionary War, there are many places rich with history. Events and places are often linked by time and people, as that part of the country evolved.

To comment, please sign in to your Yahoo! account, or sign up for a new account.