Adirondack Experience

The largest cultural organization in New York State’s North Country, the Adirondack Experience is an educational complement to the region’s rugged, wild scenery. It’s worth setting aside a half-day to explore the museum to learn more about the region's natural and human history, discover works by local artists across its exhibitions, engage with its varied architectural and natural attractions, and see what life and work in the mountains have looked like for centuries.

• The museum recommends that visitors reserve tickets online for all-day access to the site.

• The on-site Lake View Café serves sandwiches, soups, and light bites, and offers views of the region’s scenery.

• You’re welcome to bring food and drink, but you can't eat or drink in the galleries.

• Stop by the ADKX Store to purchase locally made jewelry, crafts, books, and more.

• The museum recommends setting aside at least half a day to make the most of its more than 20 buildings and activities.

• The museum’s facilities are wheelchair-accessible, and you can rent wheelchairs free on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Adirondack Experience is in the heart of upstate New York’s Adirondacks region, at 9097 State Route 30 in Blue Mountain Lake. The nearest major hubs are Albany and Syracuse in New York State and Burlington in Vermont, all of which are roughly 2-2.5 hours away by car. From New York City, the museum is roughly a 4- to 5-hour drive. Free parking is available.

The Adirondack Experience is open seasonally, typically from late May until mid-October. In season, it is open seven days a week—including holidays—from morning until early evening. Expect the experience to be especially busy on weekends.

Spanning almost 6 million acres of land, the Adirondacks are home to hundreds of lakes and mountain peaks, as well as boreal forests and a wealth of wildlife. The area is also a destination for history lovers, thanks to highlights such as the Lake Placid Olympic Ski Jumping Complex (which dates to the 1980 Olympic Games), Fort Ticonderoga (in use during the Revolutionary War), and John Brown Farm State Historic Site (the former home of the abolitionist).