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A Winter Wonderland of Family Fun Awaits in Lake George, NY

Vacations are all about having spending time together, and when snow falls in Lake George, the region transforms into a winter wonderland of family fun.

family of four skiers posing

Whether you want to hit the slopes, attend the Lake George Winter Carnival, or warm up indoors, there is so much to do throughout the season.

Plan a memorable trip this winter with our recommendations for family-friendly lodging, things to do, and places to eat.

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Find the Best Home Base for Winter Fun

best western lake george guest room

Choosing the right accommodations is a key part of any successful trip, and if you’d like to experience everything the area offers in winter, then Best Western of Lake George is the place for you.

This hotel is in the ideal location just 1 mile south of the village and right by the Adirondack Northway, giving you easy access to popular winter attractions.

See more year-round lodging options >>

Lake George Winter Carnival: Weekends in February Are Carnival Time

view of people on a frozen lake
Photo Credit: Charles Henry Eldridge

A weekend vacation in February means you and your family will be able to attend the annual Lake George Winter Carnival, which takes place each weekend throughout the month. Whether there’s ice or no ice on the lake, the Winter Carnival is a can’t-miss event that offers fun for every member of the family.

Sample tasty food at the cook-offs, watch the outhouse races, ATV races, and evening fireworks, and be sure to toast marshmallows on the beach.

See Why the Lake George Region Is “Snow” Much Fun This Time of Year

man, woman, and two kids on a ski slope

The Adirondack Park is a winter sports destination, and there are a ton of activities in the Lake George region.

You can take a 35-minute drive north of Lake George to Gore Mountain for a day of skiing and snowboarding, or head south to West Mountain in Queensbury, a medium-sized, family-friendly ski area with a snow tubing park. Both ski mountains have on-site dining options, so you can grab a bite to eat before returning to your hotel.

If downhill skiing is too extreme for your family, then plan a trip to a nearby snowshoeing trail or attraction.

family snowshoeing at natural stone bridge and caves

Snowshoeing is a fun and easy activity that you and your kids can do at a leisurely pace, and rentals and trails are available at Gore Mountain’s Nordic Center, Natural Stone Bridge and Caves in Pottersville, Up Yonda Farm in Bolton Landing, and Garnet Hill Lodge in North River.

Visit our Snowshoeing Guide to get started >>

Escape the Cold With These Awesome Indoor Activities

people roller skating at the fun spot in queensbury

Although snowsports and outdoor events are a highlight of winter in the Lake George region, you can have just as much fun indoors as long as you know where to go.

Would your kids like to go rolling skating or play a round of laser tag? The Fun Spot in nearby Queensbury is a family entertainment destination featuring exciting indoor attractions.

kid bowling

Or, if you prefer bowling and arcades, then Lake George Lanes & Games has you covered. This premier Lake George bowling center offers plenty of lanes, a state-of-the-art scoring system, and other activities.

And, of course you'll want to save time for a little shopping. The Lake George Factory Outlets are located just a short drive south of the village, and there are over 50 great stores, including both local businesses and brand name retailers.

the candy space in lake george

In particular, your kids will probably love visiting The Candy Space, a space-themed candy store where you can launch your candy in a rocket ship.

Here are even more ideas for indoor winter fun >>

Find Family-Friendly Dining Options in Lake George

There are countless ways you can spend a winter vacation in Lake George, but don't forget to pick out a couple restaurants that your family will enjoy eating at.

log jam pasta dish

One of the top options for parents with kids is The Log Jam Restaurant, located near the Outlets. The restaurant has three massive stone fireplaces that keep the dining rooms warm and cozy during winter, and their menu includes a mix of steak, seafood, and other American cuisine, as well as a kids section with chicken tenders, baby back ribs, grilled cheese, and more.

the garrison chicken sandwiches

Craving classic pub fare instead? Visit The Garrison in Lake George for juicy burgers, specialty sandwiches, wings, fried calamari, and other lunch and dinner items, such as the 'Dacks Mac & Cheese made with a Vermont cheddar cheese cream sauce that will melt in your mouth.

You also can't wrong with pizza for dinner, and in Lake George, both Pizza Jerks and Giuseppe's Pizzeria are excellent places to go for fresh, gourmet pizza.

Your family's next winter vacation awaits in Lake George! Book your room and start thinking about all the events and activities you want to check out this season.

View more year-round restaurants >>

<< Back to the Winter Guide

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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