Lake Champlain has been a significant traveler asset throughout history. It served as a pathway for Native Americans and migratory animals, then as a “blue highway” for America’s early exploration and soldiers during colonial times. There are layers upon layers of history here and today our many museums and historic sites are prepared to introduce visitors to key aspects of America’s past and development. Here are a few you won’t want to miss:
Every year is a new experience at Fort Ticonderoga
This year, Fort Ticonderoga debuts a new chapter of its story! In 2021, explore the year 1774 and the British-occupied fort in the years just before the American Revolution. Discover family life for peacetime British soldiers as they maintained their clothing, equipment, and the fort through exciting weapons demonstrations, historic trades programs, and guided tours.
Narrated Carillon boat cruises will resume, featuring onboard food and beverages. It is anticipated that cruises will begin Memorial Day weekend.
Hailed as the premier living history program in North America, Fort Ticonderoga’s museum staff brings history to life every day! Ticonderoga’s epic history and signature stories are highlighted through innovative storytelling on a grand scale, historic trades, daily soldiers’ life programs, thrilling weapons demonstrations, endless outdoor activities, sweeping vistas, and captivating special events.
Fort Ticonderoga is a must-see destination, a center of learning, and an interactive, multi-faceted experience. It’s exploring the beautiful gardens, finding adventure in signature events, marching with the Fifes and Drums, and learning about a historic trade. It’s a visit through the reconstructed fort, a stroll on Carillon Battlefield hiking trail, and an unforgettable view from the top of Mount Defiance with a sweeping vista of Lake Champlain and Vermont’s Green Mountains.
Opening for daily visitation May 1, 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed on Mondays.
518-585-2821
There is no better place to gain an understanding of man’s connection with the lake than the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum
View a large collection of original small watercraft built over the last 150 years. Learn about the largest collection of wooden shipwrecks in North America and talk to archaeological conservators in the Nautical Archaeology Center. Step back in time as you climb aboard the 54' square-rigged Revolutionary War gunboat replica Philadelphia II and learn about the life of citizen soldiers in the Champlain Valley in 1776. Visitors can step aboard the replica canal schooner, Lois McClure, every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. 2021 will feature new all-outside exhibits, self-guided tours, and more.
Open daily May 22 through October 17. Admission is free in 2021.
802-475-2022
Close to 400 acres of grounds are open for exploration daily, sunrise until sunset, at the amazing Crown Point State Historic Site. The grounds contain ruins of two 18th century forts — French and British — that are both National Historic Landmarks.
Museum days/hours are yet to be determined. Stay tuned for updates!
518-597-4666
The history of the Town of Ticonderoga, from paper making to graphite mining to pencils, is revealed at the Ticonderoga Heritage Museum, housed in the former main office of International Paper Company. Here you will gain an appreciation of waterpower and learn why many communities sprang up where they did.
Open weekends May 29 through June 20, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; daily, June 26 through Labor Day, and Thursday through Sunday, 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Labor Day through October 17.
518-585-2696
The Hancock House is located adjacent to the Liberty Monument at Moses Circle. This replica of Hancock Manor on Boston’s Beacon Hill is home to the Ticonderoga Historical Society and an extensive research library. 2021 will feature programs focusing on "History, Race and Gender in the Adirondacks.”
Opening dates to be determined. Stay tuned for details!
518-585-7868
Preserving the Allen Penfield homestead and farm buildings, Ironville’s Congregational church and parsonage, and the remains of Crown Point Iron Company and railroad, the Penfield Homestead Museum documents the Crown Point iron industry and its claim to be “the birthplace of the electrical age.”
Opening Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays by appointment.
518-597-3804
