Lake George NY is approximately 200 miles north of New York City, and takes 3.5 to 4 hours to drive by car.
Public transportation options from New York City include Greyhound and Trailways buses from Penn Station to Montreal with a stop in Fort Edward. From there, rent a car or take the 20-minute taxi ride to Lake George.
Where to Stay in Lake George NY
There are numerous hotel options in Lake George. These are the top 3 hotels in Lake George, ranging from most expensive to least expensive:
The Sagamore: this lakefront resort is located in Bolton Landing, NY and features an outdoor hotel, beautiful views, numerous activities, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Courtyard by Marriott Lake George: just across the street from the lake, this hotel offers an indoor pool, restaurants, and a scenic rooftop view.
Holiday Inn Lake George: This affordable and family friendly hotel option features an outdoor pool, free breakfast, and shuttle service.
Water Activities in Lake George NY
The most popular months to visit Lake George NY are the summer months: from June to August.
Therefore, the best activities in the summer months are water activities in and around the lake.
Boat tour: Lake George Steamboat Company offers scenic cruises around the lake throughout the week, with advance ticket sales available online and by phone.
Jet Ski and Waverunner Rental: River Ridin’ rents jet skis and waverunners on Lake Luzerne, which is less than 30 minutes away from Lake George. You must be at least 16 years old with a valid license to drive a vehicle. The cost per hour for a rental is about $200, and half hour rentals are available as well.
Parasailing: For those looking for a more unique experience, try parasailing with Parasail Joe’s Lake George. Parasailing costs $100 per person, and is available for children ages 6 and up.
Year Round Activities in Lake George NY
Ropes course: Adirondack Extreme Adventure Park is an adventurous ropes course that is open through November 1, and contains two ropes courses and a zip line. Tickets can be purchased online.
The Fun Spot: this family friendly outdoor mini golf venue also contains numerous indoor activities such as laser tag, roller skating, and an indoor playground.
Brewery: Bolton Landing Brewing Company is a microbrewery that offers great local beer, delicious food, and live music.
Holiday Events in Lake George NY
Light Up The Village: Beginning November 25, 2023, the Village of Lake George NY is lit by thousands of lights to celebrate the holiday season. This completely free event in Shepard Park will feature horse-drawn carriage rides, refreshments, and illumination of thousands of lights and holiday decorations.
Polar Plunge: Every year on January 1, hundreds of people crowd Shepard Park Beach in their swimming trunks and bikinis for the event. Then, all at once, they rush into the bone-chilling waters for a New Year’s polar bear swim! The cost per person is $10, and all proceeds are donated to charity.
Places to Eat in Lake George NY
These are the Top 3 Restaurants in Lake George NY:
Charlie’s Bar & Kitchen serves American food and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Bistro LeRoux serves French and American food and is open for dinner. The restaurant has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
The Breakfast Spot Club: Omelets, pancakes & other breakfast staples whipped up in a simple, 1940s-style space with a patio.
Is Lake George NY Worth a Visit?
Yes, Lake George NY is worth a visit! Lake George is a town in New York’s vast, protected Adirondack region of mountains and old-growth forest. The town sits on the lake of the same name. The scenery surrounding the lake is very green and beautiful. There is plenty to do there all year round, and lots of restaurants to choose from as well. If you plan a visit in the summer, be sure to book your hotel early because the summer months are very busy!
Happy travels!
What a beautiful place!!
It really is an incredibly scenic and beautiful place!
Oh! I miss the Adirondacks!! This made me homesick!!
Such a beautiful area! You are lucky to have lived there!
I’ve never heard of Lake George before reading this article! Sounds like an underrated place to visit! Thanks for sharing your recommendations for this place!
It’s only a couple of hours away from NYC, and definitely worth a trip if you’re in the area.
we have a “polar” plunge in florida called the Solar Plunge. And its definitely more my level of cold water haha
Ha! I understand your sentiment. A polar plunge in Lake George is not for the faint of heart.
Perfect timing… planning a fall 2024 visit to lake George… adding your restaurants recs to my itinerary
Glad to help. Have a great trip!