Old Forge: A Family-Friendly Destination for Day Trips From Albany
Explore a treasure trove of natural resources, breathtaking Adirondack scenery, and a year-round population that loves to have fun.
When you're in Old Forge NY, the lazy days of summer invite old-fashioned memory-making. Bring your own toys or rent some: The Fulton Chain of Lakes offers all the boating, swimming, rafting, and canoeing you can handle.
The Moose River's springtime Class V rapids will thrill the most experienced of paddlers. Access to boat launches, marinas, fuel stops, and lakeside restaurants ensure your safety, comfort, and fun. For something different, ride the Adirondack Scenic Railroad or take a leisurely cruise on Old Forge Lake.
In addition to the many stunningly clear natural lakes that surround this region, New York's largest water theme park, Enchanted Forest/Water Safari, is a favorite destination for many families.
If you're not into man-made waterparks, don't worry—the canoeing and rafting in the area are some of the best in the Adirondacks. There are campgrounds, hundreds of state hiking trails, and excellent fishing. Bike trails for riders of every experience level provide miles upon miles of Adirondack beauty.
Hit the links at Thendara Golf Course, a championship golf course where Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, Chi Chi Rodriguez, and other notable golfers have enjoyed the fairways and Adirondack ambiance.
Old Forge continues to blossom with the onset of winter. The ski trails of McCauley Mountain, along with area cross country skiing, snowshoeing and ice skating draw avid participants throughout the lengthy season. Endless miles of groomed trails make this a winter wonderland paradise for snowmobilers.
Old Forge is a little town with a huge appreciation for the arts. The View Center for Arts and Culture includes a 200-seat auditorium, climate-controlled galleries, various studios and community meeting rooms, and a gift shop that features the original artwork of exhibitors and regional artisans. Exhibitions include paintings, quilts, arts and crafts, and the Center also showcases a variety of musical performers throughout the year!
Movies, anyone? The historic Strand Theatre originally opened its doors in 1923 with a single screen and silent movie reels. Today, it continues operating with four screens, and an antique camera and movie projector collection that provides a rare and nostalgic glimpse into the early days of movies and television.
One of the most popular activities at Old Forge is doing nothing! Warm summer Sunday evenings bring fireworks, and the Summer Concert Series at the Old Forge Lakefront, with live musical performances from blues to Celtic music to rock and roll. There are festivals throughout the season, including an Antique Adirondack Boat show. Take time to just relax by the water with a good book, browse the main street gift shops or enjoy dinner at one of the many unique and fabulous restaurants the area has to offer.