Affordable Winter Activities in Lake George: Enjoy More, Spend Less
Things to Do in the Winter That Are Under $20
You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy the winter season!. Discover affordable winter activities in Lake George below that are all $20 or less, from outdoor adventures to cozy indoor experiences.
Please note, prices at businesses can always change, so it's safest to check ahead.
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Hit the Trails: Free Winter Hikes & Snowshoe Adventures
One of the easiest and most rewarding budget winter activities in Lake George is simply getting outside for a winter hike. The region is full of scenic trails that are open year-round. Whether you hike on foot or try snowshoeing, you’ll get fresh air, exercise, and stunning views, free of charge.
If you don’t have your own gear, snowshoe rentals typically range from $5 to $16 per pair at local outfitters, still keeping you under budget. Popular spots include the Gurney Lane trails in Queensbury or the Lake George Recreation Center trails, both ideal for a peaceful winter escape.
Explore the Village & Cozy Up at Caffe Vero
Take a stroll through Lake George Village, where winter lights, lake views, and snow-covered streets create a magical setting.
Warm up at Caffe Vero, a cozy local favorite offering fresh coffee, lattes, and hot chocolate - most drinks fall between $3 and $6.
Visit Local Museums: Chapman & Hyde
Indoor attractions can be both affordable and enriching, especially museums! At the Chapman Museum in Glens Falls, admission is $10 for adults, and children under 12 are free. Learn about the region’s history, including local industries, Adirondack life, and historical photography collections.
The Hyde Collection, also in Glens Falls, offers a quality art experience for just $12 per person. Better yet, they provide free admission on the second Thursday of each month, making it one of the top cheap things to do in the Lake George area in winter.
Indoor Fun at ADK Karting
Looking for active fun indoors? Head to ADK Karting at Aviation Mall, where you can try their glow-in-the-dark mini golf for $13 or hop into a simulator race starting at $13 (or $11 during November of 2025).
While their go-kart experiences exceed $20 for adults, the mini golf and racing simulators are excellent ways to spend some quality time indoors this winter.
Play Arcade Games Indoors
Sometimes all you need is a few bucks and a playful spirit. Local arcades like Lake George Lanes & Games and Fun World Arcade let you load any amount onto a game card, meaning you control the budget.
With just under $20, you can enjoy a solid mix of games, from skee-ball to driving simulators. There are also two arcades located in Aviation Mall.
By the way, bowling is also a cheap thing to do in winter in Lake George - Lanes & Games charges $6 per game with $4 for shoe rentals, plus All You Can Play Bowling on Monday and Wednesday nights with $12 for 2 hours of bowling and $15 for 3 hours. And, Half Price Bowling Thursdays!
Enjoy a Local Wine Tasting
For those 21+, a wine tasting offers a relaxing and affordable winter treat. Here are a couple of our top recommendations:
- Adirondack Winery offers tastings for $15, including 7 ¾ oz pours of your choice in a cozy, inviting space at their Lake George or Queensbury locations.
Sample local wines and warm up indoors - ideal for a casual date or weekend outing.
Get Creative: Make Your Own Candle at Wax 'n' Wix
For a hands-on, personalized experience, head to Wax 'n' Wix in Lake George, where you can make your own candle starting at just $10. Choose your own colors, scents, and designs - great for gifts or a fun memory.
Prices vary depending on the size and type of candle you create, but many reviewers mention how affordable the experience is.
Grab a Drink at a Cozy Local Bar
When it’s cold outside, a specialty cocktail or craft beer hits just right, particularly at one of several cozy bars in the region. Many Lake George-area bars offer winter-themed drinks priced between $10 and $15.
You’ll find warm and welcoming taverns throughout Lake George and Glens Falls, excellent for warming up after a day of (inexpensive) adventures.
Catch a Live Show at the Park Theater
The Park Theater in Glens Falls always has exciting shows, performances, and events going on. Check out their events calendar and take a look at the prices, because sometimes they’re under $20!
For example, the Jeremy Gold Quartet on November 20 and the Killdeer Trio on December 18 are each $16.53, and that includes all fees when you’re purchasing online.
Attend Free Events & Festivals
Find free events going on! Here are some favorites for winter:
- Lite Up the Village (late November)
- Ice Bars (January) - Entry is free for most, just pay for your drinks
- Lake George Winter Carnival (February) - Free to attend with activities, contests, and more
Bonus: Stretch & Warm Up at Hot Yoga Queensbury
If your idea of a perfect winter day includes staying warm and getting moving, consider a class at Hot Yoga Queensbury. Their single drop-in rate is exactly $20. So we cannot say it’s under $20, but it’s very close!
This is a great way to stay active during the colder months while relieving stress and tension from holiday hustle.
Between outdoor fun and plenty of indoor excursions, it's easy to create the ultimate winter experience in Lake George for you - for less.
💵🎄 Enjoy a budget-friendly holiday trip to Lake George >>
