Lake George   Travel Guide

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places to visit in lake george new york

15 Best Things To Do in Lake George

Updated May 13, 2021

Lake George is made for travelers who love to explore the outdoors. Visitors here can hit the hiking trails on Prospect Mountain or trek to Shelving Rock Falls . Families will appreciate the wide sandy shores of Million Dollar Beach – ideal for

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places to visit in lake george new york

Lake George Lake George free

The crown jewel of the town of Lake George is the lake itself. Lake George is a narrow, oval lake that stretches 32 miles in length, features 176 miles of shoreline and encompasses more than 170 islands. In addition to the village of Lake George on the southern banks, the lake has several other towns and communities that line its perimeter, including Bolton Landing to the west, Ticonderoga to the north and Huletts Landing to the east. One of the best ways to see Lake George in all its splendor is during sunrise or sunset. Top spots to check out the sunrise include the summit of Prospect Mountain in Lake George and Rogers Park in Bolton Landing. You can catch the best sunset views at Sleeping Beauty Mountain, Top of the World Golf Resort and some of the eateries in Lake George, such as Boardwalk Restaurant & Marina and Christie's on the Lake.

Another excellent way to take in the lake and its scenery is on the water: Consider booking a steamboat cruise , hitting the beach to sunbathe and swim or renting a kayak . In addition to enjoying the lake, previous visitors loved walking around the town, saying there are several quaint shops and restaurants to explore. Travelers are consistently impressed with how clean and well-maintained the area and its surroundings are.

places to visit in lake george new york

Prospect Mountain Prospect Mountain

Frequently hailed as the best (and most popular) hiking spot in Lake George, Prospect Mountain is about a 3-mile round-trip trek. The trailhead is easily accessible from town and the summit provides sweeping views of the lake, the mountains and the forest. You can pick up the trail on Smith Street (you'll notice a sign); there's a set of stairs up and across a highway that will take you to the wooded beginning of the pathway. Terrain along the way can be rocky and parts of the trail to the summit can be steep, so this hike is not recommended for small children. If you still would like to enjoy the views but aren't up for a hike, you can also reach the summit via car: Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway snakes up the mountain to the top. There are a few scenic overlooks you can stop at along the nearly 6-mile drive as well.

Past travelers said the hike up Prospect Mountain is completely worth it, noting it's challenging but enjoyable. Previous hikers recommend packing snacks, water and bug spray, and say it's best to tackle the hike on a clear day so you can take advantage of the views from the top. Visitors who drove up the mountain appreciated the lookout spots along the way and echoed the hikers' sentiment: if you go on a cloudy or foggy day, you won't get to see the spectacular view that you would when it's clear and sunny.

places to visit in lake george new york

Million Dollar Beach Million Dollar Beach free

A scenic, sandy beach located on the southern shores of Lake George, Million Dollar Beach (sometimes called Lake George Beach) is a local and visitor favorite for soaking up the sun. The 51-acre beach area is wide, meaning there's plenty of room to spread out, and there are lifeguards on duty to supervise swimming. (Keep in mind, you can only get in the water to swim when the lifeguards are on duty.) Kids can build sandcastles, swim in the cool Lake George and watch the various boats sail by. You can expect plenty of on-site amenities here as well, including picnic tables and grills, a small concessions stand, volleyball courts, showers and changing rooms. This spot also has a public boat launch with a boat inspection and washing station (free of charge).

Recent beachgoers were impressed by the cleanliness of the shoreline and say it's a great spot to spend the whole day swimming and relaxing with family and friends. Visitors say the view of the lake is also incredible and many recommended arriving early to ensure you get a prime spot for the day.

places to visit in lake george new york

Shelving Rock Falls Shelving Rock Falls free

Situated on the eastern side of Lake George, Shelving Rock Falls is a 50-foot cascade that runs over rock formations of varying sizes. The hike to get to the falls is moderate and should be manageable for novice hikers: It's a wide dirt trail (unmarked) that weaves through the forest, along the lake and to the falls. There are bits of the trail that are rocky, so you'll want to make sure you have sturdy shoes for the trek. What's more, there's plenty of scenic beauty to soak up along the way: you'll see streams, rocky landscapes, trees, flora, lake views and more. Younger adventurers can also enjoy the various geocaches throughout the hike. If you bring or wear your bathing suit, you can splash in the stream or swim in Log Bay. If you're looking for a longer hike, consider traversing the Shelving Rock Summit hike, which is about a 3 1/2-mile round-trip hike to the summit of the mountain and back.

Many recent hikers enjoyed the short trek to see the falls and the lovely mountain and lake scenery. Several recommended doing the hike to the falls and to the summit to make the most of your time here since it's a bit of a drive from central Lake George. Some warn though that parts of the trail are steep and the rocks can be slippery if you're climbing over them, so you may want to bring closed-toe water shoes as well.

places to visit in lake george new york

Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course

Calling all adventurers: This activity is for you. The Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course is an aerial adventure and ropes course – the first of its kind to open in the U.S. The adventure course is set up among the mountains and trees of the Adirondacks, and includes everything from obstacles and rope swings to zip lines and rock climbing walls. There are six adult courses and two children's courses for people to choose from. Visitors are clipped in to harnesses and a safety cable throughout the courses, and everyone must go through a safety training before getting started on the courses.

"Fantastic," "incredible" and "a fun challenge" are a few descriptions travelers used when reviewing the adventure courses here. Many praised the knowledgeable, helpful, friendly and energetic guides, and say this is an excellent family-friendly activity. Several also said that the adventure course is an incredible value for several hours of obstacles and fun.

places to visit in lake george new york

Lake George Steamboat Cruise Lake George Steamboat Cruise

There's possibly no better way to experience Lake George than to actually get out and see the lake – by boat. The Lake George Steamboat Company offers several different sailing experiences on the water where you can soak in the lake views and surrounding scenery. Those looking for a brief introduction to Lake George will likely be interested in the Minne Ha Ha Paddlewheel cruise, an hourlong trip that takes visitors along the shores of Lake George's southern basin. Travelers who want a bite to eat and a relaxing, longer trip should check out the Lac du Saint Sacrement Midday Luncheon Cruise, Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruise or Sunset Dinner Cruise: these typically last about two hours and include food and drinks. Meanwhile, families with kids will enjoy the hourlong Friday Night Pirate Cruise, complete with a goodie bag. The longest option, the Mohican Full Lake Cruise, lasts six hours and takes guests on a complete tour of the lake, where you might see sights like historical mansions, mountainous areas, lush islands and more. The company operates a few other trips as well, including a fall foliage excursion and family dinner cruises.

Recent travelers say a boat trip around the lake is a must-do when visiting Lake George. Many say the cruises that include meals are a great value, and most cruisers gush over the incredible scenery. Several patrons who visit the area frequently say they make sure to carve out time for a cruise during each trip, citing the peaceful boat ride and the friendly, informative guides as reasons to return.

places to visit in lake george new york

Warren County Bikeway Warren County Bikeway free

The Warren County Bikeway is a nearly 10-mile paved trail that's perfect for walking, jogging and biking. The pathway begins in Glens Falls, New York, about 12 miles south of Lake George, then continues north through Queensbury and onward to conclude in Lake George at Battlefield Park. For visitors staying in Lake George, you can hop on the trail near Battlefield Park and travel south. The path includes a few hills, and it's shaded with a canopy of trees – which makes for a scenic ride or stroll, many say. You'll also find a few signs along the way that detail the trail's history. And from December to March, it's a dedicated snowmobile route.

Recent bikers say a ride on the trail is excellent exercise and the surroundings are quite beautiful. Several commented on how well maintained the pathway is as well.

places to visit in lake george new york

Shepard Park Shepard Park free

Smack dab in the center of Lake George Village, Shepard Park is a small green space that's home to the Centennial Fountain and often hosts events throughout the year. The park features an amphitheater where locals and visitors alike can enjoy free summer concerts and music festivals. What's more, there are typically fireworks displays on select evenings. There's also a playground on-site, in addition to public bathrooms. Shepard's Park Beach sits between the park and Lake George, and offers a sandy spot for visitors to relax and children to play.

Travelers say Shepard Park is the perfect place to unwind and watch the boats putter around Lake George. They note that the beach here is much smaller than Million Dollar Beach , but say it's well-maintained. Many previous visitors also loved attending the weekly events here and recommend others stop by to enjoy the music or fireworks.

places to visit in lake george new york

Lake George Kayaking, Canoeing and Paddleboarding Lake George Kayaking, Canoeing and Paddleboarding

If you want to be out on Lake George and get some exercise in as well, consider renting a kayak, canoe or paddleboard to navigate the lake at your leisure. Several companies offer rental equipment and there are a few different launch areas around the lake. The two most convenient options for those staying in Lake George are:

Kayak Lake George: This company is situated in the village of Lake George, just north of Shepard Park. You can rent everything from single and double kayaks to stand-up paddleboards and paddle boats. Prices range from about $30 to $40 per hour depending on the equipment; paddle boats cost $20 per person, per hour. The outfitter is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from May to September. Walk-ins are welcome, but you can also reserve via phone, email or contact form online. For additional info, head to the company's website .

places to visit in lake george new york

Adirondack Winery Adirondack Winery

Sample some local wine and relax at Adirondack Winery's Lake George outpost in the center of town. Adirondack Winery's headquarters is in Queensbury, New York, about 10 miles south of Lake George, but it has two tasting room locations: one in Lake George and one in Bolton Landing. There are a variety of wines available to taste at the Lake George outpost. Options range from dry riesling and chardonnay to pinot noir and cabernet franc to fruit-infused wine like mixed berry-infused rosé, peach-infused white wine and black cherry-infused red wine. The store also offers snacks like crackers, pretzels, chocolate and cheese plates, and specialty drinks like wine slushies. What's more, you get to keep the souvenir wine glass after your tasting. Specials are also available for those who want to purchase four or more bottles of wine.

Visitors raved about their experiences at the Adirondack Winery Lake George tasting room, saying the delightful employees who take you through your tasting are savvy and know their wine. Many said they loved the wide variety of wines – from sweet to dry – and highly recommend this activity to future travelers.

places to visit in lake george new york

Fort William Henry Museum Fort William Henry Museum

Jump back in time to see what the wilderness of Lake George was like during the French and Indian War in the 1700s at the Fort William Henry Museum. The museum offers two tour options: On the general history tour, you'll learn more about the history of the area and the war, interact with the fort's soldiers (costumed reenactors), see the cannons fire and more. On the ghost tour, you'll hear stories that have been passed down for years and tour guides' personal experiences with the supernatural while seeing spooky sights along the way.

Both the history tour and the ghost tour received praise from recent visitors. Tourgoers were impressed with the exhibits and demonstrations, and felt they learned a lot during their visit. Many said the ghost tour guides are engaging and knowledgeable. Others highly recommend you stop in to the gift shop and peruse the souvenirs before leaving.  

places to visit in lake george new york

Sleeping Beauty Mountain Sleeping Beauty Mountain

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places to visit in lake george new york

Lake George Camping Lake George Camping

places to visit in lake george new york

Lake George Whitewater Rafting Lake George Whitewater Rafting

places to visit in lake george new york

Top of the World Golf Resort Top of the World Golf Resort

places to visit in lake george new york

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PlanetWare.com

16 Top-Rated Things to Do in Lake George, NY

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

When it comes to Upstate New York getaways, few are as popular or offer as many things to do as Lake George. This sparkling jewel of a lake sits within the Adirondack Park in Upstate New York.

Lake George in the Fall

In the 18th century, Lake George became the site of Fort William Henry, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. Its purpose was to protect the lake and guard British interests against the French from the north. The fort is still standing and serves as a step back in time to Lake George's colonial days.

Today, Lake George is one of the most popular vacation destinations for New Yorkers and those in the Northeast. Travelers are drawn to the rugged, wild Adirondack mountains, which is the largest protected natural area in the lower 48 of the United States.

Lake George is a massive draw for family travelers, packed with soft and hard adventures, like hiking and biking trails, zipline courses, skiing in the winter, discount shopping, and museums. Whether it's summer on the lake, a scenic byway drive in leaf-peeping season, or a winter snuggle at a five-star resort, discover the best things to do in Lake George.

1. Get Out on the Lake

2. drive prospect mountain veterans memorial highway, 3. hit the hundreds of miles of trails, 4. visit the village of bolton landing, 5. picnic by the lake, 6. enjoy a steamboat cruise, 7. try the adirondack extreme adventure course, 8. discover shelving rock falls, 9. get an adrenaline fix whitewater rafting, 10. discover colonial history at fort william henry, 11. bask on million dollar beach, 12. attend summertime festivals, 13. explore the sagamore resort, 14. camp on lake george, 15. shop at the factory outlets, 16. discover the house of frankenstein wax museum, where to stay in lake george for sightseeing, lake george, ny - climate chart.

Aerial view of Lake George

It goes without saying that the highlight of visiting the Lake George region is, in fact, Lake George. It's one of the gems of Upstate New York's Adirondack Park and stretches for 32 miles. Since it's the namesake of the destination, it's no surprise that so many of the area's attractions are all about the lake itself.

Summer is the high season for Lake George, and boating is the main draw. Even on hot sunny days, the summer weather feels refreshing thanks to the breezes; it's slightly cooler by the water than just a few miles away over the hills. However, keep in mind that strong winds can whip up in the afternoon. Think about getting your boat or kayak back to shore before it's too gusty.

Whether you're an experienced boater or just getting used to your sea legs, Lake George has a variety of boating opportunities. Start with Brodie's Lakeside , where you can rent a speedboat or a pontoon .

If it's a workout you're after, Lake George Kayak Company rents out kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards.

You can even scuba dive in the waters of Lake George by booking a dive charter at Halfmoon Marine Services.

View of the Adirondack High Peaks from Prospect Mountain

This 5.5-mile stretch of scenic highway opens up to spectacular views of Lake George and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains. The seasonal highway is open from May through Veterans' Day in November.

The highway winds its way up the 2,030-foot summit of Prospect Mountain . From the peak, you are rewarded with views that stretch 100 miles, as far as Vermont's Green Mountains and New Hampshire's White Mountains. On a clear day, you can even see across the border into Canada.

At the top of Prospect Mountain, you'll find the remains of the Prospect Mountain Cable Incline Railway . It was built at the end of the 19th century as a way to shuttle well-heeled visitors to the top of the mountain. At that time, it was the longest cable railroad in the world.

Trail in Lake George

If you're in good shape, you can hike up Prospect Mountain on foot . The hike is only about three miles round trip, but it's steep, so definitely expect a workout.

But Lake George and the surrounding mountains are veined with hundreds of miles of trails, which scale many of the lush, verdant Adirondack peaks that surround the lake.

Buck Mountain is a challenging three-mile hike (one way) that affords spectacular views.

For something less difficult, Sleeping Beauty Mountain is far more moderate, though the length is seven miles round trip.

Serious hikers can attempt The Lake George 12ster , a series of hiking challenges that involve summiting 12 peaks.

Cyclists have plenty of trails to call their own in Lake George. Start with the Warren County Bikeway, which links Lake George to Glen Falls. From Glen Falls, there are several other bike routes that branch out.

The winter season blankets upstate New York in fresh powder, which makes Lake George a prime area for skiers . Gore Mountain is the closest peak to Lake George, with 110 trails across four peaks.

Aerial view of Bolton Landing, New York

What the tiny village of Bolton Landing lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. The quaint downtown, dating back to 1799, brims with small boutiques, ice-cream shops, restaurants, and cafes. And it's all just steps away from the lakefront.

Start at the Bolton Visitor Cente r, which provides plenty of tourist information. Across the street, the Bolton Historical Museum presents the history of boating on Lake George. Next to the museum is Rogers Park , a waterfront green space where you can picnic, relax, and sunbathe.

Hague Town Beach Park

Plan ahead and pack your picnic basket or backpack. Picnicking is a quintessential summertime experience at Lake George. There's nothing quite like enjoying a gourmet spread, on a sunny day while listening to the lake's gentle waves.

You can choose from a variety of picnic spots next to Lake George, including lakeside parks and beaches. Some top-choice picnic spots are the Hague Town Beach Park in The Hague and Veteran's Memorial Park in Bolton Landing.

Steamboat on Lake George

Take in the beautiful Lake George scenery from the comfort of an old-fashioned-style steamboat. Sightseeing cruises have been a tradition on Lake George since the mid-1800s.

The Lake George Steamboat Company sails day cruises , as well as brunch, luncheon, and dinner cruises. Some of the company's boats are historic vessels.

The Lake George Waterfront Cruises company offers historic sightseeing cruises aboard a vessel designed to resemble a 19th-century touring ship.

Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course

Adventure awaits high in the treetops above Bolton Landing on the western shores of Lake George. The Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course is a tree-top challenge obstacle course with six elevated adventures to choose from.

The six aerial courses include 60 tree-top obstacles, zip lines, Tarzan jumps, rope swings, cable bridges, slides, nets, and ladders. In fact, the course is one of the largest aerial parks in the United States.

This family-friendly activity is designed for adults and kids aged nine years and up. It's an excellent bonding activity for families and friends who want to spend a challenging day out in nature together. Reservations are required, and the park is open in all weather.

Address: 35 Westwood Forest Lane, Bolton Landing, New York

Shelving Rock Falls

On the east side of Lake George, you'll discover Shelving Rock Falls. This thundering natural spectacle is a 50-foot cascade of plunging Adirondack water, which leaps and slides down a tiered rock face.

Fortunately, it's not much of a challenge to get to the falls. It's accessible by car, but also by boat into Log Bay and then allowing a quick 15-minute walk.

Of course, you can up the intensity level with a climb to the top of Shelving Rock Mountain. The trailhead for the hike is just past the Shelving Rock Falls trailhead. The hike itself isn't particularly hard, but it's a solid 3.5-mile round trip.

Rafting on the Hudson River

Adrenaline junkies will get their fix chasing the rapids along the rivers of the Adirondack Mountains near Lake George. In fact, whitewater rafting is one of the most intense activities you can do in this part of New York State.

Thousands of people descend each summer to test their skills along the Hudson and Sacandaga Rivers, which offer everything from mild and mellow to heart-pumping rapids.

The Hudson River , while wide and calm closer to New York City, rages and rips in Upstate New York. This requires rafters to master class II-V rapids. The runs are created from snowmelt, which results in churning rapids and plunging pools.

For something calmer, the Sacandaga River is ideal for beginners. Rafting companies in the area will take travelers on a four-mile ride down the slow-moving class I-II rapids. Rafting trips depart from the town of Hadley which is a 20-minute drive from Lake George Village

Fort William Henry

Step back in time to New York State during the British colonial era. Fort William Henry was constructed in 1757 as an outpost in the wilderness to help protect the British colonies from the French invaders from Montreal and beyond.

Today, you can roam around the historic fort on a guided tour. The guided tours include a visit to the site's museum. You can also watch live military demonstrations, which are presented several times daily.

The staff at Fort William Henry dresses in traditional garb and plays the part of British colonists, who are there to answer your questions about life on Lake George in the 1750s.

Address: 48 Canada Street, Lake George, New York

Million Dollar Beach

On warm summer days, Million Dollar Beach draws crowds. The downside is the limited space to spread out on the beach while sunbathing. The upside is the lively summer vacation vibe.

The beach is part of Lake George Beach State Park , located in a sheltered cove at the southern basin of the lake near the Lake George Battleground Campground and a short walk from the Village of Lake George's commercial center.

You need to drive from most hotels in the Village of Lake George to Million Dollar Beach. However, a few hotels, such as the Quality Inn, The Harbor, and the Tiki Resort, are within walking distance (15- to 20-minute walk).

The largest and most-visited of Lake George's beaches, the sweeping stretch of sand is clean and well-maintained, with showers, bathrooms, and locker rooms. During the summer season, lifeguard supervision is provided. The beach even has a full-time, public boat launch.

You could easily spend an entire day at Million Dollar Beach, whether you bring your own picnic lunch or buy food from the nearby concessions. The picnic areas even have their own grills, which are open to the public.

Million Dollar Beach is open from the end of May through Labor Day. Hours are 10am until 6pm. Access to the beach is free of charge, except that you must pay to use the parking lot. Street parking is available nearby, but this is metered parking (you need to use a machine to pay the parking fee, in advance, for a specific amount of time).

Outdoor Concert at Shepard Park Amphitheater

Besides boating, swimming, and sunbathing, summertime brings festivals and outdoor performances to Lake George.

Some popular cultural events are the Jazz at the Lake festival and the Summer Concert Series , held in the Village of Lake George at Shepard Park Amphitheater. Bring a blanket and relax on the spacious tiered seating, set in a shady grove overlooking the lake.

The Sembich museum's open-air theater hosts a classy summer festival with a variety of cultural offerings. The festival includes a series of opera performances, music concerts (classical, jazz, and tango), and film screenings.

The Lake George Music Festival takes place in mid-August at the For William Henry's Carriage House. This festival includes professional orchestra performances.

In early September, you can attend a car show in the Village of Lake George: the Adirondack Nationals presents hotrods, muscle cars, and other classic vintage automobiles.

The Sagamore Resort

No trip to Lake George is complete without a stop at the luxurious Sagamore Resort , which is constantly rated as one of the top resorts in the Northeast. If you've got a little extra money to burn, it's absolutely worth the splurge.

The Sagamore Resort opened in the late 19th century on a secluded 70-acre island . It was attractive for well-heeled families, celebrities, and dignitaries, all of whom were drawn to the shimmering lake views. Today there is an 18-hole Donald Ross-designed golf course that brings in a fair share of travelers.

You can stay in the historic hotel or in lakeside lodges , or choose from the two-story suites and individually decorated condominiums. If you simply want to check out the property, the restaurants are next level, as is the spa.

Address: 110 Sagamore Road, Bolton Landing, New York

Lake George at night

Adventurous travelers who want to reconnect with nature can't do better than camping at Lake George. Surrounded by the towering Adirondack Mountains, there are few better places in New York State to sleep under the stars.

The Lake George Camping Village has something for every type of camper, from secluded campsites tucked in the trees to cabins and RV hookups.

If RV camping is more your speed, the Lake George RV Park has campsites, as well as an array of on-site amenities including trolley shuttles, picnic tables, a fitness center, tennis courts, pickleball courts, outdoor swimming pools, children's playgrounds, an aquatic park with a waterslide, ice cream parlor, summertime bonfires, and live entertainment.

Do you prefer glamping? Camp Orenda , less than an hour from Lake George, has six canvas tents decked out with queen-size beds, down comforters, and even hot showers and flush toilets.

The Department of Environmental Conservation offers campgrounds on three islands of Lake George: Glen Island, Long Island, and Narrow Islands. You can only get to these campgrounds by boat. You can also camp on Flirtation Island, which is part of Rogers Rock Campground .

The Outlets at Lake George

When in Lake George, why not do a little discount shopping? Lake George is famous for its vast number of factory outlets that sell A-list, brand-name apparel and goods at a fraction of the cost.

The outlets are open year-round and are all within a short distance from each other, so it's easy to tailor a shopping trip length based on what you're in the mood for.

The two most popular options are The Outlets at Lake George and Adirondack Outlet Mall . Brand names to look for include everyone from Vera Bradley and Michael Kors to Adidas and COACH. The Outlets at Lake George are on either side of Highway 9, while the Adirondack Outlet Mall has more than 50 stores indoors.

If you're visiting Lake George in the warmer months, you'll have to reserve time to get spooked at the House of Frankenstein Wax Museum. A sensory experience, the haunted house features a series of lifelike wax and animatronic statues.

The self-guided museum tour has more than 50 exhibits that start with a greeting from none other than Frankenstein's monster. It may look kitschy, but do not be fooled – the scares are certainly for real, and this house is definitely not suitable for children. Inside you'll find everything from pop culture creepsters, Freddy & Jason, to the spirits and ghouls of the history books. You may recognize The Hunchback of Notre Dame or Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, as well as Jack the Ripper and Burke and Hare.

House of Frankenstein opened in the 1970s and has been frightening Lake George visitors ever since. Be forewarned that there are many scares that jump out at you, so if you frighten easily, you may want to skip this local attraction.

The local legend closes in the winter, but opens usually in April every year for another season of screams and scares.

Address: 213 Canada Street, Lake George, New York

Official site: https://frankensteinwaxmuseum.com/

Being one of the premier vacation getaways in Upstate New York leaves visitors to Lake George spoilt for choice with accommodations. From five-star luxury to vintage retro, campgrounds, and everything in between, Lake George offers the perfect stay for everyone.

  • Fort William Henry Hotel & Conference Center is a year-round resort with three buildings to choose from: the upscale Grand Hotel, the more modest Premium East Wing, and the Standard West Motel. All accommodations have access to an indoor pool with a sauna and Jacuzzi, Olympic-sized outdoor pool, shopping, and three restaurants.
  • Bayside Resort Lake George is a family-friendly resort that offers beautiful vistas from The View Restaurant. Be sure to book a table at sunset. Sunday Brunch on the Bay is also a fan favorite. Property amenities include a pool and beach area.
  • The Tiki Resort : For something a bit offbeat, check out this Polynesian-themed property, which features themed shows in July and August. The Tiki does Polynesian barbecues and has both indoor and outdoor pools.

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places to visit in lake george new york

TOP ATTRACTIONS

The lake george area's top attractions.

Dinner cruises on majestic Lake George. A dawn-to-dusk day at a thriling amusement park. Railbiking through a remote Adirondack wilderness...

These unique attractions created the Original Vacation and built the Lake George Area into an Adirondack vacation destination. Those looking for a lively time can explore a world-class amusement park or the biggest marble cave in the east. If you prefer a more relaxing attraction, a cruise on Lake George or a drive up Prospect Mountain will never disappoint. Whatever you're looking for, you'll find it in the Lake George Area.

places to visit in lake george new york

Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course

The 1st aerial adventure course to open in the U.S. and continues to set the bar in the aerial adventure and adventure tourism. We are the largest aerial tree-top adventure park in the United States. Designed to challenge the mind, body, and spirit of true adventurers, our linear park becomes progressively more challenging, getting higher and harder as you go. The park is designed for every age and ability.

Factory Outlets of Lake George

Factory Outlets of Lake George

Open year-round and offering the latest apparel and gifts, the Factory Outlets are the ultimate stop for anyone who loves to shop! Outlets include: The Outlets at Lake George, Adirondack Outlet Mall, French Mountain Commons, Log Jam Outlets.

Feeder Canal & Towpath Trail

Feeder Canal & Towpath Trail

The Feeder Canal and the Towpath Trail is an amazing historic site that offers diverse and free family-friendly recreational opportunities year-round including: running, walking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, as well as snowshoeing when conditions permit. More information about the Feeder Canal and Towpath Trail access spots, parking, and special events, including their annual Glens Falls Brewfest, can be found on their website.

Fort William Henry Museum

Fort William Henry Museum

History comes alive at Fort William Henry! Join us to experience the history, the sights and sounds of the fort during the French and Indian War. Located at the strategic south end of Lake George, an important part of the water transportation system used by both Native Americans and the Europeans. The fort has been featured on NatGeoTV’s “DeCrypters” and SyFy’s “Ghost Hunters.”    

places to visit in lake george new york

Hyde Collection Art Museum and Historic House

The Hyde Collection offers a world-class group of works that span almost six thousand years of art history from antiquity to the present. The Museum’s founders, Louis and Charlotte Hyde, acquired the majority of objects during a fifty-year period of avid and highly informed collecting. Many of these works are displayed in Hyde House, the founders’ former home, as well as in the Museum’s modern exhibition galleries.  

Lake George Steamboat Company

Lake George Steamboat Company

The Lake George Steamboat Company has been taking multi-generational passengers for boat cruises on Lake George for over 200 years. If you want to experience the majesty of Lake George, the Lake George Steamboat Company offers daily cruises on its three unique ships during summer months. When the leaves begin to turn there’s no better way to see the colors than on any of the fall foliage cruises!

dinner boat cruise on Lake George

Lake George Waterfront Cruises

Lake George Waterfront Cruises sets sail in comfort and style for popular cruises and private events along the shores of our magical lakefront village. Board the 115-foot Adirondac or the 85-foot Horicon and discover the majesty of the “Queen of American Lakes”. Take the Historic Sightseeing Cruise or the Lake George Bay Cruise and relive the history of Lake George. Board the Sunset Cruise, Twilight Cruise, or Thursday Night Fireworks Cruise and see the show…

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves

Natural Stone Bridge & Caves

Home of the largest marble cave entrance in the east! In the summer season, take a self-guided, 20-stop tour along the trail winding from cave to cave, with potholes and deep natural pools in between. Explore Noisy Cave, check out the resident bats in Peter Pan’s Peephole, dip under Arch Rock, and cross over the Natural Stone Bridge itself! Take a rest while overlooking Trout Brook as it rushes into the mouth of the cave…

Prospect Mountain

Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway

The spectacular 100-mile view from the 2,030′ summit of Prospect Mountain can be accessed by driving the 5.5-mile winding road. A beautiful 2-lane highway leads to a parking lot at the summit. There are three overlooks, offering picturesque views of The Narrows, Lake George, and The Eagle’s Eye. Beautiful views of Vermont’s Green Mountains, New Hampshire’s White Mountains, New York’s Adirondack High Peaks and Laurentian Mountains of Canada can be seen. *Typical hours are 10…

places to visit in lake george new york

Revolution Rail Co.

These one-of-a-kind excursions take you into some of the most remote locations in the Adirondack Mountains on a pedal-powered railbike. On these guided tours, you will travel along once train-trafficked railroad tracks through beautiful Adirondack forests, along the banks of the Hudson River, and over a spectacular trestle bridge. Brand new third location! You can now check out their third location – the Stony Creek Run – in Warrensburg, NY!  

places to visit in lake george new york

Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor

Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor has over 100 rides, with something for the whole family. Don’t miss The Bobcat, the park’s newest addition to their coaster line-up, coming in 2024! Enjoy The Comet, a world-famous coaster, or the Adirondack Outlaw – one of the park’s top thrill rides. For fun in the sun, you can’t beat their premier outdoor water park, Hurricane Harbor. Guests are immersed in a tropical paradise for a guaranteed splashing…

places to visit in lake george new york

The Festival Commons at Charles R. Wood Park

This 12.5 acre park includes a 2.5 acre festival space located at the southern end of Lake George. An outdoor space for performing arts, concerts, re-enactments, craft fairs, flea markets, farmers markets and much more, including a children’s area, and a skateboard park. Check the Festival Commons website for a full calendar of events.  

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Lake George

Things to do in lake george.

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  • Good for Kids
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  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
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  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

places to visit in lake george new york

1. Prospect Mountain

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2. Adirondack Winery

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3. Lake George

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4. Fort William Henry Museum

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5. Shelving Rock Falls

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6. Magic Forest

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7. Million Dollar Beach

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8. Warren County Bikeway

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9. House of Frankenstein Wax Museum

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10. Lake George Distilling Company

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11. Buck mountain hiking trail

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12. Lake George Plaza Outlet Center

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13. Shepherd Park

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14. Adirondack Outlet Mall

places to visit in lake george new york

15. Patriot of Lake George Museum

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16. Black Mountain Loop

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17. Lake George Historical Association and Museum

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18. Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB

19. log jam outlet center, 20. antiques market place.

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21. Gooney Golf

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22. French Mountain Commons

places to visit in lake george new york

23. Ledge Rock Hill Winery

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24. Lake George Recreation Center

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25. Lake George Visitor's Center

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26. Usher Park

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27. High Peaks Distilling

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28. Lake George Forum

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29. Ice Castles

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30. Lumberjack Pass Miniature Golf

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What travellers are saying

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  • Lake George
  • Prospect Mountain
  • Fort William Henry Museum
  • Shelving Rock Falls
  • Adirondack Winery
  • Million Dollar Beach
  • Warren County Bikeway
  • Daleys Adventure Boat Tours
  • Bolton Boat Tours and Water Sports on Lake George
  • Lake George Steamboat Co.

16 Best & Fun Things To Do In Lake George (New York)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 20, 2021  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

fun things to do in Lake George

Lake George, nicknamed the Queen of American Lakes, is a quaint town situated in the beautiful Adirondack Forest of Upstate New York.

A short drive from Manhattan , Lake George is a getaway from the hubbub of city life.

Notably, this NY town is surrounded by natural beauty at every turn: gorgeous forestry, a picturesque lake, and so much more.

Each season brings forth a new landscape as alluring as the last.

A peaceful yet fun destination to visit with family or friends, Lake George is an East Coast gem that you’ll be delighted to visit.

Better yet, there are so many amazing things to do in Lake George, New York so if you’re planning an upcoming visit to the Adirondacks, you surely won’t be disappointed.

With world-class restaurants, gorgeous hiking trails, and a diverse art scene all against the backdrop of the picturesque lake, you surely won’t be disappointed when visiting this idyllic destination.

Take a look at some of the awesome attractions you can expect to experience when visiting Lake George.

Table of Contents

1. Lake George

Lake George

Cheng Gan / Shutterstock

It should go without saying that if you’re planning a trip to Lake George, New York, you’ve definitely got to spend some time on the lake.

Surrounded by the luscious and colorful forestry of the Adirondack Mountains, Lake George is picturesque and inviting.

The lake serves as the epicenter of this gorgeous Upstate NY town.

With tons of water activities, whitewater rafting, boat cruises, jet skiing, and so much more, the lake is loaded with opportunities for fun on the water.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing way to spend your time at the lake, that’s a possibility too.

Lake George beaches are perfect for lounging, visiting with friends, reading a good book, and forgetting about all your worries.

Lake George is also home to phenomenal waterfront dining locales, marinas, boat launches, water taxis, dive sites, and so much more.

One of the greatest points of interest in all of Upstate New York, Lake George is a gorgeous setting for relaxation and adventure.

Address: Lake George, NY, United States

2. Million Dollar Beach

Million Dollar Beach

Million Dollar Beach

The largest and perhaps most popular beach in Lake George, Million Dollar Beach is a state-run, uber clean, family-friendly beach.

Although the use of the beach is free, parking does cost a nominal fee.

The picturesque beach is monitored by lifeguards and cordoned swim areas for visitors’ safety during peak season.

The beach has a public boat launch which is a big draw for visitors.

Additionally, there’s also a boat inspection station and boat cleaning station available.

In addition to swimming and boating, Million Dollar Beach has lots of other stuff to do.

This beach destination is also home to a volleyball court, picnic accommodations, and bathrooms with changing rooms.

Furthermore, the beach is fenced in for an added safety feature.

Finally, Million Dollar Beach is a lovely place to spend some time on the water or the beach.

The backdrop of the Adirondacks gives this beach an unprecedented view that you have to see to believe.

Address: 139 Beach Rd, Lake George, NY, United States

3. Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course

Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course

David Tadevosian / Shutterstock

The Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course provides thrill-seeking adventurers the opportunity to explore, climb, and uniquely traverse the Adirondacks.

Nestled in the heart of The Great Adirondack Forest, the course is rife with thrilling obstacles like a zipline park and treetop obstacle course that take you to heights you could otherwise only dream of.

One of the first aerial courses ever built in the US, Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course is a pioneer in outdoor adventure.

One of the top tourist attractions in Lake George, Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course has courses and adventures for all ages.

Some of the many fun activities you can choose from include a kids course, a treetop tour, and even river-tubing.

Whether popping in for a few hours or a whole day’s worth of fun, your whole family is sure to delight in all of the exciting recreations within the verdant and beautiful forest.

If you’re wondering what to do in Lake George, Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course is sure to deliver thrills and smiles for all.

Address: 35 Westwood Forest Lane, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, United States

4. Lake George Steamboat Cruise

Lake George Steamboat Cruise

Alan Tan Photography / Shutterstock

Lake George Steamboat Cruise has three gorgeous steamboats in its fleet: Lac du Saint Sacrement, Minne Ha Ha, and Mohican.

Each of these glorious vessels runs public and private tours of the gorgeous lake.

One of many phenomenal Lake George attractions, the steamboat tours are designed to share the beauty of the Adirondacks while also basking in the craftsmanship and history of the ships.

Each of the cruise boats and tours vary in length and entertainment options.

One of the three tours is a two-and-a-half-hour lake tour that takes a 14-mile journey weaving in and out of The Narrows, the most scenic section of Lake George.

Another tour option cruises through a mountain wilderness, while another travels past Lake George Club and Bolton’s Landing.

All of the cruises have a snack and cocktail bar, include captain’s narration, and some even have a dinner option.

If you’re wondering what to do on the lake this weekend, be sure to check out Lake George Steamboat Cruise.

Address: 57 Beach Rd, Lake George, NY 12845, United States

5. Warren County Bikeway

The Warren County Bikeway is a nearly 10-mile paved path intended for public recreational use for running, walking, and biking.

Beginning at Glens Falls and traversing through the rolling hills of Lake George, the bikeway is one of many beautiful places to visit in Upstate New York.

With two convenient public parking lots dispersed along the trail, the bikeway is easily accessible.

One of the bikeway’s best features, besides the beauty of nature surrounding it, is that the path is lined with handy kiosks containing maps that note points of interest.

Furthermore, the bikeway is lined with signage that relates historical landmarks and events that occurred along the path.

Best of all, the Warren County Bikeway is a fun place to explore all year long.

During the winter months, the bikeway shares a space with the South Warren Snowmobile Club; it is a great place to rip the snowy trails and explore in the cold weather.

Exploring other parts of New York? Why not check out some of the things to do in Brooklyn  & some of the things to do in NYC ?

6. Adirondack Winery

Adirondack Winery

Adirondack Winery

Established in April of 2008 by a husband and wife team, the Adirondack Winery is a micro-winery that has grown leaps and bounds since its onset.

The winery is home to two tasting rooms, reservations required, wherein visitors can sample over 30 hand-crafted selections.

Crafted by a resident winemaker, each of the selections is evocative of Lake George.

Known for the fruit-infused varieties, there’s something for every palette.

Guided by knowledgeable tasting guides, each tasting includes seven wines of your choice and a souvenir wine glass.

In addition to wine tastings, you can also visit Adirondack Winery’s production facility in Queensbury, a subsect of Lake George.

Here you can learn about the production process, enjoy a smaller version of the tasting experience, and purchase handcrafted bottled wines.

Lastly, Adirondack Winery hosts many seasonal events throughout the year such as a Drink Pink Fundraiser in October and a Wine Tourism day in November among other events.

One of many wonderful sightseeing spots, Adirondack Winery is a top destination in Upstate New York.

Address: 285 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845, United States

7. Fort William Henry Museum

Fort William Henry Museum

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock

This museum is one of many interesting places to go when visiting Lake George.

A visit to this historical museum will transport you to a British fort in 1755.

Not only will you see unique historical artifacts, but the immersive experience also allows you to experience life during the 18th century.

You’ll have the opportunity to partake in live musket and cannon firings as well as play 18th-century games.

Another cool museum experience includes chatting with live-action role-players like British troops and rangers that give a well-rounded insight into Colonial America.

If you’re wondering where to go during your visit to Upstate New York, check out Fort William Henry Museum .

With three different tour options, you can’t go wrong.

The museum offers guided tours, virtual tours, and haunted tours, each of which provides a unique, colonial experience.

Whether visiting today or this weekend, you’ll learn about the French and Indian War, its role in the establishment of the fort, and much more.

Address: 48 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845, United States

8. Wild Waters Outdoor Center

Wild Waters Outdoor Center

PPstock / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for wild adventure near and around Lake George, New York, be sure to check out this top destination.

The number one rafting company in Upstate New York, Wild Waters Outdoor Center provides guided tours of roaring rapids.

Upon your whitewater tour, you’ll have blood-pumping fun while learning about the region’s attractions as well as the ecology of the river.

Beyond being very knowledgeable and informative, the guides are also funny and highly entertaining.

When embarking on your whitewater rafting tour, Wild Waters Outdoor Center takes care of all the technical stuff.

The center will provide you with top-of-the-line rafting equipment including life vests, wetsuits, and booties.

What’s more, they’ll even provide your lunch for the day including fresh salads, delicious meats, homemade bread, and more all whipped up by a local chef.

Finally, the center also curates raft-and-stay packages that include lodgings if necessary.

Address: 1123 NY-28, Warrensburg, NY 12885, United States

9. Shelving Rock Falls

Shelving Rock Falls

Nicholas Santasier / Shutterstock

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Upstate New York, Shelving Rock Falls comprises a nearly two-mile summit hike surrounded by the most scenic views.

The hiking trail is simple and ideal for novice hikers and perfect for young families.

Although the hike to the falls involves some uphill terrain, the path is wide which enables up to five hikers to walk abreast.

Of note, the hike traverses the eastern side of Lake George along the waterfalls and takes about an hour to hike each way.

A wonderful locale of scenic sightseeing and lovely photo opportunities, Shelving Rock Falls is a lovely place to visit today, tomorrow, or this weekend.

Significantly, the trail can be approached by way of boat or land, either of which offers unique and picturesque scenery.

Along the hike, you’ll see beaver dams and a stony pool as you approach the falls’ base.

With so many things to do in Lake George, be sure to add Shelving Rock Falls to your itinerary.

Address: Fort Ann, NY 12827, United States

10. Adirondack Outlet Mall

If you’re looking for a little retail therapy when visiting Lake George, check out Adirondack Outlet Mall .

With shopping, dining, entertainment, and more, Adirondack Outlet Mall is one of the best shopping centers in the region.

With several name-brand outlet stores, a visit to the mall is a great way to spend a rainy day.

Pick up fashionable new duds, children’s clothing, camping gear, jewelry, perfume, and more all at outlet prices.

In addition to great shopping, the Adirondack Outlet Mall has some lovely eateries too.

A franchise coffee shop, a delicious deli, and more, you can also enjoy a bite with family and friends during your visit to the mall.

Finally, the mall often hosts fun events like a food and wine festival and a national car show.

If you’re looking to do a little souvenir shopping around the lake, pay a visit to Adirondack Outlet Mall.

Address: 1444 State Route 9, Lake George, NY 12845, United States

Visiting other areas of New York? Why not check out some of the things to do in Buffalo, NY  & some of the best things to do in Albany, NY ?

11. The Sagamore Resort

The Sagamore Resort

majicphotos / Shutterstock

The Sagamore Resort is a beautiful Upstate New York, waterfront destination.

With so much to do in one central locale, you’ll never wonder what to do when staying with the Sagamore.

This landmark hotel was established in the late 1800s on a 70-acre expanse of Lake George.

The resort comprises compound-like lodgements that include the historic main hotel, a castle, and other smaller houses.

Best of all, hotel amenities are outstanding; playgrounds, pools, hot tubs, sports courts, and so much more are at your disposal when you stay at The Sagamore Resort.

Furthermore, the resort is home to a world-class spa that specializes in massage, skincare, body treatments, and more.

An 18-hole golf course, a modern fitness center, eight restaurants, and more, are all situated upon the property as well.

Finally, the resort’s proximity to the Adirondacks and Lake George means that nature trails, hiking opportunities, water sports, and other outdoor activities are at your fingertips.

Address: 110 Sagamore Rd, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, United States

12. Revolution Rail Co.

Revolution Rail Co.

Revolution Rail Co.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Lake George, you’ll definitely want to check out Revolution Railroad Co.

Founded in 2016, this experience offers visitors an opportunity to sightsee in the Adirondacks by way of railbike rides.

The Upstate New York location is home to three railbike experiences.

A six-mile North Bridge ride, a seven-and-a-half-mile South River ride, and a six-mile Hadley run all allow visitors to enjoy scenic views while having a good time riding these unique railbikes.

Some of the tours ride through a forest canopy, others traverse a 90-foot bridge, and yet another passes a beaver lodge and pond.

Views of the Hudson and Sacandaga Rivers along once-busy stretches of a commercial railroad are unprecedented.

Best of all, this is an experience that can be enjoyed with children as there are no age restrictions.

One of the coolest Lake George attractions, Revolution Rail Co. is a must-do.

Address: 3 Railroad Pl, North Creek, NY 12853, United States

13. Natural Stone Bridge and Caves

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves is arguably one of the coolest natural places to see in the US .

Carved out by the lovely Trout Brook, the epic Stone Bridge comprises the largest marble cave in the US.

Of all the interesting places to visit in Lake George, this is by far the most picturesque.

Although available to visit all year long, warmer months offer visitors the opportunity to explore the bridge and caves on self-guided tours.

The nature trail that leads in and out of Natural Stone Bridge and Caves provides some of the most spectacular geological views you’ll see in all of New York.

With so many things to do in Lake George, you’ll want to make sure a visit to Natural Stone Bridge and Caves tops your list.

During your exploration of the property, you can explore several surface caves, descend underground caves and grottos, and during guided tours you can spelunk, cave crawl, and enjoy an adventurous cave float.

Address: 535 Stone Bridge Rd, Pottersville, NY 12860, United States

14. The Inn at Erlowest

Inn at Erlowest

Aneesa H / Shutterstock

One of the top vacation spots in Lake George, The Inn at Erlowest is a five-star hotel that is as near to perfect as it can be.

Of Lake George attractions, the inn is seriously the most astounding.

In fact, visitors come from all over the world to experience its grandeur.

The colonial charm of the inn’s many-faceted rooms will bring you back to a more elegant place in time.

The rooms are exquisitely decorated and furnished; you’ll feel like royalty during your stay.

The hotel’s glorious amenities include lakefront views, jacuzzis, fireplaces, a heated outdoor pool, breathtaking mountain views, a fitness area, and so much more.

While staying on the property, visitors are welcome to enjoy Hackercraft Cruises, expansive patios, terraces with firepits, and complimentary kayaking.

Additionally, The Inn at Erlowest is home to a fine-dining restaurant and heated igloos for a remarkable dining experience.

Of all the amazing tourist attractions in Upstate New York, The Inn at Erlowest is one for the ages.

Address: 3178 Lake Shore Dr, Lake George, NY 12845, United States

15. Hyde Collection Art Museum and Historic House

Hyde Collection Art Museum and Historic House

Danski14 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

This small art museum is one of a few Lake George attractions of its kind.

With an exceptional collection of European and American art, the museum includes works by acclaimed artists such as Rembrandt, El Greco, Picasso, and Renoir.

The museum also has a noteworthy collection of Contemporary Art by artists such as Gottlieb, Kelly, and Rauschenberg.

With so many pieces of fine art in one place, a visit to Hyde Collection Art Museum and Historic House is one of many important things to do in Lake George.

Situated in the Glens Falls Art District, the museum is part of a vibrant community of artists, historians, and entertainers.

In addition to the colorful community, set in the heart of the Adirondacks, and the acclaimed artwork on exhibit, the museum frequently hosts special events that are worth checking out.

Upcoming events that you may catch during your visit include a Georgia O’Keefe collection and an exhibition on masterpieces and mysteries.

Address: 161 Warren St, Glens Falls, NY 12801, United States

Looking for more thrills in New York? Why not check out some of the things to do in Rochester, NY  & some of the fun things to do on Long Island ?

16. Six Flags Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor

If you’re looking for fun activities for the whole family, Six Flags Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor is a great destination.

Located in beautiful Queensbury, New York, the amusement park is home to both thrilling and tame rides and attractions that visitors of all ages can enjoy.

Of note, the park is jam-packed with thrill rides, water rides, family rides, and kids rides, so there’s something for everyone.

If you’re traveling to the area with your family, Six Flags Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor is an epic attraction.

In addition to the many rides, the amusement park has lots of entertainment including live shows, boardwalk-style games, a children’s playground, a sky ride, and so much more.

The park is also packed with fun souvenir shops where you can pick up merchandise like shirts, toys, hats, and beyond.

Lastly, the park is home to many delicious restaurants, themed snack stands, and even a saloon.

With tons of activities in one place, Six Flags Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor is an attraction your whole family will enjoy.

Address: 1172 U.S. 9, Queensbury, NY 12804, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Lake George

Lake George is a fabulous East Coast travel destination nestled in the pastoral Adirondacks of Upstate New York.

With many opportunities to appreciate nature at its finest, any time of the year is a good time to visit the lake.

Outdoor recreation like boating, sunbathing, and hiking are all favorite pastimes at the lake.

Moreover, with breathtaking views, delectable eateries, and plenty to do for visitors of all ages and interests, Lake George is a must-see New York destination.

So waste no time in packing your bags and hitting the road to this blissful yet exciting hideaway.

Happy travels.

Travel New York Now

Local’s Guide to 23 Best Things to do in Lake George, NY in 2024

Tucked away in the Southern Adirondacks is this gem of upstate New York – a place where you can relax with family and friends while you enjoy just some of the very  best things to do in Lake George, NY .

Although, if you decide to stop by any time between July and August, don’t expect to have this place all to yourself since around 3 million summer tourists typically flood into this tiny town of just 3,500 residents.

So yeah, the main roads will be packed with cars, and all the very  best things to do in Lake George, NY  will be overflowing with people, people, and – oh yeah – more people.

That’s why, if you can, try to visit in the off-season, either for the stunning fall foliage in October or sometime in May right before all the summer visitors seem to flood the area.

Trust me on this. I live in the Adirondacks and have been to Lake George more times than I can count. Like, I’ve been there at least every year for the past thirty-plus years.

And honestly? People come to the  Adirondacks to escape the crowds of the city and to enjoy the quiet serenity of a weekend spent hiking  through the woods and camping by the lake.

So, if you’re emphatically nodding your head “yes” right now, be sure to heed my advice and visit at basically any other time of year.

Because let me tell you, there are some truly  amazing things to do in Lake George, NY  and I want to share all of my favorites with you.

This way, you can get off the beaten path and explore amazing places that you won’t find in any guidebook – places that only the locals know about and that took me years to find.

But, if you dare to be different, your efforts will be rewarded handsomely since Lake George is easily one of my favorite places in the Adirondacks.

And that’s saying a lot since I live here and used to come up here every summer for the past 30+ years. So, to say I know Lake George and the Adirondacks well is basically the understatement of the century.

So, without further adieu, let’s explore this tiny town that is located at the very tip of the 32-mile long Lake George.

After all, this majestic body of water is known as the Queen of the American Lakes, is easily one of the most stunning lakes in all of New York , and is surrounded by the awe-inspiring peaks of the Adirondack mountains.

Therefore, whether you’re after a luxurious  getaway in upstate New York  or are looking for a rustic outdoorsy weekend spent by the lake, I have some of the best things to do in Lake George, NY for you!

Pro Tip:  This is a great place to go swimming since there are strict regulations about the types of boats that can go in the water here. As a result, the water is SUPER clean and perfect for swimming or boating or exploring some of the  best swimming holes in New York  too. 

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my  disclosure  for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Where is Lake George and How Can I Get There?

Aerial view of Lake George from the top of a mountain in the fall with vibrant foliage in the foreground. Catching the fall colors is one of the popular things to do in Lake George.

Lake George is located at the Southern end of the Adirondack Mountain region. It’s basically a 32-mile long lake that starts at the town of Lake George Village in the South and that extends all the way to Ticonderoga in the north.

And while the Southen part of the lake is extremely well-developed, many areas in the middle and to the north are largely undeveloped or are made of protected land that is part of the Adirondack Park.

So, if you’re traveling here by car, you’ll be about an hour north of Albany and an hour and a half south of Lake Placid. Or, more precisely, just take the New York Thruway (aka I-87 N) to exit 22 and then take Route 9 to Lake George Village.

Trust me, it’s a super easy to drive here (I do it ALL the time) and is well worth your time since you’ll definitely need a car while you’re here.

However, if you don’t want to drive, you could always take an Amtrak Train from Penn Station (or Albany) to Fort Edward, which is about twenty minutes away from the town.

Conversely, you could also take either an Adirondack Trailways or Greyhound bus to any one of the towns in the area from Port Authority bus terminal in NYC.

The only real difference between the two is that the train is faster but more expensive while buses are usually slower but cheaper. So, your method of transportation will really depend on what is more important to you – time or money.

Pro Tip:  If you decide to use either the train or bus to get here, definitely rent a car upon arrival since public transportation is basically non-existent in the Adirondacks. Local rental car agencies include Hertz and Enterprise.

Where to Stay in Lake George, NY

View of the Inn at Erlowest at Lake George.

Honestly, there are SO many different places to stay in Lake George that it can be difficult to know exactly where to start. However, to make the entire trip planning process infinitely easier, I’ve created this list of the best hotels in Lake George, NY.

This way, regardless of your budget, you’ll have a great place to stay while enjoying some of the best things to do in Lake George, NY.

Clarion Inn and Suites at the Outlets of Lake George   (budget, Queensbury)

⭐️ Rating: 8.1/10 (487 Reviews) Price: $87 per night 📍Location: 1454 State Route 9, Lake George, NY Details: Read more on booking.com now!

I know this is a chain and that’s kind of lame but honestly, this hotel is really great for its price point (aka under $100 per night). There are also very few family-owned budget hotels in the area (thanks pandemic) so  the Clarion Inn and Suite s is your best bet.

“As soon as we entered into the atrium, we were greeted by an awesome day manager. We were about 2 hours earlier than our check-in time, and he was extremely professional, and courteous and informed us that he would have the room ready in less than 40 minutes if we wanted to check in then. He provided us easy directions to attractions within less than 2-mile radius of our hotel and offered great advice in how to access some points of interest. The entire stay, both day and night staff were pleasant, professional, helpful, and responsive.” Kurt ( read more reviews now! )

I mean, it’s really centrally located and features chill but comfy rooms that include snazzy things like WIFI, flat-screen TVs, and coffeemakers, with some upscale rooms even including private hot tubs.  Continental breakfast and parking are also included with your stay, as is access to a gym, heated indoor pool/hot tub. 

The Great Escape Lodge and Indoor Waterpark  (mid-range, Queensbury)

⭐️ Rating: 7.7/10 (1,080 Reviews) Price: $227 per night 📍Location: 89 Six Flags Drive, Queensbury, NY Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Formerly the Great Wold Lodge,  The Great Escape Lodge is the PERFECT place to go if you have kids and are traveling as a family.

Not only are rooms well-priced and is the hotel well-located, but this resort comes with its very own full-on, 38,000 square foot indoor waterpark. The cost of which is covered by a one-time resort fee – and luxurious/comfy suites that feature Adirondack-style decor.

“Staff was super friendly everywhere we went, from the hotel to the arcade to the theme park. Absolutely wonderful.” Caitlyn ( read more reviews now! )

Other amenities include free parking, an on-site gym, WIFI, two on-site restaurants, a sports bar, a spa, an arcade, and discounts for the Great Escape theme park just across the street.

Lodges at Cresthaven  (mid-range, Lake George)

⭐️ Rating: 9/10 (110 Reviews) Price: $337 per night 📍Location: 3210 Lake Shore Drive , Lake George, NY Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Real talk? The lakefront vacation  Lodges at Cresthaven  are amazeballs with a CAPITAL “A”. I mean, they come fully equipped with Adirondack-style, wood-paneled units that include full kitchens with dishwashers, microwaves, washers and dryers, flat-screen TVs, and private porches with lake/mountain views.

You’ll also love that there’s an on-site seafood/steak house with an outdoor bar, a heated indoor/outdoor pool, access to a private beach, a fitness center, and a boat docking area with jet skis available for use (for an additional fee). Yup, they’ve got everything you need to live the luxe life while checking out all the best things to do in Lake George NY.

Inn at Erlowest  (luxury, Lake George)

⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10 (97 Reviews) Price: $433 per night 📍Location: 3178 Lake Shore Drive, Lake George, NY Details: Read more on booking.com now!

The rooms here are very much not cheap. But, you get what you pay for at the Inn at Erlowest since this lake-front property sits upon a 15-acre estate that is home to an exquisite, Queen Anne mansion from 1898.

“The staff was very accommodating in every way. I needed to do some work in the evening and required access to a desk. The staff made a very convenient room available for me to do my work. In addition the food was excellent and the staff very knowledgeable and easily accommodated gluten free needs.” Jenny ( read more reviews now! )

Step inside and you’ll find ten chic, old-world style rooms for you to enjoy – all of which are stunning and well-outfitted with exquisite hardwood floors, whirlpool tubs, flat-screen TVs, fireplaces, mahogany beds, and private balconies with sweeping views of the lake.

Room service is also available as is a complimentary, homemade breakfast and a library with an on-site bar.

Boathouse B & B  (luxury, Bolton’s Landing)

⭐️ Rating: 10/10 (6 Reviews) Price: $746 per night 📍Location: Details: Read more on booking.com now!

The refined bed and breakfast just down the road from The Sagamore Resort (hint, hint, this is another great place to stay in Lake George) and features lavish, carriage house-style rooms with private hot tubs, fireplaces, and balconies.

“Absolutely amazing! Can’t beat the view and the hosts are so friendly. Highly recommend. Will be back.” Danielle ( read more reviews now! )

You’ll also love the spacious porch and a sumptuous, 3-course breakfast that is served in the light and airy dining room.  A mahogany motorboat is also available (for a fee) if you want to do a tour of the lake.

Where To Eat In Lake George, NY

Well, you’ll be delighted to know that you definitely won’t go hungry while enjoying some of the best things to do in Lake George, NY.

Because in spite of what many people might think, there are a TON of great places to eat in the area. I mean, they’re not NYC-level awesome but there are definitely a few diamonds in the rough that you’ll enjoy while you’re in the area.

The Restaurant at the Inn at Erlowest  – If you want to plan a luxurious night out or just want to live the luxe life for a hot minute while on vacay then consider dining at this upscale restaurant.

It overlooks the lake and offers a whole host of contemporary, American-style dishes that include things like lobster bisque, wild mushroom risotto, smoked pork chops, and beef short ribs. The artisanal cocktails are also quite good and the prices aren’t too steep since entrees start at are $34 each.

The Log Jam (more on this later)  – I’ve been coming to the place for YEARS and they know how to do semi-casual but delicious steak and seafood that appeals to everyone.

The decor here is also super fun and very Adirondack so you’ll definitely feel like you’re dining inside a rustic log cabin.

And while everything here is awesome, the steaks are pretty exceptional, as is the awesome all-you-can-eat salad bar. Also, feel free to hit up some epic Lake Placid breweries afterward.

Capri Pizzeria  – I’m a pizza snob through and through since I grew up in NYC and am more than a little picky about the pizza I ingest. However, this place is pretty good and is about as close as you’re gonna get to authentic, NYC-style pizza in the Adirondacks.

It’s also super casual, reasonably priced, and just an all-around chill place to go for a meal that the whole family will love. And although I typically stick with their pizza, they serve other things too like calzones, stromboli, garlic knots, pasta, sub, heroes, and even burgers too.

Lake George Beach Club  – This vibrant, two-story restaurant overlooks the lake and features live music for guests to enjoy. However, the real highlight of any trip here is the food, which is pretty dang delicious American fare that will appeal to the whole family.

My personal faves include the burgers, dry rub wings, and Korean beef tacos. The service is also really good and another added benefit of dining here.

Martha’s Dandee Cream  – There will be a line but it’s totally worth it since this is the only place in the area that serves real, homemade, soft-serve ice cream (or creamies if you’re from the area).

Portions are also huge so get a kid-sized cone and be prepared to choose between, count em’, thirty-seven different flavors. And while I haven’t tried them all, I love the pistachio ice cream, brownie sundaes, and the Boston Shake.

163 Taproom  – This cozy. wood-paneled taproom is an awesome place to go for a beer since the service is great and there is a large selection of delicious craft beers on tap. You can also enjoy a fun game of shuffleboard before diving into a pulled chicken barbeque sandwich with some homemade pickles and fries.

10 McGillis Public House  – This is just a great down-to-earth tavern where you can go for fantastic service and epic dishes that include scallops, mussels, short rib poutine, and strip steak that is cooked to perfection. Just a gem of a farm-to-table restaurant that I dare you not to like.

Also, the menu changes regularly since they use locally sourced, seasonally available ingredients. Therefore, some of the menu items I suggested may not be available.

Best Things to do in Lake George, NY

1. six flags great escape.

View of a roller coaster and a sign for the Great Escape in Lake George, NY.

One of the best things to do in Lake George, NY is a visit to  The Great Escape  amusement park. After all, who wouldn’t want to spend a day riding the rides, watching captivating shows, and eating tasty theme park food?

And luckily for you, there are so many rides that are worth your time at Six Flags Great Escape. Therefore, if you get the chance, I highly recommend riding them all!

I mean, you can cool off on the Big Kahuna water ride, fly in the sky on Screamin’ Eagles, take your whole family on the Storytown Train, and try out the thrilling Adirondack Outlaw.

But, no trip to a theme park would be complete without a bite to eat. Luckily, Six Flags Great Escape is home to a few noteworthy restaurants.

So, you can devour a burger at Tidal Wave Cafe, enjoy some delicious pizza at Paradise Pizza, gorge on fried foods from Dutch Funnel Cakes, and cool off with a sweet treat from one of the many Dippin’ Dots locations.

And although a full day at Six Flags Great Escape can easily wear you out – you know between walking from attraction to attraction and spiked adrenaline from all the rides and standing out in the hot sun – watching one of the Great Escape’s many live shows doesn’t take a whole lot of energy on your part.

That’s why seeing one is the perfect opportunity to take a much-needed break. Simply take a seat, munch on some snacks, and enjoy the amazing performances.

Yup, your entire group will have an amazing time at Six Flags Great Escape. Who knows? Maybe if you have enough energy, you can come back again for another day of fun-filled excitement.

Pro Tip:  Martha’s Dandee Cream is right across the street so be sure to stop for a cone after a run day at the park.

Address:  1172 U.S. 9, Queensbury, NY 12804

Hours:  Open daily, except Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at the park and 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm for the water park. The park is also only open seasonally, typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day, but check their website for the most up-to-date info.

Price:  Daily tickets start at $24.99 per person. Definitely book online in advance to save time and please note that only electronic payment is accepted onsite (so no cash).

2. Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark

It’s always fantastic when you find out that your accommodation is packed with cool amenities. And you’d be hard-pressed to find a cooler amenity than the  Six Flags Great Escape Lodge’s indoor waterpark .

There are dozens of thrilling slides and cool attractions at the  indoor waterpark at Six Flags Great Escape Lodge.

“Everything we needed was right there. Water park was fun and had great hours. Facility was clean and appealing” Sky (read more reviews now! )

You can get your adrenaline pumping on the Avalanche ride, relax on the Tak-It-Eesi Creek, test your skills on Boogie Bear Surf, and take a break at Soakum Spring.

While you can easily spend your entire stay at the lodge’s waterpark, there are other perks that you can enjoy at the  Six Flags Great Escape Lodge as well.

You can spend hours at the arcade, dine at one of the handfuls of restaurants on the property, and shop for an amazing souvenir at one of the gift shops.

It is important to note that you do NOT have to be a guest at the  Six Flags Great Escape Lodge to use the indoor waterpark. Instead, you can simply buy a day pass.

Pro Tip:  Keep an eye out for special packages at the Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark. These packages often include discounted rates for the Six Flags Great Escape amusement park.

Address:  89 Six Flags Drive, Queensbury, NY 12804

Hours:  The water park is open daily, except Tuesday and Wednesday, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The hotel itself has a twenty-four house front desk.

Price:  Rooms start at $200 per night.

3. Lake George Premium Outlets

The wooden exterior of the Outlet Malls since shopping is one of the cool things to do in Lake George.

If you’re looking for a break from amusement parks and waterparks then one of the best things to do in Lake George, NY is go shopping! Because there are loads of outlet malls dotted throughout the town for you to enjoy.

The most popular outlet mall in Lake George is The Outlets at Lake George. This chic shopping area boasts all of your favorite stores, including American Eagle, Levi’s, and Vera Bradley.

Also, just across the street from The Outlets at Lake George lies the French Mountain Commons. Many typically people treat this as an extension of The Outlets at Lake George.

And while at the French Mountain Commons, you’ll find shops like J. Crew, Banana Republic, and Sunglass Hut. So, between these two outlet malls, you could easily spend your entire day shopping until you drop!

Address:  1424 U.S. 9, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours:  Open daily from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, except Sundays when they close at 7:00 ppm.

Price:  Varies by store.

4. Buck Mountain

One of the best things to do in Lake George NY is climb to the top of Buck Mountain and get this aerial view of Lake George with the green hills in the background.

Calling all nature lovers! Because if you love bright green trees and beautiful views, look no further than one of the  best hikes in upstate New York ! After all, hiking Buck Mountain is definitely one of the best things to do in Lake George, NY for you!

Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, this 6.6-mile round-trip trail is moderately difficult, but it’s definitely worth the effort.

Plus, once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the North Basin of Lake George and the handful of islands that can be found within it.

Past the lake, you’ll be able to see stunning rolling mountains, making the view absolutely picture-perfect.

However, depending on when you hike Buck Mountain, it could look completely different.

In the summer, the path is filled with blue skies and thriving greenery. In the fall, you’ll be rewarded with fiery fall foliage. And in the winter, many people snowshoe up to the peak to see the picturesque snow-capped mountains below.

5. Fort William Henry Museum

If you’re looking for an educational stop on your trip, you’ll want to add the Fort William Henry Museum to your list of the best things to do in Lake George, NY.

The Fort William Henry Museum revolves around Fort William Henry. This fort was originally built in 1755 by the British during the French and Indian War.

It was constructed with 30-foot-thick walls and even a moat! In total, this single fort could hold up to 500 British soldiers.

It also didn’t take long for Fort William Henry to see some action. In July 1757, the French started on their journey to attack the fort, and by August Fort William Henry was under siege.

After just six days, the British surrendered to the French at Fort William Henry.

Today, you can get a glimpse of what this historic event was like at the Fort William Henry Museum.

You can take an interactive virtual tour, explore the exhibits on the French and Indian War, and learn about the ghosts who haunt Fort William Henry. You’ll even get to watch a cool cannon firing demonstration!

Pro Tip:  When you visit, you can choose between a 45-minute ghost tour  (at 6:30 pm, 7:30 pm, and 8:30 pm Friday/Saturday nights) and a 1-hour tour of the museum every hour, on the hour, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. I’d opt for the latter but I also love the macabre.

Address:  48 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours:  Open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm between May 1 and October 31.

Price:  Tours of the fort start at $19.95 for adults, $15.95  for seniors 62 and over, $16.95 for students, and $9 for children between 5 and 14.

6. Lake George Steamboat Company

View of a vinatge white steamboat cruising through Lake George with the Adirondack Mountains in the background. This is one of the best things to do in Lake George NY.

As the name of Lake George implies, this lovely New York town boasts a gorgeous lake – also called Lake George.

So during your visit, you’ll definitely want to enjoy this beautiful body of water, especially if you’re visiting in the summer.

Therefore, one of the best things to do on Lake George is to do a lovely cruise with the Lake George Steamboat Company.

This particular company has a bunch of different cruise options, and all of them are held on eye-catching, historic steamboats! That definitely adds a fun flair to this Lake George cruise experience.

The most popular Lake George Steamboat Company options are sightseeing cruises.

You can sail your way past the Southern Basin, around Mohican Bay, or through the lake’s many islands. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake.

If you’re into food more than views, you’re in luck! The Lake George Steamboat Company also offers a couple of cruises that revolve around food.

My personal fave is the Lac du Saint Sacrement Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruise, which offers a menu that includes French toast, bacon, pastries, made-to-order omelets, and, of course, champagne. Seriously, what more could you ask for?

But undoubtedly, the most noteworthy cruises provided by Lake George Steamboat Company are the Minnie Ha Ha Night Pirate Cruises!

Once you’re aboard the ship, you’ll learn how to speak like a pirate, sip on some good ‘ole pirate grog, and even search for hidden treasure! Yup, just one of the many best things to do in Lake George, NY with your family.

Pro Tip:  This is a very seasonal activity so boats depart daily at 10:00 am, 11:45 am, 1:45 pm, 3:30 pm, 5:15 pm, and 7:00 pm from June 19th through September 6th. After that, between September 7th and October 11th, boats only depart on the weekends.

Address:  57 Beach Rd, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours:  Open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Price : Tickets for one-hour long sightseeing cruises start at $19.00 for adults, $17.25 for seniors 65 and over, $8.50 for children 4 to 11, and free for anyone under 4.

7. Million Dollar Beach on the Lake

View of Million Dollar Beach on Lake George with boats on the water and people playing on the beach.

You don’t have to hop on a boat to enjoy the lovely waters of Lake George. You can also spend a day on Million Dollar Beach instead.

Million Dollar Beach is the most popular beach on Lake George – and for good reason!

Open all summer long, Million Dollar Beach is a fantastic place to swim, suntan, and sandcastle build until your heart’s content.

You can also take a boat out on the water, try your hand at fishing, or play a few games of beach volleyball.

You can easily spend an entire day at Million Dollar Beach. As a matter of fact, you don’t even have to leave for food!

Instead, you can pack your meals and make use of the convenient grills and picnic tables. It sounds like the perfect day at the beach to me!

If you’re looking for some less popular beaches in the area to add to your list of the best things to do in Lake George, NY, you can check out Shepard Park Beach, Rogers Memorial Park Beach, and Hague Town Beach Park too.

Address:  Million Dollar Beach, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours:  Open daily from May 29th through September 6th from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Price:  The beach is free to use but parking is $10.00 per car, $5.00 per motorcycle, and $50 per bus.

8. Parasailing on the Lake

View of Lake George and mountains with two parasailing persons in the foreground. Parasailing is one of the adventurous things to do in Lake George.

Lake George is also an awesome place for watersports like jet skiing, kayaking, and wakeboarding. But, the most popular watersport in town is definitely parasailing.

With the calm waters, sunny skies, and breezy air, Lake George is the perfect place for parasailing. And you won’t have to do anything to enjoy it!

Just strap in, and then get ready to soar through the air with the greatest of ease! It’s certainly a unique way to take in the stunning views of Lake George and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains.

Now, there are two primary parasailing companies in Lake George to choose from: Parasailing Adventures and Parasail Joe’s. Both of these companies offer parasailing experiences all summer long, and they both have their perks.

And while most parasailing companies make you wait around on a stagnant boat until it’s time for your parasailing experience, that’s not the case with Parasailing Adventures.

Instead of being bored, Parasailing Adventures will keep you entertained on a thrilling speedboat ride until your parasailing boat is ready.

Then, there’s Parasail Joe’s. I don’t know about you, but every time I go on a blood-pumping, adrenaline-inducing adventure, it’s always over too quickly!

Luckily, you can attempt to solve this problem with Parasail Joe’s since they offer the longest parasail rides in Lake George, so you can fly for quite a while.

Pro Tip:  Typically flights last between 8 and 10 minutes while you’ll spend anywhere between 30 and 60 minutes riding on the boat.

Address:  2 Kurosaka Ln, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours:  Open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm but departures are every half hour between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, so your trip will take

Price:  Around $83.74 per person. Advance reservations are also required since this is a really popular activity.

9. Prospect Mountain

An old railway gear at the summit of Prospect Mountain with Lake George in the background which is one of the cool sites in the area.

Since Lake George is in the Adirondack Mountains, it should be no surprise to find out that there’s more than one hike on this list of the best things to do in Lake George, NY.

So, besides Buck Mountain, Prospect Mountain is another popular hiking area.

This 2.8-mile hike is surprisingly difficult despite its short length. And that’s because this steep hike actually follows along the path of the old Prospect Mountain Cable Incline Railway that used to run in the area.

And fun fact, this tramway was actually the largest cable railroad in the world at one point in time!

Anyway, once you reach the top of Prospect Mountain, you’ll feel like a true warrior!

You’ll also be able to see some stunning sights, including the remnants of the Prospect Mountain Cable Incline Railway, Lake George, and the Adirondack Mountains.

If hiking isn’t for you though, you can also reach the top of Prospect Mountain by car.

For a small fee, you can drive along the Veterans Memorial Highway and reach the top of the mountain without using up a ton of energy – perfect for lazy AF people like me.

Address:  989 State Route 9, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours:  The 5.5-mile long highway is open daily – from late May through Labor Day – from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with reduced hours until 5:00 pm until November 11th.

Price:  $10 per car, $5 per motorcycle, and $50 per bus.

10. Shelving Rock Falls

Shelving Rock Falls in Lake George

There are a few different waterfalls hidden within the crevices of the Adirondack Mountains, but Shelving Rock Falls is the most well-known one.

That’s why, this 50-foot-tall cascade of water is definitely one of the best things to do in Lake George, NY.

Getting to Shelving Rock Falls is quite easy too. If you start at and follow the Dam Access Road trail, you’ll get to Shelving Rock Falls in about half a mile.

And when you reach your destination, you’ll be rewarded with an amazing cascade that’s both tall and wide.

If you’d like to extend your hiking adventure, you can combine it with the Shelving Rock Bay Trail or the Shelving Rock Mountain Trail (or both!).

And If you choose to hike the Shelving Rock Bay Trail, you’ll follow a breathtaking path along the waters of Lake George.

This path is approximately 1.5 miles, which means it’s about 2 miles one-way when combined with the original Shelving Rock Falls Trail.

Then, there’s the Shelving Rock Mountain Trail. This hike is a bit more difficult than the previous two options, due to the elevation gain.

This 3.5-mile round-trip hike rewards hikers with fantastic views of Lake George and the Adirondack Mountains.

Last but certainly not least, if you’d like to combine all three hikes – the Shelving Rock Falls Trail, the Shelving Rock Bay Trail, and the Shelving Rock Mountain Trail – you’ll get in quite the workout! All in all, this lengthy hike is about 3.3 miles one-way, making for a fantastic day out in beautiful Lake George.

11. Glen Drive-In Theatre

Sign in front of the Glen Drive in Theatre. Catching a show here is one of the popular things to do in Lake George.

Okay, so technically speaking, this is one of the best things to do in Lake George, NY that isn’t 100% in Lake George.

But, it’s super easy to get to since it’s right past the Great Escape on Route 9 and is basically a part of Lake George anyway. Which is why I’m adding it to the list.

 It’s also been around FOREVER since I’ve been coming here for almost twenty years and is just an all-around great place to step back in time and take a brief trip back to yesteryear with your family.

Plus, you can’t really beat the price since you pay just $10 for adults and $5 for children for TWO movies.

Yup, it’s a double feature, and there are two different screens to choose from – one which has more family-friendly films and the other which shows movies that are geared towards adults.

But, if you’re unsure about what’s playing, just check out their website prior to your visit for the latest movies and showtimes.

You also won’t need a speaker since you’ll use your radio to listen to the movie – 103.3 FM for Screen 1 and 104.3 FM for Screen 2.

Pro Tip:  Bring cash since they don’t accept credit cards. And while the theater opens at 7:00 pm, the show won’t start until it gets dark, usually between 8:30 pm and 9:00 pm.

And prepare for a late-night since you’ll be seeing TWO movies and won’t get out until 1:00 am. So yes, caffeine will be your next best friend.

Address:  983 U.S. 9, Queensbury, NY 12804

Hours : Open daily, throughout the summer, from 7:00 pm until the end of the second movie.

Price:  $10 for adults and $5 for children.

12. Log Jam Restaurant

Rustic, Adirondack-style interior of the Log Jam restaurant in Lake George. Eating here is one of the highly recommended things to do in Lake George.

If you only visit one restaurant while in Lake George, let this one be it. After all, the Log Jam is an unofficial institution in the region that is known for delicious food, amazing service, and exquisite decor that reflects the Adirondack vibe of the area.

So yes, expect to dine inside a rustic, Adirondack-style log cabin that comes complete with wooden furniture, stone fireplaces, canoe paddles hanging above mantels, and deer antler chandeliers.

It’s also nice, but not over-the-top nice. So yeah, you definitely don’t have to wear a ball gown to dine here. Although, I wouldn’t exactly show up in a bikini top and flip-flops either.

And then there’s the food, which is classic American fare (think mostly steaks and seafood) that includes generous portions of fan faves like french onion soup (so good), chicken pistachio, swordfish pico de gallo, Pork Porterhouse, Sirloin Orloff, and Chicken Picatta.

Plus, with every entree you order, you’ll be able to visit their all-you-can-eat salad bar. It features all the fix-ins you need – in addition to freshly baked bread and homemade butter – to create the perfect salad atop a lightly chilled, pewter plate.

Yup, just a great place to go for a hearty meal amidst authentic Adirondack-style decor.

FYI, I’ve also had the Impossible Burger with Mago Chutney which is a great option for vegans/vegetarians.

Pro Tip:  Definitely make a reservation on the weekends since this place is VERY popular. Also, save room for dessert when enjoying one of the best things to do in Lake George, NY since the creme caramel, apple crisp, toll house cookie pie, and bread pudding are all really good. See, told you I come here a lot!

Address:  1484 U.S. 9, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours:  Open daily from 11:30 am to 9:00 pm.

Price:  Entrees here start at around $25 but portions are generous so you could definitely order a lite portion and walk away full.

13. Rail Bike Tour

The green trees flanking the train tracks is at the place where the Rail Bike Tour takes place. It is a highly recommended attraction in Lake George.

Want to enjoy an experience unlike any other? Then try taking an awesome Rail Bike Tour with Revolution Rail Co.

It’s easily one of the best things to do in Lake George, NY since you get to cruise along the Adirondack railways in a unique, four-person, open-air bike that allows you to take in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.

Yes, the experience itself is actually located in North Creek, which is about a 35-minute drive away from Lake George. But, you know what?

This tour is totally worth the drive since it’s unlike anything else I’ve ever done and culminates in awe-inspiring panoramas of the Hudson River.

Plus, I mean, you know it’s good since they now have locations all across the country. Just choose between one of the following tours.

  • North Ridge Run  – This is the one I did and it will take around 2 hours, covers 6 miles, and takes you past the Hudson River and over a lovely trestle bridge.
  • South River Run  – This one is a bit longer and covers 7.5 miles but will still take you around 2 hours to complete. It will also take you past the Hudson River and offers views of a super cool beaver lodge along the way.
  • Hadley Run  – This one is the closest to Lake George (20 minutes way) and will take you 6 miles out across a two-hundred-foot wide and ninety-foot tall bridge over the Hudson and Sacandaga Rivers.  You’ll also get to see a historic parabolic bridge and some picturesque rapids too. Just don’t do this trip if you’re not a fan of heights. Like the other tours, this one will take around two hours to complete.

Address : 3 Railroad Place, North Creek, NY 12853

Hours:  Tours depart daily at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 4:00 pm.

Price:  $80 for a two-person bike and $140 for a four-person bike.

14. Check Out the Hyde Collection Art Museum

This seriously impressive museum in Glens Falls was started by Charlotte Pryun Hyde, a local newspaper tycoon who renovated an expansive, Florentine renaissance mansion and transformed it into a stunning collection of works from some of the greatest artists in history.

Now, is it as big and as impressive as the MET?

No, but the architecture of this museum is pretty awesome, as are the predominantly American and European works showcased here, with pieces from Sandro Botticelli, El Greco, Rembrandt, Peter Paul Rubens, Edgar Degas, Georges Seurat, Pablo Picasso, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and more.

There is also a wealth of seasonal events and temporary exhibits that are regularly held here, meaning that you can always find new and exciting to see while checking out one of the best things to do in Lake George, NY.

Address : 161 Warren Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801

Hours : Open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price:  Tickets are $12 for adults 18 and over and $10 for seniors 60 and older.

15. Explore the Area’s Natural Stone Bridge and Caves

A short(ish) 25-minute drive away from Lake George is the gorgeous network of Natural Stone Bridges and Caves.

It’s a unique place that is home to the largest marble cave entrance on the east coast and allows visitors to choose from a variety of different activities, including adventure tours, snowshoe trails, Chester Challenge hikes, and the self-guided cave trail.

Personally, though, I’d opt for the self-guided cave trail. It’s a relatively easy, 3/4-mile long trail that will take you across 500 steps, along uneven rocks, and past vast forests that usher you into the mouth of the cave.

In total, the trail should take between 45 and 60 minutes to complete and provides visitors with ample opportunities to stop and relax at one of the trail’s scenic benches along the way.

You can rest for a moment and savor the majestic views of the enormous natural Stone Bridge, Trout Brook, the Sawmill Site Waterfalls, Artists’ Gorge, and various caves/grottos.

And while the trail is relatively natural and gives visitors stunning views of the caves and the surrounding area, you will have to traverse across bridges, boardwalks, steel/concrete stairs, and railings to help keep you safe.

Also, as you probably already surmised, you should be sure to wear sturdy walking/hiking shoes to avoid slipping. The trail is also partially outside try to wear weather-appropriate clothing so that you don’t get drenched in the rain!

Address:  535 Stone Bridge Road, Pottersville, NY 12860

Hours:  Open daily – in late May through Mid-October – from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, with the last ticket being sold at 4:30 pm.

Price:  Tickets are $16.95 for adults and $8.95 for children.

16. Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course

Aerial ropes course strung through the trees is one of the best things to do in Lake George NY.

Ready for a rugged, outdoor adventure that will, quite literally, take you to new heights?

If so then check out the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course since you can climb your way to eternal glory as you take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Adirondack Forest around you.

In fact, this is one of the first aerial obstacle courses/high ropes courses that was ever built in the country and is an ideal Lake George activity for anyone in desperate need of a hardcore adrenaline rush.

So, get ready to cruise along zip lines, relax in giant rope swings, and fall into enormous nets while enjoying one of the best things to do in Lake George.

Added bonus? If ropes courses aren’t your thing, you and your younger kids can always do a low-key treetop tour or go tubing instead.

Pro Tip: This is one of the best things to do in Lake George with kids since this ropes course is geared towards kids more than adults.

Address: 35 Westwood Forest Lane, Bolton Landing, NY 12814

Hours: Open weekends from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Treetop tour is 3-hours long and starts at $45 per person.

17. Cruise down the Warren County Bikeway

Female biker on a path and experiencing one of the best things to do in Lake George NY.

This super snazzy, fully paved, 10-mile path through the greater Lake George area is an ideal place for joggers, bikers, inline skaters, and hikers of every variety to come and get their exercise swerve on.

After all, it’s super well-maintained, begins in good old Glens Falls (ends in Lake George Village), offers visitors stunning views of the area, and is extremely accessible since is is served by two different parking lots.

And as you enjoy one of the best things to do in Lake George NY, you’ll be delighted by a series of nifty info kiosks along the way that provide you with free maps that will help you plan out the rest of your Lake George itinerary .

Also be on the lookout for a plethora of informational signage that details various historic events and landmarks that can be found all along the trail.

Pro Tip: Planning on spending winter in Lake George? Then you can use the snowy trails here to go snowmobiling with the South Warren Snowmobile Club.

You can also stop by one of the best all-inclusive resorts in New York and enjoy a luxurious stay.

Address : Goes from W. Brook Road and Beach Road in Lake George to Platt St. between Katherine St. and NY 32/Warren St. in Glens Falls

Hours: Open all day everyday.

Price: FREE

18. Whitewater Rafting

Group of six people in a blue boat rafting along the river in upstate New York.

Are you an adrenaline junkie? Then Lake George offers you a chance to get the high that you so crave because you can head out whitewater rafting in the Hudson and the Sacandaga rivers which are super close by. 

Now if you are a beginner, I would recommend heading out to the Sacandaga river. Here the rapids are gentler and slow flowing. It is the perfect way to learn the ropes too.

But if you are an expert and have done the sliding dance down the turmoiled water before, I would suggest heading to Hudson River. Here the river has class III – IV rapids which are both challenging and fun.

19. The Festival Commons At Charles R. Wood Park

One of the things to do in Lake George NY that is fun for the whole family is to visit the festival commons at Charles R. Wood Park.

Now the Charles R Wood Park is huge and it is a great place to visit BUT it has a 2.5-acre spot that is specifically set up as a festival space.

This is located at the southern end of Lake George so you will have a chance to enjoy the ambiance of the lake too!

Generally speaking you will find all sorts of activities that happen here and it is open all year round which means that the concerts and fairs usually depict the season and the mood of the people.

In addition to this, you will also find some cool pop up flea markets here which are great spots to catch some souvenirs from New York. 

Farmers’ markets are also pretty commonplace here. As I said, there is always something going on. 

Pro Tip: If you head here with kids, make sure to visit the children’s playground and if you have a little older kids, they will probably find the skateboard park intriguing.

Address: 33 West Brook Rd, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours: Open daily

Price: Free admission unless it’s a special event

20. House of Frankenstein Wax Museum

Real talk? Personally, I was not impressed with the House of Frankenstein Wax Museum when I visited Lake George.

I mean, it wasn’t amazing and was a bit more like a haunted house than a wax museum.

So, when we visited people jumped out at you, tried to touch you, and really scared you. Like, to the point where me and my mom yelled, “Please don’t touch me!”

However, it may have changed since the last time I visited. So, definitely ask before you enter.

But, if it’s raining and your older kids are bored and you’re running out of things to do in Lake George then give this place a try.

As of now, you’ll enter and find a ton of super creepy wax figures and animatronic creations.

You’ll also explore the 52 different exhibits here on your own and see things like The Hatchet Man, The Colossus of New York, Strange Planet, etc.

Just be aware that many of the statues won’t do anything until you press a button and it should take you around half an hour to visit.

Local Tip: Do NOT visit with local children since they will probably walk away terrified.

Address: 213 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours: Open Monday/Thursday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Friday/Saturday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm,

Price: Adults are $13.00, $12.00 for students, and $8.41 for kids.

21. Lake George Historical Association and Museum

Easily one of the best things to do in Lake George NY on a rainy day, the Lake Goerge Historical Association and Museum is tucked away inside the old Warren County Courthouse from 1845.

Actually, the building was supposed to be demolished back in ye olde 1960 but was converted into a museum by the local historical association instead.

Today, this amazing building is home to a variety of different artifacts that are featured within the museum’s permanent collection.

In particular, I loved seeing things like an Iroquois canoe, a cannonball from the French and Indian War, and old jails cells from the 1840s.

However, exhibit highlights include the Native American Exhibit Room, the Woman’s Suffrage Exhibit, the Georgia O’Keefe/Alfred Stieglitz Exhibit Room, the County Jail from 1845, and more.

Yes, it’s a small little museum. But, you can get away from the hordes of tourists. Plus, it’s one of the best free things to do in Lake George, NY so you have nothing to lose.

Therefore, be sure to book a private tour and learn all about the area’s amazing local history. You can also try a fun artifact hunt or sign up for one of their exciting new ghost tours.

Yeah, I can’t wait to do one of their ghost tours.

Address: 290 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. But hours can vary by month/season so check their website for more info.

Price: Free

22. Wiawaka Center for Women

A steamboat sailing across Lake George at sunset

Looking for accommodations in Lake George, NY but not sure where to stay? If so then why not book an overnight stay with the Wiawaka Center for Women?

After all, this amazing not-for-profit organization arose out of the women’s suffrage movement and is still dedicated to advancing the lives of women.

Today, you can spend the night at this holiday home right on Lake George and feel good about it since all profits go towards supporting this amazing organization.

You can also purchase a day pass and make use of the on-site spa, enjoy daily breakfast/lunch/dinner buffets in the dining room, or attend a special writing class/art workshop.

Local Tip: Don’t want to spend the night? Then you always do a historical tour of the property at 5:00 pm on Mondays.

Address: 3778 Route 9L, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours: Varies

Price: Day passes start at $15.00 each.

23. Adirondack Winery

Toasting wine glasses together at one of the best wineries in Long Island.

If you love wine then a visit to Adirondack Winery is one of the best things to do in Lake George NY for you.

After all, this amazing winery is well-located on Canada Street and is a great place to sample a ton of great wines from New York.

Personally, I love their apple pie/peach-infused white wines since they are unlike anything I’ve ever tasted. But, if you’re a big fan of reds then check out their Pinot Noir or Cabernet Franc.

If you want, you can also do a wine flight. Just select seven wines from an extensive list and get ready to enjoy.

However, helpful servers are on hand to help you make the perfect choice. Just be aware that anything highlighted in yellow is a $1.00 extra.

Also, they have snacks on offer and give you a free glass if you purchase bottles of wine to take home with you.

Local Tip: This place is beyond popular. So, if you’re planning a Lake George itinerary then make a reservation for their tasting room before you visit.

You can also visit some of the best breweries in Lake George instead if you can’t get in.

Address: 285 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845

Hours: Open Sunday through Wednesday from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, Thursday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, Friday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, and Saturday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Price: Wine flights are $15.00 each.

Map Of Things To Do In Lake George NY

A detailed map of the things to do in Lake George NY

Click here to see the whole map!

Additional New York Travel Resources You’ll Love

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  • Best Christmas Tree Farms in New York
  • Best Things to do in New Paltz
  • Best Things to do in Saranac Lake 
  • Best State Parks in New York

So there you have it! That is my full list of some of the best things to do in Lake George, NY!

Tell me, did your favorite things to do in lake george make the list if not then let me know in the comments below and i’ll be sure to check them out. , and if you found this post helpful, be sure to join my email list before pinning this post now so that you can read it again later.

places to visit in lake george new york

Adventure Family Travel - Wandering Wagars

12 Fun Things To Do In Lake George New York

Lake George Things to do

Discover the most amazing things to do in Lake George NY with this comprehensive guide to the best attractions, restaurants, and hotels in Lake George.

Things To Do In Lake George NY

I’ve visited the Adirondacks in New York more times over the past two years than I ever thought possible. There is something about this region of the Adirondacks that just keeps pulling me back in. My most recent visit, while attending the Adventure Travel and Trade Association conference, brought me to beautiful Lake George NY. Lake George is a region I had breezed through before but I hadn’t taken the time to stop and properly explore.

We had done the popular Revolution Rail experience , but at the time, I didn’t realize just how close I was to Upstate New York’s premier cottage country. On this visit, I was determined to experience all the amazing things to do in Lake George NY. And I had my work cut out for me.

For a small town, there are way more things to do in Lake George than I had expected. A lot of this has to do with the huge influx of visitors that flock here each summer for cottage rentals and Lake George camping. After visiting Lake Placid , I thought I had experience peak Adirondacks tourism. But it seems that Lake George New York has decided to make a go for the title. Check out this guide to some of the favorite Lake George things to do.

If you’re looking to find our favorite Lake George Hotels, click here.

Kayaking Lake George Things To Do

About Lake George New York

Table of Contents

Although Lake George village has a year-round population of around 3,500 people, if you visited Lake George in the summer, you would never know it. During the warmer months, tens of thousands of people descend on the town at the tip of the 32-mile long Lake George. Nicknamed the Queen of the American Lakes, Lake George is one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the upper east coast. The lake is surrounded on all sides with the lush forests of the Adirondack mountains. And the waters are said to be some of the most pristine in the country. In fact, there are strict guidelines on what type of boats are allowed on the water.

Other Adirondack towns such as Saranac Lake don’t see the boom in summer visitors that Lake George village does. And the lake and all the things to do in Lake George NY are a big reason why. The town itself is a mix of cottage-kitsch. It has historic experiences such as Fort William Henry, gorgeous hotels like the Inn at Erlowest , and a little bit of tack with over 21 mini-golf courses mixed with haunted houses and wax museums.

Whether you’re looking for luxury, casual, or roughing it, Lake George New York has attractions that are perfect for you. I’ll lay out the best of Lake George and show you where to eat, where to stay, and what to do in Lake George.

Where Is Lake George NY?

The village of Lake George sits on the southern shores of Lake George in the Adirondacks region of Upstate New York. This small town is about an hour drive north of Albany and an hour and a half south of the resort town on Lake Placid NY . The village is surrounded by wilderness on all sides. There are quaint cottage communities that act as satellites, but the town of Lake George itself acts as the hub of activity, especially during the summer months.

Lake George itself is a 32-mile long Finger Lake. There is a good deal of development on the southern end, but towards the middle, Lake George is mostly a protected area. At the northern end of the lake is the town of Ticonderoga.

what to do in lake george new york

Top Things To Do In Lake George NY In Summer

Exploring Lake George is a treat. The town is small and easy to wander through on foot. Whether you want to join a Lake George walking tour or just wander the waterfront on your own, the village of Lake George is fun to explore. From the horror and wax museum shops on the main drag to the great beaches and even better watersports, Lake George is fun for the whole family.

Take A Walk Through History At Fort William Henry Museum

The Fort William Henry Museum is a recreation of the original British fort that fell to the French and Huron warriors during a 1757 siege. The siege and subsequent raid were the inspiration behind the movie “The Last of the Mohicans.”

Fort William Henry was rebuilt into a recreation site and museum in the 1950s. It has gone on to become one of the most popular things to do in Lake George. Today, Fort William Henry stands as a monument to the battles in the region. The Lake George Fort features a museum and actors in period costumes.

Lake George Attractions Fort William Henry

Experience The Wilderness On A Rail Bike Tour

One of the coolest things to do near Lake George is the Adirondack rail biking tour in North Creek. If you are looking for a chance to ride the rails in New York State, North Creek is about a 35-minute drive from Lake George. Here you’ll find Revolution Rail Co. They offer a very cool Adirondack rail biking experience that takes you through the thick forests to the edge of the Hudson River. My family took on this Lake George rail bike experience and loved it both rain and shine! You can read all about our Adirondack rail bike experience here .

Lake George Rail Biking North Creek

Enjoy A Lake George Shoreline Cruise

If you’re looking for one of the most relaxing things to do in Lake George, the Shoreline Cruise may be perfect. The Lake George shoreline cruises take you up along the scenic shores and dip into some of the scenic bays along the way. There are several great times to experience the cruise too. The cruises run throughout the day and also offer featured dinner and sunset cruises that are especially popular. You can check out more information on the Lake George shoreline cruises here .

Things to do in Lake George NY Shoreline Cruise

Explore Natural Stone Bridge and Caves

Another great thing to do near Lake George is the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park. This park is home to the largest marble cave entrance in the eastern United States. A visit to this scenic Lake George campground and park will introduce you to some of the region’s incredible landscapes. There are waterfalls, caves, hiking trails, boardwalks, and more to explore. You can find out more about Natural Stone Bridge and other amazing New York State caves here .

Go Camping On The Lake George Islands

There are few places in Upstate New York where you can have an island to yourself. But camping on the Lake George islands is one of them. And far from roughing it, most Lake George Islands have access to toilet facilities, fire pits, and picnic tables. Lake George island campsites book up quickly, but there are often openings early and late in the season. You can reserve campsites here .

Lake George Island Camping

Have Lunch On A Lake George Steamship Cruise

Lake George steamship cruises are another great way to explore the waters off of Lake George village. One of the best things to do in Lake George is the steamship lunch cruise that takes you up through the narrows and Lake George Islands. Along the way, you’ll get great commentary and a fantastic meal. You can book your Lake George steamship lunch here .

Things to do in Lake George Steamship Cruise

Hike To Shelving Rock Waterfall

About one-third of the way up Lake George across from Tongue Mountain is one of my favorite easy Lake George hiking trails. The trail to Shelving Rock Waterfall starts in Log Bay and winds up to Shelving Rock Rd before circling back down towards the waterfall. Along the way are spectacular overlooks of Lake George. Shelving Rock itself is a perfect place to stop for a picnic before continuing along the trail.

Shelving Rock Waterfall Lake George NY

Lake George Kayaking

I’ll be the first to admit that Lake George is not my favorite lake for kayaking. It’s busy and there are locals and visitors alike zipping around on motorboats everywhere. But there are still some great places to paddle on Lake George, including between some of the beautiful Lake George islands.

You can even stop for a coffee or an ice cream at the Glen Island Store where the Department of Environmental Conservation warden is located. My oldest son C learned to Kayak on nearby Mirror Lake in Lake Placid , so being on the water here is really special to me. There are quite a few places to rent SUPs, kayaks, and canoes on Lake George including Lake George Kayak Rentals. You can check out their website here .

Best attractions in Lake George Kayaking

Adirondack Treetop Adventures

If you are looking to pump your Lake George itinerary with some adrenaline-pumping action, look no further than Adirondack Treetop Adventures. This adventure park, located 20-minutes from Lake George is a great adventure destination for the whole family. The park has a kid’s adventure course as well as extreme Lake George treetop adventures for children aged 9 and up who can reach up to 5’9″ (with hands above the head). My 8-year old and I recently tackled a similar course at Cap Jaseux in Saguenay-Lac Saint-Jean Quebec and it was amazing. You can find more about the Adirondack treetop trekking here .

Take A Dip At Million Dollar Beach

Lake George Beach, or as the locals refer to it “Million Dollar Beach,” is a 51 acre stretch of sand that reaches from the water near Fort William Henry and wraps around the south-eastern shores of Lake George. Million Dollar Beach is free to use. There are concession stands, lifeguards, and amenities that make it the most family-friendly beach on Lake George.

places to visit in lake george new york

Putt-Putt On One Of The Villages 21 Mini Golf Courses

Lake George has an absolutely unreasonable number of mini-golf courses for a town of 2,000 people. Lake George mini-putt courses have become legendary across the country. In fact, two of them are considered among the wildest mini golf courses in the world. Lumberjack Pass and Around The World Golf are two of the most popular and wild mini-golf attractions in Lake George. You could spend the entire summer putting around on over 21 mini-golf courses in Lake George.

Hike Some Of The Lake Shore Trails

There are countless Lake George hiking trails to explore. Whether you’re looking for Shelving Rock Falls, Tongue Mountain, or one of the many other great Adirondack trails. The Lake Shore Trail covers much of the region between towns on the east side of the lake while the Prospect Mountain hiking trail is one of the most popular and scenic hiking trails in Lake George. You can find a guide to some of the best Lake George hiking trails here .

Things to do in Lake George hiking

The Best Restaurants In Lake George NY

Lake George is a cool village, but I wouldn’t call it a foodie destination. But with that being said, there are a few hidden gems and great places to eat in Lake George.

Inn At Erlowest

If you’re looking for some great upscale dining in Lake George then I highly recommend the restaurant at the Inn at Erlowest. They offer a wonderful selection of upscale twists on contemporary cuisine. There is also a great selection of cocktails to enjoy on one of the best patios in the Lake George area. You can check out their information here .

Best restaurants in Lake George NY

The Log Jam

For those looking for something with a rustic Adirondack feel, The Log Jam offers high-end dining with a log cabin feel. The Log Jam specializes in lobster, prime rib, and steak.

Capri Pizzeria

If you want something delicious and casual, swing over to Capri Pizzeria . This small pizzeria, just off the main drag has a great selection of local craft beers and delicious oven-baked pizza.

The Best Hotels On Lake George

There are some great options for accommodations in Lake George . Whether you’re looking for high-end inns, relaxed cabins, or sprawling hotels, there are plenty of places to stay in Lake George. Here are a few of the best hotels and accommodations:

The Inn at Erlowest isn’t just a great restaurant in Lake George, it’s one of the most attractive properties on the lake. Rooms at the Inn at Erlowest are large and luxurious. The magnificent stone building was once owned by movie stars and celebrities. But now it’s one of the top luxury hotels in Lake George. You can find out more about the Inn at Erlowest here .

Best Lake George Restaurant Inn at Erlowest

Boathouse B&B

One of the most unique accommodations in Lake George is the historic Boathouse Bed and Breakfast on Sagamore Rd. This converted boathouse has five rooms as well as two suites in the carriage house. Visitors have private balconies with amazing views of the lake. Don’t miss the homemade three-course breakfast. You can check out their prices and availability here .

Fort William Henry Conference Center

If you are looking to stay right in the village of Lake George, the Fort William Henry Conference Center has one of the most prime pieces of real estate. The hotel is perched right at the south end of the lake offering amazing views right onto the water. Don’t miss the tremendous sunsets. There is a restaurant on-site, but visitors are also surrounded by many of the great local Lake George restaurants as well. You can check out their rates and availability here .

You can find more options for hotels on Lake George here.

Do We Recommend Finding Things To Do In Lake George With Kids?

Make a visit to Lake George and you’ll see families everywhere. Visiting Lake George with kids is part of the fun of this town. From the amazing things to do in Lake George to the crazy family-focused wax museums, and even nearby Six Flags Great Escape and Hurrican Harbor, Lake George is a great family destination. From hiking and boating to exploring and camping, you’ll be sure to have an amazing time with all of the great Lake George things to do. And, if you’re looking for more incredible New York State attractions, check out our New York family travel blog .

Have you ever spent time in Lake George NY? Tell us about your experience in the comments. Or swing by our Facebook page and share a photo of your trip. We would love to share in your travels.

Disclosure: Portions of this article were made possible with the support of the Adventure Travel and Trade Association, Visit Lake George , Visit Adirondacks , and the New York Department of Environmental Conservation . All opinions remain our own. Wandering Wagars is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

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Lake George Things to do

Donna Rostom

Saturday 5th of June 2021

Lake George is the greatest place I know of to hang out at,I give lake George a A plus vacation,anytime of the year.

Kevin Wagar

Monday 7th of June 2021

We love it there too!

Saturday 22nd of August 2020

When my daughters were very young I used to take them up there twice a year. We had amazing times in Lake George. Thank you for posting this.

Sunday 23rd of August 2020

I'm so happy to hear that I could rekindle some memories! Maybe it's time for another trip back to Lake George ;)

Allisson Nadler

Wednesday 18th of September 2019

Excellent post! Any extra expense advice before visiting Lake George?

Thursday 19th of September 2019

Hi Allisson, Beyond food and activities, there are no out of the ordinary expenses that you should need to plan for on a Lake George visit.

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View of Lake George from Buck Mountain

View of Lake George from Buck Mountain

Spotlight: Lake George, NY

Known as the "Queen of the American Lakes," with its 109 miles of shoreline and 300+ islands, Lake George has been a vacation paradise for almost two centuries! Families come to experience the many lakeside activities, including beaches and fishing, or to get out on the lake for a ride on a classic paddleboat or in a pontoon boat or canoe. The views surrounding the "beautiful water" are breathtaking, a perfect postcard of Adirondack wilderness. The hotels, cabins, and campsites offer something for every type of traveler, and the charming lakeside towns offer plenty of fun activities and dining options. 

Three Things You Can't Miss  |  Family Fun  |  Spend the Day  |  Spend the Weekend  |  Spend the Week  |  Hotels & Stay  |  Where to Eat  |  Getting There

places to visit in lake george new york

Three Things You Can't Miss

Cruising lake george.

The view of pristine Lake George gets even better from the water. See for yourself with the Lake George Steamboat Company , running for more than 200 years. These historic cruises have revealed the panorama of mountains, beaches, inlets and islands of Lake George to generations of travelers. Hop aboard an old-timey steamboat or shoreline cruiser for brunch, lunch, dinner, drinks, and maybe even a fireworks show.

Island Camping

If you thought you needed a flight to Fiji to sleep under the stars on a secluded island, think again. Lake George is home to 44 state-owned islands with 387 campsites that are accessible via canoe or boat. If you’re looking for more than an afternoon of blissful solitude, you can rent a spot for $28 a night . These campsites do fill up so book as soon as you can!

The Rich History

Long before Lake George was synonymous with leisurely lake days, it was a major player in US history. During the French and Indian War, major battles were fought right along the water, and are memorialized at forts, museums, and public parks. From the monuments and sculptures littered throughout the 35-acre Battlefield Park to the ghost stories told in a whisper at Fort William Henry  (pictured), the history is plentiful.

Six Flags Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor

Six Flags Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor in Lake George is one of New York’s largest amusement parks. Visit for 135+ rides, games, concerts, and events ranging from the Northeast’s first inverting virtual reality roller coaster to a 500,000-gallon wave pool. In between, you’ll find something for everyone, whether you’re traveling with the tiniest of tots or are just a (big) kid at heart yourself. 

Lake George Expedition Park

Lake George Expedition Park's new-in-2019 Dino Roar Valley feels like a real-life Jurassic Park (without the danger), with life-sized dinosaurs along a nature trail, complete with roars, tracks, and educational opportunities. The park's Magic Forest has delighted visitors since 1963 with 24 kiddie amusement rides (including a train and a Tilt-A-Whirl), a diving show, and magic shows. Seasonal: Spring through fall.

Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course

Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course, since 2007, is fun for all ages with a mile and a half of treetop ropes courses, plus a special kids' course for ages six and up with more than 30 games across two courses. Parents and guardians can walk underneath the courses on trails to take photographs and offer encouragement to their little climbers. Seasonal: April through November.

spend the day

Lake George Parasailing - Photo Courtesy of Warren County Tourism

With its many islands and shorelines connecting to verdant, wooded hills, Lake George is something else from above. Find out for yourself with  Parasailing Adventures and soar high in the sky over the lake. Anyone ages six and up can give it a go, and if you’re looking to rope in a friend, the boat can accommodate two to three riders at the same time. 

In the afternoon, hike to the waterfalls at Shelving Rock Falls , an excellent place for birding. It’s an easy trek with a wide, former carriage road that makes it perfect for groups and less experienced hikers. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at the pool of the falls. 

At the end of the day, literally and figuratively transport yourself into a bygone era with a cruise on one of Lake George’s famous shoreliners. From sleek yachts to authentic paddle wheelers, there are dozens of options to enjoy the breathtaking views and setting sun on the water.

spend the weekend

There are so many beaches in Lake George that it can be hard to know where to start. A tried and true favorite is the aptly named Million Dollar Beach  (pictured). Clean, wide, and with a roped-off swimming area, it’s the perfect landing spot for a day along the water. Plus, with lifeguards on hand, it’s a top pick for families with young swimmers. 

Whenever you grow tired of lounging on the beach (if that's possible), head out to explore the 32 miles of Lake George by boat. There are plenty of rental options in town, whether you’re looking for a low-key, family-friendly pontoon, or a high-speed nautical ride. You can also stock up on equipment for wakeboarding, water skiing, or fishing.

Start the day with a 100-mile vista atop Prospect Mountain  (pictured), one of Lake George’s iconic peaks. The summit can be tackled by hiking or biking. Hikers can expect about three hours round trip. You can also park and take the kid-adored Prospect Shuttle tram to the top. Either way, the reward is uncontested: Sweeping views of Lake George and the lush foothills of the Adirondacks.

Whether you’re breathless from the incline or the views, a glass of wine at Adirondack Winery is a refreshing post-Prospect treat. Family-owned, this Lake George favorite features a tasting room with dozens of varieties, including popular fruit-infused wines. Should a two-ounce pour not suffice, they have plenty of bottles on site for purchase, and they even ship nationally.

spend the week

Fort William Henry  (pictured) is an exciting historical site modeled after the British fort that was destroyed in the area during the French and Indian War. The fort is an interactive living museum that will enthrall everyone in your camp. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll be recruited and trained as soldiers—even given uniforms, muskets, and a certificate after they complete their drills. For an added dose of adrenaline, tour the grounds at night during a candlelit ghost tour and hear battleground stories handed down for generations.  

In the afternoon, beeline back to the lake to leisurely paddleboard, kayak, or tube float on the water. After, grab a table on the patio at Tavern on the Lake   for some crab cakes, drinks, and killer views.

Feel the rush of rafting down the Hudson and Sacandaga rivers on a whitewater adventure with Wild Waters  (pictured) in Warrensburg, just a ten-minute drive from the village. The 3.5-mile partial day trip is perfect for families. Thrill-seekers may be interested in the full-day 17-mile trip that includes Class III and IV rapids. Seasonal: Late June to early September, reservations highly recommended.

After cleaning up, grab dinner at Lizzie Kaeys or indulge in a round of greens at the  Sagamore Golf Course . This course maximizes the beauty of the region around every bend. Whether or not you play your best round, there’s always a cocktail waiting at Caldwells in the Sagamore lobby.

Exterior of the Hyde Collection Art Museum in Glens Falls, NY

Plunge into the day by scuba diving with Halfmoon Marine . Life under the lake proves fascinating—explore historic wrecks dating back centuries, including submerged hotel sites. You can also expect to see island walls and reefs teeming with trout and salmon. In the afternoon, pay a visit to the  Hyde Collection Art Museum and Historic House  (pictured), whose small but mighty art collection is one of the best between Manhattan and Montreal. The museum is brimming with work from masters like Rembrandt and Degas, along with contemporary artists. Still, it’s the art’s residence in a storied historic home that really makes it a two-for-one treasure, as you’re just as likely to stumble across a rare book in the library or spot beautiful period-era furnishings.  

French & Indian War reenactment at Fort Ticonderoga.

Take the short drive to Fort Ticonderoga  (pictured). A reconstruction of this fort, pivotal to the French and Indian and the Revolutionary wars, means you can experience a day in the life of a soldier from a bygone era. Whether you want to catch a reenactment or tour the King's Garden, this hands-on living museum has plenty to offer all ages.  

Later, trek up Buck Mountain for a moderately challenging trail that rewards climbers with sweeping views of Lake George and the Adirondacks. Plan for at least a few hours, but bank on the views being worth the effort.

At night, head to Lake George Village to catch the town’s weekly fireworks show above the lake. Seasonal, during the summer.

Gurney Lane Mountain Bike Park

Spend the day exploring the adorable town of Glen Falls, just south of Lake George. Stroll the boutiques then take on Warren Country Bike Trail if you're a casual bike rider or  Gurney Lane Mountain Bike Trails  (pictured) if you can shred. Cool off in the public pool nearby for just $5 admission.

Fill up on Italian classics at Rocco's Italian American Bistro or Mexican fare at Raul's —pro tip: happy hour runs from 2 to 6 pm.

Finish up at the taproom of  Common Roots Brewing Company , a father-son craft beer company committed to great beer, community, and sustainability.

Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks,  Ausable Chasm  (pictured) is a sandstone river valley gorge pocketed with stunning waterfalls and low-level trails to enjoy the view. At the oldest natural attraction in the US, catch a glimpse of fossils and remnants from eons ago and see trails and markers from brave souls that ventured into the canyon hundreds of years ago. Descend deep into the canyon for a unique mile walk against the sandstone, and then float back on a lazy river tour. Or, try your hand walking cable bridges, climbing under cargo nets, and along cliffs' edges with a professional guide. 

At night, grab dinner at the Boathouse Restaurant , a waterfront restaurant with private docking right on the lake, should you want to arrive in high style.

Adirondack Pub & Brewery, Credit: Adirondack Pub & Brewery

As its name tends to suggest, the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course is a spirited obstacle course that will raise the eyebrows of even seasoned adrenaline junkies. Set some 60 feet into the canopy above the Adirondack forest, the adventure course features everything from wobbly bridges to zip lines, nets, and Tarzan swings. Prove to your friends once and for all that you could’ve made the cut for one of those extreme obstacle reality shows.

For surviving (and enjoying) a rough n’ tumble day on the adventure course, head over to Adirondack Pub & Brewery  (pictured) for a pint. This family-friendly pub has a wide range of comfort-food menu options, plus hand-crafted beers brewed on site. You can even tour the brewery after your meal.

Hotels and Stay

The heritage of lake george.

A cozy spot with a charming gazebo, fire pit, and heated pool. more

Spectacular views, a heated pool. kayak and paddle-board rentals. more

Quality Inn Lake George

 Spacious rooms and a pool in downtown Lake George. more

Holiday Inn Resort

A short hike to the village, beloved for its outdoor fire pit and kids’ activities. more

Blue Lagoon Resort

Charming lakeside cottages along a sandy beach with its own boat dock. more

Wingate by Wyndham

Nestled in the woods at the southern end of Lake George. more

The Sagamore Resort

A gem of Adirondack heritage that includes a spa and golf course. more

Lodges at Cresthaven

Rustic-looking log cabins with luxe amenities. more

The Boathouse Bed & Breakfast

Million-dollar views at a romantic waterfront B&B. more

The Inn at Erlowest and Sun Castle Resort

1898 mansion on 15 acres with two beaches and dock rental services. more

Where to Eat

Pizza jerks.

Local favorite best known for its pizza and delicious garlic knots. more

Barnsider Smokehouse BBQ

Ribs, chicken, and other house favorites slathered in a homemade sauce. more

Martha's Dandee Creme

A local favorite with generous cones and great service. more

Adirondack Pub & Brewery

25+ all-natural, unpasteurized ales produced on-site, family-friendly food. more

Lake George Steamboat Co.

Lunch and dinner cruises, including theme rides like Elvis or Oktoberfest. more

Boardwalk Restaurant

Over-the-lake seating on the outdoor deck, live music. more

Up River Cafe

Cute spot with a large wrap-around porch overlooking the river. more

The Inn at Erlowest

4-Diamond farm-to-table fine dining. more

The Pavilion

One of eight restaurants at the Sagamore, al fresco seafood. more

Caldwell House Restaurant

A cozy log cabin restaurant specializing in hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood. more

Shoreline Restaurant

Daily specials and children's menu on a large deck overlooking the lake. more

getting there

Lake George is about 50 miles outside of Albany Airport , which offers car rentals and even some shuttle buses to local area hotels.

Lake George is accessible via Amtrak with daily stops in Fort Edward, which is about a 20-minute drive. From Fort Edward, you can hail a taxi, rent a car, or call the Greater Glens Falls Transit System to inquire about their shuttle service.

Adirondack Trailways and Greyhound to Lake George.

• From NYC: 3 hrs, 45 mins • From Albany: 1 hr • From Buffalo: 5 hrs • From Boston: 3 hrs, 30 mins • From Philadelphia: 4 hrs, 40 mins • From Montreal: 2 hrs, 40 mins

Check out Visit Lake George for more information.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

The Best Things To Do In Beautiful Lake George

places to visit in lake george new york

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

  • Destinations
  • The Catskills
  • United States

Perhaps it’s because I recently binge-watched every season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and noticed that the real-life resort used as Steiner Resort is for sale (or perhaps I’m simply growing increasingly restless from being stuck at home during the pandemic ), but I can’t stop daydreaming about summertime in Upstate New York.

Although Midge’s impending divorce in Season 2 demoted her to sash girl during the swimsuit competition along Oquaga Lake in the Catskills, vacationers will find the clear, calm waters of beautiful Lake George, about 3 hours northeast in the Adirondacks, equally idyllic.

Covering six million acres, Adirondack Park is roughly three times larger than Yellowstone National Park and essentially the same size as the state of Vermont.

The largest and most easterly of the Adirondack lakes, Lake George is about 200 miles north of the Big Apple and 70 miles north of New York’s capital city, Albany. Here’s where to play, eat, and stay when you visit beautiful Lake George.

Things To Do In Lake George

Surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains, the town of Lake George sits on the southwestern tip of a long, narrow lake of the same name. While not officially one of the 11 Finger Lakes of Western New York near Syracuse, Lake George is similarly shaped, stretching vertically near the Vermont border.

Here’s what to do in the area.

Paddle boats and kayaks on Lake George.

Spend Time On The Lake

Visiting beautiful Lake George and not enjoying the lake would be like going to New York City and not visiting the Empire State Building. One of the best things to do in Lake George is to spend time on the water. In the town of Lake George, you can rent a speedboat or pontoon from Brodie’s Lakeside .

Leave the driving to someone else with a cruise on the Lake George Steamboat Company ’s Minne Ha Ha or Mohican . Spend an hour or nearly all day on the glassy waters of Lake George, or enjoy a champagne brunch or a dinner cruise.

If you prefer a self-powered experience on Lake George, head north to Bolton Landing and rent a canoe or kayak from the Lake George Kayak Company .

And if you want to get in the water, book a dive charter with Captain Frank Hartley at Halfmoon Marine Services . The Halfmoon Explorer , specifically designed for divers, is located at Lake George’s Gilchrist Marina.

A hiking trail through the woods of Lake George.

Take A Hike

Just west of Lake George, Prospect Mountain offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Laurentian Mountains in Canada!

The trail to the summit is a 3-mile round-trip hike with a steep grade that can be quite treacherous in spots. So if you’d prefer to drive, take the Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway .

Whether you arrive on foot or by car, don’t miss the remains of the Prospect Mountain Cable Incline Railway at the top of Prospect Mountain. Built in 1895 to run wealthy travelers up the mountain every half hour, it was once the longest cable railroad in the world. Passengers boarding the cable railway were typically headed to the Prospect Mountain House. Unfortunately, this luxurious hotel burned down, but you can still see its stone fireplace at the top of the mountain.

Another popular hiking trail near Lake George is the Buck Mountain Trail , located about 20 minutes northeast of Lake George, near Kattskill Bay on the east side of the lake. There are two trails to the summit.

For a flatter, easier hike, follow the 3.5-mile Lakeshore Trail along the eastern banks of Lake George for beautiful views of the lake, plenty of picnic spots, and a waterfall or two.

Pro Tip: No matter which trail you hike, be sure to wear bug spray!

Go Bike Riding

If you prefer to explore picturesque Upstate New York on two wheels (rather than on two feet), the Warren County Bikeway connects Lake George with Glens Falls, roughly 12 miles away just north of the Hudson River. And if you want to keep going from there, Glens Falls is a junction to several other bike routes and recreational trails.

Fort William Henry in Lake George, New York.

Visit Fort William Henry

History buffs will want to carve out time to visit Fort William Henry on the southern banks of Lake George, just northwest of Lake George Beach. Named after two British royal grandsons, the fort was built in the 1750s as an outpost to protect inland waterways from New York City to Montreal.

Explore the sights and sounds of Fort William Henry via a self-guided walking tour of the museum and buildings using your cell phone. Or take in an 18th-century military demonstration complete with muskets and cannons at scheduled times throughout the week.

Head To Adirondack Winery

From the rieslings of the Finger Lakes region to the ice wines of the Niagara Escarpment, Upstate New York is home to many phenomenal wines. In Lake George, visit Adirondack Winery to taste a selection of handcrafted, award-winning wines produced by husband-and-wife team Mike and Sasha Pardy. Enjoy fruit-infused wines featuring the fresh flavors of peaches and blackberries, dry reds aged in toasted oak barrels, or red port-style dessert wines expertly paired with cheese, chocolate, and other nibbles.

Check Out Lake George Distilling Company

If you prefer spirits to Seyval blanc, sauvignon, or sangria, then check out Lake George Distilling Company . Established in 2012, the distillery handcrafts whiskey, bourbon, and other spirits in small batches using regional ingredients like locally grown corn and apples from Adirondack orchards.

Pro Tip: For other things to see and do near Lake George, consider a day trip to Saratoga Springs or another quaint town in Upstate New York .

Best Restaurants In Lake George

The boathouse restaurant.

Family-owned for more than three decades, The Boathouse Restaurant on Lake George is fun and family-friendly. Enjoy a glass of wine or sip a cocktail as you watch the boats sail by, or linger over a delicious, seasonally inspired meal featuring the best locally sourced ingredients.

The Inn At Erlowest

For an elegant and romantic evening out, dine at this magnificent turn-of-the-century stone mansion. With its extensive wine list, expertly prepared farm-to-table seasonal menu, and impeccable service, The Inn at Erlowest will leave lasting memories.

Bistro LeRoux

Although it’s a bit off the beaten path (and not on the lake), Bistro LeRoux is worth the short drive to the southeastern edge of town. With a menu crafted from only the best seasonal ingredients, the chefs accommodate every appetite by proudly offering half-plate portions in addition to gluten-free and vegetarian fare.

Best Places To Shop In Lake George

For a little retail therapy, Lake George has two popular options: The Outlets at Lake George and Adirondack Outlet Mall .

Featuring designers like Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, and Vera Bradley, along with popular brands like Adidas, COACH, and Levi’s, The Outlets at Lake George have an east and west location, flanking both sides of Highway 9.

No matter what it’s like outside, the climate-controlled Adirondack Outlet Mall ensures smooth sailing at its more than 50 stores ranging from Under Armour to the Moose on the Loose Deli .

Best Places To Stay In Lake George

The lodges at cresthaven.

With more than 50 well-appointed vacation rentals, The Lodges at Cresthaven blend hotel luxury and Adirondack lodge charm. Each two-bedroom, two-bath townhouse includes a fully equipped kitchen, gas fireplace, washer/dryer, and complete entertainment center.

Covering 15 acres right on the lake, with two beaches and dock rentals, The Inn at Erlowest mentioned in the dining section is also a delightful place to stay. Choose one of the 10 suites in the stone mansion or stay in one of the townhouses or villas.

The Sagamore Resort

Located on a private 70-acre island in Lake George, The Sagamore Resort near Bolton Landing is a prestigious Adirondack landmark that dates to the 1880s. Choose from accommodations in the historic main hotel, at one of the seven rustic lodges, in the innkeeper’s former home, or at one of the resort’s spacious condos.

Aerial view of Lake George in New York.

Best Camping In Lake George

Adirondack camping village.

From tent camping to cabins to RV hookups, if you’re searching for closer-to-nature accommodations in Lake George, you should check out the Adirondack Camping Village . The secluded, wooded campsites of this family-owned-and-operated camping resort are located in the northwest part of town, just a short drive from the lake.

Lake George RV Park

Offering recreational vehicle campsites as well as 40-foot on-site rentals, Lake George RV Park is another accommodation option for glampers. If you’re visiting Lake George with your dog, you’ll love its Charlie’s Bark Park, a 2-acre, off-leash dog park that includes shaded walking trails, a dog wash station, and more. Your pup will never want to leave!

Best Glamping Near Lake George

If you prefer the more glamorous version of camping known as glamping, then check out these options a short drive from Lake George. Approximately 40 minutes west of the lake’s southern tip, Camp Orenda in Johnsburg has six canvas cabins with queen-sized beds, down comforters, hot showers, and heated toilets. And in Chestertown, about 20 minutes from Bolton Landing on Lake George’s western shore, Posh Primitive is another luxury camping option in the Southern Adirondack Mountains.

Pro Tip: If you hear the Catskills or the Adirondack Mountains calling, unwind in at one of these nine incredible glamping destinations in Upstate New York .

Whether you stay for a few days or more than a month or visit in the summer or during another season, you’ll find that there are plenty of things to see, do, eat, and experience in beautiful Lake George in Upstate New York’s exquisite Adirondack region.

Image of Sage Scott

Bitten by the travel bug as a preschooler when her family moved abroad for the first time, Sage Scott is addicted to travel. From her nomadic upbringing in a military family to her personal and professional travels as an adult, Sage has visited all 50 states, lived abroad twice, and explored nearly 30 other countries.

Now settled in America’s Heartland, Sage writes with a midlife traveler’s perspective from Kansas City — the Midwestern cowtown affectionately called the Paris of the Plains and the undisputed Barbecue Capital of the World — and is always in search of new experiences whether in her hometown or halfway around the world.

10 Things To Do In Lake George: Complete Guide To This Upstate New York Vacation Spot

Visitors will find many diverse things to do in Lake George, one of Upstate New York's top vacation destinations.

Lake George was tailor-made for tourists who appreciate the outdoors! This charming waterfront town in Upstate New York’s Adirondacks oozes natural beauty, featuring green forests, majestic mountains, and scenic lake waters. Aptly nicknamed the “Queen of American Lakes,” this small community has been a renowned vacation spot for centuries. It welcomes friends and families to partake in fun lakeside activities, including fishing, boating, and canoeing.

Away from the water, Lake George delights adventurers with a lush wilderness, picturesque hiking trails, and hidden gems worth exploring. Historians will be intrigued by ancient Native American artifacts discovered at Million Dollar Beach , and foodies will love the scrumptious servings in the town’s world-class restaurants. In a nutshell, there is no shortage of enthralling experiences in this little village and one of the prettiest locations in the Adirondacks .

Things To Do In Lake George

A sweet escape from the bustle and hustle of crowded New York State cities like Manhattan, Lake George promises a mixed bag of awesome adventures for all types of travelers. Vacationers can look forward to some of the best things to do in the Adirondacks .

Related: Jump Into Adventure: 10 Exciting Things To Do In The Adirondacks This Spring

1 Head To Million Dollar Beach

Million Dollar Beach is the largest beach in Lake George and among the top-rated beaches in Upstate New York . This scenic, sandy slice of paradise spans an impressive 51 acres and is renowned for offering all-round family-friendly entertainment. There is plenty of real estate to lounge on the sand and soak in the sun or take a refreshing dip in the lake.

Kids can play on the shore, build sand castles, and swim in the calm waters of the lake, with lifeguards on hand to guarantee their safety.

Plenty of on-site amenities make Million Dollar Beach the perfect family beach, offering ready access to a concession stand, changing rooms, volleyball courts, showers, and picnic grills and tables.

  • Admission : Free (On-site parking - $10 per car, $5 per motorcycle, and $50 per bus).
  • Hours : 10 am – 6 pm

History buffs will be intrigued to learn about the fascinating 10,000-year-old Native American artifacts discovered at Million Dollar Beach in 2013 .

2 Take The Lake George Steamboat Cruise

An excellent way to experience the magnificence of Lake George, the Lake George Steamboat Company provides vacationers with diverse sailing experiences, allowing them to absorb the breathtaking vistas of the lake and surrounding scenery.

Several cruise packages exist, tailored to different customer preferences and experiences, including the Minne Ha Ha Paddlewheel Cruise (introductory) and Lac du Saint Sacrement Midday Luncheon Cruise (lunch).

Meanwhile, the longest cruise, the Mohican Full Lake Cruise, offers tourists a comprehensive tour of the lake and lasts about 6 hours. During the sail, cruisers glimpse picturesque islands, mountainous landscapes, and historic mansions.

  • Tickets : $17.50 to $58 for adults, depending on cruise type
  • Hours : May to October.

The company runs different types of cruises that first-timers can select based on their desired experience. For instance, the best option for families is the Friday Night Party Cruise, a sure hit with kids.

3 Hang Out In Shepard Park

Situated smack dab in the middle of the small town, this cute green space allows vacationers to relax and enjoy its laid-back vibe. Shepard Park houses several public amenities that draw visitors throughout the year, including a gorgeous Centennial Fountain and amphitheater, which hosts exciting music festivals and summer concerts.

On select evenings, locals and visitors gather here to watch a spectacular fireworks display, and an on-site playground allows kids to have fun. The park’s beach is an excellent area for beach lovers to relax, unwind, and people-watch.

  • Admission : Free
  • Hours : Park (7 am – 9 pm), Beach (10 am – 6 pm)

Don’t miss out on the weekly events held at the park, including musical performances and fireworks shows.

4 Take On The Challenge At Adirondacks Extreme Adventure Course

There are many things to look forward to when planning a family trip to Lake George , but one spot vacationers can’t afford to miss is the Adirondacks Extreme Adventure Course. Carefully curated for all types of thrill-seekers and ages, this exciting facility features everything from a zipline adventure and rock climbing to an obstacle course.

Guests can select from six adult courses and two fun kids' courses, set against the backdrop of lush forests and mountains of the Adirondacks.

  • Admission : Start at $40 each, based on the course
  • Hours : Vary by season

Participants must satisfy specific requirements to be allowed on the course. For instance, the weight limit is 175lbs. Travelers can visit the official website for more information on this.

5 Marvel At The Shelving Rock Falls

Shelving Rock Falls is a magnificent natural wonder on the village's eastern side. The 50-foot cascade has a habit of leaving first-timers in awe, compelling them to make the relatively easy hike on an unmarked trail through the forest. Luckily, there are plenty of stirring sights before the icing on the cake.

From rocky landscapes and lush flora to charming lake views, the experience couldn’t be more satisfying. Upon reaching Shelving Rock Falls, tourists can soak in the sight or swim in Log Bay.

Wear comfortable and sturdy walking shoes because the trail has steep sections and slippery wet rocks.

Getting to Shelving Rock Falls necessitates getting a car or taxi, as the location is just over 20 miles from the town. On the bright side, there is enough free parking space on-site.

6 Step Back In Time At Fort William Henry Museum

Long before Lake George became a famous vacation spot, it was a deserted wilderness where the French-Indian War played out in the 1700s. Visitors can get useful insight into the ancient war at the Fort William Henry Museum, the site that hosted the battle. They’ll learn about the war’s history and watch reenactments by soldiers at the fort.

Additionally, the venue hosts an exciting ghost tour where guests listen to folklore relayed through generations and explore supernatural happenings and spooky sites along the way. The Fort William Henry Museum offers an eye-opening experience that history buffs will relish.

  • Tour tickets: Adults $19.95, Seniors $15.95, Kids $5
  • Hours : 9:30 am – 6 pm, daily

After the eerie tour, guests can stop by the venue's gift shop to compose themselves and search for souvenirs.

7 Hike Prospect Mountain

Rated among the most popular hikes in the Adirondacks, Prospect Mountains challenges visitors with a round-trip trek of approximately three miles. The trailhead is accessible on Smith Street at the town center and leads adventurers to the summit, with a few rocky and steep sections along the way. However, the sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes at the summit make the challenge worthwhile.

Those who don’t fancy a hike can still enjoy the views by driving along the Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway , a 6-mile drive to the mountain’s peak with stunning lookout spots. Although the hike is relatively manageable, even for beginners, it is not recommended for children because of the steep sections.

Carry basic supplies like water, snacks, and bug spray for a comfortable experience. Also, choose a sunny and clear day for the hike to enjoy the views atop Prospect Mountain.

Related: 10 Of the Most Dangerous Hikes In The Adirondacks

8 Get Spooked At The House Of Frankenstein Wax Museum

Travelers who don’t mind a little scare can visit the House of Frankenstein Wax Museum to test their nerves. This hidden Lake George gem promises an adventurous experience full of thrills and screams, perfect for families and groups of friends.

Those brave enough to walk through its creepy, dimmed hallways will encounter “monsters and creatures”; some move and others talk to get the loudest shriek out of visitors.

The House of Frankenstein Wax Museum has been around for almost five decades, entertaining guests with classic scares. This adrenaline-rushing experience is a must-have for families in Lake George.

  • Admission : Adults: ~$14 (with tax), kids $13
  • Hours : Thur to Mon, 10 am to 8 pm (Vary Seasonally)

The experience at House of Frankenstein Wax Museum is heightened during Halloween, so fans might want to plan their journey to coincide with the spooky season.

9 Pedal Along The Warren County Bikeway

Adventurers looking to explore Lake George’s open spaces can hop on two wheels to ride along the 10 miles of paved trail making up the Warren County Bikeway. The path starts in Glen Falls, passing south of Lake George to Queensbury, and ends at Battlefield Park.

Along the way, riders can feast their eyes on sprawling hills, glittering lakes, and thick-canopy forests to understand what makes the Adirondacks such a special place .

The path is well maintained to ensure a smooth ride and features a few signs detailing the trail’s history. When it snows during winter, cyclists can swap their bikes with snowmobiles to have year-round fun.

Vacationers can hire a set of wheels from Beach Road Bait & Tackle to explore the Warren County Bikeway. Rates range from $10 per hour to $35 for a day.

10 Embrace Retail Therapy At The Adirondack Outlet Mall

After all the rigorous outdoor adventures in Lake George, tourists might want to calm themselves with a relaxing activity, and Adirondack Outlet Mall is the ideal spot for this. From shopping and dining to easy-going entertainment, guests will have a soothing experience at one of the top-rated shopping venues in the region.

The mall houses different name-brand stores selling various goods, including children’s apparel, perfume, jewelry, camping gear, fashion items, and more. After shopping, pop into one of the quaint cafés for a lovely meal or grab a cup of beverage at a franchise coffee shop.

  • Hours : 10 am – 6 pm, daily

11 Best Time To Visit Lake George

The best time to visit Lake George is between May and September when the conditions are toasty and perfect for all the lakeside and water-based activities.

With summer temperatures rising to the 80s degrees Fahrenheit, the water beckons tourists for a refreshing dip, and hikers, bikers, and trekkers head out to explore the village’s wilderness.

This period also sees many fun events and festivals, including Lake George Music Festival and the Adirondack Food & Wine Festival .

The shoulder season from October to November is another excellent time to visit Lake George, especially for those looking to skip the crowds. Travelers will love the flurry of fall foliage and milder temperatures. Some popular events to anticipate include Lake George Oktoberfest & Fall Festival and the World’s Largest Garage Sale.

Pack plenty of layers for a fall vacation; snowfall is possible during this time.

Related: 10 Places To See Fall Foliage As The Leaves Change In New York State

Although winter temperatures can dip to a frigid 20 degrees Fahrenheit, Lake George is among the best Upstate New York towns to visit in winter .

Several activities will help visitors starve off the cold, such as ice fishing, skating, snowmobiling, and skiing. Also, they can take pride in having reading access to one of the most beautiful frozen lakes in America .

Finally, March to April is also delightful as the town gradually shakes off the winter chill. Vacationers can start breaking out of their cocoons to admire the scenery in Lake George without encountering crowds. However, the weather is still chilly, so don’t lose all the layers.

12 How To Get Around Lake George

For travelers arriving in Lake George, there are various transportation means to get around and discover this scenic village. Depending on one’s preferences and budget, there are various ways to get around.

Taxis are readily accessible in Lake George, with several reliable cab agencies operating in the town and the surrounding area. A good option is Queensbury Taxi , based around the Glenn Falls region.

  • Taxi rates : Approximately $3 per mile

Alternatively, use rideshare services like Uber and Lyft for mobile app users.

Car rentals are a convenient way of getting around the village, especially for those looking to explore beyond its limits. Some distant attractions, including Shelby Rock Falls, are only accessible by car.

A personal set of wheels is handy for day-trippers planning to tour other charming small towns in the Adirondack Mountains .

Hop on the trolley

For those visiting Lake George in the summer, the Greater Glens Falls Transit operates a trolley service around the town, ferrying passengers to different destinations. The South Service runs between Beach Road and Glens Falls, while the North Service runs between Beach Road and Bolton Landing/Warrensburg.

  • Fares : $1 for all areas between Lake George and Glens Falls
  • Hours : 6 am – 7 pm (8 am – 6 pm Sunday)

13 Where To Stay In Lake George

The small village of Lake George and its surroundings guarantee visitors pleasant and diverse lodging options for a good night’s sleep. From luxury lakeside resorts to isolated vacation rentals in the middle of nature to affordable B&Bs with decent amenities, here are the best hotels in Lake George.

Luxury options:

The Lodges at Cresthaven

  • Address : 3210 Lake Shore Dr, Lake George, NY 12845, United States
  • Rates per night: Start at $426
  • Amenities : Private beach, Lake view, Mountain view, Infinity pool, Hot tub, Kitchen, Kitchenette, Pool table, Basketball court, Tennis

The Stone Gate Resort

  • Address : 3250 Lake Shore Drive, Lake George, NY 12845
  • Rates per night: Start at $384
  • Amenities : Private facilities (on site), Outdoor pool, Fitness center, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Free parking, Flat-screen TV

Mid-range options:

Comfort Inn and Suites Lake George

  • Address : 4054 State Route 9L, Lake George, NY 12845
  • Rates per night: Start at $198
  • Amenities : Outdoor pool, Indoor pool, Fitness center, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Free parking, Business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas

The Juliana Resort

  • Address : 3842 Lake Shore Drive, Diamond Point, NY 12824
  • Rates per night: Start at $197
  • Amenities : Private beach, Outdoor pool, Basketball court, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Free parking, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV, Internet, Hairdryer

Budget options:

Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Lake George

  • Address : 435 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845
  • Rates per night: Start at $121
  • Amenities : Snorkeling, Outdoor pool, Indoor pool, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Free parking, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV

Nordick's Inn

  • Address : 2895 Lake Shore Drive, Lake George, NY 12845
  • Rates per night: Start at $103
  • Amenities : Outdoor pool, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Free parking, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV

14 Where To Eat In Lake George

Whether looking for casual or fine dining experiences, Lake George has many restaurant establishments catering to all tastes and budgets. From local American dishes to internationally influenced cuisines, these eateries serve a stirring mix of flavors guaranteed to tickle any taste buds.

The nightlife is also buzzing in this quaint village, especially during summer when local establishments host musical groups to entertain partygoers in open decks. When feeling ravenous, consider these top eateries in Lake George.

Breakfast :

The Breakfast Spot

  • Address : 42 Amherst St, Lake George, NY 12845-1221
  • Hours : 8 am – 12 pm

Lunch & dinner:

Boathouse Restaurant

  • Address : 3210 Lake Shore Dr, Lake George, NY 12845-6511
  • Hours : Wednesday to Sunday, 12 pm – 9 pm

Shepard's at Erlowest

  • Address : 3178 Lake Shore Dr, Lake George, NY 12845-6508
  • Hours : Thursday to Monday, 8 am -8:30 pm

Tankard Tavern

  • Address : 48 Canada St. Within the Fort William Henry Hotel, Lake George, NY 12845
  • Hours : Thursday & Friday (1 pm – 9 pm), Saturday & Sunday (12:30 pm – 9 pm)

Related: This Is How Long It Would Take To Hike All 46 Adirondack Peaks

15 Tips To Know When Visiting Lake George

Lake George is one of the most beautiful small towns in Upstate New York’s Adirondacks . While vacationing in this lakeside village guarantees a memorable experience, here are useful tips about the town:

  • Although the town center is small and easily navigable on foot, hiring a car helps access distant attractions like Shelving Rocks Falls. The only thing is that the roads can be slippery and tricky to drive during winter due to snow and ice.
  • There are numerous fun water activities, so first-timers should bring their bathing suits, especially when visiting in summer.
  • Among the interesting facts about Lake George is that it is one of the cleanest lakes in the US and home to hundreds of fish species, so anglers should bring their fishing gear.

16 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Lake George

Start the day at Million Dollar Beach, relaxing on the soft sand or swimming in the cool waters of Lake George. Later, enjoy a laid-back sail with the Lake George Steamboat Cruise to explore the surrounding scenes from the water before grabbing a quick snack while hanging out at Shepard Park.

Afterward, hit the trails on the Warren County Bikeway to check out the lush wilderness in Lake George and soak in the views along the way. Stop for lunch, then take it easy at the Fort William Henry Museum to uncover the storied history of the village.

Follow this up with a spooky House of Frankenstein Wax Museum tour, then shake off the shudder with an enthralling experience at Adirondacks Extreme Adventure Course. After the strenuous physical challenge, reward the effort with some much-needed retail therapy at Adirondack Outlet Mall.

Enjoy a sumptuous supper at one of the on-site restaurants, then wrap up the day with a few drinks at Tankard Tavern.

VacationIdea

  • Last Minute

20 Best Things to Do in Lake George, New York

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 10, 2024

Lake George from Black Mountain Lookout

1750 Pilot Knob Rd, Kattskill Bay, NY 12844, Phone: 518-623-1200

Fort William Henry, Lake George

48 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845, Phone: 518-668-5471

Lake George Attractions: House of Frankenstein Wax Museum

213 Canada Street, Lake George, New York 12845, Phone: 518-668-3377

Lake George Steamboat Co.

57 Beach Road, Lake George, NY, 12845, Phone: 518-668-5777

Things to Do in Lake George: Million Dollar Beach

139 Beach Rd, Lake George, NY 12845, Phone: 518-668-3352

Parasailing Adventures, Lake George

2 Kurosaka Lane, Lake George, NY 12845, Phone: 518-668-9234

Things to Do in Lake George: Prospect Mountain

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, 1/2 mile S of Lake George Village, opposite the Lake George Chamber of Commerce, located at 2176 U.S. 9, Lake George, NY 12845, Phone: 518-668-5198

Shelving Rock Falls, Lake George

Shelving Rock Rd, Fort Ann, NY 12827, Phone: 518-623-1200

Warren County Bikeway, Lake George, New York

1340 State Rte 9, Lake George, NY 12845, Phone: 518-623-2877

Lake George Historical Association and Museum

Lake George Historical Association and Museum, 290 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845, 518-668-5044

Wiawaka Center for Women

Wiawaka Center for Women, 3778 Route 9L, Lake George, NY 12845, 518-668-9690

Giovanni’s On the Lake

Giovanni’s on the Lake, 384 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845, 518-668-5401

Adirondack Winery

Adirondack Winery, 285 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845, 518-203-2597

Adirondack Pub and Brewery

Adirondack Pub and Brewery, 33 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845, 518-668-0002

Lake George Lanes and Games

Lake George Lanes and Games, 2211 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12745, 518-668-5741

Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, 2115 State Route 9 North, Lake George, NY 12845, 518-668-0493

Around the World Miniature Golf

Around the World Miniature Golf, 58 Beach Road, Lake George, NY 12845, 518-668-2531

Log Jam Restaurant

Log Jam Restaurant, 1484 US 9, Lake George, NY 12845, 518-798-1155

The Boathouse Restaurant

The Boathouse Restaurant, 3210 Lake Shore Drive, Lake George, NY 12845, 800-853-1632

  • 1. Buck Mountain Hiking Trail
  • 2. Fort William Henry, Lake George
  • 3. Lake George Attractions: House of Frankenstein Wax Museum
  • 4. Lake George Steamboat Co.
  • 5. Things to Do in Lake George: Million Dollar Beach
  • 6. Parasailing Adventures, Lake George
  • 7. Things to Do in Lake George: Prospect Mountain
  • 8. Shelving Rock Falls, Lake George
  • 9. Warren County Bikeway, Lake George, New York
  • 10. Lake George Historical Association and Museum
  • 11. Wiawaka Center for Women
  • 12. Giovanni’s On the Lake
  • 13. Adirondack Winery
  • 14. Adirondack Pub and Brewery
  • 15. Lake George Lanes and Games
  • 16. Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf
  • 17. Around the World Miniature Golf
  • 18. Log Jam Restaurant
  • 19. The Boathouse Restaurant

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Lake George: The Queen of American Lakes

Welcome to lake george.

Tucked away in the heart of New York’s Adirondack Mountains, Lake George, known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” is a picturesque destination that draws visitors from around the United States.

Its shimmering waters, surrounded by verdant forests and rolling hills, offer the perfect backdrop for various outdoor activities, making it an ideal place to explore nature at its finest. As you start your adventure in Lake George, you’ll find various attractions and activities to suit everyone’s interests. From hiking the famous trails like Prospect Mountain and Shelving Rock Falls to enjoying the lake through boating , cruises, and watersports, there’s no shortage of excitement.

For less outdoorsy pursuits, the charming Village of Lake George and nearby Saratoga Springs offer delightful dining, shopping, and entertainment options for all ages.

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Top 3 facts about lake george in new york, deepest lake of the adirondacks.

Lake George is the deepest of the Adirondacks, reaching depths of up to 196 feet. It has far greater depth than other Adirondack lakes, such as Lake Placid , which has a maximum depth of only about 75 feet.

Rich and Varied History

Lake George boasts a rich and varied history that dates back centuries. From its role in the French and Indian War to its part in the Saratoga campaign during the American Revolution, Lake George was a strategic point for many battles.

Home to Hundreds of Species of Fish

Lake George is a paradise for anglers. It has hundreds of fish species, including bass, walleye, panfish, northern pike, and lake trout. This lake is also home to unique and rare fish species like the Lake George whitefish, which can only be found in this lake.

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Must-See Attractions

Six flags great escape.

Six Flags Great Escape is the ultimate destination for families seeking a day filled with excitement and adventure. With over 135 rides, including the thrilling Comet roller coaster and the heart-stopping Sasquatch drop tower, there’s endless fun for thrill-seekers of all ages. Don’t miss the Hurricane Harbor Water Park, a tropical paradise with a wave pool, lazy river, and exhilarating speed slides, perfect for cooling off during the summer.

Adirondack Winery

Nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks, the Adirondack Winery has been winning over guests since 2008 with its collection of over 40 hand-crafted, award-winning wines. If you’d like to try a few different flavors, be sure to ask about their wine-tasting session, which can be paired with gourmet cheeses and artisan snacks. Or, if cider is more your style, choose from a selection of unique varieties from their newly opened Extreme Heights Cidery. 

Lake George Expedition Park

With 25 amusement rides, Lake George Expedition Park offers a magical experience that’ll keep the entire family entertained for hours. Witness the enchantment of live animal performances, be dazzled by magic shows, and marvel at the unique spectacle of “Rex the Diving Horse.” Praised for its kid-friendly environment and engaging attractions, this park is a wonderland for children of all ages, making it a must-visit for families seeking a day of fun and discovery.

Annual Events and Festivals

Lake george winter carnival.

Embrace the chill and celebrate the joy of winter every weekend in February at the Lake George Winter Carnival. This beloved annual event transforms Lake George Village into a wonderland of frosty fun, featuring unique activities like outhouse races, ATV races, and the thrilling polar plunge. Families and food enthusiasts alike will revel in the cook-offs featuring chowder, chili, BBQ, and chicken wings, while children can enjoy pony rides and participate in engaging activities.

25th Annual Saratoga Chowderfest

Join the culinary celebration at the 25th Annual Saratoga Chowderfest, set to take place on February 10, 2024. This cherished tradition brings together more than 80 of Saratoga County’s finest restaurants and caterers, offering scrumptious 4 oz. servings of their best chowders for just $2 each. Beyond the enticing flavors, the festival is a hub of excitement with live music, entertaining activities for kids, and a chance to collect unique festival merchandise, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages.

Adirondack Brewery Barrel Fest

Beer aficionados, mark your calendars for March 2, 2024, for the 12th annual Adirondack Brewery Barrel Fest. This premier beer festival, held at the Adirondack Brewery, showcases an exclusive selection of barrel-aged beer, cider, and wine, attracting enthusiasts from across the Northeast and beyond. Revel in a day filled with music, dancing, a gigantic bonfire, fireworks, and delicious snacks, all in celebration of the art of barrel-aging, a true highlight for craft beer lovers.

Top Hiking Trails

Prospect mountain.

75 Smith St, Lake George, NY 12845

Embark on a journey up Prospect Mountain, starting with an enclosed bridge that intriguingly crosses over the Northway and progresses into a typical Adirondack trail. While the initial stretch is relatively easy, the hike becomes steeper midway, rewarding you with spectacular views of Lake George from the summit. For a more adventurous descent, take the alternate route down the mountain’s other side, which includes a picturesque waterfall and ends at the Lake George Recreational area—remember to arrange transportation back if you choose this option.

Berry Pond Trail

99 Transfer Rd, Lake George, NY 12845

The Berry Pond trail leads hikers through a landscape teeming with wildlife , including a thriving beaver community and a heron rookery, and culminates in sweeping views of Lake George and the surrounding valley. Well-marked blue and orange trail signs lead the way, and you can look forward to feeling fully immersed in nature as you weave through pristine wetlands and dense forests. In the same reserve, you’ll find many other trail options perfect for varying fitness levels.

Buck Mountain 

Parking lot, 1750 Pilot Knob Rd, Kattskill Bay, NY 12844

If you’re up for a challenge, embark on this 6-mile trail that features thrilling rocky sections, foot-over-hand scrambles, and stream crossings. While the trail starts off relatively, don’t be fooled, as soon you’ll face a challenging ascent. However, your efforts will be well-rewarded as the trail opens to reveal stunning summit views. Early summer visitors will be delighted by the abundance of blueberries near the summit, although keep in mind this is also when the trail is at its busiest.

Best Golf Courses

Green mansions golf club.

207 Darrowsville Rd, Chestertown, NY 12817

Green Mansions Golf Club, nestled in Chestertown, NY, presents a deceptively challenging experience with its 9-hole, par 36 course, stretching over 2,700 yards. Despite its shorter layout, the course demands strategic play, especially on the 8th hole, featuring an elevated tee and green. Golfers can enjoy various amenities , including cart rentals, a driving range, a pro shop, and a clubhouse for a complete golfing experience.

Visit their website for more information

Sunnyside Par 3

170 Sunnyside Road, Queensbury, NY 12804

Tucked on the edge of the picturesque Adirondack Mountains near Lake George, Sunnyside Par 3 in Queensbury, NY, is an ideal destination for golfers of all ages and skill levels. This executive 9-hole course offers a unique opportunity to refine your short game in a relaxed environment, with no tee time required and the option of night golf under the lights from June through August. Sunnyside Par 3 is perfect for a quick round, offering an affordable and enjoyable golfing experience in a stunning setting.

Cronin’s Golf Resort

Golf Course Road, Warrensburg, NY 12885

Cronin’s Golf Resort in Warrensburg, NY, boasts an 18-hole championship golf course that stretches over 6,161 yards with a par of 70. Voted as the Best of the Adirondacks, this course provides a challenging round for seasoned golfers, set against the backdrop of the breathtaking Adirondack Mountains and the serene Hudson River. The well-maintained greens and fairways, combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings, make Cronin’s Golf Resort a must-visit for golf enthusiasts seeking a memorable round.

Water Sports

Lake george steamboat company.

Delve into the historic charm and natural beauty of Lake George with the Lake George Steamboat Company, which has been operating since 1817. Board the iconic vessels like the Minne Ha Ha, the MV Mohican II, or the grand Lac du Saint Sacrement for a unique experience. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly excursion, a romantic dining cruise, an informative sightseeing tour, or a specialty-themed voyage, this is the perfect way to explore the scenic splendor of Lake George and the Adirondack Mountains.

Sacandaga Outdoor Center

Dive into the exhilarating world of whitewater rafting with Sacandaga Outdoor Center (SOC), which has been providing family-friendly rafting adventures on the Sacandaga River for over 30 years. SOC stands out with its convenient location near Lake George and Saratoga Springs, offering the longest rafting trip available on the river, with no bus ride needed at the end of your adventure. With consistent rapids and exclusive features like water cannons for playful water fights, SOC promises an unforgettable rafting experience with the best guides and equipment in the business.

Natural Stone Bridge & Caves

Caving & Spelunking

Discover the awe-inspiring Natural Stone Bridge & Caves, home to the largest marble cave entrance in the eastern U.S., still actively shaped by the flowing Trout Brook. During the summer, visitors can embark on a self-guided nature trail, revealing the ancient Adirondack geology with highlights like the old Sawmill Site Waterfalls, Artists’ Gorge, and several surface caves. For those with a more adventurous spirit, the park also offers a guided spelunking cave crawl, complete with a unique cave float experience.

Winter Activities

Ice skate on lake george.

Transform your winter into an enchanting experience by ice skating on the frozen expanse of Lake George, set against a breathtaking backdrop of mountains. This natural rink offers a unique opportunity to glide over the ice while enjoying picturesque views along the shore, providing a serene and picturesque setting for skaters of all ages. Remember to bring your own skates, as rentals are not available on-site, and always ensure safety by checking the ice thickness before venturing out.

Skiing & Snowboarding

For skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, Lake George is a gateway to some of New York’s most splendid downhill slopes. Just 40 minutes away, Gore Mountain, the state’s largest ski resort, offers an array of private and group lessons, on-mountain dining, and a variety of shops. Alternatively, West Mountain provides fantastic downhill skiing and snowboarding experiences, including the unique thrill of night skiing, making it a perfect destination for winter sports lovers.

Explore by Snowshoe

If you have a pair of snowshoes and are eager to get some fitness in, snowshoeing around Lake George is a must-do activity. The area boasts a range of trails suitable for snowshoers of different skill levels, from the picturesque and self-guided tours at Natural Stone Bridge and Caves, complete with rentals and stunning cave views, to the groomed, accessible trails at Dynamite Hill Recreation Center, ideal for both snowshoers and cross-country skiers.

Where to Eat

$$ – $$$ • Casual American

$ – $$ • Pizza

Christie’s On the Lake

Where to shop, lake george shop, rileys at the lake, adirondack clothing company.

Clothing store

Where to Sleep

Chalet Noir - Must See Private Riverfront Cottage!

Chalet Noir – Must See Private Riverfront Cottage!

Quiet Wilderness Paradise, Clean Swimming for 2 Families on Cognashene Lake

Quiet Wilderness Paradise, Clean Swimming for 2 Families on Cognashene Lake

Shady Shoals Lake Norman; Lakefront; Quiet Cove; Huge Dock; Deep Water;

Shady Shoals Lake Norman; Lakefront; Quiet Cove; Huge Dock; Deep Water;

Life Is Good Lodge Lake Front

Life Is Good Lodge Lake Front

Tips on renting a vacation home on lake george, location preferences.

Lake George offers diverse locations to suit different vacation styles. The lake’s southern end, including the Village of Lake George, is bustling with shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. In contrast, the lake’s northern end, near Bolton Landing, offers a quieter, more nature-focused experience with serene landscapes and less crowded spots.

Seasonal Considerations

Lake George is a year-round destination, but your experience can vary greatly depending on the season. Summer is peak season, offering warm weather, boating , and swimming opportunities, but also higher rental prices and more crowds. Fall brings stunning foliage and quieter surroundings, while winter offers snow sports like skiing and snowshoeing near Gore Mountain. Spring is quieter with cooler weather and fewer tourists, often resulting in more affordable rental prices.

Waterfront vs. Off-Lake Properties

Decide whether you want a waterfront property for direct lake access or if you’re content with staying off-lake. Waterfront properties provide the convenience of immediate water activities but may come at a premium price. Off-lake properties can be more budget-friendly and often still provide easy access to public beaches and boat rentals.

Advance Bookings and Local Regulations

Especially during peak seasons, Lake George vacation rentals can book up quickly, so plan and reserve your rental well in advance. Also, be aware of any local regulations or restrictions, such as noise ordinances or parking limitations, that might affect your stay. Understanding these rules beforehand can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation experience.

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Going Deeper on Lake George: Historical Significance

French and Indian War

Have you ever wondered about Lake George’s role during the French and Indian War? On September 8, 1755, Sir William Johnson led 1,500 British troops and 200 Mohawks, including Mohawk Valley chief King Hendrick, in a battle against French commander Baron Dieskau and his 1,500 French and Canadian forces and Native allies. This battle, known as the Battle of Lake George, took place on the road between Fort Edward and the British camp at the southern end of Lake George.

Fort William Henry, located at the lake’s southern end, was constructed between 1755 and 1757 to defend against French forces from nearby Fort Ticonderoga. King George II ordered the fort’s construction, hence the lake’s name, Lake George.

Thomas Jefferson and Lake George

Did you know Thomas Jefferson, the third U.S. president, was enamored with Lake George? In 1791, he wrote a letter while visiting the area, stating, “Lake George is, without a comparison, the most beautiful water I ever saw.” This fondness for the lake showcases Lake George’s natural beauty and historical significance.

Last of The Mohicans

Lake George has a connection to “The Last of The Mohicans,” a novel by James Fenimore Cooper that was published in 1826. The story, set during the French and Indian War, takes place around the region of Lake George and the surrounding wilderness. Some of the novel’s key events and locations, such as Fort William Henry and Hulett’s Landing, are based on actual sites in the Lake George area.

So, when you find yourself strolling down Smith Street or enjoying the natural beauty of Lake George, take a moment to appreciate its vibrant history. Lake George has been the site of battles that shaped American history, influenced literature, and left lasting impressions on historical figures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake George

Lake George, known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” offers a plethora of summer activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, fishing in the lake’s clear waters, hiking in the surrounding Adirondack Mountains, or exploring the numerous beaches. The area also boasts attractions like amusement parks, water parks, and scenic cruises on the lake.

Yes, swimming is a popular activity in Lake George. The lake has several public beaches, such as Million Dollar Beach, Shepard Park Beach, and Usher’s Park Beach, offering designated swimming areas with lifeguards on duty during the summer months. Lake George’s clear and refreshing waters make it an ideal spot for swimmers.

Lake George is perfect for boating enthusiasts, with many marinas offering boat rentals ranging from kayaks and canoes to motorboats and pontoon boats. Visitors can also join guided boat tours to explore the lake’s beauty or rent a private charter for a more personalized experience.

Lake George is a family-friendly destination with numerous attractions catering to all ages. Families can enjoy The Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom, Lake George Expedition Park, and adventure courses. There are also numerous mini-golf courses, arcades, and ice cream shops perfect for families.

The Lake George area is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails for all skill levels. Popular hikes include Prospect Mountain, with its stunning lake views, the family-friendly Shelving Rock Falls trail, and the more challenging Buck Mountain trail. Each trail offers unique views of the lake and surrounding Adirondack scenery.

Muskoka is known for its picturesque towns and charming villages. Some popular towns you can visit include Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, and Port Carling. Each town offers its unique attractions, shops, and restaurants, making them perfect stopovers during your exploration of the Muskoka region.

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Top 10 Reasons to Vacation in Lake George

There are dozens of reasons why you should choose Lake George as your next vacation destination, but 10 of our favorites are listed below!

1. Adventure

girl on treetop course

Lake George is full of action! Enjoy  whitewater rafting ,  hot air ballooning ,  boating ,  waterskiing ,  tubing ,  parasailing ,  amusement parks ,  ropes courses , and many other attractions. Discover activities you've never done before and those you already know you love. It's all here!

2. Scenic Beauty

boats on lake

Sit back and soak it all in. With sparkling, pristine blue waters surrounded by magnificent Adirondack mountains, Lake George is  one of the most beautiful places  on Earth. Even  Thomas Jefferson  thought so!

3. Great Beaches

people on a beach

Take a dip in the refreshing waters of Lake George, or just relax and sink your toes in the sand. Lake George Village has  three great beaches , and the surrounding region has more than a dozen beaches and pools, providing many great options for water lovers.

golf course

Featuring world class  18-hole golf courses , as well as several entertaining  mini golf courses , Lake George is great for golf lovers of all ages and ability levels.

5. Fun For Kids

girl on tube in water park

Lake George offers non-stop fun for families! Whether you are looking for  things to do with kids  in Lake George or the  best attractions for teens , you will find more than you can possibly fit into one trip. But that's just another reason to come back!

places to visit in lake george new york

Have you ever wanted to  camp out on a private island ? Or maybe just  picnic on one ? Lake George is unique in that it offers an array of scenic islands, which you can reserve for overnight camping or just for day use.

7. Shopping

Love is on Lake George trinkets

Hit the outlets and find some great deals or get unique gifts and vacation keepsakes at various souvenir shops. Even if you don't end up buying much,  walking through the village shops  is a fun way to spend the afternoon. And don't forget to stop for  ice cream  or a  wine tasting !

trail markers in woods

For those who love the outdoors, Lake George has  ample hiking trails  that overlook the lake, one of the most popular peaks being  Sleeping Beauty Mountain . Spot wildlife along the way, and enjoy the views from the top that will take your breath away. For an additional challenge, try climbing some of the more difficult peaks in the Adirondacks.

9. Fireworks

fireworks in sky

On most Thursday evenings in July and August,  fireworks light up the sky  in Lake George! Spectators gather at various places throughout the village to see the sparks fly above the Queen of American Lakes.

10. One-Of-A-Kind Events

man on motorcycle in between more motorcycles

Where else can you find fun, family-friendly, and unique events, like  Americade ,  Lake George Jazz Weekend , and the  Adirondack Balloon Festival ? And that's not to mention the  free weekly concerts  all summer long and fireworks over the lake PLUS so many other awesome events that take place throughout the year. Check out the  events calendar  for what's happening now!

<< Back to Summer Itineraries

<< Back to the Summer Guide

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lake George

Things to do in lake george.

  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Good for Kids
  • Good for Couples
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Adventurous
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  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

places to visit in lake george new york

1. Prospect Mountain

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2. Adirondack Winery

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3. Lake George

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4. Fort William Henry Museum

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5. Shelving Rock Falls

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6. Magic Forest

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7. Million Dollar Beach

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8. Warren County Bikeway

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9. House of Frankenstein Wax Museum

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10. Lake George Distilling Company

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11. Buck mountain hiking trail

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12. Lake George Plaza Outlet Center

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13. Shepherd Park

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14. Adirondack Outlet Mall

places to visit in lake george new york

15. Patriot of Lake George Museum

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16. Black Mountain Loop

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17. Lake George Historical Association and Museum

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18. Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB

19. log jam outlet center, 20. antiques market place.

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21. Gooney Golf

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22. French Mountain Commons

places to visit in lake george new york

23. Ledge Rock Hill Winery

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24. Lake George Recreation Center

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25. Lake George Visitor's Center

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26. Usher Park

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27. High Peaks Distilling

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28. Lake George Forum

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29. Ice Castles

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30. Lumberjack Pass Miniature Golf

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What travellers are saying

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  • Lake George
  • Prospect Mountain
  • Fort William Henry Museum
  • Shelving Rock Falls
  • Adirondack Winery
  • Million Dollar Beach
  • Warren County Bikeway
  • Daleys Adventure Boat Tours
  • Bolton Boat Tours and Water Sports on Lake George
  • Lake George Steamboat Co.

Water boarder enjoys summer day on Mirror Lake in Lake Placid, New York. Image credit Leonard Zhukovsky via Shutterstock

  • 9 Small Towns in The Adirondack Mountains to Visit for a Weekend Getaway

Nestled in Northeastern New York is a true gem for mountain lovers: the Adirondack Mountains . Containing more than 100 peaks and more than 200 lakes, the natural beauty of this region is unmatched in the US. Although New York is most well known for New York City as the travel destination, there are many small towns within the Adirondack Mountains that are perfect for a weekend getaway. There are more than 100 communities located within the mountain ranges, offering hiking, boating, shopping, and many other activities. Uncover nine small towns in the Adirondack Mountains to consider for your next weekend getaway.

Tupper Lake

Tupper Lake in autumn, located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York.

This small town of just shy of 3,300 people is a fun place to go hiking by waterfalls, fish in the lake, or learn about local wildlife. Tupper Lake is famous for its stargazing opportunities. You can see the sky in all of its glory at the Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory or learn more about the wildlife in the area at The Wild Center.

Tupper Lake also has an art expo center called Tupper Arts, with many handmade crafts such as chairs made out of skis. Learn more about the history of the town by visiting the Tupper Lake History Museum. For lodging, consider The Enclave for cabin rentals.

Whiteface skiing area in Wilmington, New York.

In the Whiteface Region of the Adirondack Mountains, Wilmington is a fantastic place for skiing or hiking. It is home to Whiteface Mountain, a great spot for skiing the slopes or taking a ride on the gondola to the peak. You can also take a swim at the nearby Lake Everest Beach or visit Santa's Workshop, a theme park established in 1949 with a Christmas-themed village that is open both during the winter and summer.

For waterfall enthusiasts, check out High Falls Gorge, with more than 700 feet of waterfalls in the river. If you like to fish, there are plenty of Fly shops in town for fly fishing on the Ausable River. Stay at one of the Wilderness Inn Cabins or the Cadence Lodge at Whiteface for a relaxing weekend.

Hoss's general store Long Lake, New York

Named after a 14-mile lake, Long Lake has a small population of 374 people, but offers big experiences both on and off the water. Its beach boasts beautiful views of the nearby Seward Mountain Range, with slide and rope swings and a mini trampoline for fun activities. The waters in the lake itself are renowned for bass, walleye, and salmon. The Mt. Sabattis Recreation Area, named after Long Lake guide Mitchell Sabattis has hiking and mountain biking, along with courts for tennis and pickleball.

For lodging, consider the Blueberry Hill Motel or Adirondack Hotel On Long Lake. Long Lake is about 20 miles from Tupper Lake, so you can knock out two towns in one day.

North Creek

Main Street in North Creek, New York.

With just shy of 700 people, North Creek boasts a unique experience: railbiking. With Revolution Rail Co., you can ride on the railroad tracks through the mountains on railbikes along the Hudson River shoreline. Go for a gondola ride or hike Gore Mountain. Learn more about the rich history of this Adirondack town by visiting the historic North Creek Railway Depot Museum, originally built in 1871.

The Ski Bowl Park in the area offers skiing in the winter and mountain biking, tennis, baseball, and more during the winter. The area has many places to stay, such as Alpine Lodge or Gore Mountain Lodge.

Lake Algonquin in Wells, New York, is nestled in the Adirondack Mountains.

Located in the southern section of the Adirondacks and close to Lake Algonquin, Wells is a fun small town to get away and recharge. It provides easier hiking trails, such as one that leads up to Augur Falls. Visitors can access the Silver Lake Wilderness area from Wells or explore the nearby ghost town of Griffin. There are numerous quaint restaurants and stores to check out in the town such as the Over Rock Cafe with a classic wood stove and the Wells Edge Country Store.

Wells is home to The Revival historic church, which is on the National Historic Register. For places to stay, Speculator and Lake Pleasant offer accommodations just up the road from Wells.

Lake Placid

A panoramic view of Mirror Lake in Lake Placid, New York.

Known as the Olympic Town for hosting the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics , the village of Lake Placid has many historic sites, hiking trails, and boat tours. The historic John Brown Farm is a great spot to visit both to learn about life in the 19 th century and more about the famous abolitionist, who was executed in 1859 for his raid on Harper's Ferry. The Lake Placid Railroad Museum has a good deal of information about the village and the town of North Elba.

Lake Placid's best hiking trails include Ausable Chasm and High Falls Gorge, located between Lake Placid and Wilmington. Stagecoach Inn and Lake Placid Lodge are great spots to stay during your trip.

Lake George

Boat on the water in Lake George in New York.

Located in the southern section of the Adirondack Mountains, Lake George claims to be the original vacation destination, as it provides both thrilling and laid-back adventures for travelers. The Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course has aerial tree-top fun, while the Lake George Steamboat Company hosts relaxing boat cruises on the lake.

Go for a relaxing drive on Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway, with three overlooks. There are several hotels in town, as well as the Bayside Resort just outside of town.

Six Flags Great Escape amusement park in Queensbury, New Yor

While you are visiting Lake George, consider checking out nearby Queensbury. Located at the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, this town of just over 27,000 people is a great spot for thrills. The West Mountain Ski Center, Warren County Bike Trail are great spots for skiing and biking. Gurney Lake Recreation Center in particular has more than 13 miles of mountain biking, while the VanDusen Preserve has great views at the top of West Mountain.

There are many museums in the area, such as the Old Fort House Museum. And for roller coaster lovers, Queensbury is home to Six Flags Great Escape.

Saranac Lake

View of Saranac Lake, New York, in the Adirondack Mountains during fall.

Famous for its cure cottage architecture, Saranac Lake is a beautiful getaway town that boasts both historic sites and great hikes in equal measure. The lake had a history of treating tuberculosis patients, which you can learn about at the Saranac Laboratory Museum. Take a boat ride on the lake with Sail Adirondacks or hit the mountain trails at the Mt. Pisgah Recreation Center.

For the truly adventurous, visit the Adirondack Aviation Academy to take a flying lesson and see the mountains from the skies. Saranac Lake has many beautiful cottages and camps to stay at, such as Morenos Cottages.

New York has a reputation for the hustle and bustle of the big city, but that doesn't tell the true story. The Adirondack Mountains offer small-town hospitality, beautiful mountain views, picturesque lakes, outdoor adventures, and much more. By visiting this region, you can see multiple small towns at once, all of which have relaxing accommodations, hiking, and opportunities for adventure. The next time you find yourself in New York, consider staying at one of these beautiful small towns for a weekend getaway.

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places to visit in lake george new york

Sacred Sightseeing: 10 Most Mystical & Spiritual Places To Visit In New York State

  • Channel your inner spirit at Lily Dale Assembly, known for mediumship and spiritual healing. Experience profound connections and personal growth.
  • Explore the mysterious underground experience at Secret Caverns in Howes Cave. Connect with Earth's natural history and marvel at the secret waterfall.
  • Find spiritual calm and understanding at Omega Institute for Holistic Studies. Immerse yourself in workshops and retreats focused on personal growth.

Mystical and spiritual places help us to transcend our worldly lives and reach out to become one with the universe. There are already a lot of places where people looking for spiritual peace and growth can go. And while many of these are in far-off exotic locales, quite a few exist right in New York State.

If a visitor is looking for one of the best spiritual vacations in the world and doesn’t want to leave the US, New York State might be the best destination for them. These 10 spiritual and mystical destinations located here will give any visitor a new connection to their inner spirit and the ethereal world around them.

Related: 10 Amazing Trips To Take Throughout New York State In The Winter

Lily Dale Assembly: Channeling the Ethereal

Known for mediumship and spiritual healing.

Those seeking a deeper connection to the ethereal would enjoy visiting the Lily Dale Assembly. The retreat is known as the home of mediumship and spiritual healing and is well-known by many practicing spiritualists. Here, visitors can engage in profound mediumship experiences, gain insights into spiritual healing, and explore personal growth through various. Understanding the unknown and making sense of the mystical world is a massive draw for visitors to this assembly.

  • Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Lily Dale Assembly is known for its serene and spiritual atmosphere, with a strong focus on mediumship and spiritual healing, making it a place of deep introspection and connection.
  • Best Time to Visit : The summer months are the best time to visit when many events and workshops are held.
  • Things Visitors Should Prepare For : Visitors have the option of staying on the grounds (if available) or paying a daily gate fee for entrance to the facility.

Secret Caverns: Unearth the Mysteries Beneath

A unique cave system in howes cave.

Caves might strike some people as scary, but they can also bring about profound spiritual awe. Nestled in the heart of Howes Cave, New York, Secret Caverns offers an enchanting and mysterious underground experience. There’s something extraordinary about this place, where time seems to stand still. Ancient geological features evoke a profound connection with the Earth's natural history. It’s even home to a secret 100-foot underground waterfall . For those wanting reconnection with the earth in a serene spot, these caverns should be on their list of places to visit.

The cave's temperature remains around 52°F (11°C) year-round, so dress in layers and wear comfortable, non-slip footwear. A light jacket or sweater is advisable.

  • Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Secret Caverns offers a unique underground experience with mysterious rock formations, providing a sense of awe and wonder.
  • Best Time to Visit : Visit during the summer when the cave is open for guided tours.
  • Things Visitors Should Prepare For : The location only accepts cash as a payment option, and it’s $18 to enter the cave.

Omega Institute for Holistic Studies: A Journey to Inner Enlightenment

Hosts workshops, retreats, and events on spiritual and personal growth.

Travelers who want a different type of journey, that of the spirit, may find what they seek in the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies. Situated on 250 acres in the Hudson Valley , this lush, vibrant location offers a wide selection of places to find spiritual calm, bliss, and understanding. Visitors come to explore personal growth, healing, and self-discovery through a wide array of holistic practices. Guests may visit because of the lectures, but the institute is dedicated to creating caregivers and those who seek to help a hurting world.

  • Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Omega Institute is a dedicated holistic education center where visitors can immerse themselves in workshops and retreats focused on personal growth and holistic wellness.
  • Best Time to Visit: The Institute has a family week every June to allow for younger members of the family to participate.
  • Things Visitors Should Prepare For: The location is hilly, but the Institute caters to those with mobility issues by providing golf carts to help them get where they need to go.

Lake Ronkonkoma: Where Spirits and Serenity Converge

Known for its mysterious legends and tales of a restless native american princess.

Lake Ronkonkoma is notable as being the largest and most well-known freshwater lake in Long Island, New York. A long time ago, it served as the market that divided the regions of thirteen native tribes. Even back then, the waters were considered haunted by spirits. Its “Lady of the Lake” legend refers to a Native American princess who died here in the 1600s . The spiritual and calming nature of the lake comes from its connection to the tribes that used to live on this land. Even today, visitors can feel that deep mystical connection.

  • Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Lake Ronkonkoma is quiet, serene, and has few distractions, making it perfect for self-discovery and meditation.
  • Best Time to Visit: Visit year-round, but the lake's beauty is most prominent during the warmer months.
  • Things Visitors Should Prepare For: The lake belongs to three different towns, and there are several parks that offer an escape from a busy life and a calm place to relax and commune with nature.

Related: Deserted But Not Forgotten: 10 Towns In New York State That Have Been Lost To Time

Mohonk Mountain House: Victorian Tranquility for the Soul

This historic resort offers a serene setting for meditation and reflection.

Spiritual and mystical travelers who are seeking respite from the many things that ail their inner being can seek solace here. Food, drink, and endless spiritually enriching activities form the core of a visit to this spot. The captivating allure of this historic resort lies in its serene setting, inviting visitors to reconnect with nature and their inner selves. Sitting atop a bluff, the imposing Victorian structure on the shore of a lake already exudes that calm and vibrancy of a spiritual retreat. The building itself is also historic, being more than 140 years old .

  • Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Mohonk Mountain House is set amidst the Shawangunk Mountains and offers a serene environment for meditation, relaxation, and reconnection with nature.
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with each season offering its unique charm. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful.
  • Things Visitors Should Prepare For: There is no expectation of tipping at Mohonk Mountain House.

Esopus Meadows Lighthouse: Nostalgia and Natural Beauty

A serene, scenic setting on the hudson river.

This spot is both breathtaking in its beauty and remarkable in its historical significance. Built between 1870 and 1871 , the lighthouse offers a commanding and scenic view of the Hudson River. The remote location of the lighthouse, surrounded by the river's beauty, creates a tranquil environment ideal for relaxation and reflection. The lighthouse is fondly nicknamed “The Maid of the Meadows,” and the current structure replaced the original one, which was built in 1839 .

If approaching the lighthouse by boat, research local boat tour operators that offer transportation to the lighthouse. Make a reservation in advance and confirm the departure point and schedule.

  • Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: The lighthouse itself has a rich history and exudes a sense of nostalgia, making it an exciting and peaceful place to explore.
  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Esopus Meadows Lighthouse is during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn.
  • Things Visitors Should Prepare For: Special tours can be arranged with the Save Esopus Lighthouse Commission. If the Open flag is flying, boaters are encouraged to stop by.

Neversink Reservoir and Preserve: A Remote Sanctuary for Spiritual Reflection

A tranquil and remote location in the catskill mountains.

The Neversink Reservoir and surrounding preserve is a pristine jewel of nature that spiritual visitors would enjoy. The reservoir went into service in 1954 and holds 34.9 billion gallons at its most full point. Surrounding the reservoir is one of the most amazing natural areas in New York State. Extending for 550 acres , the preserve is home to thousands of species. However, it also offers some of the most calming and awe-inspiring backdrops for those who love communing with nature.

  • Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Neversink Reservoir and Preserve is a remote and tranquil location in the Catskill Mountains, offering a sense of isolation and natural beauty.
  • Best Time to Visit: Any time of year, but it's exceptionally peaceful during the fall when the foliage is vibrant.
  • Things Visitors Should Prepare For: The reservoir and preserve are pretty far removed from the town, making it serene and quiet.

Mystery Spot in Lake George: Altering Reality Through Sound

Known for its audio illusions and quirky experiences.

The inexplicable mystery in Lake George has fascinated travelers for years. Behind the visitor center is a mystical spot where whispers seem to break the laws of acoustics . Visitors who stand on the X will hear something interesting. This location is unique in how it plays with visitors’ perceptions of the world around them. Moreover, it was once rumored to be the spot where Native American gods spoke to their followers. Visiting here will change a traveler’s perception of reality just a bit.

  • Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: The Mystery Spot offers audio illusions and quirky experiences that will change how visitors see the world around them.
  • Best Time to Visit: The attraction is open during the summer season.
  • Things Visitors Should Prepare For: Taller travelers will have to bend down slightly to get the whole experience of the spot.

Related: 10 Of The World's Most Spiritual & Mysterious Destinations

Woodstock: Revisiting the Cultural Revolution

Known for its history as a hub for counterculture and music.

Popular culture has created an aura of mystique and mysticism around the grounds of one of the most famous music festivals of the twentieth century . Bethel, the original site of Woodstock , has changed a lot in the years since then. Spiritual travelers might consider this trip as a spiritual pilgrimage to where counterculture made its way into the mainstream. Woodstock’s message of hope is one that spiritual and mystical travelers should try to get into the wider world. Visiting Bethel is a great idea to reconnect with that hope and the message it carries.

  • Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Bethel is a lot calmer today than it was in the 60s, and visitors can still see the field where the concert was held and reconnect with nature there.
  • Best Time to Visit: Visit during the summer or attend one of the town's many festivals and events.
  • Things Visitors Should Prepare For: Check out the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, which is on the very same site as the original Woodstock concert.

Adirondack Forest Preserve: Into the Wild Unknown

Hidden lakes, remote trails, and a sense of isolation.

The Adirondacks are home to various unique places , but the Forest Preserve is the best spot for spiritual travelers seeking that escape. Consisting of over 2.7 million acres , the preserve is a massive, sprawling forested area that makes it easy for a visitor to get lost in it. As visitors explore its untamed beauty, the forest's hallowed silence and boundless vistas inspire introspection and a profound connection with the natural world. This preserve was created in 1892 , but its mysticism pervades to this very day.

  • Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: The Adirondack Forest Preserve provides a vast and wild landscape with hidden lakes and remote trails, allowing visitors to connect with nature and find solace.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall are great for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter offers a serene and snowy wilderness.
  • Things Visitors Should Prepare For: If visiting during the middle of the year, pay attention to smoke near the site chosen. Fires sometimes start without warning between May and October.

Sacred Sightseeing: 10 Most Mystical & Spiritual Places To Visit In New York State

Advertisement

How the Key Bridge Collapsed in Baltimore: Maps and Photos

By Weiyi Cai ,  Agnes Chang ,  Lauren Leatherby ,  Lazaro Gamio ,  Leanne Abraham and Scott Reinhard

On Tuesday, a major bridge in Baltimore collapsed into the water seconds after it was struck by a cargo ship, sending vehicles on the bridge into the river below. The ship lost power and issued a mayday call shortly before it hit the bridge.

A video shows the cargo ship striking the bridge and the resulting collapse of the bridge.

The ship, a 948-foot-long cargo vessel called Dali, was about a half hour into its journey toward Colombo, Sri Lanka, when it hit a main pillar of the bridge. All crew members are safe, according to the ship’s owners.

Follow our live coverage .

A mayday call from the ship gave officials enough time to stop traffic at both ends of the bridge. The waters where the bridge collapsed are about 50 feet deep. By Tuesday morning, six construction workers who had been fixing potholes on the bridge remained missing as divers and other emergency workers on boats and helicopters continued to search for them. Two others had been rescued, and one was in the hospital.

Francis Scott

Patapsco River

The ship left the Port

of Baltimore around

1 a.m. on Tuesday.

Where impact occurred

Direction of the ship

The ship hit the

bridge at 1:28 a.m.

The ship hit the bridge at 1:28 a.m.

Where impact

Source: Spire Global

The New York Times; satellite image by Google Earth

The lights of the ship flickered on and off as it lost power in the minutes before the ship changed bearing and hit the bridge.

Ship approached from

the Port of Baltimore

Road repair crews

Ship changed heading

as it neared pillar

Ship hit pillar

Southern and central spans

of bridge began to collapse within

seconds of impact

Northern span began to

collapse seconds later

Within 30 seconds of impact,

the central part of bridge had

entirely collapsed.

Source: StreamTime Live via YouTube

Timestamps are from StreamTime Live video.

The New York Times

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was opened in 1977 and carried more than 12.4 million vehicles last year. The bridge was one of the three major ways to cross the Patapsco River and formed part of Baltimore’s beltway.

The Port of Baltimore is a major trade hub that handled a record amount of foreign cargo last year. It is an especially important destination — the nation’s largest by volume last year — for deliveries of cars and light trucks.

Ship impact

To Chesapeake Bay

Sources: Maryland Port Administration, OpenStreetMap, MarineTraffic

Note: Ship positions are as of 2:46 p.m. Eastern time.

Overall, Baltimore was the 17th biggest port in the United States in 2021, ranked by total tons, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The bridge collapse brought marine traffic there to a standstill, with seven cargo or tanker ships stranded in the harbor as of Tuesday afternoon.

Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of emergency for Maryland and said that his office was in close communication with Pete Buttigieg, the U.S. transportation secretary. The White House issued a statement saying that President Biden had been briefed on the collapse.

A photo shows the cargo ship with the collapsed bridge.

Erin Schaff/The New York Times

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  1. 16 Top-Rated Things to Do in Lake George, NY

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  2. 10 Best Things to Do in Lake George

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  3. 7 Things to Do in Lake George NY, and Weekend Activities

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  1. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lake George

    It's around 7 miles in total and the vertical climbed is around 1900ft. 12. Lake George Plaza Outlet Center. 92. Factory Outlets. By STEBAY711. This shopping plaza has recently expanded and now includes a wide variety of shopping options, just moments off the…. 13. Shepherd Park.

  2. 15 Best Things to Do in Lake George

    Adirondack Winery's headquarters is in Queensbury, New York, about 10 miles south of Lake George, but it has two tasting room locations: one in Lake George and one in Bolton Landing.

  3. Things To Do In Lake George: Attractions, Golf, Shopping, Cruises & More

    Fall in Lake George brings excellent conditions for hiking, leaf peeping, hay rides, hot air ballooning, horseback riding and more. This is one of the most beautiful times of the year to visit, and as an added bonus, it's quieter too, even though almost everything is open. Winter turns the area into a beautiful, snowy wonderland with great ...

  4. 16 Top-Rated Things to Do in Lake George, NY

    When it comes to Upstate New York getaways, few are as popular or offer as many things to do as Lake George. This sparkling jewel of a lake sits within the Adirondack Park in Upstate New York. Lake George in the Fall. In the 18th century, Lake George became the site of Fort William Henry, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region.

  5. The Lake George Area in NY's Adirondacks

    The destination that started it all, the Lake George Area in New York's Adirondacks! Free Travel Guide. The Lake George Area. Spring has sprung! ... Lake George, NY 12845. 1-800-95-Visit. Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Pinterest TikTok. Experiences. Stay. Plan Trip. Events. Travel Guide. About Us. Blog.

  6. Top Attractions

    These unique attractions created the Original Vacation and built the Lake George Area into an Adirondack vacation destination. ... New Hampshire's White Mountains, New York's Adirondack High Peaks and Laurentian Mountains of Canada can be seen. ... Lake George, NY 12845. 1-800-95-Visit. Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Pinterest TikTok ...

  7. Things to Do in Lake George Region

    A 2,030-foot mountain in Lake George that offers trips to the summit in "viewmobile" vans for awesome views. See full details. 2023. 2. Lake George. 2,222. Bodies of Water. During a 1791 visit, Thomas Jefferson was moved to say, "Lake George is without comparison, the most beautiful water I ever saw."

  8. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Lake George

    By MikeyBoy12804. The bike path follows an old rail trail through several communities and over varied terrain. 9. House of Frankenstein Wax Museum. 345. Speciality Museums. By JeanAnn65. Located in Lake George Village, the Frankenstein Wax Museum has been there for 40 years or more. 10.

  9. 16 Best & Fun Things To Do In Lake George (New York)

    5. Warren County Bikeway. The Warren County Bikeway is a nearly 10-mile paved path intended for public recreational use for running, walking, and biking. Beginning at Glens Falls and traversing through the rolling hills of Lake George, the bikeway is one of many beautiful places to visit in Upstate New York.

  10. 18 Best Things to do in Lake George NY: Local's Secret Guide

    The Great Escape Lodge and Indoor Waterpark (mid-range, Queensbury) Lodges at Cresthaven (mid-range, Lake George) Inn at Erlowest (luxury, Lake George) Boathouse B & B (luxury, Bolton's Landing) Where To Eat In Lake George, NY. Best Things to do in Lake George, NY. 1. Six Flags Great Escape. 2.

  11. 12 Fun Things To Do In Lake George New York

    Experience The Wilderness On A Rail Bike Tour. One of the coolest things to do near Lake George is the Adirondack rail biking tour in North Creek. If you are looking for a chance to ride the rails in New York State, North Creek is about a 35-minute drive from Lake George. Here you'll find Revolution Rail Co.

  12. Things to Do in Lake George, NY

    Six Flags Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor. Six Flags Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor in Lake George is one of New York's largest amusement parks. Visit for 135+ rides, games, concerts, and events ranging from the Northeast's first inverting virtual reality roller coaster to a 500,000-gallon wave pool. In between, you'll find something ...

  13. The Best Things To Do In Beautiful Lake George

    Things To Do In Lake George. Surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains, the town of Lake George sits on the southwestern tip of a long, narrow lake of the same name. While not officially one of the 11 Finger Lakes of Western New York near Syracuse, Lake George is similarly shaped, stretching vertically near the Vermont border.

  14. Top 25 Things To Do In Lake George, New York

    Shopaholics will find plenty of inspiration during their visit to Lake George. It is home to a number of factory outlets, including Outlets of Lake George and the Adirondack Outlet Mall, which sit literally right next to each other. There's a third outlet which is on the opposite side of the road.

  15. 17 Of The Best Things To Do In Lake George, NY

    Fort William Henry. While you're touring Lake George Village, you may also want to check out Fort William Henry. Built in 1755, this British fort played a pivotal part in the French and Indian ...

  16. 10 Things To Do In Lake George: Complete Guide To This Upstate New York

    Fort William Henry Museum in Lake George, New York. Long before Lake George became a famous vacation spot, it was a deserted wilderness where the French-Indian War played out in the 1700s. Visitors can get useful insight into the ancient war at the Fort William Henry Museum, the site that hosted the battle.

  17. 20 Best Things to Do in Lake George, New York

    Lake George in New York offers outdoor fun in the Adirondacks year round. During the summer, visitors can enjoy water sports, biking, and camping along with the local beaches, amusement parks, and events. Spring or fall is the perfect time to do some whitewater rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, or hiking. During the winter, visitors can try ...

  18. Lake George: A Visitor's Quick Guide to Adventure and Fun

    170 Sunnyside Road, Queensbury, NY 12804. Tucked on the edge of the picturesque Adirondack Mountains near Lake George, Sunnyside Par 3 in Queensbury, NY, is an ideal destination for golfers of all ages and skill levels. This executive 9-hole course offers a unique opportunity to refine your short game in a relaxed environment, with no tee time ...

  19. Top 10 Reasons to Vacation in Lake George

    9. Fireworks. Photo credit: Luke Dow Photography. On most Thursday evenings in July and August, fireworks light up the sky in Lake George! Spectators gather at various places throughout the village to see the sparks fly above the Queen of American Lakes. 10. One-Of-A-Kind Events.

  20. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lake George

    By MikeyBoy12804. The bike path follows an old rail trail through several communities and over varied terrain. 9. House of Frankenstein Wax Museum. 345. Speciality Museums. By JeanAnn65. Located in Lake George Village, the Frankenstein Wax Museum has been there for 40 years or more. 10.

  21. 9 Small Towns in The Adirondack Mountains to Visit for a Weekend

    Lake George Tour boat in Lake George, New York. Located in the southern section of the Adirondack Mountains, Lake George claims to be the original vacation destination, as it provides both thrilling and laid-back adventures for travelers. The Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course has aerial tree-top fun, while the Lake George Steamboat Company ...

  22. Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Lake George, New York. #

    Arranging a trip to Lake George, New York? Get the most out of your vacation by exploring the best things to do in Lake George, New York, and the best places to visit in Lake George, New York, below.Wondrous Drifter is a cutting-edge, Web 3.0 travel startup that aspires to change the world.

  23. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lake George

    62. Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf. 63. Bolton Boat Tours and Water Sports on Lake George. Captain Ted and Captain Tim were very professional and gave all of us an opportunity to enjoy Lake George in a way th... 64. Lake George Steamboat Co. A beautiful 2 hour cruise on the Mohican. 65.

  24. Sacred Sightseeing: 10 Most Mystical & Spiritual Places To Visit In New

    Lake Ronkonkoma is notable as being the largest and most well-known freshwater lake in Long Island, New York. A long time ago, it served as the market that divided the regions of thirteen native ...

  25. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lake George

    Things to Do in Lake George, New York: See Tripadvisor's 65,001 traveler reviews and photos of Lake George tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in March. We have reviews of the best places to see in Lake George. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

  26. How the Key Bridge Collapsed in Baltimore: Maps and Photos

    The New York Times. The Francis Scott Key Bridge was opened in 1977 and carried more than 12.4 million vehicles last year. The bridge was one of the three major ways to cross the Patapsco River ...