25+ Things to Do Near Fort Drum in Watertown, Sackets Harbor, and More!

Fort Drum is located in upstate New York, also known as the North Country. Situated between the Great Lakes and the Adirondack Mountains, if you enjoy outdoor adventures, this area will not disappoint. Also, rich in history, the area has many museums and monuments where you can learn about how this region got started. Check our list of things to dear nearby that includes something for the military, couples, kids, furry friends, and more.

With so much to choose from, you will not run out of things to do near Fort Drum, NY.

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Top 5 Military Friendly Activities in Watertown

Watertown, New York, understands the relationship it has with Fort Drum and the military community. Below you will find a variety of activities that support the military with convenience and/or discounts.

While Watertown offers much more to support the soldiers and families of Fort Drum, we highlight just a few here to get you started exploring the area.

Watertown Wolves Hockey Game

Enjoy a night on the ice with Watertown Wolves Ice Hockey. The team honors the military by frequently offering military appreciation nights with discounted admission, on-ice color guard presentations, re-enlistment ceremonies, and more.

Check out the Watertown Wolves website to see the season schedule, special events, and more.

Honor the Mountain Monument

Watertown, NY, honors the service and sacrifice of the 10th Mountain Division’s soldiers, families, and civilian workforce in this stunning monument in Thompson Park.

The Honor the Mountain Monument serves as a reminder to the community of the relationship between North Country and Fort Drum. Click the link above to learn more about the monument, its history, and how to donate.

Explore Downtown Public Square, Watertown

Whether you’re into shopping, eating, or taking in the historic beauty of the area and monuments, the Watertown Public Square has something for everyone. Enjoy a walk in the park where you’ll find a water fountain, a gazebo that hosts summer concerts, and the Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

You can also stop by a few local shops and grab a bite to eat while you’re walking around. Before you wrap up your trip to the public square, don’t miss the 1850 Paddock Arcade, one of the oldest covered shopping malls in America!

Empire Square

Visit Empire Square, a Veteran & woman-owned restaurant in downtown Watertown, NY. Serving up Southern Fusion and unique cocktails in a historic building in the heart of downtown, you won’t be disappointed.

Recently deployed service members are encouraged to come in for a free meal and drink as a way of thanking them for their service.

Watertown Parks

Low on time? Need something to do without a reservation? Visit any one of the Watertown parks for a variety of activities. You will find picnic areas, walking trails, playgrounds, tennis courts, and much more.

A few parks along the Black River showcase amazing views you won’t want to miss! And, Thompson Park features the New Your State Zoo, where you can visit all your favorite animals. For a full list of city parks and locations, visit the City of Watertown Parks and Recreation website.

Top 5 Attractions on Base at Fort Drum

Remington Park

Remington Park is located along Fort Drum’s Remington Pond. Open for the summer season, the park features pavilions, picnic areas, volleyball courts, horseshoes, playgrounds, fishing docks, a beach, camping spaces, cottages and cabins, and a fitness trail.

The beauty of the North Country is well on display throughout the year at Fort Drum’s Remington Park.

10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Museum

The 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Museum covers the broad history of the installation. It begins with the native people, covering the arrival of the U.S. Army into the North Country, and ends with the modern history of the 10th Mountain Division, the most deployed division in the Army.

The museum provides guided tours, special events, and reproduction uniforms for official events. If you’re interested in learning about the rich history of Fort Drum, the 10th Mountain Division, and the Fort Drum Museum is a must-see.

Pine Plains Bowling Center

Pine Plains Bowling Center on Fort Drum features 24 lanes with automatic scoring, hyperbowling, a golf simulator, and a full-service food and drink bar. Whether you’re looking for something to do with friends or family, the bowling center can meet your needs.

They also offer party and group reservations. Don’t forget that kids bowl for free all summer long. Click the link above to register for a Kids Free Bowling account and to learn more about the bowling center.

Robert C. McEwen Library

If reading and research are what you’re into, visit the Robert C. McEwen Library on Fort Drum. You will find multimedia, a children’s library, periodicals, 60 CAC-accessible computers, and an online public catalog.

If you want to encourage your children’s love of reading, the library also has a variety of programs and events to engage the imagination of all ages.

Paintball Arena

Located behind the Outdoor Recreation office, the paintball arena is where you can engage in strategic play. Offering both field play and scenario play, you’re sure to hit your target here! Visit Fort Drum MWR Outdoor Recreation website here for details.

10 Restaurants to Check Out Near Fort Drum

Restaurants near Fort Drum have something for every foodie. You can find everything from burgers to seafood in a variety of historic or nature views in nearby Watertown, New York. Stop by along the river or downtown for a bite that’s sure to fill the void.

Tully’s

Gather and dine with friends and family at Tully’s. Whether you’re grabbing food to go, visiting their food truck, or stopping by the restaurant in Watertown, you will not be disappointed with this menu. Offering a wide range of eats, including the “Best Chicken Tenders on Earth,” even the pickiest eater will find something here.

Art’s Jug

Art’s Jug features Classic Italian and American meals that will leave you wanting more. Four generations of families have been serving families since 1933 in Watertown, NY. A well-known local spot with a history to share, you’ll find the very best at Art’s Jug.

1812 Brewing Company on the River

At 1812 Brewing Company on the River, you will find specialty brews crafted in their own Watertown Brewery. From Fish & Chips to Shrimp & Grits, your pub favorite is sure to be on the menu here. Stop by for a brew or a bite while enjoying the beautiful river view.

Jean’s Beans

A Watertown staple for fast food since 1953, Jean’s Beans has what you need. Among the favorites here are the haddock sandwich, pizza logs, and chicken tenders. Don’t want to wait for your meal? Order ahead here and beat the crowd!

Time Warp Tavern

Time Warp Tavern in Watertown, NY, serves up burgers and brews in a traditional sports bar setting. With 14 TVs, live music, and award-winning Black Betty Wings, you will feel right at home in this local tavern. Priding itself on offering special events and private parties, Time Warp Tavern will make sure your next event is a hit.

Whole (Furry) Family Approved Restaurants

Don’t want to leave your furry friend at home while you adventure around the city? Below are a few pet-friendly places you can stop to relax or grab a bite to eat.

Garland City Beer Works

Garland City Beer Works in Watertown has a vision of serving specialty brews and food in a fun, family atmosphere. Offering games like Jenga, corn hole, cards, and a covered outdoor patio make family time fun. Click the link above to learn more about their craft beers and upcoming events.

Coleman’s Corner

Coleman’s Corner is an Irish Pub & Restaurant for the whole family located in nearby Watertown. Serving traditional Irish pub food like Fish & Chips, Corned Beef & Cabbage, and Shepherd’s Pie, you’ll come for the food and stay for the atmosphere.

Chrissy Beanz Bakery & Cafe

Chrissy Beanz is a delicious homestyle bakery in Watertown and Sackets Harbor, where you can enjoy treats on a patio with your four-legged friend. Choose from a variety of cafe favorite beverages and bakery treats. Chrissy Beans has breakfast and lunch options, too!

Bella’s

Bella’s features outdoor seating along the St. Lawrence River in Clayton, NY. This seasonal location offers a delicious breakfast and lunch with a view from mid-May through Mid-September. Gluten allergy? No problem. At Bella’s, you can get nearly anything on the menu gluten-free.

Pennocks Ice Cream

Craving something cold? Pennock’s Ice Cream in Sackets Harbor, NY, has it all. Serving soft serve or hard scooped ice cream, cones, sundaes, and milk shakes, your summer will be sweeter with a visit to Pennock’s. Enjoy your frozen treat on the outdoor patio with your four-legged friend for an extra special day.

5 Favorite Activities for Couples and Friend Groups

Whether you’re going on an adventure with a date or with a group of friends, there is plenty of fun and making memories near Fort Drum.

Herkimer Diamond Mines

Located in North Herkimer, NY, the Herkimer Diamond Mines offer a unique experience to mine for Herkimer Diamond quartz crystals and gemstones and then assemble your own jewelry. Weather conditions may affect mine operations. No reservations required. Mines are open April 12 through October 31.

Uncle Sam Boat Tours/Thousand Islands

Uncle Sam Boat Tours guides visitors through the scenic Thousand Islands in Alexandria Bay, NY. You can enjoy a relaxing cruise or take a visit to Boldt Castle. You can choose between 2 Nation Tours, Singer Castle Tours, Millionaires Row Tours, lunch cruises, dinner cruises, and sunset cruises, along with private and special events. If you love being on the water, this adventure is for you.

Arts Association of Northern New York (AANNY)

At the Arts Association of Northern New York in Sackets Harbor, NY, you can discover work by local artists at the gallery, find unique gifts, or sign up for a variety of classes. Open hours are managed by volunteers, so it is best to call ahead to guarantee open doors, (315) 646-3502.

All In Adventures

All in Adventures is an escape room destination in Watertown, NY, that is sure to strengthen your relationships. Collaborate and communicate to solve puzzles and make your way through one of the 9 themed games available. Click the link above to book your game night today.

Watertown Lyric Theater

Catch a performing arts production at the Watertown Lyric Theater. This volunteer-driven, non-profit community theater provides a wide variety of productions for all to enjoy. Click the link above to learn more about catching a show or volunteering.

5 Things to Do With Kids Near Fort Drum

Whether you’re into animals, parks, museums, or games, there is plenty to do with kids near Fort Drum. Check out the short list below to get you started.

New York State Zoo at Thompson Park

The New York State Zoo at Thompson Park is located nearby in Watertown, NY. The zoo features guided tours, keeper chats, elk feeding, a river otter experience, and a mountain lion experience.

You can be sure to find all your favorite animals at the New York State Zoo at Thompson Park. And, active-duty military receive 20% discounted tickets if purchased at the front desk.

Old McDonald’s Farm

Old McDonald’s Farm in Sackets Harbor was founded in 1986 as a way to educate and have fun with agriculture.

You can visit with over 200 farm animals, go on a Storybook Hayride, play mini golf, navigate corn mazes and more. If you like animals, you’ll surely love Old McDonald’s Farm. Children 2 and under get in free!

Pickering-Beach Museum

The Pickering-Beach Museum was once the home of a prominent family in the mid-nineteenth century. Visit the museum to see what home life was like in the 1800s in Sackets Harbor. The museum is free for visitors, making it an affordable adventure for families.

Battlefield State Park

Battlefield State Park in nearby Sackets Harbor was a significant battle site during the War of 1812. Learn about the area’s history, walk through the grounds, and visit the park’s interpretive living-history center.

Billy Beez

Billy Beez is an indoor playpark inside the Salmon Run Mall in Watertown that lets your littles get their wiggles out, even on rainy days. Featuring slides, sports courts, ball blasters, and trampolines, kids of all ages (and kids at heart) will have a blast at this amusement park under one roof! Whether you’re coming with your family or throwing a party, Billy Beez has something for everyone.

Check Out These Pet-Friendly Spots Near Fort Drum

Want to explore the area with your four-legged friend? With so many parks and walking trails, you’re sure to find a favorite near Fort Drum. Check out the short list below to begin your adventure today. When bringing your pup with you, please make sure your furry friend is up-to-date on vaccinations and stays on a leash where required.

Jefferson County SPCA Dog Park

Location: 25056 Water St., Watertown, NY 13601

The Jefferson County SPCA Dog Park is located right next to the SPCA Shelter. Your furry friend can enjoy off-leash play in a fenced recreation area while you rest for a bit under the shaded gazebo.

Northern Flow Vineyards

Location: 40635 NY-12, Clayton, NY, US, 13624

Northern Flow Vineyards is a pup-friendly place located in DeLuke's Garden Center in Clayton, NY. Enjoy some time relaxing on the patio with gorgeous views of the vineyard with your four-legged friend. Click the link above to see upcoming events at Northern Flow Vineyards.

Black River Trail

Location: 399 Walker Ave. Watertown, NY 13601

The Black River Trail is one of 1600 rail trails supported by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, a nonprofit working to create a network of trails from former rail lines. Previously a railroad corridor, this trail is now a great place to explore with your furry friends. Learn more about the trail and where to park by clicking the link above.

Winona State Forest

Location: N Church Rd, Lacona, NY, 13083

The Winona State Forest is a pet-friendly recreational area in Lacona, NY. Featuring more than 50 miles of maintained trails, meadows, woods, and streams for skiing, hiking, camping, and more, you’re sure to have an adventure with your four-legged friend. Keep an eye out for local wildlife while you’re exploring this beautiful landscape.

Clayton Distillery

Location: 40164 NY-12, Clayton, NY, 13624

Homegrown and Handcrafted, Clayton Distillery has a place for you and your friends, furry ones too! Go on a tour of Clayton Distillery, then enjoy a refreshing beverage on the patio. You will find a variety of adult beverages from vodka and gin to corn whisky and moonshine at this region’s first micro-distillery.

Don’t Miss These Seasonal Events and Activities Near Fort Drum

The North Country has a full four seasons, and each comes with its own celebration. Whether you like it cold or you like it hot, you can find something fun in this list of events and activities.

Adirondack River Outfitters

Adirondack River Outfitters has your summer water fun activities covered. From river rafting to river tubing, they will make sure you have what you need to spend an amazing summer on the water near Fort Drum.

Burrville Cider Mill

Burrville Cider Mill is a fall-time favorite in Watertown, NY. Open from Labor Day until the week of Thanksgiving, this operational cider mill will greet your nose with the scent of apples. Grab some cider and cider donuts to take home before you leave this destination.

Dry Hill Ski Area

Dry Hill Ski Area is perfect in summer and winter, with many activities to keep you busy! In the summer, check out a cooking class, farm-to-table dinners, and a BBQ Challenge. In the winter months, try tubing, skiing, or snowboarding. Not in the mood for adventure? Host a private event and relax while Dry Hill staff members do the hard work for you. Click the link above to learn more about this amazing destination.

Check Out These Nearby Day Trips Perfect for a Quick Getaway

Check out these nearby day trips, which are perfect for when you wish to get away and reset.

Old Forge, New York

Old Forge has everything from museums to camping and everything in between. You will find something for the whole family in this town, situated at the base of the Adirondack Mountains. Click the link above to learn more about what Old Forge has to offer. Our short list below can get you started.

Drive time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

• The Enchanted Forest Water Safari is New York’s largest water theme park with over 50 rides and attractions, camping, and more.
• Adirondack Base Camp: Spend the day hiking the Adirondack Mountains and come back to Old Forge for rest and relaxation.
• View: This Arts center at the heart of the Adirondacks provides exhibitions, community events, performances, classes, and more.

Cape Vincent

Cape Vincent is a cute little town sitting where Lake Ontario empties into the St. Lawrence River. The town is known for maritime history and fishing, but offers shopping and fine dining as well. The short list below will get you started exploring Cape Vincent, but you can click the link above to learn more.

Drive time: 1 hour

• Tibbetts Point Lighthouse: If you’re visiting this maritime town, you must visit the iconic lighthouse. At Tibbetts Point lighthouse, you can take a picnic and visit the gift shop while taking in the breathtaking views.
• Downtown Shopping: Explore the boutiques in this cute little town. They offer everything from hand-crafted pottery, locally made jewelry, and more. A few favorites include Chateau, Belle-Epoque, and Aubrey’s French Towne Market.

Tupper Lake

Tupper Lake prides itself on having some of the darkest skies in the Northeast that are perfect for stargazing. You will also find adventures like The Wild Center, breweries, and local artisan shops. Click the link above to learn more about Tupper Lake and what it has to offer.

Drive time: 2 hours

• The Wild Center: Voted People’s Choice Top Attraction in the Adirondacks, this 81-acre indoor and outdoor experience has wild exhibits, troll statues, canoe trips, and a trail across the tree tops that will leave you breathless. You can also experience an oversized eagle nest for perching above the treeline and watching the forest below.
• Lake Wolf Beach: Cool off at the beach or stay for a camping trip. One of the longest beaches in the Adirondacks, Lake Wolf Beach has lifeguards, swimming lessons, playgrounds, and campsites. If you’re looking to unplug, this is the place for you.

Don’t Miss Out on These Fun Things to Do Near Fort Drum

Whether you’re just visiting Fort Drum or PCSing here, you will find something to keep you busy or to help you relax. The stunning beauty of the natural landscape offers many outdoor adventures, but the history of the area can bring you inside on those cold days. Everything you’re looking for is just a short drive away, so start exploring today!