Naturally inspired
Just because there is a lot of wilderness in Hamilton County, don't let the sweet scent of pine trick you into thinking the area is lacking in arts and culture! In fact, the big outdoors here seem to inspire a range of creative enterprises. The Adirondack Experience region is home to arts centers, a world-class museum, tours, art galleries and shops, and antique shows. Here you'll find everything from fine art and sculpture to Adirondack-style furnishings and crafts made by talented local artisans.
Scenic Blue Mountain Lake is home to the Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts, which carries on the vibrant creative legacy of the Adirondacks' artisan craftsmanship and performing arts. The center offers an array of events, workshops, and theater. Watch Shakespeare, re-imagined and performed outdoors, take a workshop on filmmaking or oil painting, explore the gallery, and even take home a one of a kind treasure. Exhibits here have ranged from exquisitely made quilts to oil paintings to pottery.
Elsewhere in the region, visit the renowned sculpture garden of artist John Van Alstine in Wells, the pottery studio of Greg Rudd, or savor the boisterous sounds of live music. The Fulton Chain of Lakes Performing Arts Council's annual "An Evening with the Symphony" is a fun favorite and good for the whole family. Live music can also be found at The Revival in Wells and Music on the Point in Speculator.
The arts are represented well at a number of annual events in the area. The fact that many of them take place in the summer adds extra excitement to already busy vacation schedules but these are events you won't want to miss. Sample the creations of Adirondack artists and artisans at events such as the Adirondack Artisan Festival and the Rustic Furniture Street Fair. If you have a passion for the past, the annual Adirondack Mountains Antiques Show in Indian Lake and Blue Mountain Lake should not be missed. In Inlet, conveniently close to the lake and Northern Lights Creamery is the annual Arts in the Park, an outdoor gathering of talented artisans from around the area.
The Adirondack Experience, the Museum on Blue Mountain Lake is a must-see destination that offers great cultural programming and holds an amazing collection of Adirondack art among other exhibits. Learn more about the museum on our history page!
