Located in the Lake George Adirondack region, Fort Ticonderoga is an expansive historic sight covering more than 2,000 acres (809 hectares) along Lake Champlain. History enthusiasts can uncover 18th-century military practices at the fort's museum, wander manicured gardens, and hike to the top of Mount Defiance for fantastic views.
A great day-trip excursion during a weekend in the Adirondacks, Fort Ticonderoga is about a 2-hour drive from Albany and five hours from New York City. Plan to prebook admission to this popular weekend destination, and get access to events and programs, museum exhibits, and expansive grounds. Make more of your day by adding on a boat cruise or canoe excursion, or opt for a special, historian-led behind-the-scenes tour.
History enthusiasts shouldn't miss the fort's historian-led, live weapons demonstrations.
Make the most of your day with Fort Ticonderoga specialty tours, where you can examine historic firearms and learn the history of the fort.
Check the calendar for family-friendly events, from apple picking and historic reenactments to the seasonal corn maze.
The fort's café, museum store, and welcome center are all wheelchair-accessible, but the rugged fort grounds may be difficult to navigate for visitors with mobility issues.
Tickets to the fort are valid for two consecutive days.
Because of its rural location, the best way to reach Fort Ticonderoga is by car. From points north or south, find Fort Ticonderoga via Route 9-N or Interstate 87 N to NY 74 E. Travelers from Vermont are best served by the Fort Ti Ferry, which travels between Ticonderoga, New York, and Shoreham, Vermont. The ferry runs from mid-May through late October.
Many Fort Ticonderoga activities—such as boat cruises and living-history events—are seasonal, so you should plan to visit in spring, summer, or fall. To visit the fort and Mount Defiance, you can stop by daily from early May through October, from morning to late afternoon. Special events are also held in the evening, including the always-popular Guns by Night demonstration—so check the calendar before you arrive.
Visitors to Fort Ticonderoga discover that they're only a short drive from numerous outdoor attractions and family-friendly activities. History buffs shouldn't miss the Ticonderoga Heritage Museum, while thrill seekers can get a dose of adventure at the family-friendly Great Escape theme park. Outdoor enthusiasts should be sure to pack hiking shoes to appreciate the advanced trails on Buck Mountain or enjoy the calming, scenic expanses of the LaChute River Walk.