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Surfside On The Lake

Lake George, NY

Reasons to Plan a New York Family Vacation in Lake George

Family on a hike during a New York family vacation in Lake George

There are many New York family vacation destinations, but there is only one Lake George. Known as the birthplace of the American vacation, Lake George has been welcoming families to our slice of paradise for generations. So, we know a thing or two about family-friendly fun. Plan your trip to Lake George with Surfside on the Lake and spend time together exploring the great outdoors, visiting the region’s top attractions, and dining at our kid-friendly restaurants. Keep reading to discover the top reasons to visit Lake George with your family:

Year-Round Fun for All Ages

Lake George is the perfect family vacation destination, offering fun activities for all ages throughout the seasons. Whether you’re bringing toddlers or teens, there’s something here to delight every member of the family. 

Visit in the summertime and experience a fun-filled getaway full of amusement park rides, miniature golf, playgrounds, tubing, go-karting, and boating. Or plan your trip in the winter and bundle up for snow tubing, ice skating, and Winter Carnival events. No matter when you visit, you can enjoy weather-proof fun indoors!

Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Lake George has a ton of kid-friendly restaurants. Even the pickiest eaters in your group will find something they like. Visit the kid-friendly Moose Tooth Grill and dine in your moose antlers while enjoying delicious food with a glass of homemade root beer. Head to the 1950s-style Prospect Mountain Diner for a classic breakfast featuring favorites like pancakes, waffles, and eggs. Or enjoy the best pizza in town at Giuseppe’s!

Family-Friendly Resort Lodging

The Surfside on the Lake is more than just a place to stay; we also offer several on-site amenities perfect for families:

  • Relax on our private beach and paddle on the water with complimentary kayaks and paddleboards. 
  • Swim in the outdoor heated pool together
  • Take the kids to the playground or play a game of cornhole together
  • Dine at our Rooftop Cabana Bar and Restaurant while soaking in views of Lake George. 

We offer a wide variety of rooms to fit all budgets and needs in our 154-room resort. Our North Wing rooms are the most affordable option for families on a budget, and our deluxe lakefront suites are a great option for families who want a little more luxury during their stay. No matter what you are looking for, we offer some of the best family-friendly hotel accommodations in Lake George!

Discover Adirondack Wildlife in the Lake George Area

beaver swimming in the water, common wildlife in the Adirondacks

The Adirondack region spans over six million acres and is the top destination for outdoor enthusiasts in New York. The region’s rolling mountains, expansive lakes, and wild forests are home to a wide variety of wildlife species like moose, beavers, white-tailed deer, river otters, and birds. While you are hiking, biking, or paddling in the  Lake George Area, you will probably come across some of these species. Stay on the shores of Lake George with Surfside on the Lake and find secluded wildlife-watching spots in the Adirondacks just a short drive away from our hotel!

Common Wildlife in the Lake George Region

  • Mammals: white-tailed deer, raccoons, beavers, mink, muskrats, river otters, foxes, and the occasional moose.
  • Birds: bald eagles, peregrine falcons, great blue heron, gulls, common loon, ducks, common merganser.
  • Reptiles and Amphibians: turtles, snakes, salamanders, frogs, toads, and lizards.  

Where to Spot Wildlife

There are many places to experience wildlife watching in the Lake George Region. If you are looking for a place close to town, we recommend Berry Pond Preserve, accessible from the Lake George Recreation Center. This is a great place to walk nature trails and see wildlife like beavers and birds. 

Learn about the wildlife of the Adirondacks at Up Yonda Farm Environmental Education Center in Bolton Landing. Attend one of their public nature programs, walk nature trails, see exhibits on natural history, and explore the butterfly garden.

Drive a bit further and discover the wild beauty of the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area within the Adirondack Forest Preserve. This natural area stretches across 45,000 acres and is the perfect place to see more than 50 species of mammals and hundreds of bird species.

Tips for Wildlife Watching in the Adirondacks

  • Keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter. Bring binoculars for a closer view!
  • Never feed wildlife.
  • Keep quiet and be patient.
  • Do not disturb wildlife nesting and denning areas.
  • Follow the Leave No Trace principles.

Stay at Our Lakefront Hotel in the Adirondacks

Book your getaway at Surfside on the Lake, nestled in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, and discover wildlife-watching opportunities nearby. Enjoy all of the summer amenities of our Lake George resort, like private beach access, kayaks to explore the water, a children’s playground, and an outdoor heated pool. Grab a drink or meal at our Rooftop Cabana Bar and soak in the lake views. Then, unwind in one of our hotel rooms and enjoy the perfect family lodging for your summer getaway in the Adirondacks!

Discover Art in the Lake George Region

Person looking at art on the wall in Lake George

Get inspired during your Lake George vacation and explore the local arts scene. From traditional art museums to live theatres and music venues, we have something to engage every artist’s interest. Make your stay even more memorable by booking a room at Surfside on the Lake, perfectly located in the heart of Lake George Village. Access even more fun near our hotel, just a short walking distance from several shops, restaurants, and popular attractions. 

Lake George Arts Project

The Lake George Arts Project has been the hub of the local arts community for over 50 years. Every year, they offer eight rotating exhibits at the Old County Courthouse, where you can see contemporary visual arts from regional, national, and emerging artists. In addition to the gallery, they host art events for the community, like Jazz at the Lake and the Summer Concert Series at Shephard Park. 

Lake George Dinner Theatre

Catch a show at the Lake George Dinner Theatre in the summer or fall for a night of delicious food and entertainment. This intimate theatre has been providing live theatre productions for over 55 years. Join the tradition and see what shows are happening during your visit. 

Charles R. Wood Theater

If you want to attend live performances throughout the year, head to Charles R. Wood Theater in Glens Falls. They put on a wide variety of shows for every interest, including music, theater, dance, comedy, lectures, and seminars. 

Hyde Collection

Stroll through several exhibitions of world-class art at The Hyde Collection, which is considered one of the top small art museums in the northeast. The permanent collection features over 4,000 objects, including works from famous artists like Sandro Botticelli and Rembrandt. 

The Sembrich

Head to The Sembrich in Bolton Landing to experience a blend of music, history, and nature in one location. The Sembrich is a historic venue, once the teaching studio of international opera singer Marcelle Sembrich. Every summer, they host a new series of concerts, lectures, and films for the public. 

Book Your Getaway at Our Lake George Hotel

Experience art and culture in Lake George by attending live performances, visiting art museums, and exploring historic sites. Plan your trip with Surfside on the Lake and discover even more ways to experience local culture with community events like craft festivals and live shows. Browse our hotel rooms and find the perfect lodging for your Lake George getaway today!

Explore Scenic Lake George Winter Hikes

View from Lake George winter hiking trails

Winter is one of the most wonderful times of the year to visit the Lake George region. The crowds are sparse, the Adirondack mountains are blanketed in glistening snowfall, and there are plenty of seasonal events and activities to keep you busy. And if you are feeling adventurous, the winter season is a perfect time to hit the trails and see the landscape from a new perspective. Bundle up and set out on one of these scenic Lake George hikes during your stay with Surfside on the Lake:

Prepare for Your Winter Hike

Winter weather in Lake George fluctuates from below-zero temperatures to days above freezing. Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before you hit the trails and prepare accordingly. Pack plenty of warm clothes like moisture-wicking base layers, warm coats, snow pants, waterproof boots, hats, gloves, and wool socks. Many of our trails are uphill, so we highly recommend buying ice cleats to attach to the bottom of your shows. 

Winter Hikes in the Lake George Region

Pilot Knob Preserve

If you are looking for a short winter hike with great views, head to Pilot Knob Preserve in Fort Ann. Ascend the .7-mile Orange Trail and take a break at the gazebo at the top of the trail to be rewarded with expansive views of Lake George. 

Shelving Rock Mountain Summit

Hike up the 1.7-mile Shelving Rock Mountain Summit trail for a relatively easy and rewarding winter hike. The wide trail features a gradual incline and ends with incredible views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains.

Prospect Mountain

Prospect Mountain is one of the more challenging winter hikes due to its steep grade and rocky terrain. Access this three-mile loop from Smith Street in Lake George Village. This trail is a great option if you are looking for a winter workout. 

Amy’s Park

Amy’s Park is a quiet and remote area near Bolton, offering flat and easy trails perfect for winter exploration. 

Book Your Winter Stay in Lake George

Discover even more winter fun in the Lake George region, such as snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, and the annual winter carnival. After a day of winter adventures, warm up in your hotel room with Surfside on the Lake, just minutes away from the Lake George Village. Book with us today and find the perfect lodging for your winter stay!

Grab a Drink at Lake George Ice Bars this Winter

View of ice sculpture at Lake George seasonal bars

Every winter, one of Lake George’s most unique attractions pops up for the season: ice bars. Plan your trip with Surfside on the Lake this January and February, and grab a drink at one of the Lake George ice bars. If you’ve never heard of an ice bar, it’s exactly what it sounds like- a bar made of ice. Bundle up and visit one of these unique venues and enjoy craft cocktails, beautiful ice sculptures, live music, and delicious food:

Lake George Ice Bars

Lake George ice bars change every year. Check out the ice bars available in 2025 on the Lake George Chamber of Commerce website. 

Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge

Visit Sagamore Resort’s Glacier Ice Bar and enjoy incredible views of Lake George from the top of Shelving Rock Terrace. Grab a seat on the faux fur-covered ice chairs and sip on handcrafted cocktails. Then, head to the heated igloos and warm up from the cold before grabbing your next drink!

Funky Ice Fest at Adirondack Pub

There’s no better winter party than Funky Ice Fest at Adirondack Pub & Brewery. Join the celebration and order your favorite Adirondack brew or cocktail from one of the several ice bars. Expect detailed ice sculptures, an ice-art gallery, food specials, and funky music under the disco ball. 

Polar Ice Bar at Fort William Henry

Head to Fort William Henry & Conference Center and grab a drink at the Polar Ice Bar. Sip on specialty cocktails while admiring the stunning ice sculptures and listening to live music. When you get chilly, cozy firepits are waiting to warm you up. 

The Lagoon Ice Bar

Planning a visit during the Lake George Winter Carnival? Be sure to include The Lagoon Ice Bar on your itinerary and grab a drink in the heart of the Village. 

Book Your Lake George Winter Vacation

Book your Surfside on the Lake vacation in January or February and grab a drink at one of the seasonal ice bars in Lake George. We are just a five-minute walk from Lake George Village, offering easy access to the annual Winter Carnival in February. After a day of adventures, unwind in our Lake George hotel rooms and enjoy flat-screen TVs, small refrigerators, coffee makers, microwaves, hair dryers, and soap amenities. Experience everything the Adirondacks have to offer during the wintertime!

Where to Go Snowmobiling in the Lake George Area

People snowmobiling along Lake George winter trails

Plan a winter trip with Surfside on the Lake and embark on an exhilarating snowmobiling adventure from Lake George. Bring your snowmobile to Lake George and explore hundreds of miles of trails throughout Warren County. Or sign up for a guided excursion with C+C Adirondack Snowmobile Tours and hit the trails with a local expert. Explore the Adirondacks from a new perspective this winter and read on to learn more about local snowmobile trails, clubs, and tours. 

Snowmobiling Lake George

Plan your snowmobiling route from Lake George using the interactive Warren County Snowmobile Trail Map from ArcGIS Field Maps. Download the app, search for snowmobiling in Warren County, NY, and find the snowmobile trail map. 

Snowmobiling Clubs in the Lake George Area

Learn about the Warren County snowmobile clubs maintaining the trails in the Lake George Area:

Snowmobiling Tours

Don’t have your own snowmobile? No problem! C+C Adirondack Snowmobile Tours has everything you need for an exciting day on the trails! Sign up for one of their guided snowmobile tours and enjoy an excursion customized to your ability level and desires. Their one-hour backwoods tour is ideal for beginners, taking you on an easy ride through the woods. The two-hour backwoods tour takes you further on the trails, which feature hills, straightaways, and lakes. Please call 518-796-1308 to reserve your snowmobile tour.

Book Your Winter Vacation in Lake George

Bring your snowmobile to Lake George and park in the free parking lot for vehicles with trailers just one mile from our property. After exploring the snowmobiling trails, return to Surfside on Lake to unwind. Warm up in the comfort of your hotel room and enjoy convenient amenities like flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, toasters, coffee makers, microwaves, hairdryers, irons, and ironing boards. Book with us today!

Holiday Shopping at the Lake George Outlets

Two women with shopping bags exploring the Lake George outlets during the holidays

Save big on your holiday shopping list this year in Lake George! Head to the Lake George shopping outlets and discover discounts from over 50 name-brand and designer stores along a stretch of road known as the “Million Dollar Half Mile.” Book your getaway with Surfside on the Lake and shop from four distinct centers in one convenient location. Whether you are looking for the latest fashion trends or a unique toy for the kids, there is a gift for everyone on your list in Lake George!

The Outlets at Lake George

The Outlets at Lake George include The Outlets at Lake George East, The Outlets at Lake George West, and the Adirondack Outlet Mall. Discover over 70 stores selling accessories, apparel, and footwear. 

  • Shop designer brands like Coach, Eddie Bauer, Jockey, LL Bean, Michael Kors, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Vera Bradley. 
  • Find workout clothes and athletic gear at shops like Adidas, Asics, Artie’s Camping, Columbia, Sketchers, and Under Armour. 
  • Check out the locally owned shop Winkle Pickers and purchase kitchenware, beef jerky, hot sauce, spices, and tea from Rachel Ray (who grew up right here in the Lake George Area!)

Factory Outlets of Lake George

Walk across the street to the Factory Outlets of Lake George and discover 50 additional stores at French Mountain Commons and Log Jam Outlet Center. 

  • Shop for the latest fashion trends at Brooks Brothers, Chico’s, Guess, Banana Republic, J. Crew, Jockey, and Tommy Hilfiger. 
  • Find the perfect wine or spirit for the holiday season at the Lake George Wine Outlet. 
  • Head to The Candy Space and fill a rocket ship with freeze-dried candy for a unique and memorable gift. They also offer space-themed gifts like plush, journals, pins, socks, toys, and games.

Lake George Village Hotel Rooms

Guests at Surfside on the Lake receive a free booklet with hundreds of dollars worth of coupons for the Lake George Outlets. Book with us and enjoy additional discounts on your holiday shopping. Book one of our hotel rooms in the Lake George Village and find the perfect basecamp for your seasonal getaway today!

5 Unique Ways to See Lake George Fall Colors

People horseback riding through Lake George fall colors

Get off the beaten path and see Lake George’s fall colors from a new perspective! Check in to the Surfside on the Lake, reserve one of our paddle boats, kayaks, or paddle boards, and set out for a fall paddling adventure from our lakefront resort. Then, head out to explore the Lake George Region and witness the season’s splendor from a unique vantage point. Whether you want to saddle up on a horseback riding adventure or zipline through the forest canopy, there are endless ways to immerse yourself in fall colors. Before booking your getaway, make sure to check the New York fall foliage report!

1. Water Cruises

Sign up for a cruise with Lake George Steamboat Company and witness fall foliage from the water. Embark on the Mohican Fall Lakefront Cruise and see the southern basins’ fall foliage from America’s oldest continuously operated tour boat. Or sign up for the Mohican Fall Foliage Full Lake Course and enjoy a complete tour of Lake George. Enjoy the crisp fall breeze as you take in the lake’s serene beauty framed by vibrant foliage. 

2. Horseback Riding

Saddle up and immerse yourself in the region’s fall colors on a horseback riding adventure. Head to Circle B Ranch Riding Stable in Chestertown and ride through the Adirondack Forest. Explore scenic nature trails on horseback surrounded by vibrant hues of oranges, yellows, and reds!

3. Scenic Skyride

Visit Gore Mountain through mid-October and witness fall colors from new heights on the Scenic Skyride. Ascend the mountain, taking in the High Peaks and Southern Adirondacks along the way. Once you have arrived at the top, you can enjoy even more views from the observation deck, interpretive trails, and lookout areas.

4. Zipline

This fall, walk amongst the Adirondack forest canopy at the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course. They offer options for all ages and ability levels, including four kids courses, six adult courses, and one low-rider zipline-only tour. Sign up for the treetop adventure courses, navigate 75 obstacles like Tarzan swings and punching bags, and end on the giant tandem zipline. 

5. Hot Air Balloon Rides

One of the most unique ways to see fall foliage in Lake George is from a hot air balloon. Reserve a hot air balloon ride with Sunkiss Ballooning and witness the rolling hills, valleys, farmlands, and mountains of Upstate New York this fall.

Reserve a Lake George Fall Getaway Today

From scenic boat tours to hot air balloon rides, we offer endless opportunities to see Lake George’s fall colors from a unique perspective. Book your fall getaway with Surfside on the Lake and experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Book one of our hotel rooms and stay directly on the shores of Lake George this fall!

Fall Festivals in Lake George: Car Show, Oktoberfest, & More

People taking a picture in their fall outfits at a Lake George festival

There’s always something happening in the Lake George Area. Plan your vacation around one of our annual Lake George fall festivals and celebrate the season’s magic with gorgeous fall foliage, live music, and family-friendly activities. Kick off the season at the car show and see a stunning collection of classic cars, take your family to Fright Fest at The Great Escape for a day of Halloween fun, or see hot air balloons soaring high at the Adirondack Balloon Festival. No matter your interests, Surfside on the Lake provides the perfect base camp for fall adventures around the Lake George Area. 

Adirondack Nationals Car Show

If you are a classic car enthusiast, mark your calendars for the Adirondack Nationals Car Show in September. See over 1500 classic cars and shop from 230 vendors on the Fort William Henry Hotel grounds. 

Lake George Jazz Weekend

Plan your vacation around Lake George Jazz Weekend, one of the premier jazz festivals in the Northeast. This free event will offer 17 performances in a wide variety of jazz styles over three days. Head to Shepard Park for a weekend of free music this fall!

Adirondack Balloon Festival

The Adirondack Balloon Festival has been a fall tradition for over 50 years. Join the tradition and witness hundreds of hot air balloons take flight against the scenic backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains. 

World’s Largest Garage Sale

Make the short drive to Warrensburg and find unique treasures at the World’s Largest Garage Sale. Stroll the streets of Warrensburg and find a unique treasure at over 100 residential yard sales and vendors. When you have worked up an appetite from shopping, enjoy delicious food from the food trucks and vendors. 

Lake George Oktoberfest

Every fall, Lake George is transformed into a Bavarian-style street fair for our annual Oktoberfest celebrations. This free Lake George festival offers nonstop German music, traditional dancers, local artisans, carnival rides, German food, keg tossing, and stein hoisting. The following weekend, you can attend the Adirondack Brewery Oktoberfest Block Party for even more fall fun. 

Fall Festivals at The Great Escape

Visit The Great Escape in Queensbury for several fall festivals this season. Kick off the season with Oktoberfest and enjoy seasonal brews, German food, and live music. Or take the kiddos to  Boo Fest for some family-friendly trick-or-treating, fall festivities, and character photo ops. And if you are looking to explore some haunted attractions, we recommend visiting during Fright Fest. 

Stay on the Shores of Lake George this Fall

Book your getaway with Surfside on the Lake and stay close to the Lake George fall festivals. Take advantage of our waterfront location and enjoy beach amenities through mid-October. Rent our paddle boats or kayaks and see the beautiful fall foliage of the Adirondacks from the water. Browse our Lake George hotel rooms and find the perfect accommodations for your fall getaway!

Things to Do During Summer in Lake George

Family hanging out enjoying things to do during summer in Lake George

Ready to make unforgettable memories in the Adirondacks this summer? Book your Lake George getaway with Surfside on the Lake and enjoy our on-site summer activities, including a private beach, outdoor pool, complimentary watercraft, BBQ grills, and a children’s playground. After hanging out at our resort, head into the Village to discover even more exciting things to do in Lake George this summer. Whether you are looking for family-friendly attractions or unique ways to get on the water, there is something for everyone!

Enjoy Water Activities on Lake George

No Lake George summer getaway is complete without spending time on the water:

  • Reserve a boat rental and chart your own route to experience swimming, fishing, and island hopping on your own time. 
  • See the lake from a new perspective with an exhilarating parasailing adventure with Parasail Nation. 
  • Sign up for a boat tour with the Lake George Steamboat Company and experience sightseeing from an authentic steamboat.
  • Head to Adirondack Adventure Center and spend a thrilling afternoon rafting down the Sacandaga River. Or sign up for their lazy river tubing and float down the river for a tranquil adventure. 

Discover Fun for the Whole Family 

Lake George is a fantastic family vacation destination, offering fun activities for all ages:

  • Take the kids to Six Flags Great Escape and ride over 100 thrilling rides together. The water rides are the perfect place to stay cool in the summertime! 
  • Visit the Lake George Expedition Park and learn about dinosaurs with the kids in Dino Roar Valley. Then, visit The Forest and have fun on the kid-friendly rides.
  • Stop by Shepard Park for free live music and fireworks all summer long.
  • Play a round of miniature golf together at Around the World, Pirate’s Cove Adventure, or Goony Golf.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Get active this summer and explore the Adirondacks together:

This is just a sampling of the summer activities in Lake George; find even more local adventures on our blog. Browse our Lake George hotel rooms and find the perfect lodging for your summer escape at Surfside on the Lake! 

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Address:
400 Canada Street
Lake George, NY 12845

Phone: (518) 668-2442
Fax: (518) 668-3202
Email: [email protected]

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