Embrace the Serenity: Peaceful Things to Do in Lake George
Lake George is the place to be for outdoor recreation like parasailing, whitewater rafting, and treetop adventures. But what if you want to explore the outdoors and connect to nature without an extreme sport or rigorous activity? We've rounded up over a dozen peaceful things to do in Lake George, so you can plan a calm, low-key visit that's still full of fun, culture, and local gems.
Walk Your Way to Serenity
Enjoy a Cycle or Stroll Along the Warren County Bikeway
The scenic Warren County Bikeway provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Although it's about nine miles long, you're not obligated to go the entire route! Make a plan to stop for ice cream at Sprinkles Ice Cream Shop in Queensbury or Cooper's Cave Ale Company in Glens Falls. Need a bike? Bike rentals are available!
Bonus suggestion: The Glens Falls Feeder Canal is the other main bikeway/walking path in the area, which also goes by an ice cream spot, Jack & Jill Ice Cream in Hudson Falls.
Explore the Mystical Adirondack Labyrinth
The Adirondack Labyrinth is located about 40 minutes from Lake George in Bakers Mills, and is open to the public starting at the end of June on Saturdays and Sundays. This 70-foot outdoor labyrinth invites you to replenish and center yourself - you can book a free walk through their website, or check out their guided meditation walks.
Combine Cultural Insights With Gentle Walks
Discover Natural Beauty at Up Yonda Farm
Featuring easy trails, a vibrant butterfly garden, and breathtaking views, Up Yonda Farm in Bolton Landing is a sanctuary for those seeking a gentle day out. The farm blends natural tranquility with educational opportunities for a worthwhile visit.
Step Back in Time at Battlefield State Park
The self-guided Colonial Wars Walking Tour is a great, easy way to dive into local history and nature at the same time. Much of it takes place within Lake George Battlefield State Park, which features easy walking paths and lake views.
Unwind & Learn About Marcella Sembrich at The Sembrich
The Sembrich in Bolton Landing is a cultural hub with easy, scenic walking paths (the main path is accessible), a museum housed in opera singer Marcella Sembrich's former teaching studio, and they also host a weeks-long summer festival every year, with indoor and outdoor live music performances and film screenings.
Relax at Pristine Parks & Beaches
Find Peace at Crandall Park
Crandall Park in Glens Falls comprises easy walking trails, a picturesque pond, a couple of soothing fountains, and a pollinator garden. There is a playground, but it's easy to avoid if you're trying to get away from noise.
Experience the Calm of Hovey Pond Park
Like Crandall Park, Hovey Pond Park in Queensbury has a playground, but you don't need to hang out near it. Walk a loop around the pond, check out the short wetlands walk and the botanical garden, and relax at a picnic bench or on an Adirondack chair.
Sunbathe at Million Dollar Beach
Although it can get busy on hot summer days (definitely busier than the above photo!), we'd be remiss not to mention Million Dollar Beach in the center of Lake George Village, for those looking to relax lakeside.
Bonus suggestion: Head north up the lake to check out Veterans Memorial Park Beach or Rogers Memorial Park Beach, pictured above.
Enjoy Scenic Drives Around Lake George
Ascend Prospect Mountain
Driving up Prospect Mountain (with a small fee for each vehicle), is a great way to enjoy panoramic views of Lake George and the surrounding area at various viewpoints. The final summit at the top can be accessed by a quarter-mile walk from the top parking lot.
Drive Up Lake Shore Drive & Stop for a Book
Take a leisurely drive up Lake Shore Drive/Route 9N along the eastern side of Lake George. Plan to visit The Book Cabin, where you can sit outside to enjoy a leisurely read before continuing on your way. Make sure to stop at Sabbath Day Point Overlook to take in the views! Depending on how ambitious you are, you could go all the way up to Ticonderoga and come back down the other side of the lake.
Engage in Low-Key Activities
Embark on a Steamboat Cruise
Experience the lake from the comfort of a steamboat cruise from the Lake George Waterfront Cruises or Lake George Steamboat Company. Both reputable companies get rave reviews for their various themed cruises, like a sunset cruise, and this is the ideal low-energy activity with rewarding views.
Discover Unique Buys at The Shirt Factory
We all love the Lake George Outlets! But if you're looking for a different kind of shopping experience check out The Shirt Factory in Glens Falls. This multi-story building features dozens of independent, unique shops, including several bookstores, art galleries, and there is an outdoor mural garden.
Step Into Local History & Art
Wander Through The Hyde Collection
The Hyde Collection in Glens Falls is a museum that many say rivals the world-class art collections one can find in New York City. Part historic house and part art gallery, there's plenty to explore in a quiet setting.
Make Your Way to Adirondack Experience
Adirondack Experience, the Museum at Blue Mountain Lake, is a little over an hour from Lake George and well worth the drive. Check out the huge campus with indoor and outdoor exhibits at your own leisure, all about the people, animals, and history of the Adirondacks.
Stay in Tranquility: Lodging Suggestion
Book a Room at The Lake Motel
Round out a day of quiet explorations around Lake George with a stay at The Lake Motel. As the name suggestions, they're right on the lake, and have an outdoor fireplace, fire pits, grills, and a pool for the ultimate relaxing stay. They also offer nightly activities in the summer like making your own sundae, so you can still be social while enjoying a peaceful time.
You don't have to engage in extreme adventures to enjoy all the best features of Lake George: the gorgeous lake, the walking trails, the parks, and so much more. What's your favorite "quiet" thing to do in Lake George?
Find places to watch the Lake George sunset >>
