If you’re looking for things to do in Altamont, New York, you’ve come to the right place. The village is located in Albany County, New York, and is home to a small population of 1,720. Altamont’s name is derived from the Spanish, meaning “high mountain.” The village has a number of things to offer visitors, including the Altamont Fair, schools, and Fall foliage.
Altamont Fair
There are many things to do in Altamont Fair, New York. Whether you are visiting for the day or the whole weekend, there is plenty to keep you entertained. You can eat fair food, visit various vendors, or even watch a demolition derby! There are also a number of rides and activities for kids.
In addition to the rides, food, and art exhibits, there is also a wide selection of live music, from country to energetic party bands. The Altamont Fair also offers a chapel with quiet spots for the whole family. In case you get too tired, you can also take some medication with you.
The Altamont Fair is a three-county event, representing Albany, Schenectady, and Greene counties. It is supported by contributions, admissions, and rentals. Aside from the annual fair, the Altamont Fairgrounds also host many events throughout the year. The grounds also feature several museums. If you are interested in hosting an event, the Fairgrounds can help make your event successful.
Historic Hiram Griggs House
The Hiram Griggs House is an example of Victorian Italianate style and has recently been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The home was built in 1873 and was owned by Hiram Griggs. He began practicing law in Knowersville and was instrumental in establishing a rail stop in the town, which later became Altamont.
The home’s original owner, Hiram Griggs, was an important part of the community and embodied the term ‘town father’. The Historic Hiram Griggs House is located at 111 Prospect Terrace in Altamont, Albany County, New York.
Hiram Griggs was an early Altamont politician, establishing the Altamont Fairgrounds and the Altamont Illuminating Company. The company provided the city with public gas lights until 1916, when electricity was installed. The historic Hiram Griggs House was built in 1873 and has been restored several times. In 2009, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Before 1890, Altamont was known as Knowersville. This status made it possible for the city to institute taxes to cover its resources. In 1890, the town held a special election to decide whether the village would become independent of Guilderland. Residents overwhelmingly voted to become a municipality, and Hiram Grigg was the first mayor.
Schools
The Altamont School provides academic excellence and is known for its innovative ideas. The school strives to develop well-rounded individuals with a passion for improving society. It is located five minutes from downtown Birmingham on the crest of Red Mountain. The school has 360 students enrolled in grades five through twelve. Its academic programs are designed to challenge students and prepare them for rigorous college programs.
The Altamont School was founded in 1901. It is a college preparatory day school that serves students in grades 5 through 12. The school’s enrollment is primarily Birmingham-area residents. In addition to the school’s diverse student body, it has a renowned faculty. Its first headmistress was Edna Earle Mullins, who was appointed in 1903. Later, she was replaced by Bill Haver, who became the school’s headmaster. Since then, the school has had several head teachers, including Margaret Gage and Martin Hames.
Altamont Public Schools serve all children. The district is tuition-free and publicly funded. It is mandated by law to educate all students. Each state’s constitution contains a provision requiring public schools. This law is called the Compulsory Education Law. The Altamont Public Schools are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Altamont Grade School offers a wide range of educational programs for its students. It offers courses in language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and physical education. It also has a social worker on staff, offers food services, and organizes field trips. The Altamont School is governed by the Guilderland Community Unit 10, which manages several elementary schools.
Altamont School offers a lunch program, a Commercial Department, and a motion picture projector. It also offers courses in Spanish and journalism. The school publishes a school newspaper and yearbook.
Fall foliage
The foliage in Altamont is expected to reach its peak by this weekend. The colors will include yellow, orange, and red. Depending on the region, the colors can vary by a few miles. Central New York and the Finger Lakes will have an almost complete color change. However, the Catskills will be a different story.
In Altamont, you can enjoy historic homes, a scenic pond, and quaint shops and restaurants. The town also has a restored train station. This building was renovated by volunteers and now houses a free library. While you’re visiting, don’t miss a free museum and a local tavern.
Fall foliage tours are also a popular activity. Many railroads host excursions to see the beautiful colors. The Baltimore & Ohio F7A’s often serve as helpers on special trains through the region. These trains operate on the 17-Mile Grade and are a must-see for fall foliage enthusiasts.
Hidden destination
Altamont is a small, upcoming tourist destination that boasts many unique things to do. If you’re in the area, consider making it a stop on your way to Chattanooga or Nashville. Here are some tips on planning your trip. First, find out where you can stay and eat in Altamont. Also, learn which attractions are popular in the area.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Altamont, consider the Altamont West Hotel. It offers bright, air-conditioned rooms with a modern and tropical vibe. Room amenities include mini-fridges, cable television, and free Wi-Fi. In addition, there’s a restaurant, a bar, and an independently owned spa. And if you’re looking for an affordable place to eat, the hotel’s free breakfast will help you eat on a budget.
The Altamont Ponds are part of the High Rock Park Conceptual Plan, and are surrounded by woodland pools. You can reach them via a road off Richmond Road. The road to the ponds also passes the Altamont House, a brick and wood structure that dates back to the days when High Rock Park was a Girl Scout camp. Its balcony overlooks a small pond. The pond below the Altamont House’s balcony is the remnant of a kettle-shaped depression that sprang up during the ice age.
