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The Lake George Winter Carnival Weekend Itinerary: Plan Your Visit

What to Do, Where to Eat & Stay for the Carnival

There’s no better way to experience winter in Lake George than at the Lake George Winter Carnival, happening in 2026 on Saturdays and Sundays throughout February and the first weekend of March. Explore more to do in the area in addition to carnival festivities with this Lake George Winter Carnival weekend itinerary you can easily customize to your preferences.

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We've divided our suggestions for Winter Carnival itinerary ideas into Outdoor Fun, Indoor Fun, Where to Eat and Where to Stay. Keep scrolling for all the ideas, or jump to what you need.

Please remember to double check business hours and the winter carnival schedule for updates.

Outdoor Fun | Indoor Fun | Places to Eat | Places to Stay

lake george winter carnival crowd

Find Exciting Outdoor Adventures

For those who embrace the cold and want to get in on more wintery adventures outdoors, check out these activities:

The Lagoon Ice Bar

ice bar at lagoon

Located in the middle of all the Lake George Winter Carnival action, make sure to stop at the ice bar at The Lagoon, which will be open every Saturday during the Winter Carnival except the last one (February 7, 14, 21, and 28).

Phantoms & Fireworks

fort william henry museum fireworks

The Fort William Henry Museum, also right by all the carnival action, is hosting Phantoms & Fireworks in addition to the Frozen Fort this year - enjoy a haunted tour of the Fort on Saturdays during the Carnival, coinciding with the evening fireworks.

Snow Tubing & Skiing

tubing at west mountain

Head to West Mountain in nearby Queensbury to hit the slopes. They also have a snow tubing park, if you’re visiting with kids! Bonus tip: Fire on the Mountain is happening at West on February 14.

Snowshoeing

snowshoer

Explore picturesque trails at the Lake George Rec Center or Gurney Lane Recreation Area in Queensbury (bring your own gear), or at Up Yonda Farm in Bolton Landing (rentals are available; they also offer guided snowshoe hikes).

See more on snowshoeing >>

Stay Warm With Cozy Indoor Activities

For when you need a break from the cold, check out these fun things to do:

Lake George Lanes & Games

bowling at lake george lanes and games

More than just bowling, Lake George Lanes & Games has a bar and an arcade, plus if you have kids an indoor playground and laser tag.

Adirondack Axe

adirondack axe axe throwing boards

Haven’t tried axe throwing yet? Now’s your chance! Adirondack Axe is located at Aviation Mall in Queensbury.

Creative Jam

people doing cookie decorating at creative jam

Creative Jam is a multi-use art studio situated in the Lake George Outlets, and offers an inviting space to paint, draw, write, or create. Check out classes and events they may have coming up!

Wax ‘n Wix

wax n wix pick your fragrance station

Also located conveniently in the outlets with a second location right in the Village, Wax ‘n Wix is another way to get your creative, crafty juices flowing. See how to make your own candle to bring home.

Fuel Up: Where to Eat & Drink

When you’re ready to duck inside a comfortable restaurant, we recommend the following:

Lake George Beach Club

lake george beach club wings and food

They’re right by Shepard’s Park where the majority of carnival activities take place - you'll love the food and festive atmosphere at the Lake George Beach Club!

The Lagoon

the lagoon buffalo chicken pizza

The aforementioned Lagoon is more than just an ice bar - step into their restaurant to dine indoors for some classic winter comfort food like chicken wings, mac and cheese, or pizza.

The Log Jam Restaurant

log jam restaurant food

A long-time favorite of locals and tourists, you can’t go wrong with three fireplaces and the rustic decor at The Log Jam, which can be found in the outlets.

Lakeside Restaurant & Lounge

pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage

Located inside the Fort William Henry Hotel, the Lakeside Restaurant and Lounge is a top winter dining destination, and it's in the middle of all the carnival fun - this is a good breakfast spot, although they do lunch and dinner as well.

See a Foodie's Guide to the Lake George Winter Carnival >>

Where to Stay: Book Your Lodging

lake george vacay bedroom with two beds

For Families: A Vacation Rental Home

If you’re coming with the whole family, consider renting a vacation home to elevate the experience with Lake George Vacay or Northern Living. Have room to spread out and make use of great amenities like a fireplace or Jacuzzi. Many homes are lakeside!

For a Romantic Weekend: A Luxurious Castle or B&B

erlowest bed

Just the two of you? Consider an intimate escape to The Erlowest, just north of Lake George Village.

rockwell falls inn interior

Rockwell Falls Inn, close by in Lake Luzerne, is another excellent option for couples that is a little off the beaten path - you’ll love their wine bar!

For a Front-Row Carnival Experience: A Hotel in the Center of the Action

fort william henry bedroom

Stay at Fort William Henry Hotel for comfortable lodging, top notch hospitality, and prime views of the Lake George Winter Carnival’s Saturday night fireworks!

Whether the lake is frozen or not, and whether you're up for indoor or outdoor activities, there's plenty to do in Lake George on winter carnival weekends!

See tips for bringing kids to the Lake George Winter Carnival >>

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woman in hat poses in front water
About the Author: Erin Nudi Erin is an avid reader, yogi, jogger, and hiker living in Queensbury. When she's not perusing books at Northshire, Owl Pen Books, or Beldame Books, you can find her at a local event or park with her family.
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