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Put These Top 10 Things to Do in Lake George on Your Bucket List

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Are you ready to discover Lake George like never before? Whether you are vacationing alone, with your sweetheart, or with the entire family, it's easy to plan an adventure for every day of your trip. Find everything from popular attractions to outdoor activities in our list of the top 10 things to do.

Enjoy Water Sports and Recreation on the Lake

people on and near a boat in the water

Water-based activities are a must for any Lake George bucket list. There are so many ways to get out on the "Queen of American Lakes," including boat tours, cruises, kayaking, and even water skiing.

Pictured above is a group with Daleys Adventure Boat Tours, who offer sightseeing tours around Lake George. They tailor the experience to you and your group, and options can include jumping in the lake for a swim, checking out celebrity mansions along the shoreline, and tubing too.

See more ideas for fun on the water »

Explore History in the Lake George Region

aerial view of Fort William Henry in the summer

From museums and forts, to geologic wonders and art galleries, immerse yourself in the region's history and culture at incredible local hotspots. The Fort William Henry Museum in Lake George is one must-visit place that offers historical walking tours, fascinating exhibits, special events and programming, and other things to do.

If you are more into art, then check out The Hyde Collection in Glens Falls. The Hyde is one of the best small art museums in the Northeast, with art featured from all over America and Europe. Check out their website, as there are many different kids events for them to immerse themselves in the art as well!

Get excited about other historic attractions »

Seek Out Heart-Pounding Adventures

view looking up at a woman on a treetop course

Thrilling adventures can be found throughout the Lake George area, even in the treetops! Test your skills and conquer an array of treetop obstacles at Adirondack Adventure Center, Adirondack Extreme, West Mountain, or ARO Adventures.

Have a blast soaring through the air from tree to tree, climbing through cargo nets, and maneuvering wobbly bridges. Courses vary in difficulty levels, so both beginners and seasoned adventurers can explore the world above. 

If traversing through the trees doesn't strike your fancy, try soaring into the sky on a parasailing trip, or go whitewater rafting on the wild rapids in the Adirondacks.

See more ways to get extreme »

Spend the Day at Lake George's Amusement Parks

Are you a fan of exciting rides? Look no further than Lake George's amusement parks. From Six Flags Great Escape to Lake George Expedition Park, there are countless hours of fun to have.

Check out the Expedition Park's Magic Forest, where you can enjoy unique rides like the Tilt-A-Whirl and the Paratrooper around every corner. Or, head to The Great Escape for amazing rollercoasters and waterpark rides that the family will love.

Check out all local attractions »

Indulge in Delicious Lakefront Dining Experiences and Explore the Charming Village

outdoor patio dining by lake

From the miniature golf to the ice cream to the waterfront restaurants, there's so much to love about Lake George Village. The Lake George Beach Club is an ideal spot for a classic burger and a Blue Moon by the water, and they are just one of many restaurants that offer outdoor dining.

You can also explore kitschy shops, well-maintained parks, arcades, and other fun places in the Village. Some notable places that visitors love in the village include Around the World Golf, Leonelli's Playland Arcade North, and the Charles R. Wood Park

View the Village Guide for more »

Soak Up the Summer Sun on the Beach

red umbrella on a beach, people in water

With so many fabulous beaches on Lake George, it's up to you to decide if you want to lay out with a good book, build a castle, play beach volleyball, or just sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views from the sand.

The largest beach in Lake George is Million Dollar Beach, with many amenities such as a volleyball court, picnic tables and a boat launch. When you are there, get a snack from The Lemonade Parlor, featuring many different flavors of lemonade and many different snack items. 

Browse the beaches »

Shop 'Til You Drop at Stores & Boutiques

clothing store with carhartt brand

Whether you want to peruse the deals at the outlet malls, search for treasures at the shops in Bolton Landing, go souvenir shopping in the Village, or visit other gift stores nearby, it's never truly a visit to Lake George until you've bought something to bring home with you.

Pictured above is Walker's Farm, Home & Tack in Fort Ann, a one-stop-shop for casual clothing, cowboy boots, home decor, pet supplies, and more! Walker's is a local, family owned business that provides a different experience than big department stores. Each staff member is personable, knowledgeable, and can help you make informed decisions on what you're buying.

Explore more shopping opportunities »

Pamper Yourself with Relaxing Treatments

salt cave with chairs

Is it really a vacation if you're not in uber relaxation mode at least part of the time? Check out Adirondack Salt Cave in close-by Glens Falls and experience a unique halotherapy session in their Himalayan salt cave.

For a spa and salon experience, check out The Spa and Salon at The Sagamore. They offer an array of different beauty treatments, such as facials, body treatments, solo and couples massages, and take a trip into their salt and sound lounge for some halotherapy. 

See more spas in the area »

Take a Day Trip to Nearby Hotspots

aerial view of Albany's Washington Park
Photo Credit: Greg Hanselman

If you're staying in Lake George, then you'll be a reasonable car ride away from many Capital Region and North Country hotspots. Expand your horizons outside of Lake George and check out what else Upstate New York has to offer.

In fact, Lake George is: 1.5 hours from historic Lake Placid, 1 hour from the bustling capital of Albany, 30 minutes from the horse-loving city of Saratoga Springs, 20 minutes from scenic Washington County, and 15 minutes from quaint Bolton Landing.

Pick a place to take a day trip »

Unplug and Connect

sunrise over lake

After you've gotten your Instagram-worthy photo, put the phone in your pocket and reconnect with your loved ones - or, yourself. Take a walk down Canada Street or park yourself on a bench by the lake at sunset or sunrise. Rest, reflect, and plan for your return trip to Lake George.

See more photos of gorgeous Lake George imagery »

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