In investigating the countryside surrounding Lake Champlain, I've discovered there is a lot to do in the region. Within a reasonable radius from Fort Ticonderoga is a plethora of activities that would keep me busy for a vacation. Unfortunately, I won't be on vacation; when I am at the fort, my time will be filled with experiences.
Ethan AllenThere's no time to visit the Ethan Allen Homestead in Burlington, Vermont, though it would be cool. Mr. Allen and his Green Mountain Boys, along with rival Benedict Arnold, are responsible for capturing Fort Ticonderoga from the British during the American Revolution. Later, the cannon from the fort were transported by Henry Knox's crew to give American Patriots a greater advantage in the war. |  |
Underground Railroad
 | It would be interesting to visit the North Star Underground Railroad Museum, take a bus tour of the area, and walk in the footsteps of escaping slaves. To consider the horrible conditions that inspire people to run away from "home" would be humbling. To understand the utter helplessness of human beings so mistreated and the chances they took would be impossible. |
John DeereBefore I get to Fort Ticonderoga, I will spend one night in Rutland, Vermont, the location of John Deere's birthplace. This quaint, small town is where the great plow inventor grew up, and I'll get the chance to drive past some of the sites the young John might have seen. To see the land where Deere got his start will be quite interesting. |  |
Star Trek
| Just down the street from the hotel in Ticonderoga, New York, is the Star Trek Original Series Set Tour. The reproduced set from the Star Trek series has been reproduced based on floor plans from original owners. Every room from the Enterprise is presented in a tour, along with costumes and monsters. I don't know of the availability of tours after hours from our events at the fort, but it may be possible to drop in for a tour at some point during the week I am there. |  |
Dixon Ticonderoga
 | There is a connection between Ticonderoga, New York, and the famous Dixon Ticonderoga pencil. This area is apparently where the graphite ore is mined for the pencils, and the company originally took the name of the fort as its own. There is a small museum in town that will show some of the pencil history. Again, it may be possible to make a quick visit. |
La Chute FallsThe natural feature of the area is a river that connects Lake George with Lake Champlain. In a 3 1/2 mile stretch the river drops farther than Niagra in a fast-moving waterway. It will make a nice walk/hike from my hotel, one evening. Maybe I can convince some of my peers to explore the natural beauty with me. |  |
