Welcome to the Junction! 

To Tupper Lake natives, the “Junction” refers to the area of downtown surrounding the Adirondack Railroad. Beyond the tracks and hugged by Little Wolf Pond, this area boasts its own unique character, filled with charming neighborhoods, a bustling main drive, and restaurants packed with charm. 

A district with plenty of history

How did the Junction come to be? Good question! Originally, two railroads created the Junction, the Northern Adirondack Railroad built by John Hurd in 1890 and the Adirondack and St. Lawrence Railroad, constructed by Dr. William Seward Webb in 1892. These railroads crossed one another in Tupper Lake in 1899 creating a pocket of industry between the two! Almost a century later, rail service ceased in 1972, and New York State acquired the corridor in 1974. Today, you’ll find Little Wolf Beach and Campground, the Adirondack Rail Trail, and the Adirondack Railroad, actively bringing new visitors to the area to this day. If you’re looking for a new and unique adventure, take a railbike tour! Pedal along the tracks of the Raquette Rambler, a 6-mile round trip bringing spectacular views of the Adirondacks. 

A group of cyclists ride along a wooden bridge. A group of friends cheers drinks at a tavern. A car drives down a downtown road surrounded by trees and neighborhoods in fall.

Dining 

The food and drink scene here is second to none, with some popular names you might recognize. P-2’s Irish Pub is a second-generation, woman-owned Irish pub, serving up classic Irish dishes, craft beer, and of course, Guinness! On the topic of craft beer, Raquette River Brewing also calls this district home, where visitors can indulge in their expansive drink selection and dine with their Food Truck Alley. Just down the road, Main Street Restaurant has remained a staple of Tupper Lake, with its cozy interior and every comfort food you could dream up. For a blend of Italian and American favorites, the Pine Grove Restaurant is your final stop on the list. 

Lodging 

Just steps away from the outdoors, the Junction is also home to a selection of comfortable lodging. The Faust Motel brings a retro vibe to Tupper Lake, while offering year-round cozy lodging for adventurous travelers. At the Grand Union Hotel, you’ll find yourself steeped in Tupper Lake’s history. As one of the original lodging options of the 1800s, the building may look a little different with renovations, but the tradition remains the same! Downstairs you’ll find dining and a convivial bar room, and when you’re done, head upstairs to comfortable Adirondack-inspired rooms. 

A group of cyclists ride on a paved trail in the woods.
The Adirondack Rail Trail
The Adirondack Rail Trail
Just steps from the Junction, embark on a 34-mile paved trail, perfect for recreators to connect to nearby towns like Saranac Lake and Lake Placid!
Read More
An older woman and young girl sit at an outdoor train station.
Meet Me at the Junction!
Meet Me at the Junction!
Meet one of Tupper Lake's most unique neighborhoods, where food, adventure, and history all come together.
Read More
A close up of the front of a green and yellow train.
Adirondack Scenic Railroad Train Rides
Adirondack Scenic Railroad Train Rides
Explore the Adirondacks in a unique and breathtaking way, with the Scenic Railroad!
Read More