10 Fun Things To Do Near Glens Falls, New York (Warren County Travel Guide)
Looking for a laid-back getaway in upstate New York?
Glens Falls, NY in Warren County is a great small city with big charm. It sits between Lake George and Saratoga Springs, so you get the best of both worlds: mountain views, classic downtown streets, and plenty of ways to relax or explore.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip from New York City, Boston, or anywhere in the Northeast, here are
10 fun things to do in and around Glens Falls that are perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers.
1. Stroll Downtown Glens Falls & Grab a Local Bite
Downtown Glens Falls feels like one of those classic American small towns you see in movies. Brick buildings, local shops, and friendly people who still say “good morning” when you walk by.
Spend an afternoon just wandering around:
- Pop into independent boutiques for clothing, gifts, and local art.
- Try a craft beer or local cider at one of the breweries or pubs.
- Order a slice of New York–style pizza or sit down for a cozy diner meal.
- In warmer months, look for outdoor seating and live music.
If you like walkable downtowns with character, this part of Glens Falls will win you over fast. It’s easy to park once and then explore on foot.
2. Explore Art at The Hyde Collection
Love art, but not a fan of huge, overwhelming museums?
The Hyde Collection in Glens Falls is just the right size.
This museum and historic house has:
- Classic European paintings and sculptures.
- American works from different time periods.
- Rotating modern and contemporary art exhibits.
- A beautiful Italian-style historic home you can walk through.
What makes it special is how
personal it feels. You’re not rushing through giant crowds. You can actually slow down and enjoy each room.
It’s a great rainy-day activity in Glens Falls, and it works well for kids who are just starting to get into art, too.
3. Walk or Bike the Warren County Bikeway
If you’re looking for an easy way to get outside near Glens Falls, the
Warren County Bikeway is a local favorite.
This paved path runs for about
9 miles from Glens Falls up to Lake George. You can:
- Walk a short section just to get some fresh air.
- Go for a longer bike ride with the whole family.
- Push a stroller or walk the dog on a smooth, car-free trail.
The trail passes through neighborhoods, wooded areas, and small parks. In the fall, the trees along the bikeway turn all shades of red, orange, and gold—it’s like walking through a postcard.
If you don’t want to bring bikes from home, many shops around Lake George rent bikes in the warmer months.
4. Discover Local History at the Chapman Museum
Want to understand the story behind this part of New York? Stop by the
Chapman Historical Museum in Glens Falls.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Exhibits about early settlers and the logging and paper industries.
- Displays on how the city grew over time.
- A restored historic home you can tour.
It’s not a huge museum, so you can easily fit it into a morning or afternoon. If you enjoy small, local museums with real stories from real people who lived there, this one is worth a visit.
5. Hit the Water at Lake George (Just Up the Road)
One of the best things about Glens Falls is how close it is to
Lake George—just about a 15–20 minute drive north. Lake George is one of the most popular lake destinations in the Adirondacks, and for good reason.
Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- Lake cruises: Take a scenic boat tour and see the mountains from the water.
- Beaches: Relax on the sand, let the kids play, and dip your toes in the lake.
- Kayaks & paddleboards: Rent gear and explore the shoreline at your own pace.
- Mini-golf & arcades: Classic family fun, especially in summer.
If you’re staying in Glens Falls, you can easily spend the day at Lake George and then come back to a quieter, calmer city at night. It’s the best of both worlds.
6. Catch a Show at the Charles R. Wood Theater
Like live entertainment? The
Charles R. Wood Theater in downtown Glens Falls brings in:
- Plays and musicals
- Comedy shows
- Live music and concerts
- Community events and festivals
The theater is cozy, not huge, so you feel close to the stage. If you enjoy supporting local arts, this is an easy way to do it.
Travel tip: Check their schedule before your trip. Planning your visit around a show can turn a simple weekend in Glens Falls into something special.
7. Hike Glen Falls / Cooper’s Cave Area & Local Parks
Even though Glens Falls is a city, you don’t have to drive far to find nature.
Some nearby spots to check out:
- Cooper’s Cave Overlook: View the Hudson River and the rock formations that inspired parts of “The Last of the Mohicans.” It’s a quick stop, but very cool if you like history and scenery.
- Hovey Pond Park (next-door South Glens Falls): Peaceful paths, a pond, and a playground. Good for kids and easy walks.
- Feeder Canal Trail: A flat walking and biking path that follows an old canal, with locks and historic signs along the way.
If you like simple hikes and river views rather than all-day mountain climbs, these local trails near Glens Falls are perfect.
8. Cheer on the Adirondack Thunder Hockey Team
If you’re visiting Glens Falls in the cooler months, see if the
Adirondack Thunder hockey team is playing at the
Cool Insuring Arena.
Even if you’re not a big hockey fan, the games are:
- Fast-paced and exciting
- Family-friendly
- Full of energy, with music and crowd games
Local sports are a fun way to feel like part of the community, even if you’re only in town for a couple of days. Plus, tickets are usually more affordable than big-league games in major cities.
9. Take a Day Trip to Saratoga Springs
About
30 minutes south of Glens Falls, you’ll find
Saratoga Springs, another great nearby city with its own personality.
From Glens Falls, it makes an easy day trip. In Saratoga, you can:
- Visit the famous Saratoga Race Course in summer.
- Relax at Saratoga Spa State Park and check out the mineral springs.
- Walk Broadway and enjoy shopping, cafés, and ice cream.
- Catch a concert at SPAC (Saratoga Performing Arts Center) if one lines up with your trip.
Then you can head back to Glens Falls for a quieter night and easier parking.
10. Enjoy Seasonal Events & Festivals Around Warren County
One of the best things about Glens Falls and Warren County is how the vibe changes with the seasons.
Depending on when you visit, you might find:
- Summer festivals with food vendors, live bands, and outdoor fun.
- Fall foliage events and craft fairs as the leaves reach peak color.
- Winter activities like nearby skiing, ice skating, and holiday markets.
- Spring markets as local farms and makers start up again.
Before you go, search for “Glens Falls events” or “Warren County NY festivals” and see what’s happening during your travel dates. It’s an easy way to make your trip feel more special and local.
Planning Your Trip to Glens Falls, NY
Here are a few quick tips to make your
Glens Falls getaway smoother:
- When to visit: Summer is great for Lake George and outdoor fun. Fall brings amazing foliage. Winter is cozy and good for hockey games and nearby skiing. Spring is quieter and budget-friendly.
- How long to stay: A weekend is enough to see the highlights, but 3–4 days lets you enjoy Glens Falls, Lake George, and Saratoga Springs.
- Getting around: A car makes things easier, especially for exploring Warren County and the Adirondacks. Downtown Glens Falls itself is very walkable.
Glens Falls might not be as famous as some New York destinations, but that’s part of the charm. It feels real, welcoming, and relaxed—like a place you could actually live, not just visit.
Share Your Glens Falls Experience
Have you been to
Glens Falls, New York or anywhere in Warren County?
- Which spots did you love most?
- Did you find a great local restaurant or hidden hiking trail?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments—you might help someone else plan their perfect trip.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are looking for fun things to do near Glens Falls or planning a getaway to upstate New York.
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