Discover Fun Outdoor Winter Activities for the Whole Family
Bring the Kids Out to Lake George!
Even in the colder months, Lake George is packed full of activities and adventures the whole family will enjoy. Check our our top suggestions on things to do in the winter below - and scroll to the bottom for a bonus tip on how to experience more than one winter activity for the price of one!
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Make Plans for New Winter Attractions in Lake George Village
Lake George Winter's Dream
Editor's Note: Lake George Winter's Dream will not be happening for Winter 2024/2025. However, it will be returning for Winter 2025/2026. Check back next winter for all the updates!
Bring your family to Lake George to enjoy the magical side of winter at Lake George Winter's Dream. This experience will completely immerse you into the season with a powerful display of lights, sounds and interactivity. Winter's Dream is at the Fort William Henry Historic Fortress.
Visit a Downhill Ski Area
There are a few great ski resorts not too far from Lake George that are perfect for skiers of all skill levels. And if you have a non-skier in the family they won't mind warming up in the lodge with a hot beverage!
Go Sledding & Snow Tubing
Sliding down a snowy hill is a joy you never outgrow, and there are multiple spots in the Lake George area where you can go sledding or snow tubing in winter. If you have your own snow tube head to the Lake George Rec Center's Tubing Hill. Need to rent? Check out West Mountain.
Try Snowshoeing
Here's a fun activity you can all learn together: snowshoeing. Most kids' snowshoe sizes start around what a three-year-old would wear, but if your younger toddler is walking they should be able to try snowshoeing (maybe a shorter trail!). Another option is to put littles in a carrier on your back - this won't be much different from hiking with a child carrier, if you've tried that before.
Get started at the Snowshoeing Guide »
Rediscover Ice Skating
Lake George is usually frozen solid by mid-January, providing the perfect rink for ice skating each winter. However, if the lake isn't frozen during your trip to the Lake George area, there are other local sites that offer public indoor or outdoor ice skating.
Plan an Ice Fishing Trip
If the ice is safe, then gear up and head out onto a frozen lake for a day of ice fishing. Although some fishermen go alone, it can be fun to bring the kids, set up a shelter on the lake, and ice fish together.
Not experienced? Hire an ice fishing guide »
Enjoy the Lake George Winter Carnival
One of the biggest highlights of the winter season in Lake George Village is the Lake George Winter Carnival, which takes place each weekend throughout the month of February. Kids will love the pony rides, s'mores at the beach, a snowman building contest, and more.
See our insider tips to the Winter Carnival »
Lodging Tip: Silver Bay YMCA is Great for Families & Hosts a Winter Weekend
Silver Bay YMCA is situated just about 30 minutes north of Lake George and is conducive to families, family reunions, and large groups. There is a wide array of accommodations to choose from, from individual rooms to an entire cottage.
Plus, if you're visiting Lake George for winter fun in February, Silver Bay YMCA hosts a Winter Weekend each year.