Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Tupper Lake, NY

  • Published 2022/08/04

If you are looking for some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world, look no further than Tupper Lake, New York.

It is a dreamy destination in New York State that provides breathtaking views of some of the world’s most stunning lakes.

The Adirondack Mountains’ spectacular natural beauty and the excellent jogging and bike paths make the small community of Tupper Lake worth visiting.

Tupper Lake gets its name from Ansel Tupper, a European land surveyor who first discovered the area.

Tupper Lake offers many fantastic dining alternatives, including great hiking routes, and breathtaking scenery.

Enjoy outdoor family entertainment like The Wild Center and the Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory.

Are you planning to get there soon?

Here are the best things to do in Tupper Lake, New York.

Visit the Wild Center

The spider web of The Wild Center

Theresa Lauria / Shutterstock.com

The Wild Center in Tupper Lake will show you a new experience if you’ve never gone to a natural history museum.

The 54,000-square foot indoor space is full of interactive exhibits and exciting, visually stunning live animals.

The Wild Walk is an elevated trail that allows you to walk among the treetops of the Adirondack forest.

There are seven bridges in total, each leading to a new perspective on the forest below.

You can see this new world from above and even get up close and personal with some animals that might otherwise be out of reach if you were hiking instead.

You may also visit a four-story twig tree home, swinging bridges, and a spider’s web where people can hang out and bounce.

Spend the day at the Wild Center and Wild Walk!

Go Paddling at Tupper Lake Triads

The Adirondacks feature magnificent outdoor activities that will make the most of your vacation.

The Tupper Lake Triads is just what you need to do it!

Start your Tupper Lake adventure by hiking at the Tupper Lake Hiking Triad, which recently opened to the public in 2015.

This trail is excellent for first-time hikers and families with young children.

It is also a journey through breathtaking landscapes that you won’t forget anytime soon!

At the Tupper Lake Paddling Triad, you can also participate in water activities such as paddling.

You can either paddle through the stunning waters in a kayak or canoe or float along the river.

Don’t forget about the patch and sticker; complete all the routes around Tupper Lake.

Enjoy the day at Tupper Lake Triads!

Hike the Crossroads of the Adirondacks Trail

If you want the perfect place to get out of your comfort zone and explore the wilds of the Adirondacks, look no further than the Crossroads of the Adirondacks Trail.

This trail in Tupper Lake has earned fame for its beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife.

However, it also features several historical attractions worth exploring.

The trail itself is a story of how the town came to be and how folks lived their lives.

It connects the uptown and downtown neighborhoods, focusing on the town’s rich cultural heritage.

If you want to visit this beautiful area with your family or friends, then you should go on a hike along one of these trails.

Work up a sweat and take in some breathtaking vistas along the Adirondacks Trail.

Gear up with the Raquette River Outfitters

Do you want to experience Tupper Lake in a whole new way?

Raquette River Outfitters offers the key to an extreme outdoor experience: canoe, kayak rentals, and more!

Whether you’re looking for a full-service outfitter or want to rent a boat for your vacation, Raquette River Outfitters has precisely what you need.

They sell complete canoes, kayaks, and all the necessary gear, so you can start paddling immediately.

They also offer free demos on their rental boats and guided trips around Tupper Lake to get the most out of your experience.

They have your back for renting a shuttle service or buying camping equipment while in town.

Plus, Raquette River Outfitters even have maps so you can explore the area on foot, or by boat!

Appreciate Tupper Lake History at Goff-Nelson Memorial Library

The Goff-Nelson Memorial Library is a treasure trove for the Tupper Lake community.

Since its establishment in 1914, this library has become an indispensable part of the neighborhood for over a century.

Today, it serves as a repository for more than 40,000 artifacts and hosts many family-oriented and community events.

In addition, the library has a children’s section that features books, computers, and a taxidermy collection.

The Goff-Nelson Memorial Library provides quality service to its users by promoting lifelong learning via reading, information exchange, and literacy programs.

This library offers free wifi throughout the building, so you can connect to your favorite websites while you’re there!

Relax at Tupper Lake Municipal Park

The Tupper Lake Municipal Park is undoubtedly the most excellent location to while away the afternoon.

Its spacious grounds and an extensive collection of services make it the ideal location for unwinding, taking a stroll, and having fun.

The park provides a wide variety of amenities for visitors to make use of.

There’s a gazebo and pavilion, picnic tables, sports fields, a waterfront walkway, and even two covered fishing overlooks if you want to capture the moment over the water.

In addition to the availability of public facilities, there is a generous supply of parking spots and a phone charging station.

During the winter season, an ice skating rink opens at Tupper Lake Municipal Park.

The park hosts various events, including the Tupper Lake Woodsmen’s Days and the Tupper Lake Tinman Triathlons.

Visit the Gallery at Tupper Arts Center

The Tupper Arts Center is one of the oldest and most prestigious art centers in the Adirondacks.

Originally founded around the 1980s, the center have celebrated the artists and artisans who make up the small community.

Since then, they have hosted a yearly art show showcasing the work of these talented people from inside and outside Tupper Lake.

The art center hosts dance performances and lessons for children and adults during the year.

Here’s an example of a terrific painting you can see at the Tupper Arts Center.

This work is Patrick McPhee and Patricia Bellerose’s “Home in the Adirondaks: Paddling Perspectives,” depicting a man paddling his canoe across calm waters with his dog sitting at his feet.

Those paintings make you feel like you’re right there with their subjects!

Name a Star at Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory

You don’t need to travel far to see the heavens.

The Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory is in Tupper Lake, offering unique public stargazing opportunities.

The observatory aims to provide quality educational experiences for people of all ages through astronomy, science, technology, and history.

They offer a variety of unique public stargazing opportunities, educational lectures, family-friendly events, and more.

Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or just curious about what’s up there, appreciate the stars and planets up close and personal without ever leaving Earth.

Marvel at the cosmos at the Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory.

Bring Your Kids to Little Logger Playground

Do you know what’s better than a playground in Tupper Lake?

The answer is a tree fort village.

Children of varying ages are welcome to run around and play in the picturesque tree fort town, the Little Logger Playground.

It gives the impression of a community because it is divided into four distinct zones.

You can hang out in the pavilion with your buddies instead of climbing the boulders or exploring the available log tunnels.

Just sit and relax on the benches to enjoy your food or watch your friends play on the playground.

People with disabilities can also access all the playground amenities.

Let your kids enjoy the Little Logger Playground!

Ride a Bike along the Waterfront Walkway

What is your go-to day activity in the Adirondacks?

Go to the Waterfront Walkway if you’re up for something more exciting!

It is ideal for a brisk jog or perhaps a stroll to pass the time.

The waterfront vantage points are two of the best sites in town to watch the sunset.

Because of its paved walkway, the Waterfront Walkway is also a wonderful place to ride a bike.

It connects to the junction pass route.

You can get to Tupper Lake and enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants.

In addition, the Little Logger Playground in Municipal Park is next to this walkway, featuring both fishing spots and boat slips for rent.

Go Jogging at Junction Pass & Crossroads History Trail

The Junction Pass & Crossroads History Trail in Tupper Lake is the perfect escape from the stress of the city.

The route is a multi-use recreational trail approximately 1.5 miles long and ideal for walking, jogging, and biking.

Because of its proximity to well-known parks, you can stop by for a bite to eat after or before your workout.

Because of its tremendous width, the trail is suitable for riders of any age or expertise.

With its beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and city skyline, the trail will have you feeling like you’re in another world.

The Junction Pass & Crossroads History Trail provides access to some of the most popular parks in the area and offers an escape from everyday life.

Celebrate Bonds by the Little Wolf Beach

Are you looking for a place to relax, play and enjoy the company of friends and family?

You don’t have to travel far to find a great beach.

The Little Wolf Beach in Tupper Lake, New York, is just minutes from the town’s center and is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and volleyball.

The beach offers amenities, including restrooms with changing stalls and outdoor showers and a pavilion that you can rent out for birthdays, reunions, and more.

Those who need their drinks quickly also have access to a snack bar nearby.

The Little Wolf Beach is the best spot to relax and enjoy the warm summer weather.

Get Tipsy at Raquette River Brewing

If you want to enjoy a beer while taking in the beauty of the Adirondack Mountains, look no further than Raquette River Brewing.

This microbrewery in Tupper Lake makes high-quality Adirondack Ales in small batches that should impress customers.

You can enjoy growlers, bottles, pints, and tastings at this cozy spot.

You can also enjoy the view from its outdoor section, including two food trucks and a large selection of brewery apparel.

The Raquette River Brewing Company has several picnic tables and chairs outside and seats by a stunning fireplace.

They provide a variety of beers, including blonde ale, India pale ale, hefeweizen, and red ale.

Grab Dinner at Well Dressed Food

You’ll never see food the same way after you dine at Well Dressed Food in Tupper Lake.

Customers have ranked this restaurant as one of the best places to eat in town.

Rest assured that your meal will be a memorable experience!

Their specialties include various options, such as salads, sandwiches, wings, seafood, etc.

You can enjoy your meal while tasting their favorite wine or try one of their many craft beers on tap.

The place is ideal for hosting family events like birthdays or anniversaries where everyone can enjoy an unforgettable experience together!

Bring your best self to Well Dressed Food!

Hang Out at Little Italy

Eat at Little Italy and enjoy some of the best Italian food in Tupper Lake.

They prepare food in a cozy, casual atmosphere, where you can enjoy the company of friends and family over a delicious meal.

Little Italy serves fresh salads, mouthwatering pizza and pasta dishes, and rolls and bread for those who don’t eat meat.

The menu also features various beers and wines you can order for any dish.

You can meet people and make new friends with other travelers here.

Final Thoughts

Tupper Lake isn’t just for the summer.

It boasts a vibrant arts community, outlet shopping, local dinners, and exceptional hiking opportunities.

Book your trip today and try the many things to do in Tupper Lake!

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