Can't Miss Attractions of Adirondack Park

Summer's here! Time to pack up the car, the kids, and maybe even the dog and hit the road for some fun in the sun. If your route to making lasting summertime memories takes you through Adirondack Park in New York this year, you'll find plenty to keep you busy. Founded in 1892, Adirondack Park boasts six million acres of protected reserve land, yours for the exploring. That expanse of land is greater than all of the other popular state parks such as Yellowstone and The Grand Canyon combined!

If you find that you just can't stay long enough to cover the whole six million acres of the part and just want to hit the high spots, here's a list of must-see attractions to put on the top of your itinerary.

Garnet Mine Tours

1144 Barton Mines Rd
North River, NY 12856
518-251-2706

Hunt for your very own garnets and crystals while your guide takes you on an hour long excursion through the Barton Mines. Bring your treasures back to The Mineral Shop to be weighed and identified. Learn about gemstones and the history of the Barton Mines and mining industry from knowledgeable staff.

Water Slide World

Lake George, New York exit 21 off I-87
(518) 668-4407

Water Slide World, boasting thirty five different water slides and activities, lives up to its name. Here, you'll find a variety of wet fun for all ages, abilities, the brave, the not so brave, young and old. In addition to the topsy-turvey slides, there's also a wave pool for folks just wanting to get their feet wet, and two kiddie friendly, baby safe areas designated for the toddler scene. Tube and raft rentals, concessions, locker rentals, picnic area, showers, dressing rooms, and a gift shop are added perks.

56 Auto Drive-in Theater

9783 State Highway 56, Massena NY
(315) 764-1250

If you missed drive-in movies the first time around or find yourself longing for those good times again, you're in luck! 56 Auto Drive-In Theater is one of the last of a dying breed. The old-fashioned, open-air, stay in your car theater offers current blockbuster movies on its nightly line up. Concessions are available on site.

Alien Encounter Museum & Research Center

255 Canada St
Lake George, NY 12845
518-668-5910

This place is creepy cool. The Alien Encounter Museum is sort of a combination between a haunted house, a wax museum, and a science lab. If you're certain 'they're here' or even if you need a little more convincing, this sci-fi adventure is sure to please, spook, inform, educate, and make you think. Open year round, seven days a week. Handicapped accessible.

Visiting a state park doesn't always have to just be about scenery and exploring natural wonders. Some of the most marveled wonders of the world were man made. Whether you choose to stay on the marked nature paths or blaze your own trail, Adirondack Park will accommodate you.