Throughout history, the town of what is now Crown Point was important for its location on the shores of Lake Champlain and its proximity to Fort Ticonderoga. Fast forward several hundred years and Crown Point’s location is still what makes it special. From its placement in the Adirondack Mountains to its access to many lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams, Crown Point’s unique location is what makes it a gem of the region.
Visitors to this quiet town might be surprised by all that can be found here. Beyond its rich history, Crown Point is known for beautiful natural surroundings, festive hometown celebrations, and a select number of shops and eateries. Not sure where to start exploring this area? Here are our top ten jewels in Crown Point’s crown:
1. Crown Point State Historic Site/Fort St. Frederic
The Crown Point State Historic Site is home to the ruins of two fortifications, predating the American Revolution. Visitors today can explore the ruins, walk the beautiful grounds, and visit the museum which has multimedia displays, large-scale models, and recovered artifacts from the site. In addition to all of this, they have a full schedule of events and programs to check out year-round.
2. Champlain Bridge/Lake Champlain Visitors Center
The Champlain Bridge is one of the most iconic pieces of construction in this area. Spanning the gap between New York and Vermont, its distance across Lake Champlain is scenic and enjoyable by car or on foot (or bike). Located at the former toll booth house, the Lake Champlain Visitors Center is staffed and can provide you with information about local events and attractions. It is also home to the 1929 Lake Champlain Bridge Commemorative Exhibit.
3. Champlain Memorial Lighthouse
The Champlain Memorial Lighthouse has a history that spans nearly 300 years. What was once a windmill built in the 1730s was reconstructed into a lighthouse in the 1850s. The 1900s brought a desire to commemorate the man who discovered the lake and in 1912 it became a memorial to Samuel De Champlain.
4. Penfield Homestead Museum
The Penfield Homestead Museum depicts life in the early 19th century. It also has a replica of the electro-magnet that gives the area the nickname, “the Birth of the Electric Age." The grounds also depict what farm life was like at that time. They also host community events such as their annual Pancake Breakfast, which includes locally made maple syrup and Heritage Day, which features a craft fair and historic demonstrations.
5. Boating and fishing
Boating and fishing are two popular activities in this area. There are two public access points to Lake Champlain in Crown Point. The first is at Monitor Bay and the second is the NYS DEC Crown Point Boat Launch, located at the Crown Point Campground off of Bridge Road. Popular land access fishing spots include Putnam Creek off of Route 9N, the pier at the Champlain Memorial Lighthouse, and the shores of the Crown Point Historic Site. Crown Point is also home to the Essex County Fish Hatchery. The Fish Hatchery raises fish to stock waters throughout Essex County. Their efforts maintain a balance between preserving the fish population and recreational fishing. The Essex County Fish Hatchery is open to the public 7 days a week.
6. Hiking
Crown Point has an abundance of walking paths and trails. It is home to a number of Champlain Area Trails, including paths at the Champlain Bridge and Penfield. The Crown Point State Historic Site is also the Eastern Terminus of the North Country National Scenic Trail, which is the premier hiking path across the northern tier of the United States.
7. Birding
The Crown Point State Historic Site is also home to the Crown Point Bird Conservation Area. Since 1976, a two-week bird banding station has operated at this location.
8. Dining, shopping, and lodging
While you are in Crown Point, be sure to dine, shop, and sleep locally which will make your visit all that much more enjoyable. The Crab Shack is open seasonally and offers seafood and other food options, beer, wine, and weekly karaoke.
Tromblee’s Greenhouse and Gifts is a shopping experience that cannot be missed. The gift shop has a wonderful collection of unique items while the greenhouse is full of seasonal plants and flowers. Gunnison Orchards Bakery and Gift Shop, a must do, has seasonal apples and pumpkins, a bakery full of treats such as donuts, pies and cookies, and a shop with wonderful treasures and gifts.
9. Veterans Memorial Park
The Veterans Memorial Park is a peaceful green located centrally in town. It is home to the Crown Point Civil War Memorial, which honors the local soldiers who gave their lives. The park is a perfect place for picnics, to play games, or to simply relax.
10. Festivals and celebrations
The Veterans Memorial Park is also home to a number of the town’s festivals and celebrations throughout the year. The annual Memorial Day celebration, Strawberry Festival, and Relay for Life Fundraiser are a few that take place here.
When planning your visit to Crown Point, be sure to reach out to the Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce by calling 518-585-6619. We can help you discover the many jewels of Crown Point!
