With its mountain backdrop, historic charm, and community-driven spirit, Saranac Lake has long been a magnet for artists, musicians, and creative thinkers. From sidewalk exhibits to immersive workshops, this vibrant village offers a cultural experience as rich as its natural surroundings-and Hotel Saranac places you at the heart of it all.
Whether you’re planning a quiet weekend of gallery-hopping or visiting during one of the region’s signature festivals, here’s how to experience the best of the Saranac Lake arts scene.
A Village Built for Creativity
Saranac Lake’s creative roots run deep. Once a haven for writers and artists escaping city life, it remains a place where art and nature intersect in everyday life. Local storefronts double as studios, public sculptures line the sidewalks, and musicians fill the air with sound during summer events.
Staying at Hotel Saranac, you’re never far from the action. Located in the heart of downtown, the hotel is just steps from some of the region’s most beloved cultural institutions and events.
Don’t-Miss Art Festivals
Time your trip right, and you’ll catch one of Saranac Lake’s annual art-focused celebrations. The Saranac Lake ArtWorks Studio Tour, held each fall, opens the doors to private studios across the region, giving you a rare look at how painters, potters, and sculptors bring their ideas to life.
In winter, the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival combines icy creativity with community pride. Ice palaces, themed parades, and quirky competitions highlight the town’s imaginative spirit. It’s a celebration of both artistic talent and local personality.
Other seasonal events, like the Third Thursday ArtWalks, offer a casual way to connect with the arts while strolling the streets on a warm summer night.
Galleries That Reflect the Region
Saranac Lake may be a small town, but its galleries pack a punch. The Adirondack Artists Guild, a member-run cooperative just a few blocks from Hotel Saranac, features rotating exhibits from local creators working in oil, watercolor, photography, and mixed media. Nearby, NorthWind Fine Arts Gallery showcases works rooted in the natural world, from intricate jewelry to landscape painting.
Both galleries are within walking distance of the hotel, making it easy to take in inspiring pieces between brunch and an afternoon hike.
A Stay Inspired by Place
It’s no surprise that Hotel Saranac embraces the creative soul of the region. The hotel itself is a piece of living history-restored with care to reflect its 1920s origins, while incorporating design elements that echo the Adirondack Great Camp tradition. From handcrafted details to curated décor, the entire property feels like a tribute to local artistry.
Guests can unwind in thoughtfully designed accommodations that balance vintage charm with modern comfort. Whether you’re in town for a festival or planning a personal creative retreat, each suite offers a stylish and serene space to recharge.
Fuel Your Inspiration
After a day of browsing galleries or sketching lakeside, you don’t need to venture far for a satisfying meal. On-site at the hotel, Campfire brings local ingredients and wood-fired cooking together in a warm, lodge-style setting. It’s a favorite of both guests and locals, perfect for unwinding with a cocktail and a conversation about the art you’ve seen.
Where Art and Escape Meet
Saranac Lake isn’t just a beautiful place-it’s a creative one. And whether you’re here for a festival, a gallery tour, or a spontaneous weekend of inspiration, Hotel Saranac offers the perfect blend of access, atmosphere, and artistry to complete the experience.
Let the mountains move you-and let your stay reflect the spirit of the scene.