Things to Do in Lake George When It's Hot: Unique Ways to Stay Cool
Find things to do in Lake George when it's hot: cold drinks, ice cream, a beach, kayaking/paddleboarding, river tubing, whitewater rafting, and swimming!
Sponsored by:
Cold Drinks & Sweet Treats
Enjoy a Drink Lakeside at the Lake George Beach Club
The Lake George Beach Club in the center of the Village is the place to be for great food, drinks, and live music that can all be enjoyed right on their patio.
Head to the Rooftop Cabana Bar for an Island Oasis Drink
Situated on top of Surfside on the Lake, the Rooftop Cabana Bar is arguably a hidden gem in Lake George Village. Come and try one of their drink specials like Perch Island Punch or Paradise Blue
Bonus: The retractable roof allows for sipping drinks in the shade!
Indulge in a Dressed-Up Waffle Cone at a Local Ice Cream Shop
Nothing screams summer more than your favorite ice cream, and Lake George is filled with different shops. Each one provides a mix of flavors, toppings, and even accommodations for dietary restrictions. Some top spots around the area include The Candy Apple and Sprinkles.
Be sure to check out at least one the next time you are in town!
A Wild Waterpark & A Beach on the Lake
Bring the Family to Hurricane Harbor at Great Escape
Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor is arguably the biggest attraction in the region - and the Hurricane Harbor part is where you'll want to go! With a lazy river, tons of water slides, a wave pool, and more water rides and features, you'll definitely get cooled off.
Run Into the Water Like You're a Kid Again at Million Dollar Beach
Million Dollar Beach is open daily from 10am to 6pm during the summer months, and there's a $10 fee to park. Guests may swim if the lifeguard is on duty, and there's also a public boat launch with a boat inspection/boat wash station. Cool off in the Queen of American Lakes for the quintessential Lake George summer experience.
Paddling, Tubing & Rafting
Rent a Paddleboard From Kayak Lake George & Get Out on the Lake
You know what's fun about paddleboarding? It's okay if you're not a seasoned athlete at the activity - if you fall off or tip over, that's just yet another way to stay cool! Kayak Lake George is open daily during the season, and they have standup paddleboards, paddleboats, kayaks, and double kayaks available to rent by the hour.
Relax With a Lazy Ride Down a River
Adirondack Adventure Center in Lake Luzerne allows you to beat the heat with the whole family (kids two and under are free!) as you relax in a comfortable tube with your feet dipped in the cool water. Their lazy river tubing adventure will keep you cool for two-and-a-half to three hours.
Tubby Tubes is also in Lake Luzerne and has been offering lazy river tubing for over 20 years. Enjoy the water and pack a few beverages to bring along in their floating coolers that are available to rent.
Unleash Your Adventurous Side Whitewater Rafting
Want to keep cool while crossing off a thrilling bucket list item? Whitewater rafting in the Lake George region is an awesome experience that all adventure-seekers need to try. Take a journey on the Sacandaga or Hudson Rivers with Wild Waters Outdoor Center, where experienced guides will assist in creating amazing memories.
You can also check out the aforementioned Adirondack Adventure Center for a full day on the water, and pair your whitewater rafting trip with tubing or the aerial adventure course.
A River, A Waterfall & A Pool
Find a Little-Known Swimming Spot Along the Hudson River
Here's how to get to a cool swimming spot: Drive north on Main Street in Lake Luzerne and when the road splits veer left onto Wall Street. This becomes River Road. Continue on this road for three to four miles until you reach a parking area, and the Hudson River is right there! Although unmarked, there are several sandbars on the side of River Road where you can jump in and explore the water.
Note: Be aware of how close to Rockwell Falls you are, which are south of this spot, close to where the Hudson River meets the Sacandaga River. Basically, don't swim or float too far downstream. (Speaking of waterfalls, check out the next way to cool off on our list!)
Splish & Splash at Shelving Rock Falls' Pristine Waterfall
Bring your swimsuit (and maybe some water shoes) to this excellent cooling off place! Shelving Rock Falls on the eastern side of Lake George allows for a quick dip in shallow waters by a cascading waterfall.
It is unsurprisingly a rocky area, so take care when swimming here. It's also a popular place for both hiking and swimming, so it might be a good idea to have a backup plan in case it's busy. Or, plan to come early in the morning on a weekday when you're more likely to have this spot to yourself.
Leap Into the Swimming Pool at Gurney Lane
There is a pool available to the public (residents and visitors) at Gurney Lane Recreation Area. The pool is typically open from mid-June to early September - visit Queensbury Recreation on Facebook or at https://recreation.queensbury.net/ for hours and pricing. This 6,200-foot outdoor pool has a 1-meter diving well and a slide, as well as a shallow area ideal for kids.
Browse lodging and book your summer vacation »
