The Champlain Canal Region Gateway Visitor Center is your gateway to discovering the rich history, stunning natural beauty, and thriving culture of the Champlain Canal region. Located in the heart of Schuylerville, the visitor center provides a wealth of information and resources for travelers and locals alike for the entire region. Whether you’re interested in exploring the area’s role in America’s history, enjoying outdoor recreational activities, or want to learn more about what’s happening in surrounding communities, our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you. With informative exhibits and displays and a welcoming atmosphere, the Champlain Canal Region Gateway Visitor Center is the perfect starting point for your next adventure. Come and immerse yourself in the stories and landscape that defines this unique part of New York.

The building is a beautifully crafted timber frame structure, inspired by the architectural stylings of a Dutch Barn, similar to what would have once stood on the property of the nearby Schuyler House. Completed with the expertise of the Timber Framers Guild and with the help of numerous community volunteers, the building seamlessly blends historical charm with modern amenities. Large windows allow natural light to flood the interior, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The result is a stunning facility that serves as a welcoming gateway to the Champlain Canal region.

A 70-year-old Benjamin Franklin passed through the Saratoga region in the spring of 1776 on a mission that failed in the moment but helped shape the American Revolution. Saratoga 250 will commemorate the 250th anniversary of that journey on Tuesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. at the Champlain Canal Region Gateway Visitors Center.

The presentation, “Benjamin Franklin Slept Here,” will be delivered by Town of Saratoga Historian Sean Kelleher. It explores Franklin’s attempt to persuade Canada to join the revolutionary cause and examines why the effort failed. Traveling north in poor health, Franklin faced harsh conditions, limited support, and political resistance, ultimately returning without achieving his objective.

Kelleher emphasizes Franklin’s age and experience at the time. At 70, he was one of the oldest figures in the revolutionary leadership, bringing decades of diplomatic skill but also confronting the physical limits of travel in wartime. Historians note that the failure of the Canadian mission influenced Franklin’s later success in France, where he secured the alliance that proved critical to American independence.

The talk also connects Franklin’s journey to the Saratoga region’s later significance during the Battles of Saratoga, which helped convince France to support the American cause.

The program is part of Saratoga 250’s broader effort to prepare for the Semiquincentennial through heritage tourism and public history programming. The event is free and open to the public.  Registration is required, details are at https://saratoga250.brightrtravel.com/s/event/benjamin-franklin-slept-here

Our Hours

**We will be closed intermittently for construction. Please check our Facebook page for current hours.**

Monday ~ Closed

Tuesday ~ Closed

Wednesday ~ Closed

Thursday ~ Closed

Friday ~ Closed

Saturday ~ Closed

Sunday ~ Closed

Visit us at:

30 Ferry St
Schuylerville, NY 12871