Best Winter Activities in the Lake George Region

With the beauty of the falling snow, the chill in the air, and the spirit of the holiday season, Lake George comes alive. Whether you’re a fresh face to the area or a proud native, Lake George’s diverse wintertime activities are sure to wow every member of your family. This winter, you’ll find an activity everyone in your family can enjoy in Lake George. Celebrate at our traditional winter festivals, or explore an outdoor wonderland. You can even forget the cold in an indoor water park! 

As a Lake George resident, I’ve had ample opportunity to explore all that our beautiful winters have to offer. Below, you’ll find my top recommendations for your family- along with some ideas for just the parents. Find your next winter adventure! 

1. Lake George Area Celebrations

Lake George is home to some of the biggest (and oldest) winter festivals in New York! There is something for everyone at one of our celebrations. Check out our top events that homeowners and tourists alike look forward to every year. 

The Lake George Winter Carnival 

This month-long celebration of family-friendly events is a local Lake George favorite, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year! Every weekend in February, you’ll find different types of fun for the whole family.

Participate in local favorites- the classic Outhouse race, ATV races, polar plunges, or pony rides. Take in some fireworks, Lake George’s Got Talent or a local hockey game. Warm-up by the bonfires, learn from wood-carving demos, or find a new favorite dish from dozens of local restaurants.

  • When: Every weekend in February 
  • Cost: Free to attend, some events cost money

Lake George Winterfest

This new, socially distanced, winter escape is a treat for families and couples alike. With the Winterfest pass, you and your family get:

  • Horse-drawn carriage rides
  • Hot chocolate stations
  • Big hotel and restaurant discounts
  • Access to one special event: snowmobile tour, dog sled adventure, sleigh rides in the Adirondacks, winter tubing, axe throwing experience, cross country skiing, and more! 
  • When: Weekends Mid-December 2021 – March 2022
  • Costs: $30 for all the Winterfest pass

Holiday Festival of Lights

Another local favorite, the Holiday Festival of Lights, is expanding in 2021! Throughout Shepard Park and Lake George, you’ll find incredible displays of lights every evening. With holiday music, dancing, food, and holiday shows, you’ll get into the holiday spirit while admiring the beautiful displays. 

  • When: November 27th – December 31st
  • Costs: Free

With these uniquely Lake George winter celebrations, you can feel free to enjoy new and old favorite activities safely. Chilly from testing out our recommendations? Don’t worry. We have some tips to help you warm up, in and out of your home.

2. Outdoor Winter Activities in Lake George

Try a new activity, or return to an old favorite, this winter. Find the right fit in one of the many Lake George outdoor winter activities. There are options for beginners to experts!

Enjoy winter hikes or snowshoeing with the dozens of trails in the Adirondacks. You’ll never run out of ATV & snowmobile trails to try- trust us. You can even embrace your inner child as you race down the various winter tubing tracks. Glimpse the gorgeous views of the Adirondacks while playing in the snow. Take advantage of the gorgeous Lake George winter and try new outdoor activities. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find a new family favorite!

3. Fun Spots for the Family in Lake George

Lake George is home to many unique adventures for your family- and you! My top three spots for family-friendly activities are can’t-miss spots in the area. 

Ice Castles

Made of thousands of icicles spread across over an acre of land, fall in love with this new attraction. The kiddos can ride down ice slides, sit like royalty on an ice throne, and even crawl through ice tunnels. Lit by LED lights embedded in the ice, experience this new spot in Charleswood Park. 

  • When: January – March 2022
  • Cost: $15-27 per ticket, expected to sell out fast

Natural Stone Bridge & Caves Park

This is the largest cave entrance in the Eastern United States! These marble caves were formed during the last Ice Age, with many hidden entrances and spots to find. This park features over 14 miles of amazing snowshoe trails, frozen waterfalls, and tranquil dark pools to explore. Open all winter, go on an adventure right in Lake George.

Six Flags Indoor Waterpark

Located just outside the Lake George region in Queensbury, you’ll forget it’s winter in this indoor water park. This Adirondack-themed lodge features over 200 guest suites attached to the park proper. From lazy rivers to the water play place, and the epic water slides, there is something for kids of all ages. For the adults? Enjoy a private cabana, surf area, or even the hot tub/spa area. Plan a winter getaway you won’t forget!

4. Just for Grown-Ups: Adult/Couple Winter Activities in Lake George

Don’t worry- Lake George has fun for the grown-ups, too! Explore these options for a fun date night- and a chance to enjoy time together. 

  • Adirondack Winery: top winery and attraction in Lake George: three tasting rooms filled with New York based wine, events, tastings, and more!
  • Ice Bars: the coolest attractions in Lake George: bars created completely out of ice sculptures. Located at the Sagamore Hotel, shaped out of 18,000 pounds of ice. 
  • Dine In Igloos: A Saratoga speciality, come dine in your own personal igloo! Available at a number of restaurants throughout the Saratoga region, experience your meal in a whole new way. 

With this many choices, you’re bound to find something your entire family will love. Lake George has one of the best winters in the United States, offering many unique celebrations, activities, and outdoor adventures. 

Make your adventure last even longer by finding the perfect family home in the Lake George region. Contact me today to get started!