10 Best Family Attractions in Plattsburgh, NY

Planning a memorable family getaway? Discover the charm, history, and lakeside beauty that make Plattsburgh a perfect destination for all ages.

Plattsburgh, also known as the gateway to the Adirondacks, is situated along the fascinating shores of Lake Champlain and is famous for its rich history and natural beauty. The city is famous for its important role in the War of 1812 and lakeside charm, providing families from all around the world with opportunities to explore its history, culture, and world-class attractions. Imagine you are walking along the beautiful trails with your family, with the lake shining beside you and fresh air touching your skin. Fascinating, right?

From visiting the War of 1812 Museum and stepping back in time, having a picnic at the expansive Point Au Roche State Park, to enjoying a cultural performance at the Strand or relaxing and taking part in water activities at Plattsburgh City Beach, this city has something for every preference.

Below is the list of the best Plattsburgh family attractions. Keep reading and make your family trip to the city a memorable one!

Point Au Roche State Park is situated along the northwest side of Lake Champlain and is the ideal family getaway in Plattsburgh. This 856-acre park combines serene woodland and open meadows and offers easy hiking trails where kids can see frogs, turtles, herons, and even bald eagles. Families can also enjoy the sandy beach, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and barbecue grills for an enjoyable outdoor day. Moreover, the park also offers boating, fishing, volleyball, bicycling, and cross-country skiing in winter, making it an all-year-round venue for fun.

Plattsburgh City Beach is a beautiful water attraction situated within a short drive from the city center and offers more than a mile of sandy beach, lifeguards, and seasonal bathing areas. Families can enjoy kayaking, beach volleyball, walking along the nature trail, and having a picnic at tables with barbecue grills. Moreover, the park also has a dog park, refreshment stalls, shower-equipped restrooms, and wheelchair accessibility. The beach also offers stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains, making it one of the best Plattsburgh kids activities and an ideal place for play, relaxation, and enjoying the sun.

Explore history at the War of 1812 Museum, which is a family-friendly attraction in Plattsburgh run by the Battle of Plattsburgh Association. It is situated on the site of the former Plattsburgh Air Force Base Museum and tells the story of the Battle of Plattsburgh, which put an end to the British advance and ended the War of 1812. Explore historical exhibits, antiques, and famous paintings like the Battle of Lake Champlain in the KeyBank Gallery. You can also learn about the impact of the battle on peace negotiations, as well as buy entertaining mementos for the children from the museum store.

If you are a fan of military history, then visiting the Air Force Base Museum serves as one of the best things to do in Plattsburgh. It is situated on the site of a former base and honors the men and women who served throughout the Cold War, including operations like the Vietnam War and the Cuban Missile Crisis. You can also explore restored airplanes, engines, artifacts, and photos, and sit in the cardboard trainer cockpit to see how pilots are trained. The museum is open seasonally and provides a great hands-on spot for kids and history lovers.

Visit the Clinton County Historical Association Museum in Plattsburgh to travel back in time. The museum is housed in a beautiful 1905 structure with views of Lake Champlain and highlights the rich history of the region, including everything from Native American life to the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Families can explore more than 30,000 objects featured in eight display areas, including pictures, folk art, documents, and furniture. The museum also offers unique events, educational activities, and seasonal guided tours, making it an enjoyable experience for both adults and children.

The Kent-Delord House Museum is the oldest house in Plattsburgh, constructed in 1797. This beautifully renovated house belonged to James Kent, who was a prominent lawyer and judge, and later, the Delord family owned it. Today, families can learn about everyday life in Plattsburgh and its history by exploring period rooms that are packed with furniture, pottery, fabrics, books, and personal belongings. Moreover, the museum also provides educational programs, special events, and guided tours, bringing history to life.

Elf’s Farm Winery and Cider House is a family-friendly spot in Plattsburgh that is home to ADK Hard Cider. This authorized New York State farm winery produces small-batch hard cider, fruit wines, and cold-climate fine grape wines. Families can unwind in the welcoming tasting room, enjoy live music, and experience the friendly atmosphere. You can also stop over for Sunday Open Mic or Friday Night Wine Down for a more fun experience. The attraction is open six days a week and serves as a great spot to drink, sample, and relax with close ones.

The Strand Center for the Arts is situated in downtown Plattsburgh and is a beautifully renovated theater and cultural center. It was built in 1924 as a vaudeville theater and now hosts live performances, movies, music, dance, and community gatherings in a 1,000-seat auditorium. Families can explore local art exhibitions, studios, and artisan markets or take part in workshops and classes in glass art, printmaking, and more. The historic ambiance of the theater, along with its programs, makes it a unique location for both adults and children to experience the arts up close.

The Stone Ledge Sculpture Garden in Plattsburgh is a hidden gem where art and nature combine with each other. It is situated in a wide-open field close to Lake Champlain and showcases unique sculptures created by regional and local artists. Families can walk along the beautiful routes, see sculptures that are made with wood, stone, or metal, and read markers that explain each piece. The art pieces are added regularly and are also for sale, making every visit feel new. It is free to enter and a great place for people to explore creativity and enjoy the outdoors together.

The Bluff Point Lighthouse was constructed in 1856 and is a stunning, restored antique lighthouse that is situated on the edge of Lake Champlain. Visitors can tour the white octagonal tower with its red roof, explore an exhibition on the history, architecture, and ecology of the region, and learn about the lives of lighthouse keepers. The location also has picnic areas, a neighboring nature walk, and mesmerizing views of the lake and Adirondack Mountains. The lighthouse can be reached by car or bike and is a perfect seasonal trip for history and outdoor lovers.

Planning your Plattsburgh adventure? Stay at Golden Gate Lodging and enjoy a convenient downtown location close to Lake Champlain, top restaurants, and local attractions.