Historical Things to See and Do in the Adirondacks

One of the biggest draws to the Adirondacks is the beauty of that area, but did you know that this is an area with a great deal of history? If you enjoy really knowing about the area you are visiting, the Adirondacks offer quite a few historical sites and museums designed to help you do just that. Regardless of your focus, the Adirondacks present a large number of opportunities to learn about the area, whether you're focused in the natural history, the political history, the literary history, or just plain want something extra to do while you're visiting the Adirondacks.

Of course, the first place to start is the Adirondack Museum in Blue Mountain, New York. It is touted as one of the best in the area, with promotional materials from all kinds of magazines and newspapers, including a reference to the New York Times. This is an outdoor museum featuring amazing vistas and loads of highly entertaining advice for exploring the area. Not surprisingly, many artists and writers have found their inspiration while in the Adirondacks. There is an art gallery in the Adirondack Museum featuring some of the art work from these artists. Unlike many history museums, there is an emphasis on family education and hands on experiences.

The Delong House in Glens Falls, New York is home to the Chapman Historical Museum, another favorite of mine. Since it is actually located in a restored Victorian home, the museum building is a relic in and of itself. Although relatively small, the presentation of the history of the southern Adirondacks is quite good.

My brother, who went on to focus on history throughout his life, always made sure that we visited Fort William Henry in Lake George, New York whenever we could. Located near Lake George Village, this fort is restored from the French and Indian War. It is remarkably "child friendly" for a fort, and features regular musket firing events that ring through Lake George Village.

If you're more into the literary side of things, there are a number of homes and cottages of special interest to you in the Adirondacks. In Saranac Lake, New York, the Robert Lewis Stevenson Cottage will be a welcome step into the life of Robert Lewis Stevenson for any fan of his works. Maybe peeking through the windows at this cottage will provide you with inspiration of your own. Fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder of Little House on the Prairie fame will enjoy visiting the Almanzo Wilder Homestead in Malone, New York.

Dreaming of the good life? Check out Constable Hall in Constableville, New York. The name of the town is not a coincidence, as you can easily see by visiting this 19^th century restored mansion. Don't get too carried away, though, unless you really enjoy sleeping on hay. Although the walls are made of beautiful limestone, the furnishings are less than comfortable for this century, as they're all the originals from the home.