Situated on the shore of Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh is a historic city with the small-town charm everyone loves to find.
Hop off the train at the picturesque Plattsburgh Amtrak Station, a Queen Anne-style red brick building that’s been standing since 1886 where the Saranac River flows into Lake Champlain. Fuel up for your day of exploring by stopping at Koffee Kat Espresso Bar, a quaint spot for delicious coffee or house made tea blends. Its colorful interior will be a warm introduction into the city and the coffee will give you enough energy to prepare for a day of diving into history.
Delve into History in Plattsburgh
Check out the War Of 1912 Museum commemorating the largest invasion in US history by the British army right into Plattsburgh and Cumberland Bay. Learn about this battle while exploring its exhibits, art and interpretive center. Best part? The museum is free to enter. Next, head to the Clinton County Historical Museum to explore more than 30,000 artifacts, photographs and textiles available to peruse. Or explore the Kent Delord House Museum which showcases the life of a prominent New York family, featuring their extensive personal collection of antique furnishings, artworks and historic belongings.
Lunch in Plattsburgh
For lunch go to Michigan Plus, a family-owned favorite eatery serving classic dishes, and of course the region’s famous Michigan Hot Dogs. Or go for something a little different at Valcour Brewing Company for stellar burgers, unexpected sandwiches and wraps and locally brewed beers.
Exploring Downtown Plattsburgh
Now that you’ve got some history under your belt and tasty food in your system, it’s time to enjoy the natural beauty of Plattsburgh. Head to Point Au Roche State Park, just a short drive from downtown. The trails are peaceful, and the views of Lake Champlain are breathtaking. If you’re visiting in the summer, bring your swimsuit—the park has a lovely little beach area where you can indulge.
Who’s ready for some shopping? Head downtown to Margaret Street to pop into one of its many fun shops. The Cornerstone Bookshop is a book lovers’ dream with three floors absolutely brimming with some 80,000 titles. And it’s a secondhand shop, so you’re sure to get a great price. If you need a little something to hold you over until dinner, try Norma J’s Café & Bake Shop for a delish pastry on the go. A Beautiful Mess has everything from jewelry to body care, the perfect spot to stop and grab a special treat. Gem Goddess Emporium is a family-owned apothecary for all of your spiritual needs and Boxon Authentic is the place to find one-of-a-kind vintage products.
If you have time after so much retail therapy, don’t miss Plattsburgh City Beach to catch a gorgeous sunset over the lake.
Dining in Plattsburgh
For dinner grab a table at Latitude 44 Bistro, serving up elevated American fare with locally-sourced ingredients. Then, grab a drink at Olive Ridley’s Taphouse & Grill to bask in the live music and tasty cocktails.
Hotels in Plattsburgh
That night check into the Hampton Inn & Suites Plattsburgh, a fabulous choice for a comfortable stay—it even has an indoor pool, perfect if you’re visiting in the colder months. If you want more of a boutique experience, try the Valcour Inn and Boathouse, a bit further from downtown but boasts incredible views of Lake Champlain.
Take Amtrak to Plattsburgh
Explore all this city has to offer via Amtrak to Plattsburgh Station in Adirondacks —Don’t forget to use Amtrak’s See New York and Save 15% discount!
Rent a car with Enterprise! Pick up your reserved NYTRAIN Enterprise Rent-a-Car right at the Plattsburgh Station. Click here to reserve your car or call the Plattsburgh office today at: 845-485-2222.
