A Historic Summer in Inlet, NY
Summer in the Adirondacks has always carried a special kind of magic, but this season in Inlet, New York, has taken community pride and celebration to remarkable new heights. As communities nationwide geared up for the USA 250th Birthday Celebration, the Town of Inlet and the Inlet Area Business Association (IABA) rallied local storefronts, locals, and visitors together for an unforgettable summer season marked by patriotism, tradition, and town-wide camaraderie.
From vibrant storefront displays draped in red, white, and blue to bustling community gatherings where "Mountains and Memories Meet," Inlet has proven once again why it remains one of the true crown jewels of the central Adirondacks.
Inlet’s 250th Decorating Contest
And the Winner Is… The Eagle Bay Tavern!
The competition was fierce, creative, and spirited, but after taking in all the stellar storefront displays glowing in stars and stripes, the community has spoken.
Congratulations to The Eagle Bay Tavern, officially crowned the winner of Inlet’s 2026 Best Decorated Business Contest!
The Eagle Bay Tavern knocked it out of the park with an exceptional, heartfelt patriotic display that captured both hometown heritage and the celebratory spirit of America’s 250th milestone.
Owned and operated by Linda Smith, alongside her daughter and son-in-law, Caeleigh and Nate Clague, the Tavern has stood as a beloved regional staple for decades. Linda and her family purchased the historic establishment 13 years ago from longtime previous owners Bonnie and Larry Lawrence, and ever since, they have preserved its authentic Adirondack warmth while building a thriving community hub.
More Than Just Great Food, A Community Anchor
Known far and wide for their award-winning burgers and legendary homemade chili, The Eagle Bay Tavern serves up a comprehensive menu packed with fresh comfort foods such as sizzling steaks and hot sandwiches, crisp chicken tenders and hearty baskets, or scratch-made soups, salads, and rotating daily specials.
Whether you are dropping in for a quick lunch or settling down for a hearty dinner, there is something satisfying on the menu for every appetite.
Beyond their regular kitchen offerings, the Tavern is deeply woven into the fabric of local traditions. Every summer, locals and travelers gather on the patio and grounds for their popular weekly corn hole tournaments. In late summer, the Tavern partners to co host (The Mountainside Smokehouse) charitable events such as their first annual benefit golf tournament with proceeds directly supporting the Lewis County Humane Society. Continuing their tradition of hospitality, the team also opens its doors every November to host a free Thanksgiving dinner for anyone in the community looking for a warm meal and welcoming company.
Open 365 days a year with lunch kicking off daily at 11:00 a.m. and going strong into the late night hours, the Eagle Bay Tavern embodies the hardworking spirit of the North Country. As the ownership team noted during the contest celebrations:
“The Tavern is excited to win “Best Decorated Business,” Linda said. “It’s not just one day a year that we celebrate our independence. We celebrate our freedom every single day.”
Celebrating Inlet’s Runner-Ups
Choosing a single winner was no easy feat, thanks to the immense creativity shown across the hamlet. A hearty congratulations goes out to the contest runners up:
ADK Salon – Bringing style, selfcare, and unmatched professionalism to town, their creative window design celebrated American pride while showcasing what it means to look and feel your absolute best in the mountains.
Arthouse at the Warehouse – Featuring handcrafted treasures, artisan gifts, and locally produced Adirondack craftsmanship, their patriotic curation highlighted local artists with timeless charm.
Marina Motel – Welcoming lake goers and road trippers alike, their property glowed with red, white, and blue lakefront hospitality.
Mountain & Main – A quintessential Adirondack mercantile offering unique regional goods, curated homewares, and artisan gifts that honored America's pivotal historical milestone in authentic North Country style.
Summer Memories, Continued: What’s Happening Around Town
While the contest wrapped up, summer activities in Inlet and the surrounding Fulton Chain of Lakes continued to roll along and entertain visitors and locals alike:
Inlet Fall Festival September 19th and 20th
Adirondack Kids Day in Inlet October 3rd - featured interactive painting workshops with Greg Rudd Pottery Studio, family-friendly lake activities, Kids Day ensured there was never a shortage of smiles.
History Walk at Fern Park: Enjoy all seasons outdoors with a stroll along Fern Park. Sponsored by the Inlet Public Library, it’s the perfect activity for young readers and nature lovers.
Stay Connected & Plan Your Visit to Inlet for an amazing and truly unique Adirondack Experience
Whether you’re stopping in for an award-winning burger, browsing our independent shops, or simply enjoying the peaceful breeze off Fourth Lake, Inlet welcomes you with open arms.
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