A true gem of New York state, the picturesque town of Lake George, and the beautiful waterway from which it gets its name is an enticing destination for fans of the great outdoors and mesmerising vistas. Set amid the Adirondack Mountains, this small town also boasts a rich history, including pivotal and infamous moments in the colonial wars of the 18th century. Naturally, such a rich vein of natural and historic charms means visitors enjoy plenty of sightseeing opportunities—from the recreation of the British forces’ old Fort William Henry site to picturesque cruises on the lake aboard old paddlewheel steamers. There’s also plenty of walking opportunities—with 100-mile (160.1-km) views to match—and, if you prefer something more sedate, then the town’s numerous beaches will make for a great spot to unwind with the family. Whatever your reason for visiting this charming corner of the USA, there’s much to see and do. Read on for a list of things to do in Lake George, New York.
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1. Visit unique exhibits at House of Frankenstein Wax Museum
Enjoy things that go bump in the night? Well, then you’ll likely want to visit the House of Frankenstein Wax Museum, which features spooky waxwork animatronics inspired by classic literature. The museum promises a fun-filled “journey of terror” and, while tickets for children are available, it advises you to use “good judgement” when deciding whether it’ll be suitable for the young ones. During the summer months, it is open even longer—for 14 hours—giving ample time to fit in a visit.
House of Frankenstein Wax Museum
Address: 213 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: House of Frankenstein Wax Museum
Opening hours: Varies depending on time of year. See website.
Price: 10.28 USD for adults; 9.34 USD for 13 to 17-year-olds; 5.60 USD for 6 to 12-year-olds
2. Enjoy a rocking night at King Neptune's Pub and Night Club
If you’re a fan of music and atmosphere, then King Neptune’s Pub and Night Club is for you. Self-styled as the number one venue for live music in Lake George, it plays host to bands every week, with performances on many days and acts starting as early as 1pm or as late as 10pm, depending on the day. Such flexible schedule opens up plenty of opportunities to enjoy a show. What’s more, it features two decks from which you can enjoy the Lake George setting and three bars where you can unwind. There is even a Happy Hour every day from 4pm to 6pm—perfect for those on a budget.
King Neptune's Pub and Night Club
Address: 1 Kurosaka Lane, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: King Neptune’s Pub and Night Club
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am to 12am
3. Marvel at the wonderful views from Prospect Mountain
Fans of a fine view and a good hike will most certainly want to take the 4.8-km (3-mi) round trip route up Prospect Mountain. It’s a steep path, so those who are less fit should take note before considering it or opt for the drive up the Prospect Mountain Highway instead. But those who prefer to sweat and toil to reach the peak will have the chance to enjoy mesmerising panoramas as they hike. Indeed, it is said that on a clear day that you can see as far as 160 km (100 mi) away, and the vantage also offers enviable vistas of Lake George and the Adirondack mountains. You’d want to take a camera with you to capture the impressive scene.
Prospect Mountain
Address: Trail starts on Smith Street, Lake George. Prospect Mountain Highway route starts at the junction of Route 9 and Canada Street in Lake George.
Website: Prospect Mountain Trail
4. Enjoy a dip at Lake George's beaches
Lake George boasts a number of beaches where you can enjoy a wee dip in the water. The largest and most popular is Million Dollar Beach (more on that a little later), but there are smaller ones dotted nearby too, such as Usher’s Park Beach and Shepard’s Park Beach, giving you plenty of options. There are seasonal lifeguards at a number of them for added peace of mind—Usher’s Park Beach is one example. This beach’s gentle sloping lake bed has made it a popular spot for youngsters in the family.
Usher's Park Beach
Address: 3836 NY-9L, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Usher’s Park Beach
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
5. Enjoy 'dino' adventures at Lake George Expedition Park
Be it the 24 fun and whimsical rides, the charming steam train through the woods, the petting zoo, the magic show, or the roaring dinosaurs, a visit to Expedition Park is likely to delight children of all ages. Open daily during summer, The Dino Roar Valley trail features a 0.8 km (0.5 mi) path with a number of life-size dinosaur models as well as dino nests, a fossil dig site, and even a stage show of ‘Roary the Raptor’. The Magic Forest, meanwhile, is home to a range of fun attractions—from the aforementioned rides to a thrilling dive show where daredevils plummet from heights of up to 26 metres (85 feet) into the small pool below.
Lake George Expedition Park
Address: 1912 US Route 9, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Lake George Expedition Park
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily, in summer); Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm (early Sept - Oct)
6. Book a smooth ride with Lake George Steamboat Co.
Fans of a lake-filled vista and the sedate charms of a watery cruise will most certainly want to take a trip on the lake’s famous steamboats, which includes a classic paddle steamer. Promising fun for the whole family, Lake George Steamboat Co. offers a range of cruises, from the 1-hour Minne Ha Ha Paddlewheel Cruise that’ll catapult you 100 years into the past, to the Friday Night Pirate Cruise that’ll entertain your little ones with pirate loot goodie bags, as they set off on a treasure quest. There are even special music cruises of up to three-hours in length for those looking to make an evening off it while tucking into tasty food. And then, there’s the six-hour cruise of the whole lake for those who simply must explore its entire waters.
Lake George Steamboat Co.
Address: 57 Beach Road, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Lake George Steamboat Co.
Opening hours: Varies depending on cruise and calendar (see website)
Price: from 17 USD for adults; 15.50 USD for over 65 years old; 8 USD for 4 to 11-year-olds; free for under 4 years old
7. Explore Warren County Bikeway on two wheels
From fine views on the water to ones on 2 wheels now. The Warren County Bikeway runs 15.1 km (9.4 mi) from Lake George to downtown Glens Falls. This multi-use trail, which follows a former branch line of the Delaware & Hudson Railroad, has been delighting walkers and cyclists for more than 40 years and features a number of kiosks offering local maps for exploring the area. Along the route, you’ll also pass a number of signs relating stories and historical events from the area’s past. And, with car parking close to the start and finish points of the trail, you should have no difficulty getting there to start your exploration.
Warren County Bikeway
Address: Runs between Fort George Road in Lake George and Platt Street, Glen Falls
Website: Warren County Bikeway
8. Shop at factory outlets
Shopaholics will find plenty of inspiration during their visit to Lake George. It is home to a number of factory outlets, including Outlets of Lake George and the Adirondack Outlet Mall, which sit literally right next to each other. There’s a third outlet which is on the opposite side of the road. There are also plenty of retailers to tempt you to part with your hard-earned cash. There’s Kitchen Collection which sells homeware. And then, there are brands like Timberland, Adidas, Levi’s Jeans, and Famous Footwear Outlet selling clothing and shoes. Other temptations include perfumeries and chocolatiers.
Adirondack Outlet Mall
Address: 1444 U.S. 9, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Adirondack Outlet Mall
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 6pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 9pm
9. Enjoy a fun night at Shepard Park
Shepard Park is home to one of Lake George’s most popular beaches. There’s a good chance you’ll find your way to this area as there’s more to it than just the public sands. This conveniently located spot is not only close to local shops and eateries, but it also has a pavilion which plays host to open-air entertainment and live music. The said pavilion steps up a gear in the summer months, offering a range of free folk-rock and R&B concerts. And there’s a playground, which is open to the little ones when there are no live shows.
Shepard Park
Address: Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Shepard Park
Opening hours: 7am - 11.30pm (daily)
Price: free
10. Get your adrenaline pumping with Adirondack Eagle Flyer Zip Line
Adrenaline junkies will no doubt want to give a zip line experience a go during their visit. Well, the Adirondack Eagle Flyer Zip Line is on hand to allow you to do just that. Riders set off from the top of French Mountain. Setting off from the top of French Mountain, riders will sail through the peak’s tree-lined flanks and then out into open air more than 100 feet (30 meters) off the ground. Riders will travel at up to 80kph (50 mph) as they race down the 1.2km (0.75 mi) zip wire, enjoying fine views of Lake George and the Adirondacks.
Adirondack Eagle Flyer Zip Line
Address: 5 Mill Road, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Adirondack Eagle Flyer Zip Line
11. Pack a picnic to Million Dollar Beach
The aforementioned Million Dollar Beach is by far the largest of Lake George’s sands and is a real family-friendly spot. This beach boasts parking for 200 cars—perfect if you’re driving to the shore. It has lifeguards to keep an eye on the guests’ safety. There are shower areas, and even a public boat launch should you wish to take a kayak out on the lake. There are also ample picnic tables and grills on which you can whip up a tasty al fresco feast for your loved ones.
Million Dollar Beach
Address: 138 Beach Road, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Million Dollar Beach
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
12. Admire the outstanding architecture of Fort William Henry
Step back in time to the days of the colonial frontier by paying a visit to the impressive replica of Fort William Henry and its living history museum. The original timber fort played an important role during the French and Indian wars. It was the scene of an infamous massacre of British troops following a siege in 1757 and immortalised in James Cooper’s world-famous novel, The Last of the Mohicans. The replica fort faithfully recreates the architecture of the original building. It offers a range of tours, special events, and military demonstrations which are sure to enchant the young and old alike.
Fort William Henry Museum
Address: 48 Canada Street, Lake George, NY
Website: Fort William Henry Museum
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6pm (daily; last admission: 5:30 pm.)
Price: 19.50 USD for adults; 15 USD for seniors; 8 USD for children aged 5 to 15
13. Get swept off your feet with Parasailing Adventures
Whether you seek the adrenaline rush of taking to the skies or an aerial view of Lake George, parasailing is sure to prove appealing. Pinky’s Parasailing Adventures will whisk you at a high velocity above the lake tethered to a speed boat below. You don’t have to do it on your own if you don’t wish to. There are tandem and even triple harnesses to make it a real family experience.
Parasailing Adventures
Address: 2 Kurosaka Lane, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Parasailing Adventures
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: from 79 USD
14. Enjoy hiking through the scenic Shelving Rock Falls
Fans of nature and a good waterfall will likely want to head for the trails at Shelving Rock Falls. The area is home to an easy but unmarked trail, which leads walkers to the top of a 15-metre (50-foot) cascade of tumbling waters. Such a spot proves to be an enticing target for amateur photographers. The trail, popular among all ages, also provides views of Lake George at some of its points.
Shelving Rock Falls
Address: Fort Ann, NY 12827
Website: Shelving Rock Falls
15. Head to the craft fairs at Charles R. Wood Park
This popular 12.5-acre (5-hectare) park, which used to be home to a theme park back in the 60s to the 70s, is located close to the lake. It is home to an adventure playground, a skate park, and an interactive water feature—there’s a good chance you’ll want to pay this place a visit. But, if you’re keen on your craft fairs, then keep an eye out on the calendar, as the park is also home to a 2.5- acre (1-hectare) festival space which plays host to a range of activities and events, including the previously mentioned fair. Will your trip coincide with one?
Charles R. Wood Park
Address: 17 West Brook Road, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Charles R. Wood Park
16. Enjoy live music with a lake view at Duffy's Tavern
Come for the lake view, stay for the music. This popular bar and eatery is located right down on the water’s edge and boasts outdoor seating where you can really soak up the fresh air. And if you’re a fan of live entertainment, then the regular live band performances and open dance floors are sure to be an enticing prospect. Before enjoying the music, check out the menu and its range of seafood, steaks, sandwiches and more. It will provide the ideal opportunity to fuel up ahead of your dancing and revelry.
Duffy's Tavern
Address: 20 Amherst Street, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Duffy’s Tavern
Opening hours: 11am - 3am (daily)
17. Relish Mexican food at SJ Garcia's
Open from lunch right through to late evenings, you’ll have ample opportunity to pop by and enjoy. It is open from lunch right through to late evenings; you’ll have ample opportunity to pop by and enjoy its mix of fajitas, salads, wraps, combo platters, seafood, chicken and steaks. Those with a sweet tooth will also likely struggle to resist the tempting chocolate cheesecakes and other desserts. The menu also offers vegetarian and gluten-free options for anyone who has particular dietary requirements.
SJ Garcia's
Address: 192 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: SJ Garcia’s
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 12pm - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 12pm - 11pm
18. Dine with a view at The Boathouse Restaurant
Sticking with foodie delights now, The Boathouse Restaurant is sure to prove enticing to those who wish to tuck into a meal while enjoying the lake setting. As you’d expect from the name, the restaurant sits right on the water’s edge and has been wining and dining food fans for almost 35 years. Set inside a 19th-century building, the eatery is also home to two bars serving a range of craft ales and wines, as well as to an ample deck space for a little al fresco dining on fine days. The menu features seafood options like buffalo shrimp alongside soups, salads, sandwiches and tempting burgers —the latter of which are also available in gluten-free buns if required.
The Boathouse Restaurant
Address: 3210 Lake Shore Drive, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: The Boathouse Restaurant
Opening hours: 12pm - 9pm (daily)
19. Try fresh lobster at The Shoreline Restaurant
Here’s another lakefront dining option for a different dining experience, but still with a lake setting. The Shoreline Restaurant boasts a covered deck offering a 180-degree panorama of the water and serves a range of American dishes like fresh lobster, steak and pasta. The restaurant is owned by the same people who own the lake’s cruise boat firms, making two-hour dinner cruises in the summer possible. This means you can enjoy a hearty meal before, after or even during a boat trip on the lake.
The Shoreline Restaurant
Address: 4 Kurosaka Lane, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: The Shoreline Restaurant
Opening hours: 11am - 10pm (daily, in season)
20. Go boating at Lake Avenue Park
With such a beautiful setting, you’ll no doubt be tempted to get in the water at some point during your visit. There are a small public beach and a park with a boat launch area for kayaks and canoes for hire, should you want to paddle along the waterfront. Other facilities include a child-friendly wading area, as well as car parking.
Lake Avenue Park
Address: 22 Lake Avenue, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Lake Avenue Park
21. Try jet skiing with Devocean Watersports
Speaking of fun on the water, why just restrict yourself to simply paddling when you can race across the surface of Lake George on a jet ski? Devocean Watersports offers three two-hour jet ski tours every day, with twenty minutes of safety training before you spend ninety minutes on the water. Just remember to book your spot, as the tour’s popularity means they fill up quickly. Apart from jet ski fun, the company also offers pontoon boat rides, paddleboarding, and a shop, where you can pick up your essential kit.
Devocean Watersports
Address: 204 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Devocean Watersports
Opening hours: 9am, 12pm, 3pm (daily)
Price: 185 USD (20 minutes training and 90 minutes on lake)
22. Sip hand-crafted wines at Adirondack Winery
Lovers of the aqua vitae will likely find this next entry irresistible. The Adirondack Winery boasts a dizzying array of wines for you to enjoy—from classic reds and whites to dessert and blush varieties. If you time your visit right, your trip may just coincide with one of its regularly scheduled tasting room events—so keep an eye on their website. And if you happen to be residing in America and find their wares especially tasty, they deliver to 35 different states. You can still have your holiday favourites long after your return home.
Adirondack Winery
Address: 285 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Adirondack Winery
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily, summer hours)
23. Admire perfect views while hiking the Buck Mountain Hiking Trail
Here’s another one for fans of the great outdoors and a good hike, The Buck Mountain Hiking Trail. It winds its way through the green landscape for 4.82km (3 mi) and offers some fine vistas down the lake and across the Adirondacks. If you decide to turn it into a there-and-back walk of 9.65 km (6 mi), you will work up a nice sweat. However, bear in mind that there some challenging tracks, so those who are less fit may wish to give it a miss
Buck Mountain Trailhead
Address: 1750 Pilot Knob Road, Kattskill Bay, NY 12844
Website: Buck Mountain Trailhead
24. Enjoy camping at Lake George Battleground State Campground
Those who enjoy nature will love the thrill of camping out at Lake George Battleground Campground where they can have a picturesque landscape. Lake George Village is only 0.4 km (0.25 mi) away. The campground is available for use by campers and caravanners alike. The site is disabled-friendly and comes with bathroom facilities for that added touch of home comfort. The nearby area is home to boating, swimming, hiking and fishing opportunities too.
Lake George Battleground State Campground
Address: 2224 U.S. 9, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Lake George Battleground State Campground
Price: 22 USD per night (additional 5 USD surcharge for out-of-state residents)
25. Tee off at Queensbury Country Club
Lake George’s beautiful landscape is home to a good deal of outdoor activities, so it will not come as a surprise that it is also the site of a lush green golf course—the Queensbury Country Club. Fans of the sport can try 18-hole rounds, lessons, and even enjoy watching tournaments as they wind their way around this picturesque course. The clubhouse offers a range of food options, from grills and baskets to sandwiches and wraps, enabling you to make a real day of it if you so wish.
Queensbury Country Club
Address: 907 NY-149, Lake George, NY 12845
Website: Queensbury Country Club
Opening hours: 6am - 9pm (daily)
Price: from 15 USD - 47 USD for a round of golf
It's time to hit the lake
From sedate walking and picnicking charms to adrenaline-filled parasailing and jet skiing fun, Lake George is chock full of things to enjoy—whatever your personal preferences. And, with stunning vistas to boot, you’ll never run out of things to see while taking part in your favourite activities.
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