Old Forge is a city found in the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York. This New York city attracts visitors because of its outdoor recreation and family-friendly activities. From scenic wilderness tours to thrilling theme parks, a stay in Old Forge, New York is anything but boring. Make the best of your stay in the Adirondacks when you experience these top things to do in Old Forge, New York.
Ride the McCauley Mountain Scenic Chairlift
Enjoy the scenic mountain area of Old Forge when you take a ride on McCauley Mountain Scenic Chairlift. This chairlift ride is most popular during the fall season when the leaves on the trees in the Adirondacks change to autumn colors. However, you can take a ride up the lift, which takes riders up to the McCauley Mountain ski area, from late June to mid-October. This peaceful ride is a budget-friendly activity to do while in Old Forge.
Hop Aboard the Adirondack Scenic Railroad
Take a train through the Adirondacks with the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. You’ll board the train at Thendara Station near Old Forge and then ride through the beautiful woods outside of the city. There are a number of unique train rides to choose from here, from a murder mystery ride to Santa rides during the holidays. The fall season is a popular time to take a train ride, as the fall colors in the forest make for a mesmerizing ride. However, the changing leaves aren’t the only reasons why riders choose to ride the railroad; Adirondack Scenic Railroad hosts themed rides during the fall season. The haunted excursion ride is a fan favorite.
Cool Off at Enchanted Forest Water Safari
New York’s largest water park is found in Old Forge. Known as Enchanted Forest Water Safari, this waterpark is a must-visit for those visiting Old Forge during the summer season. Found in Adirondack State Park, this summer attraction features over 30 water rides, from exciting slides to swimming and wave pools. When you aren’t in the water, you should enjoy one of the live shows hosted here too. Enchanted Forest Water Safari is a popular attraction to visit from mid-June to Labor Day.
Admire the Scenery with Old Forge Lake Cruises
The Fulton Chain of Lakes, eight lakes that are found in the Adirondacks, draw a number of visitors to the Old Forge area. A great way to enjoy the lakes is by a boat tour with Old Forge Lake Cruises. A sightseeing tour with Old Forge Lake Cruises lasts two hours and will take you through the first four lakes of the Fulton Chain. If you’re looking for a more private setting for a large group, private charters through Old Forge Lake Cruises are also an option.
Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at Calypso’s Cove
Found next to Enchanted Forest Water Safari water park is Calypso’s Cove, a family-friendly attraction that features a wide variety of activities from go-karts to ziplining. Calypso’s Cove is a great place to go to enjoy the warm weather, however, this attraction is also an ideal spot during a rainy day too, as it’s home to an indoor arcade with over 40 games. Test your skills at the rock wall, mini-golf course, and batting cages. There is a wide variety of things to do at this Old Forge attraction.
Get a Bird's Eye View with Payne's Air Service
Experience the gorgeous scenery of the Adirondacks from the sky when you book a tour at Payne’s Air Service, a company offering seaplane rides of the area. From short scenic loops to longer flights too, a thrilling ride in a small seaplane is a must-do while in Old Forge. In addition to scenic tours, Payne’s Air Service also offers fly-in wilderness excursions for those wanting to fish, hunt or camp in a remote area of the Adirondacks.
Play a Round at Nutty Putty
This family-friendly attraction is a great way to spend a Friday night in Old Forge. Nutty Putty is a classic mini-golf course that guests of all ages will enjoy. The challenging yet fun course continues to please guests year after year, as Nutty Putty has been in operation for over 50 years. Enjoy a round of putt-putt, an ice cream cone and a night out with friends at Nutty Putty in Old Forge.
Sample Local Beers at Fulton Chain Craft Brewery
Beer lovers visiting Old Forge should not leave without visiting Fulton Chain Craft Brewery. This craft beer company features a tasting room where guests can indulge in a brew made from hops and grains grown right in New York. With 10 beers on tap, Fulton Chain Craft Brewery is bound to make a beer that will please your palate. Consider ordering a flight of beer so you can taste a variety of brews crafted by this Old Forge brewery.
Enjoy a Starry Night at Old Forge Camping Resort
Since Old Forge is in the heart of the Adirondacks, camping and outdoor recreation are popular activities for guests to enjoy here. Nature lovers visiting Old Forge should consider staying at Old Forge Camping Resort, which is one of the most popular campgrounds in the state. Accommodation ranges from cabins, cottages, RV sites and tent sites too. This large campground is a great home base during your stay in the Adirondacks.
