Lake George: Things to Do and Places to Visit

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Jan 09, 2025

Have you ever dreamed of a place where clear, blue waters meet the sky and mountains surround you? Well, Lake George is just that magical place! Lake George is an awesome spot that offers adventure and relaxation all in one. So, let’s get started exploring all the amazing things to do in Lake George!

Things to do in Lake George

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Lake George Bucket List: 10 Activities You’ll Love

Cruise Lake George with Lake George Steamboat

Experience the beauty and history of Lake George with a cruise on the Lake George Steamboat Company. Since 1817, they’ve offered a variety of scenic cruises on three distinct vessels. Enjoy a short sightseeing trip on the Minne Ha Ha paddlewheel steamboat or explore hidden coves aboard the Mohican II. Opt for the Lac du Saint Sacrement to dine with views and live music. Choose from dinner, themed, and other excursions. They offer great moments, stunning lake views, and insights into its past.

Some cruises narrate the lake’s history. Others feature music or activities. Minne Ha Ha one-hour cruises are about $15 for adults and $7 for kids. Lac du Saint Sacrement dinner cruises cost $70.50 for adults and $30.50 for kids, although this may vary constantly. Make sure to plan in advance your booking as soon as possible, as it is highly advisable during peak seasons, and confirm their cancellation policies.

Additional Tip: A dinner cruise on the Lac du Saint Sacrement during summer fireworks shows will be especially magical. Viewing the colorful displays over the calm water creates an unforgettable moment at Lake George.

Sunset at Lake George

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Explore Million Dollar Beach Access

Million Dollar Beach, despite its name, is a great, free, family-friendly spot for a perfect summer day. This popular beach on Lake George’s southern shore has a lifeguard-monitored swimming area. It ensures the safe enjoyment of the clear, inviting waters. Along with swimming, visitors will find convenient amenities. There are showers, restrooms, and changing rooms. Volleyball nets, picnic tables, and grills are also available for a fun, relaxing day by the lake. There’s even a boat launch, you can have your boat checked and washed free of charge. This is to prevent invasive species from entering the pristine waters of Lake George.

Million Dollar Beach offers everything you need for a great lakeside escape. Do bear in mind there is a parking fee to keep in mind; it is $10 per car, $5 per motorcycle, and $50 per bus. If you aim for the beach during peak hours in the summer you will be advised to arrive earlier as parking spaces can fill up rapidly!

Hike Prospect Mountain Trail Details

Prospect Mountain offers a tough hike and a scenic drive to its 2,030-foot summit. Those who seek an invigorating workout will be rewarded with stunning views. The Prospect Mountain Trail is a moderate, 3.2-mile round-trip hike. It ascends about 1,500 feet, following an old railway path. This adds some history to the climb. You can embark from Smith Street in Lake George Village, where you’ll cross a bridge and begin the well-marked trail. The paths might be rocky and steep, making proper footwear a smart choice.

Hiking in Lake George

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Alternatively, a 5.5-mile paved road, the Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway, allows a leisurely drive to the top. It passes three scenic overlooks along the way. So, these options lead to stunning views. You can see Vermont’s Green Mountains, New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and, if the weather is good, Canada’s Laurentian Mountains! No matter if you decide to drive or hike you’ll have great views to experience all across Lake George.

Kayaking and Canoeing on Lake George

Kayaking and Canoeing

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Imagine yourself paddling peacefully across Lake George’s smooth, pristine waters. Kayaking or canoeing here is a perfect thing to do to connect with nature and explore the region at your own pace. Gliding along the shoreline, you can find hidden coves. You can admire stunning mountain views and maybe see local wildlife that call Lake George home. The tranquil waters of the area become your own personal playground where nature, adventure, and exercise combine for a fantastic day.

You can explore the lake on your own or join a guided tour. Many rentals, like Lake George Kayak Company, can provide canoes, kayaks, and instructions. Many lodging properties offer their own rental service making this activity even more accessible. Tours usually will also include essential gear and information on local ecosystems.

Visitor Tip: For a unique, serene experience, paddle in the early morning. The lake will be calm, and you'll have a chance to see local wildlife.

Visit the Adirondack Winery Overview

If you enjoy the art of fine wine and gourmet pairings, Adirondack Winery is a must-visit destination during your trip to Lake George. Since 2008, they’ve become a top spot for wine lovers. They can sample a curated selection of locally-made, award-winning wines in a stylish, modern setting. Visitors can try many wine tastings. They include a standard tasting of seven wines with a take-home logo glass, a blind taste test of eight wines, and “The Works.” The last option is an inclusive package with cheeses, crackers, and a delicious wine slushie.

The tasting rooms in Lake George and Queensbury have a vast wine menu. They also sell locally made artisanal chocolates, cheeses, and unique gifts. They regularly host live music, pairings, and seasonal celebrations and offer outdoor patio spaces. Remember to always visit them on your next vacation!

Fishing in Lake George Tips and Locations

For those who cherish the calm of fishing in stunning views, this is the best thing you can do in Lake George, NY. With abundant lake trout, salmon, bass, and northern pike, there’s plenty for every angler, whether fishing from shore or a boat. Whether you pick a shore spot at Million Dollar Beach, the Shepard Park, or go out further in boats that have a public boat launch at Million Dollar Beach or Mossy Point. Many guide services such as Ziehnert Guide Service LLC or Freshwater Therapy Fishing Guide Service are more than willing to guide and provide you with expert advice on how to get the most catches. You’ll find them prepared to make it an unforgettable fishing experience.

Visitor Tip: For the ultimate chance of catching some prime Lake George trout, plan to visit during cooler months.

Wooden dock at Lake George

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Lake George Village Walkthrough Guide

Beyond the thrill of watersports, you won’t want to miss taking a stroll through the charming Lake George Village. Here, a mix of unique shops, great restaurants, and fun things await to enrich any experience. You can experience some great places! Wax n’ Wix has interactive candle-making. The Lake George Olive Oil Company sells high-end oils. Along the main streets, take the time to experience all the local and historical points, visit the many ice cream parlors and eateries, and discover the beauty of the Colonial Wars Walking Tour or even some fun at the miniature golf courses! Check for any live concerts or special events at Shepard Park. They may enhance your Lake George Village walkthrough.

Cabin at Lake George

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Six Flags Great Escape Rides Overview

If you’re in search of fun activities and high-flying thrills, Six Flags Great Escape in nearby Queensbury is the go-to place to be. With over 135 rides and attractions, there are many options. They range from kiddie coasters, like the balloon race, to thrill coasters, like the high-flying Adirondack Outlaw. There are also water adventures, like the relaxing Adventure River and the intense waterslides at Hurricane Harbor. Therefore this place caters to all ages.

From old-school favorites, like the historic Storytown Train and the Grand Carousel, to the wild launches on Greezed Lightnin’, there’s fun for every group. Themed festivals like Fright Fest and Boo Fest at Halloween are a great way to improve your park experience. They aim to create happy moments for all.

Lake George Festivals and Events Calendar

To fully experience the local culture, checking out the many vibrant festivals and events happening is an absolute must. Throughout the year, there’s plent of exciting things to explore in Lake George NY. The city is always lively and full of unique traditions. It has spectacular light displays at Lights at the Lake in winter. In summer, it has the Lake George Music Festival. Then, it ends with German-style parties during Oktoberfest.

Lake George Jazz Weekend

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The popular Americade Motorcycle Rally takes place during spring and draws huge crowds of motorcycle enthusiasts every year. There are also always amazing local artisan celebrations at the Adirondack Wine & Food Festival or even the free jazz experiences at the Lake George Jazz Weekend during September. Also, you can check this calendar to stay in tune with all the events.

Fall Foliage Scenic Drives Around Lake George

Lake George is more than summer water adventures. Its fall transformation can take anyone’s breath away. As trees transition into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, the landscapes offer natural panoramas that surpass even their summer beauty. A driving tour through these areas can calm the soul. The cool, fresh air and endless vistas will create lasting memories.

For incredible views, try the Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway. It has amazing overlooks. Also, travel Route 9N to find hidden gems. Stop at the Sabbath Day Point Overlook. Take the scenic Route 8 to Graphite Mountain. Discover Brant Lake or enjoy charming Bolton Landing. Driving to Hague offers tranquility with beautiful rolling hills painted with rich fall colors for some extra special views of the scenery. Additional Tip: To fully enjoy fall foliage be aware that the peak occurs from late September to mid-October for an experience in maximum color.

Lake George panoramic view

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Expert Tips for Visitors in Lake George NY

When visiting Lake George, pack for both adventure and relaxation. Bring swimsuits, sunblock, light and heavy jackets, and walking shoes. Also, to fully experience it, visit in summer for swimming fun and in fall for colorful scenery. You’ll see how many things you can do during your stay at Lake George! Additionally, try to look up local websites and always look for coupons or discounts. Remember to always remain hydrated to make the experience as pleasant as it can be. Always try some local foods that range from seafood to barbecue and so much more, which is bound to keep your hunger pangs satiated. Moreover, try renting a car or bringing a car for a more flexible visit that can always help if you suddenly change your plans, along with being closer to remote adventures.