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.
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.
Fort Ticonderoga and Crown Point
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. 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.
Museums
The region also has many museums, including the Hancock House-Ticonderoga Historical Museum, Penfield Homestead Museum, Iron Center Museum, Ticonderoga Heritage Museum, and the Adirondack History Museum. 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.
