Ogdensburg New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ogdensburg, New York.
1. Frederic Remington Art Museum
WESTERN ART MASTERPIECES
The Frederic Remington Art Museum showcases the renowned works of American artist Frederic Remington, famous for his depictions of the Old West. Visitors can explore an extensive collection of paintings, bronzes, and illustrations that capture the spirit and drama of frontier life. The museum is housed in an elegant historic mansion that enhances the viewing experience with its period architecture and charming ambiance.
2. The Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge
CROSS-BORDER MARVEL
The Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge spans majestically across the St. Lawrence River, connecting the United States and Canada. Travelers appreciate both the engineering achievement and the stunning panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscapes visible from the crossing. The bridge serves as an important commercial and cultural link between Ogdensburg and Prescott, Ontario, facilitating trade and tourism between the two nations.
3. Eel Weir State Park
RIVERSIDE NATURAL RETREAT
Eel Weir State Park offers visitors a serene natural setting along the banks of the Oswegatchie River, perfect for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The park features excellent fishing opportunities, picnic areas, and peaceful walking paths through scenic woodland areas. Nature enthusiasts can spot diverse wildlife and bird species while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of this hidden gem in Ogdensburg.
4. Fort La Presentation
HISTORIC MILITARY SITE
Fort La Presentation stands as a testament to Ogdensburg's strategic importance during early American history, originally established as a French mission in 1749. Today, visitors can explore the reconstructed fort and learn about its significant role in the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. The site hosts educational programs and historical reenactments that bring the past to life for history enthusiasts of all ages.
5. Red Barn Museum
AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE PRESERVED
The Red Barn Museum preserves and celebrates the agricultural heritage of the North Country region with its extensive collection of farming implements and rural artifacts. Visitors can step back in time as they explore exhibits showcasing traditional farming methods, equipment, and daily life from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The distinctive red barn structure itself is a historic landmark that adds authentic charm to this educational attraction.
6. Lighthouse Point
MARITIME BEACON LANDMARK
Lighthouse Point offers visitors a picturesque setting where the Oswegatchie River meets the mighty St. Lawrence, featuring a historic lighthouse that once guided ships through these important waterways. The point provides spectacular views of passing freighters, pleasure boats, and the Canadian shoreline across the river. Visitors can enjoy fishing, picnicking, or simply relaxing while taking in the maritime atmosphere that has defined Ogdensburg throughout its history.
7. Maple City Trail
SCENIC URBAN PATHWAY
The Maple City Trail winds through Ogdensburg offering residents and visitors alike a pleasant pathway for walking, jogging, and cycling through various parts of the city. The well-maintained trail passes by scenic river views, historic neighborhoods, and green spaces, providing an excellent way to experience the city's charm. Spanning several miles, the trail serves as both a recreational asset and a practical transportation corridor connecting key destinations throughout Ogdensburg.
8. Hawkins Point Visitors Center
POWER PLANT EDUCATION EXPERIENCE
The Frank S. McCullough, Jr. Hawkins Point Visitors Center provides fascinating insights into hydroelectric power generation with interactive exhibits and educational displays. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and watch massive ships navigate the seaway from the center's observation areas. The facility also includes a boat launch, making it both an educational destination and a gateway to recreational activities on the river.
9. Fort Oswegatchie
COLONIAL DEFENSE HERITAGE
Fort Oswegatchie represents an important chapter in Ogdensburg's military history, originally constructed as a defensive position during colonial times. Visitors can explore the remnants of the fort while learning about the strategic importance of this location at the confluence of the Oswegatchie and St. Lawrence Rivers. Interpretive displays help bring to life the stories of soldiers, settlers, and Native Americans who shaped the region's early development.
10. Ogdensburg Public Library
HISTORIC KNOWLEDGE REPOSITORY
The Ogdensburg Public Library serves as both a modern information center and a historic architectural treasure in the heart of the city. Visitors can admire the classic design of the building while accessing an impressive collection of books, digital resources, and local history materials. The library frequently hosts community events, reading programs, and exhibits that celebrate the cultural heritage of Ogdensburg and the surrounding region.
11. Shopping
LOCAL RETAIL THERAPY
Shopping in Ogdensburg offers visitors a mix of charming local boutiques, antique shops, and convenient retail centers throughout the city. Visitors can browse for unique North Country crafts, locally-made products, and specialty items not found in typical chain stores. Downtown shops and riverside retail areas provide a pleasant shopping experience with friendly service and items that reflect the region's character and heritage.
12. Dining
RIVERSIDE CULINARY DELIGHTS
Dining in Ogdensburg presents a variety of culinary experiences, from waterfront restaurants with St. Lawrence River views to cozy cafés serving comfort food classics. Visitors can enjoy fresh local seafood, regional specialties, and international cuisine at establishments like The Freight House Restaurant and Busters Sports Bar. Many dining venues feature outdoor seating during warmer months, allowing guests to savor their meals while watching boats navigate the historic waterways that define this border city.
13. Hiking
RIVERFRONT NATURE TRAILS
Hiking in Ogdensburg offers outdoor enthusiasts scenic trails along the St. Lawrence River and through nearby natural areas with varying difficulty levels. The Maple City Trail system provides accessible paths for casual hikers, while more adventurous trekkers can explore the wilderness sections near Black Lake just outside the city. Seasonal hiking reveals changing landscapes from spring wildflowers to autumn foliage, making these trails enjoyable throughout much of the year.
14. Fishing
PREMIER ANGLING WATERS
Fishing in Ogdensburg offers anglers exceptional opportunities to catch a variety of species in the St. Lawrence River and Oswegatchie River that converge in the city. Popular fishing spots include Lighthouse Point, the public fishing access at Eel Weir State Park, and the Hawkins Point boat launch where both shore and boat fishing yield impressive catches. Throughout the seasons, fishermen can target northern pike, walleye, bass, and muskellunge in these productive waters that have made the region famous among fishing enthusiasts.
15. Camping
RIVERSIDE OUTDOOR GETAWAYS
Camping near Ogdensburg provides outdoor lovers with several options to enjoy the natural beauty of the North Country region, including sites at nearby Black Lake and along the St. Lawrence River. Campers can choose from developed campgrounds with modern amenities or more rustic experiences that offer a closer connection to nature. Many camping areas feature fishing access, swimming opportunities, and hiking trails, making them perfect basecamps for exploring all that the Ogdensburg area has to offer outdoor enthusiasts.