Your Guide to Presidents Day Weekend Fun in the Lake George Area
Presidents Day Weekend brings winter energy to the Lake George area, and this guide offers a variety of engaging ways to experience it. Families, couples, and groups will find plenty to do, from skiing and snowshoeing to seasonal events and warm, comforting meals.
Use this itinerary as a starting point, mixing and matching activities to create a custom weekend that fits your pace and interests!
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Friday Evening: Check Into One of These Top Lake George Area Resorts
A long weekend starts smoothly when you check into a comfortable place. The Lake George area features several great properties with amenities that suit different travel styles.
Fort William Henry Hotel
The historic Fort William Henry Hotel is a lakeside property offering beautiful views of the southern basin of Lake George. Guests can unwind in the heated indoor pool and hot tub, or reserve a private outdoor fire pit to warm up with s’mores or drinks after a day outside.
The hotel’s walkable location is especially appealing during Presidents Day Weekend. Lake George Winter Carnival activities, restaurants, and shops are all close by, so guests can park their car and enjoy the village on foot.
For travelers looking for a scenic and centrally located stay, this classic spot is a favorite.
The Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Water Park
For a stay with plenty to do without even leaving the property, book a winter getaway at The Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Water Park. The indoor water park adds a welcome dose of warmth in February and gives kids a fun way to burn off energy after the trip. With on-site dining available, the first night stays easy and low-stress for families who want to settle in and relax.
Its proximity to the village and nearby attractions also helps set up the rest of the weekend. Guests can enjoy plenty of entertainment without needing to plan a full evening agenda.
Hampton Inn & Suites Lake George
Just about a mile from the lake, the Hampton Inn & Suites features 93 updated guest rooms, including suites of all kinds. Amenities you can expect include HDTV, microwaves, refrigerators, coffeemakers, and free Wi-Fi.
With free breakfast, an indoor pool, and quick access to Route 9, it’s especially ideal for visitors planning full days of winter activities who want a simple, reliable place to recharge at night.
Saturday Morning: Start Off With Breakfast at Prospect Mountain Diner
Prospect Mountain Diner is a classic Lake George stop that’s been serving locals and visitors since 1950. The retro-style diner is casual, family-friendly, and known for its hearty portions that keep people coming back year after year.
The menu is packed with comfort-food favorites, from fluffy omelets, waffles, and oversized pancakes to burgers, club sandwiches, wraps, and classic diner plates. There is also a kids’ menu with items like pancakes, grilled cheese, and chicken tenders.
Saturday Morning: Enjoy Outdoor Fun at West Mountain
West Mountain in Queensbury is a medium-sized, family-friendly ski area located just about 16 minutes from Lake George. The site is home to well-groomed trails for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels to enjoy.
Guests can also take advantage of ski and snowboard rentals and lessons, making it easy for newcomers to hit the slopes.
For those looking for something different, West Mountain also has a snow tubing park with multiple lanes and a magic‑carpet lift. With enhanced snowmaking capabilities, you can count on good conditions and plenty of winter fun as long as the temperatures stay cold!
Saturday Afternoon: Warm Up With Lunch at Lake George Beach Club
A midday stop at Lake George Beach Club will offer a chance to warm up with classic pub favorites in a scenic lakeside setting. Located right on the waterfront in the heart of the village, the restaurant features two multi-level decks with great views of Lake George. Inside there is also a stage where some of the best bands and musicians in the region frequently perform.
The menu features options like chicken wings, nachos, seafood platters, shrimp tacos, buffalo chicken wraps, and hearty sandwiches, providing something for every taste.
Lake George Beach Club's close proximity to the Winter Carnival grounds also makes it a convenient stop before heading back out to the afternoon’s events.
Saturday Afternoon: Attend the Lake George Winter Carnival
The Lake George Winter Carnival is the highlight of February weekends in the village. Throughout the day, visitors can warm up with hot chocolate, seasonal treats, and concession tents while exploring the kid-friendly attractions and community events.
Saturday of Presidents Day Weekend features a BBQ cook-off at 12:30 PM on the first floor of the Village Mall, with tickets starting at $16.81. Another standout event is the LGWC Outhouse Races, where teams race homemade outhouses across the frozen lake for a chance to win part of a $2,000 prize pool.
Alternative Saturday Afternoon: Get a Sleigh Ride at Circle B Ranch
Circle B Ranch in Chestertown offers a quiet change of pace for guests who prefer a slower afternoon. The family-run ranch sits on more than 500 acres of trails, forest, and open fields, providing plenty of space to enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride.
Families, couples, and groups often choose this option if they plan to attend the Winter Carnival at a different time of day.
Saturday Evening: Watch Fireworks Over the Frozen Lake
As evening approaches, excitement builds for the nightly fireworks. Fireworks light up over the frozen lake every Saturday night in February, and visitors gather along the waterfront to enjoy the display.
Get more insider tips to the Lake George Winter Carnival >>
Saturday Evening: Get Dinner at Barnsider Smokehouse BBQ
Barnsider Smokehouse BBQ is a popular spot for a hearty Saturday night meal. The menu features slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, baby back ribs, and grilled chicken, along with burgers, wings, and loaded nachos.
The casual, rustic atmosphere makes it a comfortable place to relax after a day of winter activities. You’ll find cozy indoor seating as well as patio options when weather allows.
With friendly service and generous portions, Barnsider is a satisfying way to end the day in Lake George.
Sunday Morning: Have a Scenic Breakfast at the Lakeside Restaurant and Lounge
Located at Fort William Henry, the Lakeside Restaurant and Lounge offers calming lake views and a welcoming setting. Start your day with breakfast classics like Focaccia Eggs Benedict or Cinnamon Swirl French Toast while soaking in panoramic water views through the restaurant’s expansive windows. Guests staying elsewhere often make the short trip for the scenery alone.
After breakfast, take advantage of the location right on the water to enjoy a peaceful stroll along the shore before heading out for your next winter adventure or activity.
Sunday Morning: Snowshoe at Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park
With breakfast finished, visitors can choose a peaceful way to spend the rest of the morning outdoors. A short drive away in Pottersville, Natural Stone Bridge and Caves provides scenic snowshoeing trails through forested terrain and unique geological features.
Multiple trail options allow visitors to tailor the experience to their comfort level, making it a rewarding winter outing for a wide range of travelers.
Sunday Afternoon: Have Fun Indoors at Lake George Lanes & Games
For a more playful option, Lake George Lanes & Games is a solid choice, especially for families or groups traveling together. There are 24 modern bowling lanes with automatic scoring, dynamic light and sound features, and DirecTV at every lane, making it easy to enjoy a casual game or catch a sporting event while you play.
Beyond bowling, visitors can take part in laser tag, try a mix of classic and modern arcade games, or let kids burn off extra energy in the indoor playground, creating a well-rounded indoor outing for all ages.
Sunday Evening: End the Day With a Casual Dinner at The Garrison
Sunday evening is a good time to keep dinner simple, and The Garrison in Lake George fits the bill. This laid-back sports bar is known for its casual, cabin-inspired vibe, with college flags decorating the ceiling.
There are plenty of large TV screens to enjoy a game, and the bar offers a rotating selection of locally crafted beers on tap. Plus, live music often fills the space, creating a fun, energetic atmosphere.
The menu goes well beyond basic bar fare, with signature burgers like the Prospect Mountain and Buck Mountain, large salads, fresh sandwiches and wraps, and generous appetizers such as ADK nachos or mozzarella sticks.
Monday Morning: Have a Farewell Breakfast at The Silo Restaurant & Country Store
Before heading home, many visitors love to stop at The Silo Restaurant in Queensbury for a final taste of the region. The longtime favorite is known for its generous breakfast plates, baked goods, and cozy country feel that makes it a welcoming last meal for the holiday weekend.
Fresh apple cider donuts are a standout here, often paired with hot coffee before hitting the road. There is also a three-story floor gift shop attached to the restaurant that adds to the experience. They offer local products and souvenirs that are great for last-minute gifts or reminders of a Lake George getaway.
A Presidents Day Weekend Worth Returning For
From Lake George Winter Carnival excitement and outdoor adventures to cozy meals and scenic views, Presidents Day Weekend in the Lake George area delivers a well-rounded winter getaway.
If you’re skiing nearby, strolling the village, or enjoying fireworks over the frozen lake, this itinerary highlights the best ways to make the most of a long winter weekend and leaves plenty of reasons to plan a return trip.
