Jack Tuthill, Author at Surfside On The Lake

Jun 15 2022

Summer Activities: Lake George Boat Cruises

Summers in Lake George are spectacular, with endless ways to get on the water and discover the largest lake in the Adirondacks. Affectionately known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” the 32-mile body of water has long attracted families looking for summer fun. One of our favorite ways to explore Lake George during the summer is on a boat cruise where families can sightsee and learn about the area’s fascinating history. Lake George boat cruises can also cater to families with little ones with fun pirate-themed trips and summer fireworks. Stay with us at Surfside on the Lake and plan your lake-cation today!

Lake George Steamboat Company

The Lake George Steamboat Company has a long and storied history in New York, founded in 1817. Today they continue to use three ships for sightseeing and fun lake cruises. The Mohican is the oldest continuously operated tour boat in America, which began in 1908. The Mohican offers family-oriented dinner cruises along with trips into Paradise Bay and the Islands of the Narrows.

The second cruise ship is the Lac du Saint Sacrement, offering fantastic sightseeing and dinner cruises. Each trip will include live entertainment, captain narrations, and a snack and cocktail bar. Finally, Minne-Ha-Ha offers cruises on one of the last steam paddle ships in America. The cruise options are excellent for families with short one-hour trips and a pirate cruise on the weekends. You can find all the cruises available with Lake George Steamboat Company here.

Shoreline Cruises

Shoreline Cruises is another popular option for Lake George boat cruises. Their most popular trip is the Historic Sightseeing Cruise, where guests will embark on a one-hour trip through the past. Learn about historical events like the Revolutionary War and the influential people that settled on Millionaire’s Row.

Another favorite option for summer in Lake George is the Fireworks Dinner Cruise. You will board the Adirondac and head out into the water to view a spectacular fireworks display. They also have a Family Firework Cruise aboard the Horicon, which is only a short one-hour trip. Discover all the Shoreline Cruises available on Lake George here.

Tiki Tours

Tiki Tours offers a unique boating experience on Lake George! Tike Tours offers lake trips on a thatch-covered tiki boat that can hold up to twelve passengers. This is a fun option for families and friends looking for a unique water experience in Lake George.

Lakefront Hotels in Lake George, NY

Set sail this summer and spend an afternoon exploring the Adirondacks with Lake George boat cruises. Stay directly on Lake George when you choose Surfside on the Lake to host your getaway. Continue to explore the water on your own with our beach recreation rentals like kayaks and paddle boards. Browse our rooms and suites and start planning your summer escape to Lake George today!

May 06 2022

Summer Vacation at Our Lake George Family Resort

Summer is on the horizon, and now is the best time to start planning your family getaway in Lake George. And if you are searching for Lake George family resorts, look no further than Surfside on the Lake. Our Adirondack hotel offers many amenities for families, from our children’s playground to our private beach where you can splash in the water all summer long. We also provide a guest savings program where your family can save money on various activities and attractions in town. We can’t wait to welcome you to our family resort this summer, from our Surfside family to yours!

Lake George Family Resorts: Surfside on the Lake

Surfside on the Lake is an excellent destination for families visiting Lake George. We have everything your family needs this summer with our convenient amenities, on-site restaurant, and spacious hotel rooms.

We have a private 230-foot sandy beach where you can rent one of our paddle boats, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards.
Utilize our BBQ grills for summer grill-outs at the beach
Cool off from the summer heat in our outdoor pool
The kiddos can play all day long at our on-site playground
We have a rooftop bar and restaurant where you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake George with your favorite cocktail. We even have kiddy cocktails and fruit smoothies for our younger guests!
Reserve a pontoon with Lake George Boat Rentals for even more fun on the water together!

Discounts on Lake George Family Activities

Our Lake George family resort offers a Guest Savings Program so your family can easily save money on activities during your vacation.

We offer $5 off per person at Tubby Tubes, where you can join lazy river tubing on the Hudson River.
Sign up for a treetop adventure at Adirondack Extreme and save $3 per person. The courses include rock walls, walking bridges, and ziplines for all ages.
Parasailing is a fantastic family activity for your vacation. Soar high above the lake with Parasail Joe’s and save $10 on each ride.
The Fun Spot offers unlimited fun in Lake George for families. Their attractions include an arcade, go-carts, mini-golf, arcade games, virtual reality, and roller skating. Surfside guests can buy one admission at full price, and you will receive the second ticket at half price!
Learn something new together at the World Awareness Children’s Museum. Children can learn about cultures worldwide through their collection of hands-on exhibits. Our guests will receive $1 on their admission price.

The Perfect Family Vacation in Lake George

Surfside on the Lake offers the perfect escape for families vacationing in the Adirondacks this summer. Our Lake George family resort has 154 hotel rooms to fit all budgets and needs. Small families can choose our North Wing Room with two queen beds, and we recommend our suites for larger families. Many of our suites come with three queen beds and private patios or balconies. We can’t wait to welcome you to our family resort this summer!

Apr 15 2022

Try Adirondack Horseback Riding near Lake George

Now that spring has sprung in the Lake George Area, now is the perfect time to get outside and try something new! The snow on the trails is melting, opening the way for endless outdoor adventures in the Adirondacks. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the mountains is by horseback riding in Lake George. Several stables in the area offer guided trail rides through the most scenic regions of Upstate NY. Surfside on the Lake provides a fantastic lodging option right on the shores of the Queen of American Lakes. It’s time to saddle up in Lake George and immerse yourself in the Adirondacks with a horseback riding adventure!

Saddle Up Stables

Saddle Up Stables has been guiding family-friendly horseback rides in Lake George for over 75 years! They offer one-hour rides that wind through the mountains and under the canopy of ancient forests. The trail guides will choose the right horse based on your size and ability to ensure everyone has a fun and successful ride. The minimum age for horseback riding is seven, but kids of all ages are welcome to sign up for Pony Rides.

Trail rides begin in late June and end in mid-September.

Circle B Ranch

Circle B Ranch is a short drive from Lake George in nearby Chestertown. They have three scenic trail ride options through the Adirondack Mountains. The Beaver Dam Trail is one hour, while the Circle Mountain & Valley Trail is a two-hour ride. They also have a unique Picnic Lunch Ride for groups of six or more who want a delicious lunch included with their ride. To reserve your trail ride, call 518-494-4888.

Horseback riding begins in mid-May through the fall.

Mountain View Rocking B Ranch

Experience horseback riding near Lake George with Mountain View Rocking B Ranch. The one-hour trail ride will take you past mountain views, streams, and blooming wildflowers. Or start your morning on the trails with the Good Mornin’ Breakfast Ride Package. The hearty breakfast includes bacon, eggs, biscuits, fruit, juice, and coffee. And if you are not a morning person, you can signup for the three-hour Sunset Dinner Package Ride!

Open from May- to mid-October.

Horseback Riding in Beautiful Lake George

Horseback riding near Lake George offers a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience during your getaway. Gather the family, saddle up, and experience the fresh mountain air on the Adirondack trails. At Surfside on the Lake, we are preparing our seasonal activities and rooftop restaurant. Our Cabana Bar and Restaurant will re-open on Memorial Day, and our pool and on-site watercrafts are available in June. Start planning your Adirondack vacation in beautiful Lake George today!

Mar 04 2022

Unique Attractions: Visit the Caves in Upstate NY

Upstate New York is beautiful year-round, but the transition from winter to spring is wonderful. The rugged forests bloom with wildflowers, trout fishing is at its best, and the waterfalls cascade from the snowmelt. But, underground, there is another side of the Adirondacks to explore. There are several caves and caverns that re-open during the spring and summer for tours and exploration. The caves in Upstate NY feature waterfalls, underground boat tours, and mineral formations from millions of years ago. Stay with us at Surfside on the Lake in Lake George and plan a day trip to the nearby caves.

Natural Stone Bridge & Caves

Approximately 30 minutes from Lake George, you will find the largest marble cave entrance in the eastern U.S. Starting in May; you can hike the self-guided cave trail to see several surface caves and grottos. An Adventure Tour is available that allows you to go spelunking through four different caves. See underground waterfalls, crawl through passageways, and float through Garnet Cave.

Cooper’s Cave

This cave in Upstate, NY, is the closest to Lake George, located under the Cooper’s Cave Bridge. This cave is most known for its connection to the famous James Fenimore Cooper’s novel The Last of the Mohicans. Although this isn’t a cave for exploring, it’s a great pit stop on the way to Howe Caverns. Park by the overlook and witness views of the cave, waterfall, and the Hudson River.

Howe Caverns

Make a day trip from Lake George to one of the most visited caves in New York. Howe Caverns has slowly been carved out for over 6 million years, and today you can choose from several tours to witness this spectacle of nature. The traditional tour will take you past limestone, stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone through the main cavern. You will also take a boat ride on the underground riverbed. For the ultimate spelunking experience, choose one of the adventure tours that will take you to sections of the cavern not seen on the traditional tour.

Secret Caverns

When you visit Howe Caverns, head down the road to see Secret Caverns. When you arrive, you will be greeted by the hand painted entrance and signs that introduce you to what’s below the surface. Embark on a guided tour past stalagmites, stalactites, and flowstones. Unlike many other caves, you are allowed to touch the formations here! The real highlight of the tour is the 100-foot underground waterfall.

Hotels on the Lake in Upstate NY

Plan a trip to beautiful Lake George and spend a day exploring the caves in Upstate NY. Tour some of the best show caves in the state and then return to Surfside on the Lake. Our hotel is nestled in the Adirondacks on the shores of Lake George. Enjoy views of the lake from your room and relax before another day of adventures tomorrow!

Feb 14 2022

Relax and Unwind with a Lake George Spa Getaway

Sometimes we all need a break from the everyday, and wellness retreats have become a popular way to disconnect and relax during vacation. These retreats are all about slowing down and focusing on your health and overall wellbeing. Lake George is an excellent destination for a wellness retreat with several day spas offering massages, facials, and body treatments. Choose Surfside on the Lake for your getaway and relax in one of our spacious suites after your Lake George spa day. Book a treatment at one of the local spas today; you deserve it!

Lake George Massage and Day Spa

This Lake George spa offers dozens of relaxing treatments for your wellness retreat. They have standard massages like Swedish and deep tissue and specialized massages targeting specific areas. You can also choose a body polish or scrub to keep your skin hydrated and supple. You are sure to leave this day spa feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on anything!

Body Relief & Spa

Body Relief & Spa is located just down the road from Lake George in Queensbury. They focus on massages and skin care with various unique additions to the treatments. With a reiki massage, you can balance your physical, emotional, and mental health. After your massage, keep the relaxation going with a facial, enzyme peel, or body wrap. For an additional fee, you can also access the infrared sauna and eucalyptus steam room here.

Spa Studio Adirondacks

We recommend Spa Studio Adirondacks for couples treatments if you are visiting Lake George on a romantic getaway. Their services include massages, skin care, aromatherapy, and spa packages for two. Choose the signature couples massage or the sampler package if you are interested in more than one treatment. This package includes a Swedish massage and facial for the ultimate day at the spa!

Rejuvenation Spa Services

Rejuvenation Spa Services is located in Glens Falls, ten miles from our hotel. The experienced spa therapists deliver customized treatments that are as unique as you. They offer therapeutic massages such as deep tissue, Swedish, and hot stone in a soothing environment. The esthetician can also assess your skin’s needs for custom facials that can help treat acne or reduce the signs of aging. Visit this family-owned spa and feel your stress melt away after relaxing treatments.

A Lake George Spa Retreat Awaits!

The Lake George spas have something for everyone to feel rejuvenated and relaxed during vacation. After a day at the spa, you can explore things to do in the area, whether it’s hiking in the mountains or playing in the snow. Surfside on the Lake is centrally located to several restaurants and shops, so you can easily experience everything Lake George has to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Your wellness retreat in the Adirondacks awaits!

Jan 15 2022

A Family Winter Vacation in Upstate New York

Even though summer is the most popular time to vacation in Lake George, there is something special about our mountain town come winter. The snow falls on the Adirondacks, ushering in exhilarating skiing and the annual winter carnival full of fun for the family. Lake George is an excellent destination for a family winter vacation with outdoor and indoor activities everyone will love. Stay close to the action with Surfside on the Lake, one of the few hotels in Lake George village. Embark on a memorable winter vacation with these family-friendly activities.

Outdoor Activities for a Family Winter Vacation

It’s time to get outside and embrace winter in Lake George with the family. If your family is already familiar with skiing, head to Gore Mountain and shred the slopes of New York’s biggest mountain. For beginners, we recommend driving to West Mountain for skiable terrain suitable for all abilities. They also offer snow tubing for an easy and exciting day in the snow! For an affordable day outside, head to the Gurney Lane Recreation Area for free ice skating, sledding, and cross-country skiing.

The Lake George Winter Carnival is one of our favorite family-friendly festivals throughout the year. Every February, we celebrate winter all month-long with activities and events. Children’s arts and crafts are held daily at Shepard Park, as well as pony rides and s’mores in the park. This winter also brings ice castles where the kiddos can explore crawl tunnels, ice slides, and ice mazes.

Kid-Friendly Indoor Activities

When the weather gets too chilly to stay outside, head inside for family fun at Lake George Lanes & Games. Spend an afternoon bowling together, and then let the adventure continue with laser tag, arcade games, and an indoor playground.

Make the short drive to Queensbury for various indoor attractions for your family winter vacation. Splash into fun at the Six Flags Indoor Water Park with water slides, raft rides, and boogie surfing. The Sky Zone Trampoline Park is an excellent place for young and older kids to enjoy. Older kids and adults can challenge each other to ultimate dodgeball or race the Ninja warrior course. Children 6 and under can play in the Little Leapers area created for parents and little ones to enjoy together.

Family Owned Hotel in Lake George

Visit us in Lake George for a fun and action-packed family winter vacation- when you stay at our family-owned and operated hotel, Surfside on the Lake, children 12 and under stay for free!

Choose between our spacious rooms that can accommodate three to seven people, depending on the size of your family. Many of our suites offer kitchenettes for your convenience with amenities like electric cooktops and refrigerators. Join us in the Adirondacks and discover your new favorite family winter vacation destination.

Dec 03 2021

The Top 7 Lake George Winter Activities

When cold temperatures freeze the lakes and snow falls on the Adirondacks, there’s no denying that Lake George winter has arrived. Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland full of unique adventures and attractions at every turn. Although many restaurants and hotels close their doors for the season, Surfside on the Lake remains open year-round for winter travelers. From festive carnivals to scenic snowshoeing trails, an unforgettable winter vacation in the Adirondacks awaits you in Lake George.

Discover Lake George During Winter

Lake George maybe a summer destination, but our Adirondack town is just as beautiful and exciting during the winter. Whether you want a fast-paced adventure or a chance to reconnect with nature, there is something for everyone with these Lake George winter activities:

Take in the beauty of the Adirondacks on the snowshoeing trails at Lake George Recreation Center or try cross country skiing at Cole’s Woods.
We are located a short distance away from two downhill ski resorts in New York. If you are an experienced skier, we recommend Gore Mountain, but if you are a beginner looking for family-friendly hills, then visit West Mountain.
Plan your winter getaway in February and join us for the annual Lake George Winter Carnival celebration.
Go ice skating on the frozen surface of Lake George or at the public rink at Gurney Lane Recreation Area. If you want to glide on the ice away from the cold, check out the indoor rink at Glen Falls Recreation Center.
The ice castles are a must-see for anyone visiting the area between January and March. When the ice castles are sculpted, you will be able to crawl through tunnels and sit upon icy thrones.
Go ice fishing on “The Queen of American Lakes” just steps from Surfside on the Lake. Lake George is an excellent place to fish for trophy lake trout and northern pike.
After a day of exploring Lake George, head to The Log Jam Restaurant for a cozy dinner next to a roaring fireplace.

A Winter Getaway in the Adirondacks

Stay with us at Surfside on the Lake and experience Lake George winter nestled in the foothills of the Adirondacks. We are directly on the lake, so you can easily embark on a day of ice fishing or skating just a short walk from the property. Even though many of our amenities are closed for the season, we offer a prime location for shopping, attractions, and dining in town. Stay in one of our affordable resort rooms and wake up to gorgeous lake views and snowy landscapes. We also have suites equipped with kitchenettes, private balconies, refrigerators, and table seating if you are traveling with the family. If you have any questions about the area or our rooms, don’t hesitate to reach out at 518-668-2442.

Nov 15 2021

Where Can I Go Skiing Near Lake George?

The Adirondacks provide an elite destination for adventure no matter what time of year it is. When the snow starts to accumulate, the unique ice bars are set up, and nearby ski resorts reopen the lifts. Skiing near Lake George is one of our favorite ways to get outside and experience the thrill of ski hills or the tranquility of cross-country trails. Celebrate the winter season in Lake George and choose Surfside on the Lake to host your getaway.

Downhill Skiing Near Lake George

There are two epic locations for downhill skiing near Lake George. Zip down some of the best ski hills in the state at Gore Mountain or experience a day of family fun at West Mountain. No matter if this is your first day on the slopes or the 50th, you can find exceptional skiing in the Adirondacks at these locations:

Gore Mountain

Gore Mountain provides the most extensive trail network in New York, with 14 lifts and 110 trails to explore. There are seven mountain areas open for skiers ranging from easy to expert so that anyone can enjoy a day of skiing. We highly recommend booking your lift tickets in advance so you can guarantee a spot during your winter vacation.

If you want to explore snow-covered nature trails, then try cross-country skiing at the North Creek Ski Bowl and Nordic Center while you’re here.

West Mountain

Skiers of all ages and abilities will love the trails at West Mountain in Queensbury. Take the short 15-minute drive and enjoy skiing all day and night with a four or eight-hour ticket. This ski resort offers 30 trails that are guaranteed to be open all winter with their on-site snowmaking. Whether you are just learning how to ski or are traveling with the family, West Mountain is an excellent place to start.

Cross Country Skiing

Winter in Lake George is also an excellent time to slow down and enjoy the seasonal beauty of nature trails. Cross country skiing near Lake George is scenic, fun, and a relaxing way to see the best views in the area. Check out a few of the best spots for Nordic skiing in the Lake George area below:

The Best Lake George Skiing Vacation

Visit us this winter and discover skiing near Lake George on a New York getaway. Even though many of our amenities are closed for the season, there are still many reasons to choose Surfside on the Lake. We offer a wide variety of rooms to fit all budgets and needs, so you (and your wallet) can feel good staying Surfside. Browse all of our rooms and suites to find the best option for your group, and we’ll see you on the slopes!

Oct 21 2021

Start the Day with Breakfast in Lake George

Breakfast is more than just the most important meal of the day; as journalist John Gunther states, “All happiness depends on a leisurely breakfast.” Whether that breakfast is syrup-drenched pancakes or morning coffee, there’s no doubt that there’s a certain comfort to breakfast foods. And when you are on vacation, you will need a hearty breakfast to kick off a day of activities. Stay with us at Surfside on the Lake and dine at our Club Hamilton Restaurant or find out where else you can get breakfast in Lake George below.

The Club Hamilton Restaurant

At Surfside on the Lake, we have two dining locations open during the summer months. Our Club Hamilton Restaurant is open daily from 8:00 am-11:00 am for a la carte breakfast items. Enjoy a hearty breakfast on-site while overlooking the beauty of Lake George.

Caffe Vero

Stop at Caffe Vero for homemade breakfast items and some of the best coffee in town. They pride themselves on a commitment to freshness and quality. Keep it light with a homemade bagel or baked goods to pair with your morning coffee. Or eat like a local with The Adirondacker sandwich made with egg, cheese, bacon, house-made chipotle aioli, and a homemade kaiser roll.

Prospect Mountain Diner

If you are looking for traditional breakfast food in a classic setting, look no further than Prospect Mountain Diner. The 1950’s charm and style of this diner provide a welcoming atmosphere to locals and visitors alike. You can expect to see breakfast classics like omelets, pancakes, waffles, and breakfast sandwiches on the menu. This diner is an excellent place for a hearty breakfast in Lake George.

Biscotti Brothers Cafe

Whether you are looking for something sweet or savory in the morning, Biscotti Brothers Cafe specializes in all-day breakfast. There are a variety of egg items on the menu, such as omelets, sandwiches, and eggs benedict. If you are feeling something sweet, then order french toast, pancakes, crepes, or Belgian waffles instead. No matter what you get on the menu, make sure to try their delicious homemade biscotti while you’re here.

Start Planning a Lake George Vacation

Start every day of your vacation with a delicious breakfast in Lake George before exploring the Adirondacks. If you are looking for ideas on things to do during your getaway, then check out our travel tips and tidbits. Return to Surfside on the Lake for dinner at our restaurant or simply relax in your room instead. Stay in one of our premier rooms and enjoy Adirondack views from your private balcony. You can find all of our rooms and rates here so you can choose the perfect lodging for your Lake George vacation.

Sep 22 2021

A Complete Guide to Wineries near Lake George

A Lake George vacation has something for everyone ranging from classic roller coaster rides to enthralling history museums. Exploring everything the area offers can be tiresome, so what better way to relax than at a local winery? The wineries near Lake George offer a variety of tasting rooms where you can sample deliciously handcrafted wines.

You can also end the day with a drink at our Cabana Bar when you stay with Surfside on the Lake. Enjoy panoramic views of the Adirondack Mountains as you sip a glass of wine or frozen cocktail. And you can even bring back a bottle of wine to enjoy in your room when you visit these wineries near Lake George:

Adirondack Winery

Location: 285 Canada Street, Lake George, NY

Adirondack Winery is a family-owned business that offers local handcrafted wines to the Lake George area. The tasting room in Lake George offers fruit-infused and traditional red and white wines. Sample the popular lavender-infused rose with flavors of stone fruit and apple made in the Finger Lakes. Or opt for the Baco Noir- a medium-bodied dry red wine and a favorite among locals. Browse all of the available wines at the tasting room in Lake George here, and then head over to Adirondack Winery.

The Saratoga Winery & Tasting Room

Location: 462 Route 29, Saratoga Springs, NY

Visit The Saratoga Winery and sit back, relax, and enjoy handcrafted wines. The tasting room offers over 15 wines with grapes grown in New York State, along with beer and cider. Try classic white, red, or rose to pair with a delicious cheeseboard. Or try the signature Melomel which are sweet wines flavored with honey and fruit. Browse the drink list of The Saratoga Winery here and discover why locals and tourists alike return time and time again.

Ledge Rock Hill Winery & Vineyard

Location: 41 Stewart Dam Road, Corinth, NY

Visiting Ledge Rock Hill Winery is a one-of-a-kind winery near Lake George. The winery looks like a cozy cabin nestled in the woods set amongst the scenic Adirondacks. Inside, you can browse a vast collection of handcrafted wines or sample a variety of wines with a tasting package. All of the wines are made by their passionate team of vintners using premium grapes harvested from the vineyard.

The Best Place to Stay in Lake George

When you stay with Surfside on the Lake, you will be ideally located in Lake George Village near the area’s top attractions. Enjoy all of the amenities at our resort nestled in the beautiful foothills of the Adirondacks. Browse all of our rooms and suites and discover travel tips and tidbits on our blog page. Discover everything Lake George has to offer and stay Surfside.