Things to Do in Lake George, New York
Fun Sightseeing Abounds When Visiting Lake George, New York
Aug 11, 2008
Here are some of the best attractions Lake George has to offer.
Fort Ticonderoga Tops the Lake George Sightseeing List
The first stop is one of the area’s main draws, Fort Ticonderoga in Ticonderoga, N.Y., which is respectively — and affectionately — known as “Fort Ti” and “Ti” to the locals. But here’s the geography lesson you need to know: the town of Ticonderoga rests on Lake George, while Fort Ticonderoga actually lies on the southern tip of Lake Champlain.
Originally Fort Carillon, the fort was built by the French in 1755. The site equally tells the history of William Ferris Pell, a wealthy merchant who purchased the land in 1820. It’s one of the first examples of historic preservation in the country.
The fort’s museum is home to Pell’s collection of historical artifacts including dozens of powder horns, intricately carved bull horns that once held gun powder and are now unique pieces of American folk art. The 600-title history book collection in the gift shop is worth a browse. And Fort Ti holds live soldier encampments throughout the year.
For a bird’s-eye view, take a quick drive to the summit of nearby Mt. Defiance. It offers a shaded picnic area and incredible views of Fort Ticonderoga and Lake Champlain below.
Info:
- Fort Ticonderoga is on NY Route 74 East. Take I-87 to exit 28.
- Tel.: (518) 585-2821
- Open May to October
- Price: $15 for adults, $13.50 for seniors, $7 for youths 7 to 12
Colorful Characters at the Ticonderoga Cartoon Museum
Ticonderoga Cartoon Museum is a small gem tucked away in the lower level of the Ticonderoga Community Building. Stan Burdick is your gracious and charming host, as well as a cartoonist and cartoon collector for the past 50 years. The collection includes more than 700 comics, original animated movie cels, editorial cartoons, and newspaper and magazine covers. At 129 The Portage, Ticonderoga, N.Y. Call (518) 585-7015. Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2 to 4 p.m. April to November. The suggested donation is $4 for adults, $3 for children — and it’s worth every penny.
Back to Nature at Up Yonda Farms
Leaving Ti, head south on Route 9N through twists, turns and scenic views of the quieter northern portion of the 30-mile long Lake George. The next stop is Up Yonda Farm Environmental Education Center, a nature center that offers a nice introduction to the Adirondack wilderness. There are well-marked, easy and moderate hiking trails with picture-perfect views of Lake George from the lookout as well as a bird-watching area, a butterfly garden and a sugar shack. On Route 9N, Bolton Landing, N.Y. Call (518) 644-9767. Admission costs $3 per person and $3 for parking.
Lake George Boat Cruises and Family Fun at Great Escape
Lake George Kayak Company offers kayak and canoe sales, rentals, lessons and guided tours. On Main Street in Bolton Landing, N.Y. Call (518) 644-9366
Scenic Lake George sightseeing cruises are available aboard the Adirondac or the Horicon of Lake George Shoreline Cruises, (518) 668-4644; or the Minne-Ha-Ha, the Mohican or the Lac du Saint Sacrement of Lake George Steamboat Cruises, (518) 668-5777. Both depart from Lake George Village.
Six Flags Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom Amusement Park offers fun for the whole family. Any Six Flags season pass is valid at Great Escape. On Route 9 South. Call (518) 792-3500.
Lake George Arts Project Offers Free Art and Music
The Lake George Arts Project presents small exhibitions featuring regional artists as well as free summertime concerts in adjacent Shepard Park on Canada Street. At the Old County Courthouse, 1 Amherst St., Lake George, N.Y. Call (518) 668-2688
More Info for Visiting Lake George
There are plenty of restaurants and places to stay in the region. Visit Lake George Tourism.
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