Kenzie Marine
May 16, 2024
Welcome to Saranac Lake, where summer comes alive in the heart of the Adirondacks! Whether you're seeking family fun, outdoor adventures, unforgettable events, live music, and arts, or simply indulging in culinary delights, it can be found here. Saranac Lake summers are adventure-filled and provide plenty of time to make lasting memories while creating opportunities to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with family and friends. An accessible, creative community welcomes visitors and locals alike, while the woods and waters surrounding town allow for adventures of any size and flavor. Let's create unforgettable memories in this decidedly different Adirondack destination!
For Family Fun
Saranac Lake is an ideal place for families seeking outdoor adventures and engaging activities all in one place. Kickstart your day by exploring our outdoor parks and beaches, each offering a unique charm. Experience the thrill of the skate park, where adrenaline flows freely, explore downtown along the Bug Crawl and Riverwalk, or bask in the tranquility of Lake Colby Beach and Lake Clear Beach, where sun-kissed sands invite relaxation and play.
Feeling adventurous? Lace-up your hiking boots or hop on your bikes and venture onto the scenic trails that weave through our town. Whether ascending Mount Pisgah, conquering Mount Baker, or leisurely pedaling along the Adirondack Rail Trail, there's a route tailored to every skill level. And for budding mountain bikers, the Harrietstown Pump Track promises an exhilarating introduction to the world of mountain biking.
Little ones are in for a treat with our array of kids' programs from art classes at ADK Art Rise and BluSeed Studios to free play at PlayADK, outdoor programs at Paul Smith’s College VIC, and story time at Saranac Lake Free Library. From hands-on workshops to imaginative play, there's no shortage of excitement to fuel their curiosity! Plus, gather the whole family for our monthly movie nights, where cinematic magic unfolds under the starlit sky.
From history to nature, Saranac Lake's family-friendly attractions promise an unforgettable journey filled with wonder, discovery, and cherished memories for all ages. Visit Historic Saranac Lake, Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation, and Paul Smith's College VIC’s Butterfly House where learning meets adventure at every turn. And no family trip is complete without a whirl on the enchanting Adirondack Carousel, where whimsical creatures transport riders to a world of fantasy and fun!
For Music Lovers
Get ready to groove to the sounds of summer with Saranac Lake's vibrant music scene. Experience the magic of Music on the Green, where Riverside Park sets the stage for free outdoor concerts every Wednesday that will have you tapping your feet and swaying to the melodies.
Seeking a night out? Head to The Waterhole for Party on the Patio, featuring free live music every Thursday night, and indoor concerts on select dates. Channel your inner rockstar at the Waterhole or Hotel Saranac's Great Hall Bar during lively karaoke nights, or discover new talents at The Garagery's Hootenanny events with an open mic session and featured artists every Monday.
Prepare to be serenaded by the soul-stirring tunes of local favorites and visiting artists at Bitters & Bones' summer concert series and Hotel Saranac's live music nights. Wherever you wander in Saranac Lake, the melodies of summer beckon, promising an unforgettable soundtrack to your Adirondack adventure!
Events to Remember
Mark your calendar for an unforgettable lineup of signature events that promise endless fun and excitement in Saranac Lake! Art enthusiasts will delight in the vibrant creativity showcased during the lively and immersive Plein Air Festival, where the beauty of the Adirondacks becomes a canvas for inspiration.
For those with a love for the great outdoors, Celebrate Paddling invites you to embark on a month-long adventure, paddling your way through the pristine waters of Saranac Lake. Spotlight events include the Round the Mountain Race and the fun-for-all-ages Cardboard Boat Races, where ingenuity and speed collide on the water. And for a true test of endurance, the Willard Hanmer Race promises a challenging journey through the heart of the Adirondacks.
Sports enthusiasts will be captivated by the 50th Anniversary CanAm Rugby Tournament, a testament to Saranac Lake's sporting spirit and a celebration of athleticism and camaraderie.
For those who live for the music, the Northern Current Music Festival serves as the grand finale of a summer filled with unforgettable melodies and cherished memories.
With countless experiences waiting to be discovered, don't miss out on any of the excitement! Be sure to check out the events calendar and start planning for a summer of unparalleled fun in Saranac Lake. It's time to make memories that will last a lifetime in this Adirondack hotspot!
For the Adirondack Explorer
Embrace the spirit of adventure with a range of outdoor activities tailored for the Adirondack explorer in you. Take to the skies and behold the breathtaking vistas from above with scenic flights courtesy of Adirondack Aviation Academy. Or, for a taste of yesteryear, hop aboard stagecoach and wagon rides at Lake Clear Lodge and journey back in time amidst the rustic charm of the Adirondacks.
To experience the great outdoors by way of water, rent a boat and set sail on the pristine waters of Saranac Lake, or take on the new Saranac Lake Paddling Challenge. And if you prefer to explore with expert guidance and all the amenities Hamlets to Huts offers curated trips that promise immersive encounters with the wilderness, ensuring every moment is filled with wonder and discovery.
For the Food & Brew Enthusiasts
Savor the flavors of Saranac Lake with a culinary journey through its eclectic dining scene. Quench your thirst with a refreshing selection of craft brews from River Trail Brewery, Bitters & Bones, Blue Line Brewery, and Hex & Hops Brewery, where each sip is a celebration of local craftsmanship and creativity.
For a dining experience that delights all the senses, head outdoors and bask in the sunshine at Saranac Lake's charming outdoor eateries such as The Scullery or Nona Finas. Experience the inventive cuisine of Fiddlehead Bistro, enjoy the chef’s favorite dishes at Our Plates, and transport your taste buds to France at Left Bank Cafe, every bite is a tantalizing journey of taste and texture.
And of course, no summer in Saranac Lake is complete without indulging in a scoop (or two) of creamy ice cream from local favorites like Donnelly's, Mountain Mist, and Pine Cone.
Discover Your Best Summer Yet in Saranac Lake
With a bit of everything seamlessly interconnected, Saranac Lake is the perfect destination to explore this summer! So what are you waiting for? Come, embark on an adventure, and uncover your best summer yet in Saranac Lake. It's a place that's authentically Adirondack and decidedly different—a place where adventure, accessibility, and connection converge to create an experience like no other. Your best summer ever awaits in Saranac Lake!