A window into the past

The Lake Champlain Region boasts more than 400 years of history — from Native Americans and America's early explorers to the Revolutionary War and beyond. Throughout the region, there are museums, historic sites, buildings, bridges, and other Lake Champlain attractions that serve as testaments to the region's storied past.

Why history?

Learning an area's history and culture is a fun and easy way to engage with it. Don't just pass through on your Adirondack getaway! Fully experience all that the Lake Champlain Region has to offer!

Fort Ticonderoga and Crown Point

Discover how this part of the world impacted national history with a visit to the French and British war forts of Ticonderoga and Crown Point. Both sites were strongholds during the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. Explore ruins, walk through the museums, and attend military encampments, demonstrations, and historic reenactments. While Fort Ticonderoga is closed in the winter, it does open on select days for special events, including living history events, workshops, and lectures that are well worth the visit.

Walking tours: guided and on your own

One of the best ways to get a sense of the past is to walk through the area's historic towns and villages. The region's history is written in structures — from churches and lighthouses to family homes and libraries — most of which has preserved Greek Revival and Federal architecture. Take a walking tour of one of the hamlets, such as Keeseville, Port Henry, Westport, or Essex, an entire hamlet that is on the National Register of Historic Places. There are plenty of shops, art galleries, restaurants, and more along the way.

Museums

The region also has many museums that offer a variety of perspectives on local and regional history. 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.

• The Hancock House-Ticonderoga Historical Museum is an elegant, engaging spot where local history and historic furnishings tell local stories.

• In Crown Point, the Penfield Homestead Museum is a living history museum with numerous historic buildings on the grounds, as well as a scenic walking trail.

• Did you know that the Adirondacks have a long history of mining? Learn about how mining and industry shaped the small towns we know and love at the Iron Center Museum!

• While you're in town, don't miss the Ticonderoga Heritage Museum, where mining, giant pencils, and more come together for great fun.

• Looking for history about the whole region? Head to Elizabethtown to visit the Adirondack History Museum, where engaging exhibits and a real fire tower await!