We still have a few more weeks of summer! Are you looking for a little getaway close to home? Less than three hours away, you could be enjoying the beauty of the Adirondacks in Lake George. I will highlight just a few of the many things to do and see in Lake George and the surrounding area. However, my favorite by far is to relax by the shore surrounded by the picturesque lake and mountain peaks.
Lake George is nestled in Adirondack region of NY, surrounded by mountains and old-growth forest. In 1791, Thomas Jefferson stated, “"Lake George is without comparison, the most beautiful water I ever saw; formed by a contour of mountains into a basin... finely interspersed with islands, its water limpid as crystal, and the mountain sides covered with rich groves... down to the water-edge: here and there precipices of rock to checker the scene and save it from monotony."
Many things have changed since then but the area is rich in history. The Fort William Henry Museum is a restored British fort, built in 1755. Worth the short drive away is Fort Ticonderoga, a large 18th-century star fort. Both have guided and self-guided tours, activities and programs for people of all ages.
You can enjoy the sun and sand at Million Dollar Beach with its picnic areas and a boat launch. Shepard Park has a beach with an amphitheater hosting many entertainments throughout the week including an amazing Thursday night fireworks display.
The Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway offers stunning views of the lake and the Adirondack High Peaks. There are three scenic outlooks with stops along the 5.5-mile route perfect for photo opportunities. The summit is accessible via a shuttle or nature trail. Picnic tables are available. Prospect Mountain is also an excellent place to view Fall Foliage. For more hiking opportunities, head over to Upyonda Farms in nearby Bolton Landing. Experience the public nature programs, natural history exhibits, woodland trails and perennial gardens, including a butterfly garden.
The Lake George Steamboat Company provides a variety of daily cruises on their 3 vessels. My personal favorite is the Minne-Ha-Ha. She is one of the last steam paddlewheelers in America. You’ll be treated to a view of the lake and some of the lakeside residences and hotels while listening to a bit of the history of the lake. The Minne Ha Ha has an authentic steam calliope that delights those nearby to a “concert” in between each cruise. This year, among the selections was a Star Wars medley!
Looking for something to do on a rainy day? Get creative and take a trip to Wax ‘N’ Wix to design your own candle. House of Frankenstein Wax Museum is not for the faint of heart. Stop by the Adirondack Winery for a wine tasting.
Lake George has a variety of logging options including chain hotels, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, fancy resorts and quaint cabins. During the summer, we prefer to stay at Scotty’s Lakeside Resort which has a lake front beach, pool, boating and dock rentals, beach bar & café, and playground. With the help of sites like Yelp and Trip Advisor, you can get check out the reviews of other lodging in the area.
For more information about Lake George visit, LakeGeorge.com or VisitLakeGeorge.com.