There's so much to do in the Adirondacks, which is why it's one of our favorite places to visit year after year! This area is known for its rich history, small towns, and awesome options for outdoor activities. We highly recommend a hike (obviously) but there's plenty of other ways you can spend your time here as well. Check out some of our recommendations below!
Built in 1757, this fort played an important role in the French and Indian War and Revolutionary War. Visit the site to learn more about American history, take a guided tour, see a reenactment, plan a boat trip on Lake Champlain, and experience everything the fort has to offer! We highly recommend stopping by the main site first before heading to Mount Defiance to get your tickets for both attractions.
Visit the King's Garden in Fort Ticonderoga for a beautiful display of colorful flowers. Guided tours are offered twice daily, or explore the grounds at your own pace. This is one of our favorite activities in the area!
Included in your ticket to Fort Ticonderoga is the entrance fee to Mount Defiance. Accessible by car, this provides a birds-eye view of the military base, Lake Champlain and the surrounding area. It's also a great spot for a picnic or scenic overlook to enjoy for a while!
One of our favorite breweries in the Adirondacks is Paradox Brewery, located approximately 30 minutes from Ticonderoga. With great views and even better beer, it's the perfect spot for a post-hike visit. Plus, their menu is loaded with delicious pizzas, sandwiches, and more. Stop by to try our favorites: the Paradox Pilsner (Paige) or the Beaver Bite IPA (John) - you won't be disappointed!
Drive approximately 50 minutes south on Rt 9N South and explore the town of Lake George for the day. With plenty of options to eat, shop, and indulge in some family fun, it's the perfect place to spend some time before the wedding. Not to mention, the whole village has great views and it's known as the "Queen of American Lakes". We recommend a cruise on one of the steamships, driving up Prospect Mountain, some friendly competition at Around the World mini golf, or a wine tasting at Adirondack Winery, but you can't go wrong with any of the activities this town has to offer.
Approximately 40 minutes south of Ticonderoga is the lakeside town of Bolton Landing. Spend an afternoon shopping at quaint boutiques and antique shops, renting a kayak or stand up paddleboard on the lake, or exploring the surrounding trails. We also recommend stopping by the Sagamore Resort for an upscale dining experience or cocktail with a view.
Check out a local brewery in downtown Ticonderoga for some relaxed vibes, awesome beers, and delicious bites. It's a great stop if you're spending time exploring the town on Friday night, or before getting ready for the ceremony on Saturday.
Spend a few hours hiking Cat Mountain, which is a fan favorite for this region. Only 4 miles round trip, this moderate hike rewards you with panoramic views of Lake George at the top. We recommend combining the red and blue trails into a loop to get the most out of your hike. You won't be disappointed!
A short but sweet hike near Bolton Landing is the Pinnacle. Just 2.1 miles round trip but you'll get amazing views of Lake George and the surrounding mountains on a clear day. Plus, you can treat yourself to some food in Bolton Landing afterwards!
For those looking to extend their stay in the Adirondacks, we highly recommend spending some time in Lake Placid! Only an hour and 15 minutes from Ticonderoga, this is a small town filled with family-friendly activities. As the location of two winter Olympics, you'll have the opportunity to coast down the bobsled track, look out from the top of the ski jump platform, drive to the top of Whiteface Mountain, and visit the ice rink from the famous "Miracle on Ice". In town, there's lots of incredible restaurants (our favorite is Smoke Signals), cute stores, and beautiful views of Mirror Lake. And of course, you're surrounded by some of the best hiking in the northeast! If you're looking to tackle one of the 46 high peaks, Cascade, Phelps, or Big Slide are some of our favorites (and some of the best views). If you're looking for incredible views but a shorter hike, Mt Van Hoevenberg and Mt Jo are some of the best around. It's one of our favorite places, no matter what time of year, and one that you'll quickly fall in love with too!
Another great town nearby is Schroon Lake, located approximately 30 minutes west of Ticonderoga. With options to go fishing, boating, walk around town or try one of the many amazing restaurants, it is a great way to spend an afternoon.
Head to the neighboring state of Vermont to explore the town of Middlebury for an afternoon. Only a 40 minute drive from downtown Ticonderoga is a place filled with covered bridges, breweries, wineries, museums, and tons to explore. Plus, you can try a famous Vermont maple creemee while you're there!
Bicentennial Park offers picnic areas, riverfront trails, ball fields, walking paths, tennis courts, and a small boat launch. It's a serene spot that's close to accommodations, and is a great spot to relax for an afternoon.