Of course in the summer there is always fun to be had when you are out by the water. Lake George, like many vacation spots is no different; whether you are interested in a relaxing vacation or an adventure filled getaway, Lake George is worth looking into. However, it is by no means exotic; it is an area that thrives on tourism, so if you are looking for a place that offers an out of the ordinary twist on a vacation this may not be the place for you.
The Great Escape
This amusement park is part of the Six Flags family. It has many different rides including the Boomerang, a roller coaster that goes forwards and then backwards on its track, the Desperado Plunge, a fun water ride, and the Comet, one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the United States. The Great Escape also contains a water park open for most of the day. There is also a hotel with an indoor water park right across the street.
Rafting and Tubing
From an easy stroll down stream to the more adventurous whitewater rafting, Lake George and surrounding areas has plenty to offer. To name a few:
Adirondack Adventures Whitewater Rafting, ☎ (877) 963-RAFT. North River �
Hudson River Rafting Company, ☎ (800) 888-7238. North Creek �
Wild Water’s Outdoor Center, 1123 Rte 28 Warrensburg NY 12885 (Exit 23 off I-87. Drive thru Warrensburg on Rte 9. Turn left onto Rte 28 and 5 miles up on left just after the bridge.), ☎ (800) 867-2335, . 8-6. Fun rafting and tubing tr5ip for the whole family! We offer rafting trips on the Hudson and Sacandaga rivers. All inclusive trip with equipment, meals and fun experienced guides. Family own and operated since 1984. $19-$90. �
Boating
Lake George wouldn’t be a lake without plenty of boat activities available. Some fun things to try include:
Lake George Steamboat Company, ☎ (800) 553-BOAT. Lake George, NY Considered by some locals to be Lake George’s “claim to fame” is the authentic Steamboat Company, always a tourist attraction (so be ready for a crowd). There is a fleet of 3 boats, each one different from the other offering special highlighted amenities to guests like full or partial tours or lunch specials. All 3 boats have food, restrooms and a gift shop. �
Boat Owners:There are a few docks and ramps, but be sure to plan ahead for this. Not all ramps have free access and there is not always space for docking. There are beautiful Islands out on the lake to visit; Diamond Island being the most popular. Many people enjoy snorkeling and searching for quartz crystals in the water surrounding the island.
Parasailing
There are some places to do this right on the boardwalk as your walking by, it’s really convenient and definitely a fun must do for those who aren’t afraid of heights.
Kayaking
Lake George Kayak Co., ☎ (518) 644-9366. Bolton Landing; This is a great way to get out on your own and check out the lake. Just be sure that you can handle all the paddling, and watch out which way the wind is blowing because it can take a lot longer to get back to shore if the wind is against you! �
Charter Boats Rod Bender Charters, ☎ (888) 372-4909. Diamond Point Going out on a charter boat is great for people who want a boating day out on the water, who don’t have a boat of their own. Fishing is always fun; most places help you from start to finish, so anyone who isn’t skilled can still take part and there are plenty of places to choose from. �
Golf
Gooney Golf, Corner of Rte 9N & Rte 9 Lake George, NY 12845, ☎ (518)668-2589. This is a typical old fashion mini golf, with the classic windmill type obstacles; very affordable prices. �
Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf, 2115 State Route 9 North Lake George NY 12845, ☎ 518-668-0493. This choice is the more expensive of the two mini golf options. It was recently built and has nice greens and newer obstacles. �
Hot Air Balloon Rides
There are a few companies to choose from if you are interested. The views from above are amazing and not to be missed!
Shopping
A multitude of shops are all along the “main drag”, they are smaller and tourist oriented; these are great for souvenirs and within walking distance of hotels on the water. Also there is a shopping complex, if you are looking for department and outlet stores. It is located south of the village on Rt 9.
Horses
In Lake George and surrounding areas there are a few options for those who are interested in horses. Horseback riding is always popular, either near the water or off the beaten path on a trail, for different skill levels. Also horse drawn carriage rides through town, for getting around or just a simple scenic tour. The average cost of these rides is $8 per person, depending on how far you are going of course.
Hiking
There are some trails offered as well as guided hikes usually up or around Prospect Mountain.
Swimming/ Waterside
Million Dollar Beach is ironically a FREE beach. Good for sunbathing or swimming and other lake activities. There is also a sand bar that reaches out into the lake that you can walk along.
The Most Frequently Asked Travel Questions about Lake George
Where To Stay & Best Hotels in Lake George - updated May 2024
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Lake George Travel Guide from Wikitravel. Many thanks to all Wikitravel contributors. Text is available under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0, images are available under various licenses, see each image for details.
