When most people think of the Adirondacks, they picture Lake Placid or Lake George, but there’s way more to explore in this massive mountain region.
Scattered between the lakes, forests, and winding back roads are small towns packed with history, outdoor adventures, and local spots that most people drive right past.
Some have incredible hiking trails with views that rival the High Peaks, others have quiet beaches, quirky festivals, or the best ice cream you’ll ever eat.
Whether you’re into paddling, skiing, exploring hidden waterfalls, or just finding a cool roadside diner, there’s a town waiting to surprise you.
Keep reading to discover some of the best overlooked Adirondack towns you need to visit.
1. Saranac Lake
Saranac Lake is a small, outdoorsy town in the Adirondacks, about 10 miles west of Lake Placid, known for its winter carnival, historic cure cottages, and amazing access to hiking and paddling.
The town was once famous for tuberculosis treatment in the late 1800s, and you can still see the old cure porches on many houses.
Today, it’s all about kayaking on the Saranac River, hiking up Baker Mountain, and grabbing some food from one of the many great restaurants in town like the Fiddlehead Bistro.
If you visit in February, the Winter Carnival is the biggest event, featuring a giant ice palace built from blocks cut right out of the frozen lake.
It also includes fun events like frying pan toss competitions and arctic golf.
2. Blue Mountain Lake
About an hour southwest of Saranac Lake, Blue Mountain Lake is a quiet Adirondack spot known for its crystal-clear water and scenic boat rides.
For a relaxing break, stop by the Lake View Café, which offers hot and cold dishes, snacks, and beverages.
If you want to get out on the water, rent a canoe in the area and explore its pristine waters surrounded by incredible mountain views.
3. Schroon Lake
Schroon Lake is a laid-back town with a sandy public beach, a lively summer theater, and beautiful lake views along Route 9.
The Seagle Festival, the oldest summer vocal training program in the U.S., puts on Broadway-style performances all season.
After a day of swimming, kayaking, or strolling through the little downtown, you can catch a show and enjoy a night of live entertainment.
For a classic Adirondack meal, grab a burger at the Timberwolf Pub or sit by the water with an ice cream from Stewart’s while watching the sunset over the mountains.
4. Hague
Hague is a tiny town on the northern shore of Lake George, perfect for anyone who loves peaceful lake views away from the crowds.
You can launch a kayak from Hague Town Beach, take a scenic drive along Route 9N, or hike up Rogers Rock nearby for a stunning view over the lake.
The primary trailhead for Rogers Rock is at the Rogers Rock Campground, just a short 5 minute drive north from Hague.
If you’re hungry, explore local dining options in the area or nearby towns—just check ahead for hours as places often close for the winter season.
5. Keene
Keene is the ultimate Adirondack hiking town, surrounded by some of the best trails in the region.
It’s the gateway to famous hikes like Cascade Mountain and Giant Mountain, and if you need gear or advice, The Mountaineer shop has been a local go-to for decades.
After a long trek, grab a sandwich from Cedar Run Bakery and enjoy it by the Ausable River.
6. Inlet
Inlet is a small town on Fourth Lake where you can enjoy boating, swimming, and classic summer fun.
Here, you can find Arrowhead Park, which has a great sandy beach, a waterfront boardwalk, and free concerts in the summer.
For a scenic adventure, nearby hikes like Rocky Mountain and Black Bear Mountain offer quick climbs with amazing views.
If you’re in the mood for pizza, stop by the Screamen Eagle, which also offers an unbelievable selection of craft beer.
7. Cranberry Lake
Cranberry Lake is a quiet, off-the-beaten-path spot which is perfect for anyone who loves hiking, paddling, and getting away from it all.
The Cranberry Lake 50 is the big challenge—a 50-mile loop trail through remote wilderness.
If you’re looking for something shorter, the Bear Mountain Trail has a great view of the lake without the all-day commitment.
For a true Adirondack experience, grab a meal nearby at The Thirsty Moose Pub & Grub in Childwold.
8. Tupper Lake
Tupper Lake is a lively spot that offers a fun mix of outdoor adventure and family-friendly attractions, with plenty to do on and off the water.
The Wild Center is the main attraction, featuring a huge indoor nature museum and the Wild Walk, a treetop trail with a giant eagle’s nest you can climb into for awesome views.
After exploring, grab a craft beer at Raquette River Brewing or relax by the water at Little Wolf Beach, a locals’ favorite with a sandy shoreline and a floating dock to jump off.
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9. Long Lake
Long Lake is a classic Adirondack getaway with a huge stretch of water perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming.
For a bird’s-eye view of the region, you can take a seaplane tour right from the marina.
If you’d rather stay on the ground, hike up Coney Mountain for an easy climb with a 360-degree view at the top.
When you’re hungry, the Adirondack Hotel serves up hearty meals in a historic building that dates back to the 1850s.
There’s also other options like the Long Lake Diner & Owl’s Head Pub where you’ll be sure to leave with a full stomach.
10. North Creek
North Creek is a year-round adventure town best known for Gore Mountain, the biggest ski resort in New York.
In the winter, skiing and snowboarding take center stage, but in the warmer months there’s still plenty to do.
You can take the gondola up for scenic views, hike the trails, or go whitewater rafting on the Hudson River.
Downtown has a cool mix of shops and cafés, perfect for unwinding after a day outdoors.
You can warm up with a coffee from Café Sarah or grab a burger at Basil & Wick’s, a local favorite just outside downtown with a laid-back, Adirondack lodge vibe.
11. Jay
Jay is a small town with one of the most famous swimming spots in the Adirondacks—the Jay Covered Bridge.
On hot summer days, people cool off by jumping off the rocks into the Ausable River, while photographers love snapping shots of the historic bridge, which dates back to the 1850s.
If you’re hungry after a swim, head to Adirondack Mountain Coffee Café in nearby Upper Jay and try their pancakes.
You can also stop by the Jay Craft Center for unique handcrafted Adirondack pottery and crafts.
12. Speculator
Speculator is a laid-back Adirondack town surrounded by lakes, hiking trails, and some of the best snowmobiling in New York.
In the summer, you can paddle on Lake Pleasant, explore local hiking trails, or just relax at the public beach.
Once the snow falls, the town turns into a snowmobile hotspot with over 650 miles of groomed trails to explore in the surrounding area.
For a quick bite, stop by Logan’s Bar & Grill for wings and burgers, or if you’re in the mood for coffee and homemade baked goods, The PERKS of Speculator is a great stop.
13. Keeseville
Keeseville is a small town best known for its incredible natural attractions, including Ausable Chasm, one of the oldest tourist spots in the U.S.
You can hike along the towering sandstone cliffs, go rafting through the gorge, or even try the adventure course with cable bridges and ziplines over the river.
After exploring, head over to the Ausable Brewing Company, a family-run farm brewery with a relaxed outdoor setup, live music on the weekends, and a great selection of locally brewed beers.
Just be aware that they normally close for the winter season with limited pop ups so it’s worth checking out their website or Facebook page before planning your visit.
14. Warrensburg
The small town of Warrensburg has a big reputation for its annual ‘World’s Largest Garage Sale’, a massive fall event that takes over the entire area with hundreds of vendors.
Beyond bargain hunting, you can hike up Hackensack Mountain for a quick but rewarding view.
If you’re looking for more ways to explore, go tubing on the Schroon River, or visit the Warrensburgh Museum to learn about local history.
For food, George Henry’s serves up great pub-style meals.
If you’re in the mood for smoked meats, cheeses, and jerky, Oscar’s Smokehouse is a famous spot to pick up some tasty road trip snacks.
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