Heritage

The Lake Champlain Region boasts 400 years of history that spans from America's early explorers to the revolutionary war and beyond. Throughout the region, there are museums, historic sites, buildings and bridges and diverse Lake Champlain attractions that serve as testaments to the region's storied past.

Discover how America changed the course of world history with a visit to the French and British war forts of Ticonderoga and Crown Point. Explore the ruins, walk through the museums and attend military encampments, demonstrations and historic reenactments. Both sites were strongholds during the French and Indian War and the American Revolution.

One of the best ways to get a sense of the past is to simply walk through the area's historic towns and villages. The region's legacy is written in structures, from churches and lighthouses, to family homes and libraries— featuring preserved Greek and Federal architecture. Take a walking tour of one of the hamlets, including Keeseville, Port Henry, Westport and Essex, an entire town that is on the National Register of Historic Places. You'll find shops, art galleries, Lake Champlain restaurants and more along the way.

Visitors can also explore the region's many museums including the Hancock House-Ticonderoga Historical Museum, Penfield Homestead Museum, The Iron Center Museum, Ticonderoga Heritage Museum, the 1812 Homestead Museum or the Adirondack History Center Museum, among others. Follow the story of the Lake Champlain region's iron use the USS Monitor and the Civil War.  Or attend one of the many Lake Champlain events that celebrate the region's legendary history.

View the list of Lake Champlain lodging and book your trip today! 

Use the above guide to find museums, hiking trails, swimming and boating facilities in the Champlain Valley.