December 18, 2018
Saranac Lake is well known for its stunning scenery, unique charm, and outdoor adventure. Perhaps a lesser known fact is all the gems you can find downtown. I was immediately taken in with this idyllic village when I first visited it a few years ago for Winter Carnival. I remember the first time I walked down Main Street, noticing all the different and interesting stores that you couldn't find anywhere else. So, when you come to play in the mountains, spend an afternoon or entire day checking out our downtown. Options for lunch abound if you do decide to make a day of it. Below are some of my favorites.
TF Finnigan's
This clothing store's wares are top of the line in quality and style. It has also been a Saranac Lake institution dating back to 1923. They carry a range of apparel, from leisurely outdoor to black tie. The store regards fashion as an art and has a curated selection to reflect that. The original details of the store still remain, from the original mahogany interior to the French parquet floors, all custom made. This store is truly a work of art.
Blue Line Sports
The selection of outdoor supplies and apparel here is well rounded and affordable. They have everything from hunting and fishing gear to hiking boots. This is a great place to get that very specific thing you need for your favorite outdoor activity or to just hop in and ask questions about what you need to get started hiking in the ADK. They rent gear, too!
The Book Nook
I am a book lover so I know a good bookstore. Saranac Lake is a very literary town (we have a storied past, as you know) and The Book Nook properly reflects and contributes to this. The shelves are stocked with well curated contemporary titles of all genres. Once inside, you will see NYTimes best sellers, a local ADK selection, and a robust children’s selection.
Academy & Main at Hotel Saranac
Hotel Saranac is a landmark in Saranac Lake, dating back to the Roaring Twenties. As part of its renovation and re-opening in 2018, the hotel has added a spa, downstairs dining and an upstairs lounge with outdoor seating, and a gift shop. But this gift shop is not a traditional gift shop. It’s more akin to a museum store, carrying Adirondack themed crafts for the home, clothing, and even some items that will serve you well while camping in the woods.
The Village Mercantile
This store filled a void in the village by becoming its centrally located department store, locaIly inspired and community owned. It offers everything from kitchen supplies to school supplies to clothes to Adirondack crafts. The store is dedicated to serving the community, supporting and highlighting the work of local makers and artists, and definitely is an interesting window into Saranac Lake’s decidedly different character. It is also a great place to pick up a gift or souvenir.
The Adirondack Loon Center for Conservation
This is a special place because it’s a conservation project and gift store. The center conducts research, education/outreach, and conservation/management to assess the impact of pollution on aquatic ecosystems throughout North America. The accompanying “loony” store helps to fund the center’s important research and education. It’s stocked with all things loons and a seasonal education exhibit.
Of course, not every cool downtown store made it onto this list, but there are plenty of great places to shop. There’s Goody Goody's toy and game store (the selection is wide and exciting for all ages, with lots of card and board games), Eco Living (worldly and high quality goods like shawls made from Alpaca yarn), Main Street Exchange (a consignment store with a great and diverse selection), and more.
Start planning your trip to Saranac Lake today! We have good shopping, good food, and good adventure.
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