If you’re looking for a list of fun things to do in Lake George, NY – keep reading!
If you’re on the lookout for things to do in Lake George, NY, keep reading!
Lake George attracts innumerable tourists each year with its major tourist center, beautiful lake, hiking trails and unique attractions. It should be no surprise that there are plenty of things to do in Lake George.
If you’re looking for a mellow escape from city life, this area is a wonderful, family-friendly option that’s just four hours north of New York City. And with so many things to do in Lake George, it’s a perfect weekend getaway too.
There are so many great things to do in Lake George, and it’s a gorgeous place to explore especially in the spring and summer.
Lake George, NY, is a fantastic choice for ticking everyone’s travel boxes!
Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family looking for a week of outdoor fun, there are things to do in Lake George for everyone.
In fact there are lots of things to do in Lake George for everyone in the family. It’s no wonder it’s such a popular choice.
If like us, you can be a bit overwhelmed when you’re starting to plan a trip, I’ve created a concise list of some of the top things to do in Lake George to kick-start your itinerary!
So, let’s get into our list of things to do in Lake George!
Things to do in Lake George, NY…
A day on the lake (Lake George of course!)
Now, we couldn’t do a list of things to do in Lake George, USA, without mentioning the iconic Lake George itself.
Touted as one of the most beautiful lakes in the USA, it’s a wonderful place to spend the afternoon, and obviously, as well as all the other things to do in Lake George, there’s plenty to do on the lake too.
Why not try out a boat trip on the famous Lake George and take in the beauty of nature as you speed around?
With numerous restaurants littered along the waterfront, it’s the perfect place to take the edge off. Of course, an amazing day out on the lake could be filled with all sorts of things:
- Sailing on Lake George, NY
- Paddle boarding on Lake George, NY
- Swimming
- Kayaking on Lake George
- Fishing in Lake George
- Water sports on Lake George
- So many other things to do on Lake George!
That’s so many things to do in Lake George alone!
But there’s lots more suggestions to come! As far as things to do in Lake George NY itself – as you can see – there is plenty on offer for all kinds of visitors, hobbies and interests.
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Buck Mountain Hiking Trail in Lake George
Next up on my list of things to do in Lake George, it’s the Buck Mountain hiking trail. If you’re looking for the best views of Lake George, then my suggestion of things to do in Lake George NY is going to be a winner for you.
The village’s hiking trail up Buck Mountain is a fantastic place to find them. Surrounded by lush greenery, this hiking trail is a perfect way to clear your lungs with fresh mountain air and one of the top things to do in Lake George.
The hike has different sections, and its recommended to stay well fuelled and hydrated throughout. Make sure you stick to the yellow markers as these are designed to keep you on track!
The view from the summit is worth the huffing and puffing though, as it provides one of the best views in all of Lake George. This is definitely one of the top things to do in Lake George, NY, for nature-lovers.
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Prospect Mountain
Next on my list of things to do in Lake George, it’s Prospect Mountain!
Prospect Mountain is another fantastic one of Lake George activities and it’s a great way to see the village’s natural offerings.
With a 2,030-foot summit, the view of Lake George’s surroundings from up here is breathtaking and one of the Lake George activities you won’t want to miss!
At the summit, you’re free to walk the mountain trails or head up to the peak on a shuttle bus. If you’re a bit more fitness-inclined, you can head up Prospect Mountain on a hike.
It isn’t deemed too bad a climb and at 4 miles it should be manageable. It’s a great choice for things to do in Lake George, NY.
However, it’s probably best not to bring younger children as it might prove a bit too exhausting for them! This is a brilliant option for things to do in Lake George, NY, for those who love hiking!
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Fort William Henry Museum & Restoration
The Fort William Henry Museum is next on my list of things to do in Lake George NY. Whilst Lake George is mostly marketed on its activities and fun, the area has a great degree of history as well!
Fort William Henry is in the centre of the village and was a pivotal spot during the French and Indian War. Here you can look at the museum exhibits whilst witnessing live firing demonstrations of old-fashioned muskets and cannons. It’s a great choice for things to do in Lake George, especially amongst history-buffs.
Kids absolutely love being able to ‘join’ the king’s army for the day (so it’s a great option for things to do in Lake George for them!), whilst adults tend to be enamoured by this place’s rich history.
A major pro to this is that your kids get a uniform, musket and even a participation certificate that you can take away to cherish.
If you love your military history, you’ve got to give this place a visit as it’s one of a kind. This is one of the best things to do in Lake George, NY, especially for families and kids!
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House of Frankenstein Wax Museum
One of the stranger things to do in Lake George, NY, the House of Frankenstein Wax Museum is a spooky yet interesting place to visit as the museum is home to scary wax figures and animatronics.
To get an idea, some of the exhibits are as follows: Ant Torture, Strange Planet and Hatchet Man. It’s certainly one of the weirdest Lake George activities, but it’s certainly one of the most unique things to do in Lake George too!
Take from these names what you will, but it’s certainly a unique tourist offering in Lake George and should be seen to be believed!
It only takes about half an hour to walk through the attraction, so it’s easy to slot into your day if you’ve got a packed itinerary. We think you’ll love this choice for things to do in Lake George, NY.
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Lake George’s Steamboats
Next on my list of things to do in Lake George, it’s the steamboats. The Lake George Steamboat Company was established back in 1817, and today is THE place to go for a cruise across Lake George, it’s a really fun thing to do in Lake George, so don’t miss it.
Owning three ships that run daily, Lake George Steamboat’s little chuggers are a great way to see the lakefront, and one of the top things to do in Lake George, NY.
The Minnie-Ha-Ha is a rare example of a steam paddle wheeler, and the Mohican ship has been around for 108 years. 108! If you’re looking for a regular cruise across the lakefront, they tend to last around an hour.
However, if you’re celebrating a special occasion, you can book a longer, special cruise that runs for much longer. One of my favourite Lake George activities – and a perfect things to do in Lake George for all ages too!
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Go scuba diving in Lake George
OK, so maybe scuba diving wasn’t the first thing you’d think of when thinking of things to do in Lake George NY…. But you can learn scuba diving in Lake George, and it’s so much fun!
This is one of the coolest things to do in Lake George, NY – and if you’re into adventure, and fancy doing something a little different – this could be for you!
You’ll get to explore the underwater world of Lake George, which includes wrecks, reefs and islands!
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Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park
Next on my list of things to do in Lake George, NY, it’s Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park. This is a must-do for those wishing to see all that Lake George has to offer.
The massive stone bridge arch is the largest marble cave entrance in the east and was interestingly named Ponte de Dios (Bridge of God) when it was first discovered.
Formed rapidly during the last ice-age, this structure is a cool way to witness how nature can shape the landscape. It’s the natural interest points that make this such a great choice for things to do in Lake George.
Make sure you bring your camera along to this one, as the self-guided tour offers plenty of photo opportunities. If you don’t fancy taking yourself round this attraction and don’t mind getting gritty, there are guided adventure tours for visitors willing to crawl through the caves.
With a cracking souvenir shop, kid-friendly activities and plenty of information about the various rocks that you’ll encounter, a visit to Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park is super educational and lots of fun!
Definitely one of my favourite things to do in Lake George, NY!
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Adirondack Extreme Adventure
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, then this next idea of fun things to do in Lake George NY is going to be your idea of fun! Adirondack Extreme Adventure is an excellent place to come to get the heart pumping.
With more than 1.5 miles of high-flying courses encompassing zip lines, hanging nets and Tarzan swings, you can truly feel like the king of the jungle as you whip through these various obstacles. This is a fantastic choice for Lake George activities.
With courses that cover all abilities, you’re bound to bring out your inner wild child at this place. Make sure you reserve a spot though, as this place isn’t open year-round and tends to be extremely popular.
Definitely, a must do, and a one of the top things to do in Lake George, NY.
Million Dollar Beach
The suggestion on my list of things to do in Lake George, is Million Dollar Beach! If you love the sand and the sea, Million Dollar Beach is one of the best things to do in Lake George.
Though you need to pay for parking (it’s $10 per car so won’t break the bank), admission to the beach itself is free! If you’re looking to enjoy Lake George without emptying your pockets, you can bask in the sunshine whilst taking in the views.
There’s even a volleyball court here, so it’s great for both people and sport watching! This is a very popular place during the summer, and I recommend bringing your pooch along if you have one.
Lake George’s Dog Beach is nearby and is a great place for four-legged pals… making it a great option for fun things to do in Lake George.
If you like, you can even take a kayak out on the water and explore the Lake George’s more quiet and secluded islands. Definitely one of the best things to do Lake George – and one of my favourites too!
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Shelving Rock Falls in Lake Geoge NY
Next on my list of things to do in Lake George, it’s Shelving Rock Waterfall! Shelving Rock Falls is a trail in Lake George that runs down the Shelving Rock Mountain. With 50-foot waterfalls, this waterfall cascades down towards Lake George.
If you’re new to the hiking game, make sure you’re careful with this one. The paths tend to be a bit steep and rocks can be surprisingly unstable in certain weather conditions.
However, with adequate caution whilst climbing you’ll be fine! It’s a great Lake George activity, but make sure you research it properly. Another great pick for things to do in Lake George.
LARAC June Arts Festival
Next on my list of things to do in Lake George NY, it’s the LARAC Arts Festival. This arts festival happens in June, so if you’re visiting in June it’s an absolute must-see.
Basically, this amazing arts festival is an arts and crafts festival featuring loads of different artists and sellers, with loads of unique and interesting items.
It’s something all members of the family would enjoy, and it’s a chance to get creative too! This is one of the most creative activities in Lake George – so if you’re there in June make sure to check this out.
This is an option for things to do in Lake George you won’t want to miss out on.
Horseback Riding in Lake George, NY
Horseback Riding is a another really popular option for things to do in Lake George. There’s something for all experience levels in Lake George, from beginner trips, to expert outings for more experienced riders.
There are lots of different ranches to choose from too – and choice is always a great thing!
Two of the main ranches are Circle B Ranch and Bennett’s Horseback Riding. There’s no better way to see Lake George than from horseback, it’s such a great way to see the area!
This is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable activities in Lake George.
Adirondack Adventures Whitewater Rafting
Last on my list of things to do in Lake George NY, it’s Adirondack Adventures Whitewater Rafting.
If you’ve never been white water rafting before – it’s one hell of an adventure! It’s exciting, thrilling and brilliantly fun too! You’ll be guided through river rapids in a team of others (headed up by a professional of course!).
You’ll definitely get thrown around a bit, and you’ll certainly get a bit wet – but it’s a lot of fun and something you’ll remember for years to come, which makes it a classic choice for things to do in Lake George NY.
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Go shopping in Lake George
One of the most lovely things to do in Lake George NY, is just to stroll around the local delis and shops – it’s such a pretty little town, so make sure you have enough time to explore it! It’s a perfect way to spend the afternoon, after grabbing lunch somewhere local too!
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Hopefully this list of things to do in Lake George has given you loads of ideas and inspiration for your trip!
Hopefully all these ideas for things to do in Lake George have given you lots of ideas! Lake George continues to be a gem in the American tourist trade, and it’s easy to see why. With so many Lake George activities on offer, it’s the perfect choice to expand your horizons and escape from city life.
What are you waiting for? Now you know all the best things to do in Lake George, it’s time to book!
