The best vacations are usually had at places with more natural features than manufactured features. There is a handful of places like this located within the borders of New York, and one of them is the hidden gem known as Old Forge.

Old Forge was once a forge, but before the Forge was created, the early settlers ventured into agriculture; however, all efforts were unproductive, resulting in Charles Frederick Herreshoff’s initiative to establish an iron mine in 1811.

Old Forge is now a principal hamlet in Herkimer County despite being incorporated as a village in 1903.

Soon after having its status reversed back to a community, the residents of Old Forge have worked relentlessly to create an accomplished business district that thrives in the sector of tourism.

As one of the western gateway communities of the Adirondack Park, things to do in Old Forge for a great vacation include an experience with attractions like the Enchanted Forest Water Safari, lake cruises, and mountain hiking in the summer.

Winters at the Old Forge offers one of the best skiing experiences to visitors, with over 105 days of skiing non-stop.

There are many fun memories to be had at Old Forge, but for a particular time at Old Forge, you have to cross these fun things to do in Old Forge off your bucket list.

Things to Do in Old Forge

1. Old Forge Lake Cruises

The Fulton Chain of Lakes at Old Forge can easily be seen from the mountain tops, but if you love to have a great feel of the Lake’s magical essence, you can easily Set aside a few hours during your time in Old Forge and come aboard the historic Old Forge Lake Cruises ferries to cruise the Fulton Chain of Lakes and enjoy the natural beauty and breathtaking views

The Fulton Chain of Lakes is about eight lakes found in the Adirondacks, which has attracted many visitors to the Old Forge area and has contributed to the area’s popularity.

There are several packages available, all of which provide great sightseeing and photo-taking opportunities.

This magnificent tour with Old Forge Lake Cruises will last for about two hours and take you through most of the lakes of the Fulton Chain.

There is also a private setting for a large group or more private charters for a smaller group of people at the Old Forge Lake Cruises.

The steamboats feature a bathroom and snack bar, so there is no need to bother about any inconveniences. This tour is one of the most exciting

Address: 116 Steamboat Landing, Old Forge, New York, 13420.

2. The Goodsell Museum

One of the best things to do in Old Forge, NY, is a visit to The Goodsell Museum, this museum is owned and operated by the Town of Webb Historical Association in Old Forge.

The Town of Webb is situated in the expansive Adirondack State Park. Here various exhibits showcase a variety of Adirondack-related and local history items throughout six rooms.

The Goodsell Museum is regarded as the headquarters of the Town of Webb Historical Association. It is home to a library with a massive collection of vintage postcards and photographs, maps and books, genealogy records, business, and genealogy records.

Also, within the vicinity of the Goodsell Museum, there is an ice house and barn for guests to visit.

This museum is usually accessible to the public from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The museum is a real work of art that can be best described as a “historic turn of a century house,” which will keep its guests’ eyes filled with awe as they tour.

Address: 2993 NY-28, Old Forge, New York, 13420.

3. Explore McCauley Mountain

Old Forge is famous for its mountainous topography, but you should get to enjoy the View from the McCauley Mountain among all the highlands located in this beautiful tourist hub.

McCauley Mountain is located just outside of Old Forge in the central Adirondacks, and it features a one paddle lift, two T-bars, one double chairlift, 633-foot vertical drop, and two rope tows.

There are also about 21 trails available at the ski area, which offers skiing opportunities for skiers of all skill levels and the terrain to support 3,000 to 5,000 feet of skiing, all without expensive tickets and lengthy lift lines. As a result, McCauley Mountain can provide an average of 105 days of skiing during the year.

McCauley Mountain offers much more than skiing as it is also a mountain biking haven during the summer. The total descent is 2,077 feet with a vertical of 511 feet and over 18 different trails available. Here everyone biking fanatic can easily find a suitable route for themselves.

The McCauley Mountain Scenic Chairlift is another highlight of this mountain. The trip to the peak takes approximately 10 minutes, but once you’re at the top, you see mind-blowing scenes like the breathtaking view of the historic Fulton Chain of Lakes as it stretches towards the east

In essence, you were riding the chair lift grants you access to view the mountain’s magical scenery and picturesque views without hiking to the top.

This makes what to do in Old Forge for some exploration time, consider an addition to your bucket list of things to do in Old Forge, NY.

Address: 300 McCauley Road, Old Forge, New York 13420

4. Misters Bistro

Misters Bistro is a one-of-a-kind restaurant. It is not known for interior decorations or its long list of meals on its menu. Instead, it has gained popularity for serving one of the best quality sets of dishes in New York.

One of the reasons this restaurant is regarded as top class is that it serves only locally sourced food that is always 100% fresh. In addition, they aim to provide a more environmentally responsible and healthier dining alternative.

However, the menu at Misters Bistro keeps changing from time to time because of ingredients being available according to the seasons.

Some dishes served at this restaurant include the acorn squash macaroni, Buffalo cauliflower poutine and cheese, and mustard and truffle sirloin.

The restaurant also has various menus which overall dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options.

Address: 3046 NY-28, Old Forge, New York, 13420.

5. Kurt Gardner Photography Gallery

A picture is known to be able to tell the story of a thousand words. The Kurt Gardner Photography Gallery has continually proven the statement above over time.

Are you in search of the best and fun things to do in Old Forge for lovers of art, add a visit to Kurt Gardner Photography Gallery to you bucket list.

This gallery features the artwork of local Adirondack photographer Kurt Gardner, whose specialty is to capture the natural beauty of the Adirondack Mountains, from Old Forge to other High Peaks Region within its vicinity.

The gallery is located along Main Street in Old Forge. It offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy the scenic depths of Kurt Gardner’s photographs end eventually get to take one home.

The Kurt Gardner Photography Gallery is Open throughout the entire year. Therefore it doesn’t matter when you visit. This gallery will be available to tell you a million stories.

Address: 3032 NY-28, Old Forge, New York, 13420.

6. Moose River Farm

The Moose River Farm is one place in Old Forge which provides its visitors with a unique experience of the Adirondack Mountains.

Here, visitors can take a blissful tour of the farm or choose to go on a llama trekking excursion.

Many of the people who visit the Moose River Farm have never actually seen a llama up close. Still, with this presented opportunity, they soon become mesmerized at the llama’s striking body characteristics like their long lashes and large eyes that stare and rarely seem to blink.

Llamas are beautiful creatures but are found in very few places worldwide. At the Moose River Farm, you don’t just see them, but guests are allowed to pet the llamas.

Address: 168 Woodcraft Road, Old Forge, New York, 13420.

7. Enchanted Forest Water Safari

The Enchanted Forest Water Safari is the largest water theme park in New York, consisting of over fifty different attractions and rides, including more than thirty wild water rides and a focus on family-oriented fun for guests of all ages.

This water park is over sixty years, and it is still a perennial favorite every summer vacation for families across the USA and beyond.

It offers a barnyard, family circus show, games, shops, classic amusement rides, and kiddie rides, in addition to its numerous water rides. In addition, there are thrilling water rides like Killermanjaro, Raging Rapids, and The Curse of the Silverback.

This Old Forge attraction isn’t all about the water, in any case. However, the park does guarantee as much fun as it creates bonding time with the family.

Here you can quickly get to enjoy that warm summer sun with plenty of fun activities to keep everyone entertained.

This is one of the top fun things to do in Old Forge, It is the perfect way to spend your summer with family and friends whenever you visit old Forge.

Address: 3183 NY-28, Old Forge, New York, 13420.

8. Old Forge Camping Resort

Camping, especially in the perfect region, is usually a fascinating event filled with both adventurous a thrilling activities.

The camping resort at Old Forge is one place. Nature lovers who have a thing for camping would love to experience it.

This Resort is one of the most popular campgrounds in New York, and it is well known for its safe environment and high level of security.

Accommodation here includes cabins, cottages, RV sites, and tent sites. This large campground is a great place to enjoy the sights of the beautiful night sky and the crisp air of Adirondack.

Address: 3347 NY-28, Old Forge, New York, 13420.

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9. Fulton Chain Craft Brewery

The Fulton Chain Craft Brewery is a great place to end your tour of Old Forge for the day. This small, locally owned and operated Brewery boasts a quaint bar that makes you feel like

Justin Staskiewicz and Richard Mathy established the Fulton Chain Craft Brewery in 2014 to brewing high-quality drinks using locally sourced ingredients.

This Brewery has a tasting room where its guests’ taste buds can experience the brew made from hops and grains locally grown in New York.

There are approximately ten beers on tap at the Fulton Chain Craft Brewery, and one of these brews is guaranteed to tickle your fancy. However, some of the most famous beers at the Brewery are their “Adventure Canoe” or their American IPA.

Address: 127 North St, Old Forge, New York, 13420

10. Nutty Putty Miniature Golf

Amongst the best things to do in Old Forge, NY, is a visit to Nutty Putty.

Nutty Putty is a classic mini-golf course that guests of all ages will enjoy. At This family-friendly attraction, you can spend a few fun-filled family hours

It is a beautiful place with lots of flowers and pine trees that keep players calm as they move around the golf course.

Playing golf may sound like an old-school sort of thing to do with friends, college, or kids. However, when you see the broad smiles on their faces, you will know that you made the right choice.

This golf course is unique. Some of its holes even have moving features, which creates a more thrilling experience for the players.

When you need to take a break, enjoy an ice cream cone, a round of putt-putt, and a night out with friends at Nutty Putty in Old Forge.

Address: 2933 Route. 28, Old Forge, New York

11. Payne’s Seaplane Service

Payne’s Seaplane Service allows visitors to experience Old Forge from the skies and also the waters.

At very high altitudes, the created scene are stunning views of the countryside to the horizon.

The company offers short scenic loops, long loop flights, and fly-in wilderness tours for those who want to mingle with nature in more remote areas.

You’ll get to experience the gorgeous scenery feeling very comfortable as you enjoy a thrilling ride in a seaplane.

Address: 431 NY-28, Inlet, New York, 13360.

12. Calypso’s Cove

The Calypso Cove is the next-door neighbor Enchanted Forest Water Safari water park is a family-friendly attraction that always offers an excellent time to its guests.

Some of the Cove’s outstanding features a wide variety of activities, including go-karts, dueling, ziplining arcade, batting cages, mini-golf, and bumper-boats

Calypso’s Cove is a great place to go to enjoy the warm weather with your loved ones. However, this attraction is also an ideal spot during the spring rainy days because it has an indoor arcade with over 40 games

Test your skills climbing the rock wall or battling cages. There is a wide variety of things to do at this Old Forge attraction—the perfect place for an ideal weekend vacation with a loved one.

This makes what to do in Old Forge, NY, for a fun time, will make a cool addition to your list of Old Forge activities to explore.

Address: 3183 NY-28, 13420, Old Forge, New York.

13. The View

The View Center for Arts and Culture is where people of all age grades can Horne their artistic skills.

It even offers a wide array of outstanding performances and national art exhibitions throughout the year.

If you’re a diehard fan of art, then you must not miss a visit to the View. It is not just considered to be a great tourist attraction but also one of the top artistic spots in Old Forge.

There is always something here that will give pleasure to your eyes regardless of when you decide to visit.

The View is located along Route 28 in Old Forge, New York. It offers a contemplative viewing experience and hosts many notable national art shows, like the Central Adirondack Art Show.

One great feature of the View is that it showcases both emerging and recognized artists in nearly every medium and discipline.

The View is open from Monday to Saturday all-year-round by 10:00 am until it closes at 400pm, as well as on Sunday from noon until it closes at 4:00 pm during the summer.

It does not matter if you’re a visitor or a local—this art center of sure to offer you a premium art experience in the Adirondacks.

Address: 3273 New York-28, Old Forge, New York, 13420.

14. Adirondack Scenic Railroad

There is always beauty to be seen along the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. You can decide to board the train at the terminal located at Thendara Station near Old Forge and, from then on, ride through the beautiful woods of Adirondack outside of the city.

There are many types of unique train rides to choose from here. On the train rides, passengers experience many fun activities aboard like re-enacted Loomis gang train robberies, murder mysteries to solve, and even Santa rides during the holiday. Among all these themed rides, the fan-favorite is the haunted excursion ride.

The autumn season is one of the best times to take a train ride, as the colorful leaves in the forest make for a mesmerizing ride.

However, the changing leaves are not the only reasons why riders choose to ride the railroad. There are also eco-tours and dinner parties aboard to attend.

Address: 321 Main St, Utica, New York 13501

15. The Strand Theater

Old Forge is a great place to take someone on a perfect date, whether it is taking or not. There’s plenty of options, but the best among them all is catching a movie at “The Strand Theatre,”

The Strand Theatre is a combination of museum and cinematic shows. Modern-day digital quality shows and movies are also offered here.

What is the cinema without Popcorn? You’ll not find the answer to that question as Popcorn is always available, and better still, it’s from an original machine! Delicious ice creams are also for sale.

The Strand Theatre has a unique 1920s art-deco style that takes you back in time. There are four theaters on the property, with choices of what to watch. You can also get original posters of movies and have a great time with your partner, chatting about your best scenes

Address: Route 28 Main Street, Old Forge, New York.

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16. Moose River Canoe Trips

There are many waters in New York endowed with a very high degree of natural beauty, and one of the best things to do in Old Forge is to go paddling with a canoe on one of these beautiful waters. Tickner’s Moose River Canoe Trips offer canoe rentals and tours on the Moose River.

Tinker’s canoe rentals have been in existence since 1979. Therefore there are well experienced and will offer the best of services, including high-quality rentals, essential coaching, and safety guides

You can decide to spend the whole day paddling and enjoying the serenity on the Moose River or just rent the canoes for an hour or half the day, depending on your choice.

Paddling on the Moose River is one of the most relaxing activities you can indulge in during your time at Old Forge. It doesn’t matter if you use a kayak, canoe, or SUP (Stand-up Paddleboard). You will still enjoy your exploration of the Moose River, taking in the splendid scenery as you paddle along.

17. Bald Mountain

Amongst the unique things to do near Old Forge, NY, is hiking Bald Mountain.

The Bald Mountain is one of the most beautiful spots in Old Forge, and it’s worth visiting. The Bald mountain is about 718meters (2350-foot)

One unique feature of this natural beauty is the Rondaxe Fire Tower located at the summit of the mountain.

The fire tower offers the most fantastic view of Old Forge, even though there are also many viewpoints along the mountain’s hiking trail.

Anyone who is a fan of hiking would love a visit to Bald Mountain as the mountain also offers one of the most challenging hiking trails

Although the hike may look easy at the mountain base, the gradient gradually gets steeper and steeper until it becomes pretty challenging to move forward. But this marks the beginning of an exciting hike trail!

If you feel up for the challenge, note that you will need much sustenance as you edge closer to the top. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with sensational views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes. You don’t need to climb the fire tower to enjoy the pictures, but it is highly recommended.

If you don’t feel up to the task of hiking non-stop to the top, don’t be discouraged, as there are several intermediate viewpoints to catch your breath and get a glimpse of what’s to come when you reach the top.

Address: Bald Mountain, Webb, New York 13420.

18. Historic Old Forge Hardware Store

If you are one of those people who love to own rare and unique items, visit the historic Old Forge Hardware Store and get your hand on mind-blowing rare items.

It is always an excellent place to take a breaker from touring old Forge, stop and shop for quirky items.

This store has existed for over a century and has been stocking its shelves with many artifacts over time.

Some of the items found at the Old Forge Hardware store include Furniture, camping gear, books, kitchen items, souvenirs, etc.

19. Go Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is an enjoyable activity that has eaten deep into the fabric of Old Forge that it has become a tradition that both locals and guests uphold every holiday season

If you did not know, Old Forge is just the perfect place to be for snowmobiling in New York!

Moreover, the snowmobiling trails can be easily accessed from the Old Forge Camping Resort, so it’s a great place to get accommodations during your stay at Old Forge if you’re a snowmobile fan.

Be sure to book any snow activities well in advance and accommodation and rentals before they are entirely booked.

Are you in search of fun things to do in Old Forge, NY?, snowmobiling will make a perfect activity for you.

20. White Water Rafting

If you like activities that are a bit daring and adventurous, White Water Rafting is an excellent choice for enjoying your day.

It is a very intense activity with adrenaline-filled moments for those brave enough to participate in thrilling action feared by many.

For assured safety and premium services, the Adirondack Rafting Company is the perfect business to book in with as they’re experts in their field, and they’ll give you the absolute best experience even when you head through the Hudson River Gorge and other dangerous parts of the Adirondack Mountains

It may be about an hour’s drive from Old central Forge, but experiencing the scenic and wild Hudson River Gorge through the heart of the Adirondack Mountains is worth the time spent on the road. This activity is regarded as the most thrilling adventure for the family.

Address: 100 West Main St, Indian Lake, New York.12842

21. Tony Harper’s Sky Bar

Tony Harper’s Clam Shack, also known as Tony harper’s sky bar, is the dwelling place of one of the most delicious homemade pizzas ever made, and every visit promises to be a memorable treat to your taste buds.

Tony Harper’s Clam Shack also features the Sky Bar where friends can gather and have a great time enjoying various brews of beers and cocktails with five HD television giving pleasure to their eyes.

There are occasional live performances from local artists at the Sky bar from time to time. However, do not leave 8f you have not tried the mouthwatering Whisky Wings and their famous “Raquette Cheesesteak.”

Address: 3062 NY-28, Old Forge, New York 13420.

22. Old Forge Public Beach

For a dose of sunlight and effortless relaxation, visit Old Forge Public Beach, and it’s even better when you are with your kids.

The kids make the beach livelier as they run around and enjoy themselves on the playground while the adults enjoy the soothing wind of relaxation by the shore.

You can do plenty of things around the beach, which also includes a park and a public tennis court.

The Old Forge beach is a safe and family-friendly place where you can have a cost-free, fun time with your friends and family. The beach is open by 9 am until it closes by 6 pm daily.

This is one of Old Forge attractions you should not miss out on, a perfect addition to your bucket list of places to visit in Old Forge, NY.

Address: Lakeview Avenue, Old Forge, New York.

23. Montezuma Winery

You can end your fantastic tour of Old Forge by having an evening stop at the Montezuma Winery in Old Forge and enjoy a bottle or two of fine wine.

This winery offers a wine tasting experience at a very affordable price of $10, and if you want some home with you, there I a cheap cost of just $ 12.

The tasting experience is not complete without having some of their well-distilled spirits at the winery too.

The winery Opening jours on Monday and Tuesday is 10 am and closes by 6 pm. On Friday till Sunday, they open by 10 am and close at 6 pm; however, the winery is not accessible by the public closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Address: 3050 NY-28, Old Forge, New York, 13420,

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Start Planning your Trip to Old Forge.

Old Forge is a perfect holiday destination, regardless of the season.

It may seem more like a winter vacation destination, but there are things to do even in the summer when Bald Mountain becomes a hikers haven.

If you’re planning your next trip here, know you can be sure of a fun-filled holiday.

Start planning your trip to Old Forge, make a bucket list of things to do in Old Forge you will be interested in, and kick-off that exploration of Old Forge, NY,

The post 23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Old Forge (New York) appeared first on The Tourist Checklist.