What Should I Know If I'm Going to Lake George for the First Time?
What to Know, Where to Go & How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Whether you're coming to Lake George for summer vacation, a fall weekend, or a spontaneous winter escape, this charming Adirondack village and the surrounding region offer a little something for everyone - families, couples, outdoor adventurers, and those just looking to unwind.
Jump to:
- Getting Around
- Beaches
- Must-Do Activities
- For Families With Kids
- Creative Fun
- Hiking
- The "Off" Season
- Where to Stay
And yes, Lake George is open year-round (even if summer gets most of the attention!). Below, we’ve rounded up the best of the region - from iconic activities to local tips that only regulars know.
Getting Around Lake George
Lake George Village is very walkable, but if you want to explore more of the region (and you should), a car is helpful.
Don’t want to drive? The trolley is a great way to get around in-season - it runs to Bolton Landing, the Outlets, beaches, and other key stops.
Bike rentals are also available in the Village and close by, and the scenic Warren County Bikeway is an excellent ride through the Lake George area into Glens Falls.
Beaches & Insider Tips
Million Dollar Beach is the largest and most well-known beach, but if you're looking for a more kid-friendly and less crowded experience, head to Usher Park Beach - a smaller spot with calm water and a peaceful vibe.
You can also swim at Shepard Park Beach, right in the Village with easy access to ice cream shops and local eateries.
Or, take a quick drive to Moreau Lake State Park, a popular spot with a sandy beach, trails, picnic areas, and kayak rentals.
For a quieter alternative, check out Luzerne State Campground - this is more of a hidden gem for locals, but offers all that Moreau Lake State Park does.
Iconic, Must-Do Lake George Activities
No first-timer’s trip is complete without these experiences:
🚢 Cruise the lake with Lake George Steamboat Company or Lake George Waterfront Cruises
🪂 Parasail high above the lake for unbeatable views
🎢 Spend a day at Six Flags Great Escape for roller coasters and water rides
🌲 Take the trees for ziplining and high-up adventures at Adirondack Adventure Center or Adirondack Extreme
🚣♂️ Whitewater raft with one of the many reputable outfitters on the Sacandaga or Hudson Rivers
🍹 Visit the Lake George Beach Club for live music, drinks, and patio dining on the water
🪖 Take in history, including a haunted history tour, at Fort William Henry
🧟♂️ Visit quirky attractions like the Frankenstein Wax Museum
🛍️ Spend time browsing the kitschy, fun gift shops on Canada Street and also at the Outlets
⛳ Explore the area's many mini golf courses for a putting good time
📅 Check out the events calendar - there's always something going on!
For Families With Young Kids
While Great Escape is perfect for bigger thrills, Lake George Expedition Park is ideal for the younger crowd. It features gentle rides, storybook attractions, and Dino Roar Valley with life-sized, moving dinosaurs. Plus, free parking is a welcome bonus.
Unexpected & Artsy Adventures
Want to tap into your creative side? Creative Jam and Wax 'n' Wix in Lake George Village (Wax 'n' Wix also has a location in the Outlets) offer fun and hands-on ways to express yourself.
Create your own candle, paint a masterpiece, or explore something new - perfect for a rainy day or a break from the beach.
Hiking Trails
Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in the region, and you can see beautiful vistas and scenic sites whether you're scaling a mountain or opting for a shorter, flatter trail. Here are a few of the top recommendations:
- Prospect Mountain right in Lake George (you can hike or drive to the top!)
- Shelving Rock Falls in Fort Ann – a waterfall hike with lake access
- The Sembrich in Bolton Landing - this museum is also a nature preserve with trails open to the public
- The Pinnacle in Bolton Landing - a moderate climb with great views
- Sleeping Beauty Mountain in Fort Ann - one of the most popular local hikes
The "Off" Season
Lake George isn’t just for summer. Each season brings its own magic - plus fewer crowds and a different kind of charm.
Spring 🌼
- Whitewater rafting on the Hudson is at its peak thanks to spring snowmelt
- Maple Weekends bring sweet local treats and sugarhouse tours throughout March
- Explore more things to do in April and May like fishing, golfing, and horseback riding
Fall 🍂
- Foliage hikes at Prospect Mountain, Stewart Mountain, or Black Mountain
- Oktoberfest celebrations in the Village, at Great Escape, and at local breweries
- Visit apple orchards, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches at area farms
Fewer people = more peace along scenic drives and trails!
Winter ❄️
- Lake George Winter Carnival lights up the season every weekend in February
- Experience everything winter sports and activities: ice skating, snow tubing, snowmobiling, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and winter hiking
- Sip cocktails at a sparkling ice bar or try igloo dining
Where to Stay
No matter your budget or travel style, Lake George has a lodging option for you. Stay right in the heart of the action in the Village, or choose a more tranquil setting nearby that still keeps you close to everything.
From hotels, motels, and full-service resorts to campgrounds (tent, RV, or cabin-style) and spacious vacation rentals or charming bed and breakfasts, the region is packed with variety. You’ll also find plenty of budget lodging options and seasonal lodging deals, making it easy to plan a stay that fits your needs. Or, maybe you're living it up and treating yourself in luxury lodging!
No matter when you visit or what kind of experience you're looking for, Lake George delivers. The region blends natural beauty, small-town charm, family fun, and outdoor adventure in a way that keeps people coming back year after year - and now you know exactly where to start!
🧐 See frequently asked questions about Lake George >>
🤯 Find out 10 things you didn't know about Lake George >>
