For many residents of Central and Upstate New York, the amazing Adirondack Mountains are right in our backyard but are sometimes forgotten about. Most of us have probably been to the small, but memorable village in the middle of the Adirondacks, called Old Forge. In this small village, there are so many interesting and fun things to do that could make your Summer ‘16 a memorable one. So we’ve compiled a top ten list to help you out, and because we know how much we all love top ten lists!
# 10: Sip a brew at the Fulton Chain Craft Brewery
A perfect stop right in the village of Old Forge. This small locally owned and operated Brewery boasts a quaint bar that makes you feel like you’re enjoying your local brew in an Adirondack lodge. Get yourself a flight of these tasty craft beers, and select your top choice from their selection. Their most famous beer is their “Adventure Canoe” or their American IPA! Check them out at www.fccbrewery.com/
#9: Go on a Date night
Old Forge is the perfect place to take someone special on a perfect Adirondack styled date. There’s plenty of options all depending on what you two enjoy! Some of these options would be to catch a movie at “The Strand Theatre”, then have a nice sit down dinner at 5 Corners Café, and maybe even watch the beautiful Adirondack sunset from the beach of the Old Forge Pond. How could you go wrong with that?
#8: Go on a Scenic Old Forge Lake Cruise
If you are all about the scenery and breathtaking views of the Adirondack lakes, this is the activity for you in Old Forge. Set aside 2 hours during your time in Old Forge and hop on the historic Old Forge Lake Cruises steamboats to cruise the Fulton Chain of Lakes and enjoy the natural beauty of the Adirondacks from on the water.
#7: Go Paddling
Paddling and the Adirondacks go hand-in-hand and no matter if you have your own kayak, canoe or SUPor not, you can enjoy this relaxing activity. Rent a kayak, canoe or SUP (Stand-up Paddle Board) or as many as your group needs at Mountainman Outdoor Supply in Old Forge. These rentals will let you explore the North Branch of the Moose River, taking in the splendid scenery as you paddle along with the gentle, rippling river.
#6: Shop at the historic Old Forge Hardware Store
Old Forge Hardware is always a good place to stop and shop when in the Adirondacks! For over a century, Old Forge Hardware has been stocking its shelves with goods ranging from hard to find gems to everyday necessities. Definitely worth a stop on your way through Old Forge!
#5: Visit View
Whether you’re a visitor or a local, View offers the premier arts experience in the Adirondacks for everyone. Depending on when you’re in town, there are so many events and interesting things going on at View from performances and exhibitions to special events and workshops. There is always something going on at View to give your Adirondack tripan “artsy” flair.
#4: Have fun at Calypso’s Cove
Whether you’re on a day-long get away with that special someone, or a weekend vacation with the family, Calypso’s Cove is always a good time. They seriously have something for everyone to have fun. Go-karts, dueling ziplines, a huge arcade, batting cages, mini-golf, and if you want to get soaked, even bumper-boats! Great place to have a little “child-like” fun at an affordable price right in Old Forge!
#3: Take a ride on the McCauley Mountain Scenic Chairlift
Opening in late June, you can enjoy the incredibly beautiful view of the historic Fulton Chain of Lakes as it stretches to the east with the line of High Peaks rising beyond. On a clear day, Whiteface Mountain and Mount Marcy are visible on the horizon. Gray Lake lies to the north between McCauley Mountain and the village of Old Forge. Riding the chair lift allows you and your family to view the mountain scenery, magnificent foliage and gorgeous views without the hike to the top.
#2: Hike Bald Mountain
While you’re in Old Forge, NY it’s worth a visit to the 2350-foot summit of Bald Mountain. Another unique feature about this amazing hike, is the Rondaxe Fire Tower that’s located at the summit of the mountain. There are fantastic views from the fire tower, but also from the many view points along the trail. You don’t need to climb the fire tower to enjoy the views, but we highly recommend it!
#1: Go to Enchanted Forest Water Safari
New York’s Largest water theme park is located right in the heart of the Adirondacks in the village of Old Forge! Water Safari is the perfect all day activity for everyone. Enjoy that warm summer sun and the crisp Adirondack air with plenty of wet and dry fun to keep everyone entertained! It is the perfect way to fix up your Summer and to get up to the Adirondacks! Plus if you’re coming mid-week you can save on Stay ‘N Play packages with the Old Forge Camping Resort or the Water’s Edge Inn by combining discounted accommodations and discounted Water Safari tickets!
