New York state often gets associated only with the major metropolis, New York City. However, there are a number of beautiful and quieter places to explore in the Empire State, with Plattsburgh, New York, being one of them. Set on the shores of Lake Champlain in the northern-most county of the state, Plattsburgh is a wonderful retreat. Surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains, and with close access to the Adirondack Park, nature is a central theme of Plattsburgh. However, there is also so much more to explore including history, wine tastings, fresh seafood, and nightlife. Read below to learn about the things to do in Plattsburgh, New York, and get inspired.
1. Jump on the wagon at Country Dreams Farm
A magical place to spend a few hours, Country Dreams Farm invites you for a wagon ride pulled by a trusty horse. Open year-round, enjoy the petting zoo, go for a wintry sleigh ride, or explore the autumnal corn maze. The lovable goats, horses, and pigs, as well as the fresh country air are a perfect way to unwind while experiencing something new.
Country Dreams Farm
Address: 260 Pellerin Rd, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Country Dreams Farm
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 10am - 4pm
2. Check out the artifacts at Clinton County Historical Association and Museum
There is always something more to learn, and a stop by Clinton County Historical Association and Museum offers the chance to gain regional knowledge. From the formation of Clinton to a military timeline, this small but memorable museum is worth the stop. Enjoy three floors of museum exhibits, as well as a museum shop.
Clinton County Historical Association and Museum
Address: 98 Ohio Ave, Plattsburgh, NY 12903
Website: Clinton County Historical Association and Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 10am - 3pm
Price: 5 USD
3. Go boating at Point Au Roches State Park
Point Au Roches State Park is a beautiful place to explore, and there’s no better way than via water! Rent a boat and immerse yourself in the glorious scenery that this part of New York has to offer. On the northwestern shore of Lake Champlain, this is a true gem for nature lovers. There are a few places to rent boats in Plattsburgh, including motorized and non-motorized options.
Point Au Roches State Park
Address: 19 Camp Red Cloud Rd, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Point Au Roches State Park
Opening hours: 6am -10pm (daily)
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4. View historic relics at Kent-Delord House Museum
Kent-Delord House Museum is just what it sounds like; a house-turned-museum. Known as the oldest house in Plattsburgh, built in 1797, it highlights relics from the Delord family who had a hand in the 1812 war. The property is also home to a garden club which helps to keep the ground in pristine condition. Check the online calendar for events such as cooking classes focused on cooking in the 19th century and the garden club’s secret tour.
Kent-Delord House Museum
Address: 17 Cumberland Ave, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Kent-Delord House Museum
Opening hours: Tues - Fri: 9am - 3pm (May 14th - October 4th)
Price: 5 USD
New York Tour Guide
Annie Leguennec
My name is Annie. I am a local Tour guide based in Philadelphia enjoying fully what the city has to offer with its deep history, street arts, murals, architecture, traditional food, black history, Farmer Markets, green space, a melting pot of neighborhoods and its great locals. I am looking for to welcome you and show you this incredible city where you will gain a better understanding of the city's rich heritage and its continuing legacy as the birthplace of the United States of America. Book my tour. Explore and learn about this unique city where you will walk on the footsteps of our America's founding Fathers. My tours are conducted in English, French and Italian.
Tours by Annie
5. Sip local cider at Elfs Farm Winery and Cider Mill
Elfs Farm Winery and Cider Mill is a great spot to sample local cider and cold climate grape and fruit wines. Serving lunch, dinner, and drinks on a beautiful expanse of land, Elfs Farm Winery is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. With frequent musical acts, Elfs Farm Winery and Cider Mill knows all the ways to unwind.
Elfs Farm Winery and Cider Mill
Address: 7411 U.S. 9 #1, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Elfs Farm Winery and Cider Mill
Opening hours: Tues - Wed: 12pm - 6pm; Fri - Sat: 12pm - 9pm; Sun: 10:30am - 5pm (closed Mon & Thurs)
6. Go camping at Cumberland Bay State Park
If campfires, being awoken by birds, and time spent in the fresh air are for you, then you cannot miss a night or two camping at Cumberland Bay State Park. A verdant and beautiful spot, Cumberland Bay State Park is set on the shores of Lake Champlain. Quite popular, it is advised to make a reservation for overnight camping.
Cumberland Bay State Park
Address: 152 Cumberland Head Rd, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Cumberland Bay State Park
Opening hours: Camping season from May 3 - October 14
Price: 15 - 29 USD/night
7. Enjoy a picnic at Plattsburgh City Beach
Plattsburgh City Beach is an excellent place to indulge in a summer classic, picnics! Grab your favorite sandwiches, some watermelon, cookies, and whatever else your heart desires for the perfect meal ‘en plein’ air. Greatly utilized by locals, this beach is excellent for swimming, watersports, and even hosts a beach wrestling competition in July.
Plattsburgh City Beach
Address: 4 Beach Rd, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Plattsburgh City Beach
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 9 USD/vehicle on weekdays, 10 USD/vehicle on weekends
8. Grab a bite at Champlain Centre Mall
A hot spot for shopping, entertainment, and dining, Champlain Centre Mall has so much to do. With classic mall stops like Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, China Cafe, and A Pinch a Pound candy store, you’ll feel like you’re living the American dream. Grab a slice of pizza at Sbarro, or sip a latte at Starbucks while you get your shop on.
Champlain Centre Mall
Address: 60 Smithfield Blvd, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Champlain Centre Mall
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm
9. Relish seafood at Butcher Block
If you’re ready to up your food-and-drink game after all that mall food, head to Butcher Block, a Plattsburgh icon. The Butcher Block has hearty fare: think steaks, seafood, and a salad bar, with boozy drinks. A family-owned restaurant, the rustic interior will make you feel like you’re visiting your uncle’s cabin (in the best way!). Relax and enjoy a delectable meal at Butcher Block.
The Butcher Block
Address: 5 Booth Dr, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: The Butcher Block
Opening hours: 11:15am - 9:30pm (daily)
10. Sample unusual liquors at the Liquor & Wine Warehouse
Liquor & Wine Warehouse is a great place to sample local wines or check out the diverse selection of scotches and award-winning bourbons they stock. With weekly tastings that span from mountain spirits to Beringer wine, it’s a fun stop along the way. Their website also features seasonal drink recipes; a cool resource to check out before a visit to Liquor & Wine Warehouse.
Liquor & Wine Warehouse
Address: 25 Smithfield Blvd, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Liquor & Wine Warehouse
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 11pm; Sun: 12pm - 8pm
11. Catch a performance at Strand Center Theatre
The Strand Center Theatre is a historic theater built in 1924 in the Classical Revival style. A memorable place to catch music, theater, or performance of all varieties, The Strand Center has got something for every taste. There is also an on-site gallery, and a number of creative interest classes and events are held at The Strand, including fiber arts, clay classes, and theater and dance.
Strand Center Theatre
Address: 25 Brinkerhoff St, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Strand Center Theatre
12. Enjoy a guided fishing trip with Lake Champlain Angler Fishing Charter
A great way to experience Lake Champlain is by way of a fishing charter. Enter Lake Champlain Angler Fishing Charter which offers the opportunity to have a guided fishing experience on the lake. Fish with Captain Mick who will show you the ins and outs of fishing smallmouth bass, pickerel, and pike, to name a few.
Lake Champlain Angler Fishing Charter
Address: 90 Cumberland Ave, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
13. Buff up on history at The War of 1812 Museum
British Cavalry Officer's Waist Belt Plate.
Posted by Museum of the War of 1812 on Wednesday, 13 August 2014
The War of 1812, in which the United Kingdom and the United States were at it again, is formative in U.S. history. Most people don’t know much about it, though, so a history lesson is due! The Plattsburgh region played an important role in the war as the war was ended on Plattsburgh soil in 1814. The museum offers interactive exhibits, a theater for regular screening of The Battles at Plattsburgh, and an art gallery.
The War of 1812 Museum
Address: 31 Washington Rd, Plattsburgh, NY 12903
Website: The War of 1812 Museum
Opening hours: Open May - October, Wed - Sat: 10am - 3pm (closed Sun -Tues)
14. Admire the artwork at Rockwell Kent Gallery
Rockwell Kent was an American painter, printmaker, and illustrator, as well as being an adventurer. The Rockwell Kent Gallery is housed in the State University of New York Plattsburgh (SUNY), is a true hidden gem. Highlighting 34 pieces which span 65 years of his work, it is described as the “most complete and balanced Rockwell Kent collection in the US.” Not too small a feat, it’s worth checking out.
Rockwell Kent Gallery
Address: 235 Myers Fine Arts101 Broad St. Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Rockwell Kent Gallery
Opening hours: Mon - Sun: 12pm - 4pm
15. Go hunting with Eastern View Outfitters
Turkey hunting is a tradition in this part of New York. You can join the hunting crew at Eastern View Outfitters, who will help foster your fishing or hunting interests. Duck and snow goose are other fowl that Eastern View Outfitters lead guide trips on, and most fowl hunts take place in either spring or fall. Guided pheasant hunts are possible on the Eastern View Outfitters LLC Preserve and no New York or special license is necessary.
Eastern View Outfitters
Address: PO Box 2326 Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Eastern View Outfitters
16. Relax with a drink at Olive Ridley’s Restaurant
Olive's is open today to serve you all your favorites! We've got our delicious burgers, savory mac and cheeses, and...
Posted by Charles Tagliarino on Sunday, 25 November 2018
Drinks abound at Olive Ridley’s Restaurant, a lively and fun restaurant with 20 beers on tap. With frequent live music and events, Olive Ridley’s will have you tapping your toes as you enjoy your meal. Dine on fish & chips, lemon roasted salmon, or mac n’ cheese (to name a few!), and a USD 7 kids’ menu.
Olive Ridley's Restaurant
Address: 37 Court St, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Olive Ridley’s Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11:30am - 2am; Sat: 1pm - 12am; Sun: 1pm - 10pm
17. Grab a slice at Uno Pizzeria & Grill
This Chicago-style pizza franchise is a go-to for delicious pizza, deep-dish or thin. With an extensive menu that includes salads, surf and turf, and a kids’ menu, no one will walk away hungry. If you love it so much that you need this pizza upon returning home, fear not; Uno ships frozen pizzas anywhere in the U.S.
Uno Pizzeria & Grill
Address: 578 NY-3, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Uno Pizzeria & Grill
Opening hours: 11am - 10pm (daily)
18. Play at Kids' Station Children's Museum
Children have such an innate ability to play that somehow gets lost as we become older. Reengage with your childlike sense of wonder at the Kids’ Station Children Museum. With an extensive calendar of different daily activities such as Science Tuesday, be sure to check the online calendar before you go.
Kids' Station Children's Museum
Address: 13 New York Rd Plattsburgh, NY 12903
Website: Kids’ Station Children Museum
Opening hours: Tues, Thu - Sat: 10am - 2pm (closed, Sun, Mon, Wed)
19. Enjoy tacos at Lomeli’s Mexican Food
Lomeli’s Mexican Food is family-owned and the love and attention shows. With great specials throughout the week that include 2 USD Taco Tuesday, frequent Sunday all-you-can-eat and even a burrito eating contest, there is so much to love at Lomeli’s Mexican Food. Fresh homemade tortilla chips and an adorable poster child (the owner’s daughter) make even more reasons to head to Lomeli’s.
Lomeli's Mexican Food
Address: 24 Oak St, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Lomeli’s Mexican Food
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 4pm - 8pm; Tue: 11am - 3pm (closed Sun - Mon)
20. Golf on the manicured fairways of Bluff Point Golf Resort
Just steps from Lake Champlain, enjoy the panoramic views of the area while you swing a golf club. Stay where you play at the resort’s relaxing cottages and suites. Check out the golf and resort packages, which offer affordable mid-week and weekend rates. The third oldest golf course in America, check this golf icon off your list.
Bluff Point Golf Resort
Address: 75 Bluff Point Dr, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Bluff Point Gulf Resort
Opening hours: 6am - 6:30pm (daily)
21. Get sporty at South Acres Park
South Acres Park is an expansive Plattsburgh mainstay that includes facilities for summer and winter sports, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Truly the heart of Plattsburgh recreation, you’ll find pickleball, basketball, horseshoe pits, and local celebrations all at South Acres Park. Definitely, at its peak in the summer months, this is a classic park that is a great place to while away the time at.
South Acres Park
Address: 23 Flynn Ave, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: South Acres Park
Opening hours: 24 hours
22. Get fresh produce and baked goods at Pray's Farmers Market
Pray’s Farmers Market is such a lovely and quaint way to spend a morning or afternoon while filling up on healthy, local foods. Whether you are looking for fresh flowers, local meats, or fresh strawberries, you will find it here. Family owned since 1965, Pray’s Farmers Market is a labor of love whose fruits show.
Pray's Farmers Market
Address: 605 NY-3, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Website: Pray’s Farmers Market
Opening hours: 8:30am - 7pm (daily)
Local fun in Plattsburgh
Plattsburgh, New York, may not be on the top of your radar as the next place to travel, but why not? This charming small town has natural beauty, cultural gems, and historical significance that should not be overlooked. Come drink a glass of regionally made wine, try a new outdoor adventure, or explore American history. Get planning your northern New York getaway today!
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