With its pristine water, wooded shoreline and more than 300 islands, this New York destination earns its nickname, the “Queen of American Lakes.”
Lake George is tucked into the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York. It pairs natural beauty with a resort-style atmosphere, earning its nickname, the “Queen of American Lakes.”
The region is best explored by car along the lakefront U.S. Route 9. Getting around the village of Lake George is easy with the comprehensive trolley system.
Hotels and bed-and-breakfasts abound throughout the area. Camping is also a popular activity; find tent and RV sites at Lake George Battleground, Hearthstone Point and Thornwood.
Cool off during the summer at Six Flags Great Escape, an amusement and water park. If you’re looking for a more rustic adventure, whitewater raft down the Hudson River Gorge.
Relax for the afternoon at Million Dollar Beach or enjoy live entertainment at Shepard’s Park Beach. Savor lunch with a view aboard one of Lake George’s authentic steamboats and tour the lake in style. Don’t miss the Thursday Firework Cruises during the summer. If you want to be your own captain, rent a canoe or sailboat. You can also see Lake George from above when you take one of the region’s popular hot air balloon rides.
Set aside a rainy day for an afternoon full of scares, courtesy of the House of Frankenstein Wax Museum. Explore the village’s quaint shops and surrounding outlet malls. Satisfy your palate at one of Lake George’s many restaurants or go wine tasting at the vineyards scattered throughout the region.
Outdoor activities abound all year long, with the 32-mile (51-kilometer) long lake serving as a focal point. Go tubing, swimming and sailing in summer, canoe or kayak in autumn, and ice skate or cross-country ski in winter. Prolong the snowy fun and enjoy fresh powder at nearby Gore Mountain or West Mountain. Hiking trails surround the village; one of the most popular hikes is the climb up Buck Mountain to enjoy panoramic views of the region.
Visitors can fly into Albany International Airport, which is located 70 miles (114 kilometers) from Lake George. The village is easily accessible via Interstate 87.