Historic Sites

History and nature weave an intricate tapestry that serves as a backdrop for life in the foothills of the Adirondacks. Our region is a rich storehouse of the facts and legends that played key roles in the founding of this country. From the time of Samuel de Champlain's battle with the Mohawks in 1609, to the naval engagements on Lake Champlain during the War of 1812, this area was North America.

An array of museums such as The Hyde Collection art museum and Chapman Historical Museum in Glens Falls, the Fort William Henry Museum in Lake George, Rogers Island Visitors Center in Fort Edward and the Slate Valley Museum& in Granville serve to remind us of the 400 years of history in one of the most beautiful areas in the country.

The Adirondack Museum in Blue Mountain Lake fosters an appreciation of the Adirondack Park, its resources and heritage.

The Hyde Collection offers a fascinating world of art and the rich heritage of the Adirondack Region. Visit the home of Louis and Charlotte Hyde, a prominent turn-of-the-century Adirondack industrial family, and enjoy their important collection of European and American art. An extraordinary variety of works by such masters as Rembrandt, Rubens, Renoir, van Gogh, Picasso, Whistler, Eakins and Homer, to name but a few, cover the walls of Hyde House, a stately Florentine villa. Uniquely, The Hyde Collection combines the intimacy of a historic house with the sophistication of a larger art museum complex. Three additional gallery spaces present a changing exhibition schedule of world-class exhibitions along with The Museum Shop. Admission is free. Call 518-792-1761 or click on the web link above for more information and museum hours.

Many local communities such as Cambridge have portions of their villages designated as historic landmarks, and historically significant buildings and sites abound in the North Country.

The Arts

The Adirondack Region nurtures an active community of artists and musicians, enriching the lives of both residents and visitors.

From soldout shows and athletic events at the Glens Falls Civic Center, to intimate performances in Washington County's Hudson River Music Hall, the region delights audiences with world class performances. Downtown Glens Falls boasts renowned theatre, welcoming famed performers to the Adirondack Theatre Festival and Glens Falls Symphony Orchestra. Further north is the popular Lake George Dinner Theatre at the Holiday Inn Turf at Lake George, while classical music and opera lovers enjoy the unique cultural experience of the The Sembrich in Bolton Landing.

Adirondack summers are abundant in arts and entertainment. The Luzerne Music Center in Lake Luzerne attracts teachers and students from around the globe. Concerts and festivals such as The Lake George Jazz Festival, a summer concert series in Glens Falls, and community musical events throughout the many towns and villages, fill the season with performances for every taste and age. Each June, the Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council festival, with its juried art and craft show, draws crowds of more than 20,000 to downtown Glens Falls.

Year-round, the Crandall Public Library hosts art exhibits, celebrated writers, and musical events, as well as special collections, public programs, gallery and educational services. The Hyde Collection is truly a remarkable group of works, showcasing the art of Rembrandt, Picasso, and Renoir, among others, and highlighting exhibits of both regional and international significance. Just minutes away, the fascinating history of Glens Falls and its connection to The Adirondacks is showcased in The Chapman Historical Museum. Across town, the historic Shirt Factory features varied artisan creations, as well as ample learning opportunities for art enthusiasts. For the kids, The World Awareness Children’s Museum facilitates an appreciation of cultural diversity, offering hands-on exhibits, youth art, and educational programming.

For centuries, the Adirondacks have attracted artists to its tranquil and inspiring landscape. Today, arts and entertainment continues to captivate residents and visitors, serving as a vital part of the Adirondack communities.