7 Reasons to Plan a Holiday Trip to Lake George
Whether it's cutting down and decorating a real Christmas tree or having a movie marathon, family traditions are some of the best parts of the holidays. This year, why not start a new tradition with a holiday trip to Lake George? Here are seven of our favorite reasons to visit the area during the holiday season.
Snug & Scenic Lodging for Groups of All Sizes
Visions of sugar plums will dance in your head at winter lodging options around Lake George. If you're looking for a picturesque getaway spot, consider Trout House Village Resort in Hague. The resort offers several different cabins for family and friend groups of all sizes. Deck the halls, stoke the fireplace, and take in snowy landscapes while you cook Christmas dinner together.
Or, stay at the Fort William Henry Hotel to be right in the action of the winter festivities! This resort offers upscale accommodations and amenities like an indoor pool, on-site restaurants, and more. It's also located right on the lake and in Lake George Village, so you'll get fantastic views while being close to the big winter attractions.
See more winter lodging ideas »
Fireside Dining With a Delightful Ambiance
Indulging in rich, hearty food is another holiday tradition. Here in Lake George, there are plenty of local spots open year-round, and a variety where you can relax by the fireplace as you eat, such as the Log Jam Restaurant, an authentic log cabin restaurant with three fireplaces.
Sitting fireside and enjoying a meal is the perfect way to evoke the holiday spirit with friends, family, or that special someone, so check out this list of restaurants with fireplaces where you can experience a cozy meal in the area.
Excellent Spots for Holiday Shopping
Lake George is a fantastic place to go holiday shopping. Local boutiques, like Live Love Laugh, will have unique gifts for anyone on your list. You also can't go wrong with a bottle of red or white from Adirondack Winery, and you can always head to the outlets to find everything from apparel to kitchenware. Finally, don't forget to get Lake George-themed decor and gifts at our prime holiday shop, A Christmas to Remember.
Need some inspiration for gift ideas? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide to see unique gifts from local businesses.
Festive Community Events for the Family
Attend local holiday events to create memories that will last a lifetime. Lite Up The Village, which takes place after Thanksgiving, is the perfect event to spark the holiday spirit. There is something magical about seeing a small town like Lake George lit up by thousands of twinkling lights.
In addition, you can visit Ticonderoga on the northern end of Lake George for the annual North Country Christmas celebration, a family-friendly event featuring local businesses and organizations—and even Santa himself. Or, head south to Glens Falls for Adirondack Ballet Theater's presentation of the timeless holiday classic, The Nutcracker.
Winter Fun All Season Long
The region is full of exciting events, and this year, two new magical winter experiences are coming to Lake George. Starting November 24, 2023, you can visit Winter Realms, which takes place at the Charles R. Wood Park Festival Commons. This wintertainment destination includes an ice skating rink, igloos, light displays, and more.
Nearby at the Fort William Henry Historic Fortress, Lake George Winter's Dream will open on December 8, 2023. This immersive experience will use lighting, special effects, interactivity, and sounds to transport you to a winter paradise. Both events are fun for all ages, and are something you won't want to miss!
BUY LAKE GEORGE WINTER'S DREAM TICKETS NOW
Cozy Local Bars to Relax With a Cocktail
There's something special about savoring a delicious cocktail in a cozy bar around the holiday season. Shepard's Bar at The Inn at Erlowest is a cozy and charming spot with a fireplace and extensive wine list; guests can also opt to reserve an E-Gloo at the property and enjoy dinner and drinks outdoors and with a gorgeous view.
The options are endless! Check out a variety of toasty bars in the Lake George region.
Welcome the New Year on (or in!) the Lake
If you're looking for fun ways to welcome in the new year, Lake George has got you covered.
The Polar Plunge is a popular "First Day" tradition at Shepard Park Beach in Lake George Village. Hundreds of brave souls gather on the beach every New Year's Day wearing swimsuits and bikinis. They shiver until the countdown ends and they all rush into the freezing waters. This can't-miss spectacle is fun for participants and spectators.
If jumping into the lake doesn't sound like fun to you, you could always go out on it! Every year, Lake George Waterfront Cruises puts on their Frostbite Cruise, which offers a chill (literally!) setting, live music, great food and drinks, and an unforgettable start to the year.
Start planning your next holiday getaway to the Lake George area today!