If your time is limited to one day, here are some suggested itineraries based around the time you plan to arrive at Fort Ticonderoga.
Morning Fort Ticonderoga Visit
Arrive early and enjoy the serene beauty of mornings at Fort Ticonderoga. Take in the stunning views upon arrival and be sure to capture the beautiful morning view of Lake Champlain, the Green Mountains of Vermont, and Mount Defiance. Take time to explore the largest 18th-century artillery collection in North America that lines the outer walls of the fort. Catch the first morning tour at 10:15 a.m. to get an overview of Fort Ticonderoga’s history as well as the “must-see” suggestions from the museum staff. Be sure to visit the changing gallery museum exhibit in the Mars Education Center and drop by the Historic Trades shops to see military tailoring and shoe making in action. If you have time, watch the morning musket demonstration before you head to America’s Fort Cafe for a delicious lunch.
Mid-day Fort Ticonderoga Visit
Take advantage of cool morning temperatures and explore our beautiful gardens to discover the layers of horticulture history on the Ticonderoga landscape. Roll up your sleeves and dig into one of our horticulture programs. Once you work up an appetite, make your way up to the Log House Welcome Center (either by car or walking) to dive into a fresh King’s Garden salad or delectable sandwich inspired to regional cuisine. Following lunch, stop by the soldier’s camp kitchen to see what’s for lunch in the 18th century as you make your way into the fort and museum spaces. Be sure to catch a mid-day Fife & Drum Corps concert and visit the Museum Store where you’ll find unique merchandise to remember your visit. Before you depart, make a stop at the Carillon Battlefield located on the exit road for a brief view of the historic and hallowed ground.
Afternoon Fort Ticonderoga Visit
Begin your visit with a bang as you observe the afternoon musket demonstration. Garden lovers should catch the afternoon garden tour to the King’s Garden. You’ll be surprised to learn about the centuries of gardens at Ticonderoga and the layered history that continues today as you step into the vivid beauty of the walled colonial garden. Take some time to walk around the beautiful grounds surrounding the gardens and be sure to take photos of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains of Vermont! Fort Ticonderoga has world class museum collections, so you’ll want to be sure to take time to visit some of the exhibits before you make a stop at America’s Fort Cafe, located at the Log House Welcome Center where you’ll enjoy delicious afternoon snack and/or regional beer or wine. If your schedule permits, make your way up Mount Defiance (either by car or walking) for the guided Witness to History Tour at 4 pm. You’ll need to drive to Mount Defiance (and all the way up it!), but the short 3 mile trip will be worth the stunning view as you have a birds-eye view to history!
Add a Carillon Boat Cruise to your visit!