Discover the beating heart of Washington County, NY by exploring its quaint and vibrant Main Street districts! Like most of America, this region is home to more than a few iterations of “Main Street,” each lined with beautiful buildings, delicious restaurants and a unique blend of history and local culture.
No matter what season you visit, you’re sure to find something to love while exploring the many interesting locations within our main street districts! From spring blooms to summer festivals, fall pub crawls to stunning holiday displays in the winter, we’ve got it all.
Main Street Cambridge, NY
As the home of the annual Cambridge Valley Balloon Festival, Cambridge, NY is one of the most well-known towns in Washington County! Within this small farm town lies a bustling main street district featuring several parks, historic buildings, eateries and more.
At its heart lies Hubbard Hall, a former opera house that now serves as a community center offering classes in theater, the arts and more. Next door, you’ll find several popular businesses, including Canteen Coffee Co., Valley Artisans Market and Battenkill Books!
Across the street is the Cambridge Food Co-op, a locally-owned public grocery store that carries a variety of high-quality and locally-made items. Nearby, you’ll also find Over the Moon Beads as well as Forget Me Not Consignments.
If you’re in the mood for antiquing, Cambridge has got you covered. Come sift through the many hidden treasures within Hubbard Block Antiques or the two-story Cambridge Art & Antiques Center. Of course, you also won’t want to miss a visit to Blacksmith Antiques just down the road, open by appointment.
Behind Forget Me Not Consignments you’ll see several industrial brick buildings collectively known as Varak Park. This historic space was once home to Jerome B. Rice & Co., which was once the largest seed company in the world! Now, the buildings play host to several local businesses, including private artist studios and the antiques of Black Widow Gallery.
More Unforgettable Experiences in Cambridge, NY’s Main Street District
Happen to be visiting Cambridge on a Sunday? Don’t forget to stop by King’s Donut Bakery Cart and the Cambridge Valley Farmers’ Market.
While under construction as of this article, the historic Cambridge Depot will soon host another venue, so stay tuned!
Learn more about Cambridge in our articles ‘Life on Main Street: Cambridge Edition‘ and ‘Life on Main Street: Off Main Edition At New Skete‘
Fort Edward, NY‘s Main Street District
As the governing seat of Washington County, Fort Edward also boasts a variety of unique experience for visitors to enjoy! While its many attractions are a little more spread out than some of our other towns, you’re sure to have a blast exploring the many historic charms of Fort Edward, NY.
Once a vibrant canal town sitting on the banks of the Champlain Canal, Fort Edward continues its legacy as a transportation hub. After all, it’s also perfectly situated along the Empire State Trail, while also being a stop along Amtrak’s Adirondack Line! Even if you’re not riding a train, it’s worth stopping by the historic Fort Edward Delaware & Hudson Rail Station, now home to Evergreen Bicycle Works.
During the summer, you may also want to check out the various events and farmers markets held at the Canal Street Marketplace! But if it’s a delicious meal you’re looking for, you’ll find many tasty options in the main street district. These include the historic Anvil Inn Restaurant, as well as casual dining at Mamma’s Cafe and Ye Old Fort Diner. Plus, Stumpy’s Pizzeria is another popular choice, as well as the local brews available at Slickfin Brewing Company! To enjoy both food and adult beverages, check out Dalias on the Hudson and Cue and Brew LLC.
Explore Fort Edward Beyond the Businesses
Nearby, you’ll find several unique locations and activities to enjoy. These include Union Cemetery (home to the grave sites of both Jane McCrea and Duncan Campbell), as well as Underwood Park overlooking the Champlain Canal. For a peek into local history, stop by the Old Fort House Museum or Rogers Island Visitors Center. A little further away, you can catch a performance at the Little Theater on the Farm, bowl a round or two at Broadway Lanes, or watch some birds at the world-famous Washington County Grasslands!
To learn more, visit the official Visit Fort Edward site,
Main Street District of Granville, NY
In the northeastern corner of Washington County, you’ll find Granville, NY. Its Main Street district is a captivating blend of history, culture, and local enterprise. Strolling down the street, visitors are greeted by beautifully preserved historic architecture, each building whispering tales of the town’s rich past. The district is a vibrant hub of activity, with a diverse array of locally owned shops and boutiques showcasing unique crafts, artwork, and specialty items.
At the heart of town, you’ll find a historic stretch containing some of the area’s most unique businesses. Browse for hidden treasures at Shaw’s Antiques and Collectables, or shop gifts, home decor and more at 2nd Time Around Consignment. Additionally, fiber artists and enthusiasts of all kinds love stopping in to the Village Yarn Shop, home to a range of fiber and crafting supplies, patterns, finished projects and more!
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, stop by the main street district’s On The Rocks Pub! Just across the street you’ll find another popular spot for tasty food and local brews: Slate Town Brewing. For more casual fare, check out Scarlotta’s Car Hop and the Pine Grove Diner, or sit down at Bernardo’s 5 for a delicious Italian meal!
Naturally, that’s not all there is to see in Granville, NY! Visitors also enjoy a peek into the past at the Slate Valley Museum, and insight into natural history found at the Pember Library & Museum.
Looking for the perfect home-away-from-home from which to experience the best of Granville? Rent a room in the historic Station House Bed & Breakfast, an easy walking distance from the center of Main Street!
Main Street Greenwich, NY
Whether you’re looking to dine, shop or simply stroll, Greenwich, NY is the ideal place to be! At one end of the main stretch lies Mowry Park and its gazebo, home to many unique events throughout the year. This includes Union Village Fest and the summer Music at the Library series, as well as a main location for the annual Greenwich Tractor Parade in late fall. Year-round, you can also follow the self-guided Underground Railroad walking tour.
Closer to the intersection of Main Street and Salem Street, you’ll find the Country Peddler Shoppes. Within lie several unique shops, including the Country Peddler itself as well as the women’s boutique Just Because and the local favorite Witches Village Cafe.
Just across the street, the main stretch of Greenwich’s downtown district offers even more! Shop clothing & fun accessories at Whistles, Bells and Bottoms, then pamper yourself at the Bubbley Beauty Bar and Windy Hill Wellness/Cannabis Dispensary. Furthermore, you can find locally-made goods and gifts at Clutch Market, art supplies at Green Art Supply, high-quality consignments at Penny Wise Shoppe, and all things fiber arts at Idlenot Fibersmiths!
Or, grab a bite to eat at one of the other incredible eateries on Main Street! Elsasser’s @ 111 offers an unforgettable fusion of French and German food, while the new restaurant Juniper has flavorful creations perfect for both lunch and dinner. A little further down the road, you’ll find more local classics such as Wallie’s of Greenwich and the Main Street Cafe. Last but not least, you can top off your visit with a tasty treat from the Boozy Baker, or a delicious brew from Argyle Brewing Company.
Learn More About Historic Greenwich, NY
Want a unique historic experience to add to your visit? Make an appointment to stop by the Rough and Ready Engine Company #2, a museum housing firefighting equipment through the ages!
To learn more about what it’s like to visit Greenwich, NY, check out our articles ‘Life on Main Street: Salem and Greenwich Edition’ or ‘A Day in Mid-Western Washington County Near Greenwich, NY’
Main Street Hudson Falls, NY
As the largest town in Washington County, Hudson Falls, NY is a haven for shopping, eating and the arts alike! Centered around Juckett Park, this town’s Main Street district looks like something straight out of a storybook. Each winter, this park becomes a holiday lights destination, decked out in its dazzling best.
Amongst historic churches and stunning architecture, guests will a variety of options to suit their preferences! At the top of the list is the incredibly talented performing arts community, well-served by the historic Strand Theater, which hosts an event nearly every night of the year. Additionally, the Broadway Upstate children’s theater company also hosts performances, classes and workshops for the theatrically inclined!
Visitors looking to shop may want to check out the Village Booksmith, Fern & Fauna Boutique or Triads Music Center. If you’ve worked up an appetite while adventuring, check out Falcons Brewhouse for coffee, cocktails and more. Or, enjoy an all-American meal at Losaw’s Diner across the street!
Want to learn more about the many things to do in the Hudson Falls area? Check out our blog on this very topic!
Main Street Salem, NY
Small but mighty, the historic town of Salem, NY is also home to a charming Main Street district with many interesting attractions within easy walking distance. Those looking for a bite to eat may want to start out at On a Limb Bakery for coffee and delicious pastries, Jacko’s Corner for creative cuisine and fun events, or Railroad Street Tavern for a laid-back bar vibe.
Then, dive into this town’s thriving arts community at either Fort Salem Theater or Salem Art Works, which cater to artists from all walks of life. Both Fort Salem and the Historic Salem Courthouse host a variety of events and performances throughout the year, including both theatrical performances as well as live music, dance classes and more. Want an incredible view of the entire valley? Hike up the hill at SAW’s Cary Hill Sculpture Park.
For a dose of local history, check out the historical marker at the Delaware & Hudson Depot on Railroad St., a testament to a vibrant community once well-served by the rails. And while you’re in town, don’t miss out on a visit to the Revolutionary War Cemetery! This cemetery is home to over 100 graves attributed to the Revolutionary War, more than any other site in the county.
Discover what other fun activities & attractions you’ll find in Salem in our article ‘A Day in Eastern Washington County Near Salem, NY.‘
Main Street Whitehall, NY
Discover the charm of Whitehall, NY’s main street district, where a delightful blend of shopping and dining awaits. Stroll along the historic sidewalks and explore a diverse array of boutiques and specialty shops, each offering unique treasures and local finds.
At the north end of town (just south of the Whitehall Marina) lies Lock C12, marking the northern terminus of the Champlain Canal. Just down the road, you may want to picnic in the scenic Riverside Park overlooking the historic canal and offering stunning views of the hillside as well. This is also where you’ll find the Sasquatch Calling Festival each September, which draws visitors from around the country! From there, you can see the Gothic Victorian-style Skene Manor, a popular attraction offering free tours as well as a classic tea room experience.
While in town, don’t miss a visit to Freakopolis Geekery, where you’ll find comic books and games as well as weekly gaming events to enjoy! Afterward, stop in to the Skenesborough Museum for a look at local history. There, you’ll find exhibits spanning a variety of time periods and topics, from naval combat to historic transportation and farming methods. Explore their grounds to see an authentic Delaware & Hudson railway car, as well as the remains of the once-sunken U.S.S. Ticonderoga!
Refuel with a quick stop at the Broadway Market for some snacks, or sit down for a bite at the Railyard Taproom & Restaurant! Last but not least, kick back and relax just down the road at Cigar Brothers Brewing, home to local brews as well as fun weekly events.
Want to learn more about visiting the main street districts of Whitehall, NY? Check out the Whitehall edition of our Life on Main Street blog.
Washington County Beyond the Main Street Districts
Of course, there are many fun and unique experiences to enjoy in Washington County, even beyond our historic main street districts! Explore our many unique trails and experiences to give you some ideas. Or, check out our top recommendations for golfing, hiking, dining, equine encounters, historic sites, live performances and much, much more!
And finally, if you need somewhere cozy to settle in for the night, you’ll find a plethora of great choices, from farm stays and bed & breakfasts to camping and unique vacation rentals.
