There are many things to see and do in Upstate New York. One of the most historic locations is Fort Ticonderoga that played an important role in both the French and Indian Wars and the War of Independence. This is a large 18th-century star fort on the southern end of Lake Champlain. To see Virginia's impressive Historic Triangle and why one should visit it, see here.
While it is one of the main attractions to this sleepy town, where are other attractions. These attractions include the stunning ranges of the Adirondacks (and its many ghost towns) and the unlikely Star Trek Orginal Series TV set. The TV set has been recreated meticulously using the original blueprints used to create the first state sets.
The History Of Fort Ticonderoga
Fort Ticonderoga was first built by the French during the tense time of rivalry between the French and English North American colonies. The Seven Year's War in Europe boiled over in America as well resulting in the French and Indian War. Despite earlier success by the French the British were able to capture the fort during the war.
- Wars: French and Indian Wars & The War Of Independence
At the start of the War of Independence, the British controlled the fort, but it was captured by the colonial forces in 1775 in a surprise attack. The fort's cannons were then taken to relieve the British siege on Boston. Later in the war, the British were able to retake the fort. But they soon abandoned it after their defeats at Saratoga. After that, it lost its military value fell into ruin.
The fort was in a strategic location - well placed to control the trade routes between the British-controlled Hudson River Valley and the French-controlled Saint Lawrence River Valley. The fort's defense is amplified by the terrain around it.
- Name: "Ticonderoga" Is From The Iroquois Word Meaning "it is the Junction of Two Waterways"
Visiting Ticonderoga
Today Fort Ticonderoga is privately owned and the fort has been restored. There are numerous events held at the fort and it is a great way to learn about the history of America.
- Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday 9:30 am to 5:00 pm (Last Entry at 4.30) Until October 31
General Admission
- Adult: Cost $24.00
- Child: Cost $12.00
The foundation running the fort and tourist attractions today declares:
"Hailed as the premier living history program in North America, Fort Ticonderoga’s museum staff brings history to life every day! Ticonderoga’s epic history and signature stories are highlighted through innovative storytelling on a grand scale, historic trades, daily soldiers’ life programs, thrilling weapon demonstrations, and captivating special events."
To get a great bird's eye view of the fort, then one should hike up Mount Defiance. Mount Defiance is privately owned and admission is included on the general admission ticket. It is a great spot to enjoy some of America's most historic landscapes and is perfect for a picnic.
- Tip: Buy The Ticket That Includes A Boat Tour Of Lake Champlain
One of the other experiences offered here is the boat cruises. Enjoy stunning views of Vermont's Green Mountains and New York's Adirondacks on this cruise. On this cruise one will learn about Lake Champlain's maritime and military heritage with an expert onboard narrator. With the sonar readings, one will also get to see the underwater shipwrecks laying on the bottom of the lake.
- Duration: 75 Minute
- Boat: The Carillon (The Old Name For The Fort)
- On-Board Food: There Is Beer, Soft Drinks, Water, Wine, And And Snack Aboard The Cruise
Other Attractions In And around Ticonderoga
The town of Ticonderoga is only a small town - or village - of only around 5,000 inhabitants. While the town of Ticonderoga may be best known for its historic fort, it is also beautifully placed on the state line with Vermont to explore the stunning Green Mountains and the Adirondacks.
The Adirondacks is at once a stunning wonderland of forests and mountains and a creepy eerie region of ghost towns. See here for information about how eerie this region is with its many abandoned resorts and hotels.
- Star Trek: Home Of A Real And Detailed Star Trek Original Series TV Set Replica
For all the Trekkies out there, there is another unique attraction for this region. It is the unlikely home of a fully rebuilt Star Trek Original Series TV set replica. These set replicas are fully licensed with extraordinary attention to detail. Travel 200 years forward in time with the 60s awesome but cheesy vision of the future. See a future complete with a super-advanced starship controlled by levers and switchboards (and no monitors - except for one "screen").