dinner cruise old forge ny

Old Forge Lake Cruises

Historic, narrated Sightseeing, Kids', Mailboat & Fireworks Cruises thru the first four lakes of the Fulton Chain of Lakes, nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. Cruises run late May thru mid-Oct, rain or shine.

Raquette Lake Dinner Cruise in Adirondacks, NY

Mvny staff review.

Board the W.W. Durant for Lunch, Dinner and Moonlight Cruises on Raquette Lake. Along with your meal you'll hear the history of the lake and the lakefront cottages. The food on the Dinner Cruise was outstanding and the surroundings are beautiful! The tours depart and arrive in the Racquette Lake Marina, just left of the general store.

Nearby Entertainment & Nightlife

• Art Center of Old Forge 14.5 miles
• Strand of Old Forge 15.6 miles
• Old Forge Convention Center 16.4 miles
• Adirondack Scenic Railroad - Thendara Station 17.2 miles
• Hulbert House 39.2 miles

THE BEST Old Forge Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in old forge.

• River Rafting & Tubing
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Fishing Charters & Tours
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• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Adirondack River Outfitters

2. Mountainman - Moose River Rentals

3. Grasse River Adventures

4. White Water Challenge

What travellers are saying

• Adirondack River Outfitters
• White Water Challenge
• Grasse River Adventures

Old Forge Lake Cruises

Review Highlights

“ We went on the 11 am ride, the captain was great and we learned alot of information on the lakes, mountains and the Adirondack area. ” in 7 reviews

“ MY wife and I found us in the Old Forge area over the week-end and since the weather was questionable and cool we decided to try the cruise once again. ” in 3 reviews

“ Great way to see the Fulton chain of lakes with numerous private residences, public land. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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3208 State Route 28

Old Forge, NY 13420

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Overall rating

We took a boat tour with Old Forge Lake Cruises as part of a package we booked for the Adirondack railroad. If you see a package for both, I highly recommend booking it. Once we got off the train, a bus took us right to the cruise location and we got our tickets. The cruise left right on time. The captain provided us with some really interesting facts about the area, and not doing much research beforehand on the cruise I was in awe of how beautiful the lakes were that the cruise went through. The mountains in the background everywhere were amazing. There were drinks and some food for sale on the ship, and the prices were pretty reasonable. The whole cruise was very relaxing and informative, if I was in the area again, I would do this cruise a second time. Once we were done, a bus arrived and took us back to the train - super easy.

Well, it may seem funny that it was less than one year ago since last we went. MY wife and I found us in the Old Forge area over the week-end and since the weather was questionable and cool we decided to try the cruise once again. Bravo on the cruise, crew and snack counter. Although, I would strongly suggest having enough coffee for everyone next time around... BRAVO OLD FORGE LAKE CRUISES....see you next year. Paul & Coleen Clapper, Syracuse, NY

Fantastic cruise. Very clean vessel with fresh paint. Snack bar great with soda, chips, cookies, adult cocktails and beer. Restrooms clean, neat and ordered. Very friendly staff and very well narrated cruise. Plenty of room inside & outside cruising. Nice afternoon with free parking. Bought our tickets on line to assure seating. Paul & Coleen, Syracuse, NY

This is a great thing to do while in Old Forge. Very relaxing, beautiful and informative. Seeing the surrounding mountains and lakes from this perspective gives you even greater appreciation when you hike up to see the landscape from above. The tour guide/boat captain was great. The views are stunning. There is a restroom and snack bar so they have all the bases covered!

This is a must do if you ever come to the Fulton chain! Snacks and beverages available. Capt Mike was an incredible docent. His insights and funny stories made the trip that much better. And, he allowed my three children to drive the boat for pictures. My family and I will definitely be back!

This was one of my favorite Lake Cruises ever, very beautiful, informative and the captain and crew were extremely friendly and helpful. My husband and I absolutely love it and definitely recommend it!

Very nicely done..organized and plenty of room, enjoyed the Captain and his narration along with great skills through the narrows...views are awesome...thanks..

Very nice trip but very long and not a lot to see except for the homes and camps along the way. We had a nice day so it was a leisurely trip. You do get your moneys worth! Had a glass of wine. ( awful and cheap) on the boat- they serve drinks- staff super great....

This is a must to do! It is a beautiful relaxing tour that informs you on the history. I highly recommend this and I will always take the cruise when I go back.

Great way to see the first four lakes! The captain had lots of good information and was a bit silly! Not too much talking which was awesome. Beautiful views! I highly recommend this cruise! Bring a jacket!

Excellent narrative. Great way to see the Fulton chain of lakes with numerous private residences, public land. Interesting facts about the area which adds to the beautiful ride.

7 other reviews that are not currently recommended

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Old Forge Lake Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Adirondack Experience

W.w. durant cruise & dine.

• www.raquettelakenavigation.com
• (315) 354-5532

Custom built by Captain Dean Pohl and three of his employees on the Shores of Raquette Lake, the W.W. Durant offers cruise and dine or just cruise boat tours around one of the jewels of the 'Adirondack Great Camp' region. At one time, Raquette lake was the playground of the rich and famous, with such celebrities as JP Morgan, Vanderbilt, Huntington, Carnegie, and the Collier publishing family buying tracts of land and building estates in the vast wilderness. Home of the Great Camps style of architecture, there are more Great Camps on or near Raquette Lake than anywhere else in the Adirondack Park.

During the summer months we offer some of the best dining in the Adirondacks aboard the boat, including a Brunch Cruise, Lunch Cruise, and Dinner Cruise. Executive Chef James Pohl is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. Read what some of our guests have said about their dining experience aboard the WW Durant:

"Thank you for the best dinner and evening out we've had in quite some time. I must admit I expected an interesting cruise aboard an attractive ship, but never imagined the quality of food or service which you guys provide. What an addition to the area."

"....we found the W.W. Durant to be absolutely spotless....We found the food to be perfectly prepared, delicious and served promptly and efficiently. Did we get our money's worth? YES. Will we do it again? YES....Our best to such a fine family run business....."

"Your dinner cruise is second to none. From your beautiful spotless boat, to the extremely efficient crew and a dinner matching that which one would expect in a first class restaurant, you folks provided one heck of an evening. Along with the perfection of your operation and service, we were treated to a beautiful summer evening on Raquette Lake."

Private charters also available for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, any special occasion when you desire private and exclusive use of the vessel.

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13 best Upstate NY lake and river cruises for a fun day (or night) on the water

• Updated: Jan. 29, 2019, 5:37 p.m. |
• Published: Jan. 29, 2019, 6:56 a.m.
• Chuck D'Imperio

Sure, the Upstate New York winter is slowly, even glacially, inching towards spring, but now is the time to plan a great warm weather outing. Like a cruise!

There are dozens of great Upstate NY cruise options available to you, from our historic rivers to our many lakes, and some are available to those intrepid cold-weather adventurers who want to go year round. Here are 13 of the best boat tour and  cruise experiences for you and your family and friends to explore.

Dutch Apple Cruises (Albany County)

This is a medium size ship with two levels. The cruise takes you ten miles down the Hudson River from Albany (to about Castleton, N.Y.) Great views of the Empire Plaza skyline, Fort Crailo, Capitol building, the World War II destroyer escort USS S later (which is docked next to the cruise boat) as well as some mansions which overlook the Hudson . Keep your eye out for nesting bald eagles! Food and beverages are served and the pilot gives a running narration on sights along the river. Special note: Beautiful teak wood deck on the main level.

1002 141 Broadway Albany, NY 12202

View this post on Instagram 📸 of @dutchapplecruises taken yesterday on the #HudsonRiver ⛴☀ #nofilter . . . . . #DutchAppleCruises #AlbanysRiverBoat #Albany #Albanyny #upstateny #hudsonriverviews A post shared by Dutch Apple Cruises & Tours (@dutchapplecruises) on Oct 6, 2018 at 6:59am PDT

View this post on Instagram Next Fri Aug 3rd is our #Albany #Sunset Cruise at 7p! 🌅⛴ Space is limited - get tickets now www.dutchapplecruises.com (link in bio) . . . #DutchAppleCruises #AlbanysRiverBoat #Albanyny #HudsonRiver #fridayvibes #discoveralbany #Friyay #boatlife A post shared by Dutch Apple Cruises & Tours (@dutchapplecruises) on Jul 27, 2018 at 7:15am PDT

Otsego Lake Cruises (Otsego County)

This one's a little different. A delightful lake cruise for up to ten people with the gorgeous back drop of James Fenimore Cooper's stunning Otsego Lake. Enjoy a sumptuous meal and glass of wine while cruising one of Upstate's most historic lakes. The boat dock at Lake Front Park is just two blocks from the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum . Special note: If you do not have a party of ten you can reserve a "seat at the table" and make new friends while cruising the lake!

Lake Front Terrace Cooperstown, NY 13326

View this post on Instagram Work hard, play harder. Thanks for including us in your celebration Bassett Recruitment Team!! A post shared by Cooperstown Cruise Company (@cooperstown_cruise_company) on Jul 24, 2017 at 7:43pm PDT

View this post on Instagram Thank you @shazzard for capturing two things we care deeply about: great craft beer and beautiful sunsets. We serve craft brews from Ommegang Brewery and Cooperstown Brewing Company while on board. A post shared by Cooperstown Cruise Company (@cooperstown_cruise_company) on May 22, 2017 at 5:20am PDT

Gems Along the Mohawk (Herkimer County)

This delightful Erie Canal cruise ship docks at one of Upstate's great gift shops, Gems Along the Mohawk, which is fully stocked with products of all kinds from Upstate businesses. Full restaurant also. The "Lock Thru Cruise" takes 90-minutes and passes through Canal Lock #19. Special note: Captain Jerry offers a lively narration along the way, and also hosts a Friday Night Party cruise with drinks, food, dancing and fun!

800 Mohawk St Herkimer, NY 13350

Posted by Gems Along the Mohawk on  Saturday, June 15, 2013

Posted by Gems Along the Mohawk on  Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Chautauqua Lake Cruise (Chautauqua County)

The ship, Summer Wind, is a modern double-decker with all the amenities you need for a memorable lake cruise. Dinner cruises are their specialty. Several options for cruising and dining are available, including moonlight dinner cruises, Pizza Cruises, and Sunday brunch cruises. A unique way to see the beauty of Western New York from the waters of its most famous lake. The cruise departs from Lucille Ball Memorial Park in Celoron at the southern shore of the lake (Celoron is where Lucy was born). Special note: Remember all the fuss about the " ugly Lucy statue ?" Well, give yourself an extra minute to view the new, beautiful replacement statue in the park. It is a wonderful tribute to the "Queen of Comedy."

40 Dunham Ave Jamestown, NY 14701

View this post on Instagram Picture perfect. Ahh who am I kidding, it's pretty obvious I forgot to wipe the lens before the pic.😂 A post shared by Mr.ADHD2400 (@mr.dylchips2400) on Sep 9, 2017 at 1:20pm PDT

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pony Swirl (@pony_swirl) on Jul 9, 2017 at 11:25am PDT

Old Forge Steamboat Cruise (Herkimer County)

Wonderful, nostalgic steamboat cruise. The route takes you through the first four lakes of the historic Adirondack Fulton Chain. If the weather is nice there is no better place to enjoy this leisurely cruise than from a seat on the upper deck of the 60 foot long ship, the Clearwater . Special note: The captain narrates the cruise and points out famous homes and summer camps from the glory days of Old Forge.

116 Steamboat Landing Old Forge, NY 13420

View this post on Instagram #freedom #titanic #chilout #crazy #cloudy #windinmyhair A post shared by Martina Jírová (@martinajirova) on Jul 21, 2015 at 7:46pm PDT

View this post on Instagram What makes vacationing in Old Forge more memorable than a cruise on the Fulton Chain of Lakes?! ⛴ Book a tour with Old Forge Lake Cruises today! A post shared by Experience Old Forge (@experienceoldforge) on May 23, 2018 at 8:40am PDT

Uncle Sam Boat Tours (Jefferson County)

This is one of Upstate's oldest cruise operations. Uncle Sam Boat Tours have been in business for over 85 years. They have several different boats and offer a full menu of creative boat cruises to pick from including a beer and wine cruise, a twilight cruise, dinner and brunch cruises and more. The boat stops at Boldt Castle , the most famous castle in New York State. Special note: Inquire about their Two-Nation Tour. Great comprehensive 2 hour narrated tour. No passports needed!

47 James St Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

View this post on Instagram While ice hasn’t yet encompassed Boldt Castle and Heart Island, these -4 degree mornings will get us closer! #unclesamboattours #1000islands #winterbeauty #reflection #castle #boldtcastle #icy #snow #picoftheday @iloveny @boldtcastle A post shared by Uncle Sam Boat Tours (@unclesamboattours) on Jan 14, 2019 at 7:27am PST

View this post on Instagram Welcome to 2019! Did you just make one of those great resolutions to get in shape and better yourself by summer? Give yourself some extra incentive or a reward with a trip to the 1000 Islands! We can offer you everything you deserve, from an evening of cocktails aboard one of our wine cruises to fabulous overnight accommodations with our partners at Capt. Thomson's Resort. Start planning now! #happynewyear #newyearsresolution #unclesamboattours #1000islands #travel #explore #river #castle #boldtcastle #ny #iloveny #iloveupstateny #discoverny #cruise #rewarding #reward A post shared by Uncle Sam Boat Tours (@unclesamboattours) on Jan 1, 2019 at 7:50am PST

Harbor Town Belle Cruise (Monroe County)

The Harbor Town Belle is a classic, twin-smokestack 80 foot paddle wheel cruise boat offering Great Lakes tours out of the bustling Port of Rochester . Route takes you out of the harbor along the Genesee River, through Irondequoit Bay and along the Lake Ontario shoreline. Full luncheon and dinner menus are offered as well as adult beverages. Special note: Keep your eye out for the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse with its gleaming white tower. It is America's oldest surviving lighthouse on Lake Ontario.

100 Joy Ln Rochester, NY 14617

View this post on Instagram Anyone need a ride on the Harbor Town Belle? . . . . . #m.hallphotography #photography #nature #naturephotography #genesseeriver #rochesterny #rochester #edit #vsco #fall #foliage #boat #harbortownbelle A post shared by mhall photography (@m.hallphotography) on Oct 22, 2018 at 9:17am PDT

View this post on Instagram Photographed a wedding last night that ended with a reception on a paddle boat. It was a great time with good friends and an awesome couple. #heliosunphoto #harbortownbelle #rochesterny A post shared by Alan Presutti (@alanpresutti) on Aug 21, 2016 at 8:55am PDT

Lake George Cruise (Warren County)

"The Queen of Lakes" is a magical place to visit and a cruise on one of their three historic ships, the Minne Ha Ha, Mohican , and the Lac du Saint Sacrement, is a must. The cruise docks are located right along the walkway on the shore, near attractions, mini-golf, gift shops and ice cream stands. Special note: Admit it; you probably took these boat rides when you vacationed in Lake George as a kid. Trust me, go back now as an adult and they are still just as wonderful!

57 Beach Rd Lake George, NY 12845

View this post on Instagram Day 319 . A long day of OT at work... still in the grip of a painful injury... the Sun long since set and cold darkness; it's times like this that being outside EVERY Day becomes the REAL Challenge! And at its core it's all a mental game. #mindovermatter . #365daysoutside A post shared by Buck Wilde (@therealbuckwilde) on Nov 15, 2018 at 4:46pm PST

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viktor Hromyk (@vikgrom) on Aug 26, 2018 at 4:26pm PDT

Midlakes Cruises (Onondaga County)

This family owned tour boat company has been in business in Skaneateles for over 50 years. The dock is near the downtown business district of this picture-postcard Finger Lakes village. Dinner cruises, lunch cruises (often times featuring famous Dinosaur BBQ), moonlight cruises, sightseeing cruises and more offer up a full array of specialty boating experiences along stunning Skaneateles Lake. Special note: Be sure and inquire about their unique Mail Boat Cruise. Travel along with the tour boat as it delivers mail to the lakeside mansions, cabins and summer camps. This is about as unique a cruise as you can find!

11 Jordan St Skaneateles, NY 13152

View this post on Instagram Here comes the Judge!! 🚣⚓️🚢 #skaneateleslife #skaneateles #judgebenwiles A post shared by Skaneateles Life (@skaneateleslife) on Jul 6, 2016 at 1:10pm PDT

View this post on Instagram About to boat for a #dinnercruise with my #lovely #bride, @anneharrisgosser A post shared by Adam Gosser (@adamgosser) on Jul 3, 2018 at 1:52pm PDT

Spirit of Buffalo Cruise (Erie County)

This is a fantastic boating experience aboard the only square rigged topsail schooner sailing out of an Upstate port. The schooner is 75 feet long and you can have your choice of many different "sails" including beer and wine cruises and popular children's Pirate Sails. A magnificent sight when the schooner glides by the cityscape with its bright red sails fully puffed out from the brisk Great Lakes breezes. The mayor of the city has declared the Spirit of Buffalo as the city's official flagship! Special note: The Spirit of Buffalo is proving to be a popular place for couples to get married!

44 Prime St Buffalo, NY 14202

View this post on Instagram #TBT to when 8pm was for sunsets and sailing, not dark and snowy ⠀ . ⠀ . ⠀ . ⠀ . ⠀ #buffalo #BuffaloNY #Buffalove #BuffaloForReal #BuffaloNewYork #NY #NewYork #WNY #instagood #instacity #beautiful #igersbuffalo #RiseBFLO #travelbuf #hashtagstepoutBuffalo #igersbuffalo ⠀ #explorebuffalo A post shared by Spirit Of Buffalo (@spiritofbuffalo) on Nov 15, 2018 at 4:30pm PST

View this post on Instagram Cheers! Our 2018 season is just beginning, and we're excited to host @12gatesbrewing for our craft beer cruise on Tuesday evening! We're thinkng of calling it "Brewsday," what do you guys think? . Hit up the website in our profile to grab tickets, and score yourself some fine beer paired with homemade pretzels from @breadhive while watching the sunset from the deck of our 73' topsail schooner! A post shared by Spirit Of Buffalo (@spiritofbuffalo) on Jun 11, 2018 at 4:15pm PDT

Raquette Lake Navigation Company (Hamilton County)

The cruise boat W.W. Durant has been gliding over the waters of Raquette Lake for three decades. It's a great old fashioned tour boat with beautiful sun deck on top. One of the most creative selections of cruise options of any on this list including: live music cruises, Jimmy Buffett dance parties, prime rib luncheons, wine pairings cruises, Bloody Mary brunches and many others. Special note: The ship W.W. Durant gets its name from William West Durant who designed and built many of the historic "Great Camps" found in the Adirondack Mountain region.

224 Main Street Raquette Lake, NY 13436

View this post on Instagram To all the kids who are out on their docks every night to cheer us on! :) Happy Labor Day! A post shared by Rachel's Raquette Lake Elixir (@elixirbloodymary) on Sep 3, 2018 at 4:31am PDT

View this post on Instagram Pilot house perspective. #romanceisintheair #sunsethues #grapesvsgrowlerspairingcruise A post shared by Donna Blakely Pohl (@jp_naaaty_yy) on Aug 10, 2018 at 6:49pm PDT

Canandaigua Lady (Ontario County)

The Lady is an exact replica of a 19th century double decker paddle wheel steamboat. The boat, painted red, white and blue brings a real sense of beauty and history to Canandaigua Lake. At one time there were 19 steamboats cruising the lake. The Canandaigua Lady carries on the tradition. A variety of theme cruises are available, and the bottom deck is for all-weather excursions. Special note: The Historic Narrated Excursions include an interesting history of not only the lake but of the fabled "steamboat era" and some background about the original inhabitants of the region, the Seneca Indians.

205 Lakeshore Dr Canandaigua, NY 14424

View this post on Instagram #CanandaiguaLady on Canandaigua Lake. #ispyny #iloveny #nyoutside #outdoorsnewyork #flx #mavicpro #djimavic #drones #mavicimages #droneoftheday A post shared by JackHaley42 (@jackhaley42) on Sep 22, 2017 at 12:04am PDT

View this post on Instagram Beautiful day to be on the lake! 🌊... . . . #iheartflx #canon80d #likeforlikes #sigma1835 #followforfollowback #flx #flxwine #winecountry #Canada #ny #nyc #newyork #upstateny #canandaigualake #canandaigualady #photography #landscapephotography #portraitphotography #photographer #sigmalens #sigma #senecalake #canon #instafamous #sunset #pmgridchallenge A post shared by Steven (@stevenschm) on Oct 10, 2018 at 3:19pm PDT

Hudson River Cruises (Ulster County)

This may be the best way to see the historic Hudson River. This cruise, aboard the aptly named Rip Van Winkle, is a 2+ hour excursion along one of America's most storied waterways. You will pass bridges, lighthouses, breathtaking landscapes, mansions and more. Choose a sightseeing tour, dinner cruise, Jazz tour, sunset cruise and more. Special note: The Rip Van Winkle was built for use an oil industry ship, and then served as a ferry for the US Navy. In 1982 it was beautifully refitted for use as a passenger cruise ship in Kingston. The ship has all modern amenities and all tours are narrated.

1 East Strand Street Kingston, NY 12401

View this post on Instagram Last day for the work crew. A post shared by Hudson River Cruises (@hudsonrivercruises) on Oct 13, 2018 at 9:09am PDT

View this post on Instagram New Neighbors. A post shared by Hudson River Cruises (@hudsonrivercruises) on Oct 26, 2018 at 3:10pm PDT

READ MORE: The 15 greatest 'old-school' restaurants in Upstate New York, ranked

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Raquette Lake Navigation Company

Dining, sightseeing & special events cruises on raquette lake in new york, we hope to welcome you aboard in 2024.

Select a cruise category below and book your scenic experience with us today!

Dining Cruises

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Scenic excursion, ☆☆☆☆☆ cruise company in raquette lake, new york.

"MY 5TH TRIP WAS THE LUNCH CRUISE LAST Tuesday...the food was spectacular....do you have a cookbook ????? Best Apple Crisp I have ever had. The dressing on the Caprese' salad was perfect. I would love to have these recipes. The creamed pearl onions were wonderful ! We love the cruise and recommend to anyone we know travelling to the mountains. Thank you very much !"

"We had a fabulous cruise/dining experience once again aboard the W.W. Durant on Raquette Lake! Many thanks to the Pohl Family for your wonderful hospitality and the best meal ever. We know you don't control the weather, but Saturday evening was absolutely perfect!"

"Fantastic! We took an intimate dining cruise for our one year anniversary. Weather was perfect, the dinner was excellent, and the full moon topped the night off perfectly. Highly recommended!"

"We had a wonderful time on the Luncheon cruise. The food was delicious and you could even go back to the buffet for seconds. The Captain gave an interesting narration of Raquette Lake before and after our lunch while we were on the upper deck enjoying a drink. This is very nice way to see all of Raquette Lake and the small ship and staff made our cruise very enjoyable!"

Upstate New York Getaways & Private Events

Raquette Lake Navigation offers a variety of private and exclusive use of the Durant for your next event! Enjoy family reunions, weddings, group tours, parties, and more aboard a scenic cruise on the WW Durant.

Micro-Weddings

Bus & group tours, shoulder season deals.

Captain Dean and Donna are proud to announce that daughter Rachel and son Chef Jim have bought Raquette Lake Navigation. Let the tradition of a family-owned and operated business continue! Let the tradition of cruise boats plying the waters of Raquette Lake continue!

We thank you and our staff over the years for enabling us to reach and commence our 33nd season cruising and dining on Raquette Lake.

Donna, Captain Dean, Chef Jim and Rachel.

End of the Line Caboose Gift Shop

Check out the variety of handcrafted items we have in stock. We search high and low for artisanal treasures made locally, regionally and in the USA.

The shop is open daily in July and August 10:30am – 5:30pm.

The shop is open many midweek days, depending on cruise schedule. Watch for new arrivals and sale items on our FB page.

Click here for a virtual tour of the shop.

Our 2024 Winter, Spring and Summer Trains are on sale NOW!

Welcome to your Adirondack Railroad Experience!

Polar Express tickets are on sale now!

NEW for 2024:

We will have an afternoon show!! (Select Saturdays, December only)

Featured Experiences

• Booking closes at 12pm 5/8
• Hour Glass 3 hours

Mother’s Day Special

Join us as we celebrate Mother’s Day with a Brunch and round trip Train ride from Utica’s Union Station to Remsen. Enjoy our hand-crafted menu from local chef Patrick O’Connor,

• New for 2024!
• Hour Glass 2 hours

The Madd Hatter Tea Room

Join us for a Alice in Wonderland themed tea party, The Madd Hatter Tea Room. This is a 2 hour Round Trip event that you cannot miss!

A Truly Unique Experience!

You are never to old for a tea party! Join us on this one of kind of Tea party and round trip train ride.

• On Sale Now
• Clock 1 p.m. , 4:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m.

Polar Express Nov. 15th- Dec. 22nd 2024

Live the magic of the classic Polar Express™ Train Ride story with the Adirondack Railroad. Depart from Utica’s Union Station and travel north while being served hot chocolate and cookies.

• Clock 6 p.m.

The Adirondack Dinner Train Series – Union Station, Utica

Join us for a Dinner and Train ride from Utica’s Union Station to Remsen. Enjoy our hand-crafted menu from an local chef Patrick O’Connor, Owner of Feast & Festivities by O’Connor’s.

The Adirondack Dinner Train Series – Thendara Station, Old Forge

Join us for a Dinner and Train ride from Thendara Station (Old Forge) to the Stillwater Causeway in Beaver River. Enjoy our hand-crafted menu from an local chef Patrick O’Connor, Owner of Feast & Festivities by O’Connor’s.

• Hour Glass 2.5 hours
• Clock 6:30 p.m.

Beer & Wine Train

Watch the scenic countryside roll by while sipping on the best wines and brews. Travel from Utica’s Union Station north to Remsen Station, enjoying a selection of wines or beers along the way.

• Hour Glass 9 hours
• Clock 9:30 a.m.

The “Gateway”

Let the Adirondack Railroad help you discover the beauty of the Adirondacks by transporting you to Old Forge. The Utica to Old Forge trip is truly unique experience and has several features that set it apart!

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The Adirondack Railway Preservation Society (ARPS), operator of the Adirondack Railroad aims to preserve and restore rail service between the High Peaks region, Central New York and beyond via rail connections in Utica. ARPS partners with communities and businesses along the line to promote the railway and as an economic development driver while offering historic and environmental education opportunities.

Our vision includes expanding rail and coordinated-trail based offerings, allowing for people of all ages and physical capacities to traverse remote areas of the Adirondack Park.

The Adirondack Railway Preservation Society (ARPS) does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.

DISCLAIMER:  Schedules are adhered to as closely as possible, however the railroad reserves the right to alter schedules and itinerary, and substitute equipment as conditions demand.

Choose Your Train Station

Top-rated reviews from tripadvisor.

We chose the Utica-Thendara trip with the layover in Old Forge. First impression was the train station in Utica which was amazing! Well cared for and looked like something out of a movie. Staff were very pleasant and knowledgeable. Train cars were comfortable and the ride was extremely relaxing. Highly recommended for all ages. Will definitely be back!

Phenomenal trip! The staff was friendly and knowledgable, and by the end of the day's journey, the whole train became friends! The organization linked to getting us to Old Forge was seamless---I am committed to making the Adirondack Railroad---and the Adirondacks themselves---part of future trips!!!

When he was in his teens, my 95 year old father used to ride this train to go skiing in Old Forge. In recent years, it has been restored and is available for pleasure trips to Thendara/Old Forge and Big Moose Lake for lunch, We just returned from hosting 25 friends and relatives to the Lake for lunch. EVERYONE enjoyed the trip!!

It was a very pleasant trip from Utica NY to Old Forge NY. The rat per person was reasonable. The train left on time and we arrived to our destination on time.There were eight of us, and we were able to sit facing each other. The service on the train, all volunteers, was exceptional. The return trip to Utica N was just as pleasurable as the trip up to Old Forge. I would recommend this attraction as a day of fun and relaxation.

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Old Forge - Blue Mountain Lake Paddle Traverse

4 nights/3 days, an incredible self-guided paddling experience through a variety of lakes and waterways..

From $975.00/person, single occupancy From $1,025.00/two people, double occupancy

Price includes: 4 nights of accommodations at classic and historic Adirondack places of lodging Car shuttle 3 days of luggage transport

Add a day and stay at Great Camp Sagamore!

 Photo by John DiGiacomo | Placid Times Photography

Paddle three days from Old Forge to Blue Mountain Lake across all eight of the Fulton Chain of Lakes, Raquette Lake and two scenic, meandering waterways!

The 4-night, 3-day Old Forge – Blue Mountain Lake Paddle Traverse provides paddlers the opportunity to experience the first leg of the famous Adirondack Canoe Classic, the “90-Miler,” over the course of a leisurely three days instead of just one. Come a day or two early to have a splashing good time at Enchanted Forest Water Safari and experience the mountain biking trails and chairlift at McCauley Mountain.

You’ll paddle from Old Forge to Inlet, First Lake through Fourth Lake, on Day One, and take in the charming mix of mountain and water scenery along the way. You also can check out the variety of homes and camps that line stretches of the shore as you paddle up the lakes. Once in Inlet, treat yourself to a fancy dinner or savor some of the best pizza in the Adirondacks. Be sure to grab a tasty ice cream or gelato at Northern Lights Creamery and amble over to Arrowhead Park to watch the sun set behind the distant mountain ridge.

On Day Two you’ll paddle into Raquette Lake via Fifth through Eighth lakes and the winding  Brown’s Tract. Three portages along this section ensure that your legs as well as your arms get a little exercise over the course of your eastward journey. Accommodations, good eating, and the local atmosphere  at the Raquette Lake Hotel and Taproom will make you feel at home at this popular Central Adirondack gathering spot.

You’ll cross beautiful Raquette Lake on Day Three and head up the slow-moving Marion River, following the route that yesteryear’s travelers from New York City and places beyond took to reach lavish, long gone resorts on Blue Mountain Lake. The short portage that brings you from the beginning of the Marion River to Utowana Lake runs along the former railbed of the Marion River Railroad, which connected two steamboat landings at this site and facilitated tourists’ passage to their Blue Mountain Lake destinations. Fabulous lodging options await you on Blue Mountain Lake!

Depending on where you lodge on Blue Mountain Lake and how you wish to spend the morning on your Departure Day, you can hike up to the summit of Castle Rock Mountain, with its splendid view overlooking the lake, from either the shoreline trailhead or the traditional trailhead. Spend an extra day in Blue Mountain Lake and enjoy all that the Adirondack Experience, the Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, has to offer!

Call us at (518) 354-5109 or Joe at (315) 657-1320 to book your trip!

Photo by Evan Williams | PureADK.com

Old Forge – Blue Mountain Lake Paddle Traverse

Arrive in Old Forge.

Click through the tabs at the top to see the full itinerary.

Welcome to Old Forge, the southwest gateway to the Adirondacks!

Raquette Lake

Blue Mountain Lake

Click the table to view larger

Old Forge – Blue Mountain Lake Paddle Traverse with Great Camp Sagamore Option

Great camp sagamore.

Day 3: On this day, you’ll paddle from the Raquette Lake Marina across South Bay over to and up the peaceful, winding South Inlet. You will need to get out of your boat and lock it up on the left (east) side of the river when you encounter the base of the modest but beautiful Cascade Falls. This is a great spot for a rest break! From here you’ll hike the 1.7 miles on the Powerhouse, Big Slope, and Lake trails into Great Camp Sagamore. We recommend you take and enjoy the 1:30 PM tour as you will need to cover ground on DAY 4 in traveling from Great Camp Sagamore to The Hedges.

After a hearty breakfast at Great Camp Sagamore, you’ll hike the Lake, Big Slope, and Powerhouse trails back to Cascade Falls, where you’ll grab your boat and make your may down the South Inlet to Raquette Lake. Here you’ll cross South Bay, bend your way eastward around Long Point, and head up the slow-moving Marion River. This route now follows the route that yesteryear’s travelers from New York City and places beyond took to reach lavish, long-gone resorts on Blue Mountain Lake. The short portage that brings you from the beginning of the Marion River to Utowana Lake runs along the former railbed of the Marion River Railroad, which connected two steamboat landings at this site and facilitated tourists’ passage to their Blue Mountain Lake destinations. After the portage, you’ll paddle the lengths of Utowana and Eagle lakes into Blue Mountain Lake, where fabulous lodging options await you.

Route Highlights:

• Twelve lakes: First Lake through Eighth Lake of the Fulton Chain of Lakes, Raquette Lake, Utowana Lake, Eagle Lake, and Blue Mountain Lake
• The variety in architecture of camps and homes along the shore
• Old growth White Pine trees in the Cathedral Pines grove along Seventh Lake
• The winding waterways of Brown’s Tract and the Marion River
• Fine dining at Misters Bistro in Old Forge and The Woods Inn and The Seventh Lake House in Inlet
• Pizza at the Screamen Eagle , voted the best pizza in the Adirondacks by Adirondack Life readers
• Optional Dinner Cruise aboard the W.W. Durant on Raquette Lake
• Side hike option up Castle Rock Mountain

Click the map to view larger

Fall Trip Availability Calendar

Please call Joe at (315) 657-1320 or email him at [email protected] to explore opportunities to do this trip in the Fall.

Photo by Johnathan Esper | Wildernesscapes Photography

Did you know that…

Raquette Lake has 99 miles of shoreline?

The waters of the Marion River become the Raquette River, flow north, and empty into the St. Lawrence River?

The 3/4-mile long Marion River Railroad was the shortest standard-gauge railroad in the   United States?

The long-gone Prospect House in Blue Mountain Lake was the first hotel in the world to have incandescent electric lighting in all its guests’ bedrooms?

Our Vision - Trips for Everyone

Weekend trips. Week-long trips. Some all hiking. Some all paddling. Some in which you can do both-- paddle and hike, even paddle and bike. No matter how long your selected route or your mode of travel, there are no tents to carry, camp stoves to struggle with, or mosquitoes biting you in your sleep on an Adirondack Hamlets to Huts trek.

You will travel to and through charming and historic Adirondack communities as well as amazing wild landscapes that make the Adirondacks the special place that it is. Our routes celebrate both the settled and the sublime, the culture of the Adirondacks as much as its nature. Your lodging will run the gamut, from the simple, such as walled tents, yurts, cabins, and motels, to the grand, including bed-and-breakfasts, hotels, lodges, and inns.

Come to the Adirondacks and experience the Park with Adirondack Hamlets to Huts. Adventure by day. Comfort at night.

Your  donation helps us establish new routes!

Support Adirondack Hamlets to Huts and assist us in advancing wellness, conservation and vibrant communities throughout the Adirondack Park.