Shop Local, Shop Timeless: Schroon Lake Department Store
An Adirondack emporium that is worth the trip.
Schroon Lake Department Store’s amazing array of merchandise. All photos courtesy Schroon Lake Department Store.
Schroon Lake is one of the Adirondacks' special gems, just waiting to be discovered. This charming lakeside town captures the essence of mountain living. With its crystal-clear waters, rolling hills, and welcoming community, Schroon Lake is more than just a destination—it's a place where visitors can embrace the beauty of nature, the warmth of small-town hospitality, and a rich tapestry of activities for all seasons.
Among the many local establishments that embody this spirit is the Schroon Lake Department Store, a living testament to the town's rich history. Located near the center of town on Main Street, this building has served the community in one capacity or another for over 140 years.
Today, it’s a beautiful emporium that offers a wide array of merchandise, from household essentials and clothing to unique Adirondack-themed souvenirs, catering to shoppers' diverse needs and tastes.
A treasure trove of exceptional finds.
Adirondack merchandise.
The moment you enter, the creak of the wooden floorboards and the sight of attractively displayed merchandise transport you to the days of the small town department store that sold a little bit of everything. The store’s offerings range from household essentials and clothing to unique Adirondack-themed souvenirs. Whether you’re searching for a flannel shirt to ward off the mountain chill or a locally crafted memento to take home, you’ll likely find it here.
One of the standout sections is the toy aisle, brimming with puzzles, board games, and timeless toys that spark nostalgia. The store clearly values items with lasting appeal, making it an excellent place to find gifts for all ages.
During every visit, we are impressed by everything on offer. The definition of “department store” is a large establishment that sells many kinds of products. The Schroon Lake Department Store fits that description perfectly. We were impressed by the selection of items from cookware geared toward the Adirondack lifestyle to games and toys, candles, books, drinkware, bathing suits, flannel items, footwear, locally made products, penny candy, fishing and hiking gear and more.
A slice of Adirondack history.
The store’s décor reflects its deep roots in the Adirondacks. Vintage signs and photographs are on display, and the rustic fixtures evoke a sense of timelessness and pay homage to the history of Schroon Lake and its surrounding communities.
In 2023, the current owners, Amanda and Ryan Ragland, took over the store (then known as Schroon’s Towne Store) and spent late 2023 through the spring of 2024, giving the emporium a significant upgrade and renovation. They rebranded the business and reverted to its original name, The Schroon Lake Department Store.
A fixture in Schroon Lake for decades.
As luck would have it, during the renovations, the Raglands discovered a significant artifact: Schroon Lake Department Store’s original stained glass sign. They undertook a painstaking restoration of the sign, a massive 48-foot by 3-foot stained glass window that clearly needed TLC.
In a recent article in The Sun, Amanda commented, “I’m excited that we are bringing back the history and sharing it with the town, and I’m proud of the building and the work we put into it; we gave it a lot of love this winter.”
Set your GPS to the Schroon Lake Department Store.
The Schroon Lake Department Store is more than a shopping destination; it’s part of the Adirondack experience. Whether stocking up for a day on the lake, hunting for a unique souvenir, or simply looking to connect with the local culture, this charming store delivers. It’s a reminder of the joys of small-town life and the enduring appeal of a well-loved local institution.
A stop here is a must for those exploring the Adirondacks. Be prepared to linger—you may enter looking for one thing, but leave with a heart full of memories and a bag of unexpected treasures.
Hours vary depending on the season, so check their website or Facebook page for the latest info.
Take a peak inside the Schroon Lake Department Store.
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