Winter (Visual) Guide to the Lake George Region!

Winter in the Lake George region is a magical season brimming with adventure, charm, and unforgettable moments—and this year, we’re bringing it to life like never before. We’ve added stunning photos and direct links to each member, turning this guide into a true visual journey through our winter paradise. Whether you're carving turns on our local slopes, snowmobiling through Adirondack forests, warming up at cozy lodges, or savoring hearty meals at beloved restaurants, there’s something here for every kind of traveler. From lively festivals to peaceful snow-covered trails, the Lake George Area shines with a special energy all winter long. Dive in and start planning your perfect cold-weather getaway today!

EVENTS

Holiday Season 

History & Holidays at Fort William Henry Museum

Winter 2026 – Fort William Henry Museum, Lake George
Enjoy candlelit tours, seasonal demonstrations, storytelling, and winter programming at one of the region’s most historic sites.
Event details: https://fortwilliamhenry.com/events/history-and-holidays/

Candy Cane Express

Select dates in November–December 2025 – Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway
A festive holiday train ride perfect for families, with themed entertainment, scenic views, and seasonal treats.
Event details: https://scrailway.com/

Candy Cane Lane – Drive-Thru Holiday Festival

December 5, 2025 – SUNY Adirondack, 6–8 PM
A dazzling drive-thru holiday experience featuring festive displays, lights, themed décor, and family fun on the campus of SUNY Adirondack. A perfect way to celebrate the season from the comfort of your vehicle.
Event details: https://www.queensburyny.gov/event/candy-cane-lane-a-drive-thru-holiday-festival/

Adirondack Holiday Festival

December 5–7, 2025 – Downtown Glens Falls
A community holiday celebration with artisan vendors, carriage rides, live entertainment, festive décor, and family fun.
Event details: https://glensfallscollaborative.com/adirondack-holiday/

Together at Christmas – Holiday Princess Show

December 6, 2025 – Holiday Inn Resort Lake George
A family-friendly theatrical performance featuring holiday magic, princess characters, music, and interactive fun.
Event details: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQunHJfD5tW/

37th Annual Christmas in Warrensburgh

December 6–7, 2025 – Town of Warrensburg
A beloved small-town celebration including craft fairs, festive shopping, kids activities, caroling, and hometown holiday charm.
Event details: https://www.facebook.com/TownOfWarrensburg/

Spirits in the Trees

December 6–31, 2025 – Crandall Park, Glens Falls
Stroll through a magical outdoor art installation featuring illuminated tree “spirits” created by local artists. Free and open to the public.
Event details: https://www.friendsofcrandallpark.com/spirits-in-the-trees

New Year’s Events Listings (Dec 31, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026)

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Over the Lake

December 31, 2025 – Midnight – Lake George Village
Ring in 2026 with spectacular fireworks over Lake George. Free lakeside viewing and a festive atmosphere throughout the village.
Event details: https://www.lakegeorge.com/event/new-years-eve-fireworks-247168/

New Year’s Eve Dueling Pianos Party at Fort William Henry

December 31, 2025 – 8 PM to Midnight – The Carriage House at Fort William Henry
Celebrate with a high-energy dueling-pianos show, hors d’oeuvres, dancing, and a lively countdown to the new year.
Event details: https://www.fortwilliamhenry.com/specials/new-years-eve-celebration/

Frostbite Cruise & After-Party

January 1, 2026 – 12 PM & 2:30 PM Sailings – Lake George Waterfront Cruises
Start the new year aboard a cozy winter cruise, complete with live music, drinks, comfort food, and an after-party at Lighthouse Grill.
Event details: https://www.lakegeorge.com/event/frostbite-cruise-65673/

Lake George Polar Plunge

January 1, 2026 – Morning – Shepard Park Beach, Lake George Village
A thrilling Adirondack tradition! Take the icy plunge into Lake George or cheer on participants as they welcome the new year with a splash.
Event details: https://www.lakegeorge.com/polar-plunge/

New Year’s Eve & Day Dining + Member Celebrations

December 31, 2025 – January 1, 2026 – Various Member Venues
Restaurants, hotels, bars, and entertainment venues throughout the region offer New Year’s dinners, parties, brunches, live music, and celebratory packages.
Event listings: https://www.lakegeorge.com/new-years/

ICE BARS (JAN-FEB)

Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge – The Sagamore Resort

January 23–24 and January 30–31, 2026
Event page will be added here when live: https://www.thesagamore.com/

Funky Ice Fest – Adirondack Pub & Brewery

January 23–24 and January 30–31, 2026
Event details: https://adkbrewery.com/

Polar Ice Bar – Fort William Henry Hotel & Conference Center

January 23–24 and January 30–31, 2026
Events calendar: https://fortwilliamhenry.com/events/

The Lagoon Ice Bar – Lake George Village

Weekends in February 2026
Details: https://thelagoonlakegeorge.com/

Winterbar – The Inn at Erlowest

Select weekends in late January–early February 2026
Property site: https://www.theinnaterlowest.com/

Fire & Ice Weekends – Lodge at Schroon Lake

Two weekends in February 2026
Event updates posted here: https://www.lodgeatschroonlake.com/

Lake George Winter Carnival

Schedule Highlights

Duck Hunt

Saturday, February 7, 2026
A popular scavenger-style event where participants search for ducks hidden throughout the village.

ATV Poker Run Registration

Saturdays: February 7, 14, 21 & March 1, 2026
Register: https://www.lakegeorgewintercarnival.com/atv-poker-run
Explore winter trails each weekend while collecting poker cards at checkpoints for prizes.

Outhouse Race Registration

Outhouse Races take place on the lake (conditions permitting) or at Battlefield Park.

2026 Race Dates:

Register: https://www.lakegeorgewintercarnival.com/outhouse-races

Teams of five race homemade outhouses built to required specs (4' × 4' × 6'). This annual favorite always draws a crowd.

Snowmobile Poker Run

Saturday, February 28, 2026
Registration at Holiday Inn Resort Lake George (member property).
Details will be posted at: https://www.lakegeorgewintercarnival.com/

Cook-Off Competitions

Tickets: https://www.lakegeorgewintercarnival.com/cook-offs
Each weekend features a themed cook-off with local restaurants competing and visitors voting for their favorites:

Taste delicious dishes and help select the winners.

Souvenir Mug & Hot Chocolate Topping Bar

Purchase: https://www.lakegeorgewintercarnival.com/souvenir-mugs
Limited-edition collectible mugs return for 2026, complete with hot chocolate and access to the toppings bar. Quantities sell out quickly.

Brews & Bites

Gulp! Breweries, Wineries, Cideries & Craft Beverages

Experience the flavors of the Adirondacks this winter with a journey along the Adirondack Craft Beverage Trail. Featuring a variety of local breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries, this self-guided tour offers a warm and welcoming way to explore the region’s craft beverage scene during the colder months.

Relax in cozy tasting rooms, savor seasonal specialties, and learn about the craftsmanship behind each unique drink. Whether you prefer a rich stout, a crisp cider, or a smooth whiskey, the Adirondack Craft Beverage Trail has something to please every palate. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the winter season while supporting local artisans and discovering new favorite

Yum! Resturants and Places to Grab a Bite

Lake George Village & Surrounding Area

Queensbury & Glens Falls

Bolton Landing, Schroon Lake & Northern Adirondacks

Where to Shop

Local Shops & Boutiques

Specialty Food & Sweets

Malls, Outlets & Vintage

Wellness & Experience Shops

Attractions and Indoor Fun

Adk Karting

Adirondack Karting delivers high-speed winter fun in the Lake George Area with an indoor racing experience perfect for families, friends, and groups. Their heated facility lets you escape the cold and jump into adrenaline-pumping kart races on a professionally designed track built for all skill levels. Whether you're challenging your crew to a friendly competition or looking for a unique activity between ski days, Adirondack Karting offers an exciting way to stay active this winter. With state-of-the-art electric karts, timed laps, and plenty of thrills, it’s a must-visit stop for winter adventure seekers.

Adirondack Thunder Hockey Games (Glens Falls)

Visitors to the Lake George region this winter can enjoy the thrill of Adirondack Thunder hockey games at the Cool Insuring Arena in Glens Falls. Part of the ECHL, the Thunder bring high-energy action to the ice with every slap shot and power play, offering an unforgettable experience for hockey enthusiasts and families alike.

With special theme nights, delicious concessions, and a lively crowd, attending a Thunder game is a fun and unique way to embrace the winter season. Tickets are available now—don’t miss the chance to cheer on the Adirondack Thunder and immerse yourself in the excitement of local sports!

Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark (Queensbury)

Families visiting the Lake George region can enjoy endless fun and adventure at the Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark in Queensbury, NY. This year-round destination offers cozy accommodations and a splash-filled indoor waterpark perfect for beating the winter chill. With exciting water slides, a lazy river, and a kid-friendly play area, it’s a getaway that guarantees smiles for visitors of all ages.

After a day of waterpark fun, guests can unwind at the lodge’s comfortable suites or indulge in delicious dining options on-site. Whether it’s a weekend escape or a family vacation, the Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark promises an unforgettable experience just minutes from Lake George!

King Pin's Alley Family Fun Center

Looking for the perfect spot for family and friends? Kingpin’s Alley offers state-of-the-art bowling lanes, a fully loaded arcade, and delicious eats from the on-site café, making it a one-stop destination for excitement. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual game, or competing for the top score, Kingpin’s Alley is the ultimate place for indoor fun. Plan your visit today!

The Fun Spot (Queensbury)

Looking for exciting indoor activities to enjoy this winter? The Fun Spot in Queensbury offers endless entertainment for all ages! Glide across the indoor roller skating rink, challenge yourself with a variety of arcade games, and let the kids explore the vibrant indoor playground. For an action-packed experience, gear up for an adventure in the state-of-the-art laser tag arena. Whether you're planning a family outing or just looking to escape the winter chill, The Fun Spot is your go-to destination for fun and laughter. 

Lake George Lanes & Games (Lake George)

Looking for a great way to spend time indoors in the Lake George region? Lanes & Games offers the perfect mix of entertainment with bowling, arcade games, and more. This family-friendly destination provides hours of fun, featuring modern bowling lanes and a variety of exciting arcade challenges for visitors of all ages.

Whether escaping the cold or planning an evening of laughs and competition, Lanes & Games is the go-to spot for unforgettable memories. Enjoy tasty snacks, friendly games, and a vibrant atmosphere that keeps the fun rolling all year round!

Explore History & Culture

Explore the rich history, art, and culture of the Lake George region and beyond with these fascinating museums and historical sites, arranged in chronological order based on their historical focus:

  • Chapman Historical Museum – Situated in Glens Falls, this museum showcases the history and heritage of the Glens Falls area through engaging exhibits and programs.

  • Discover Warrensburg! Museum of Local History – Located in Warrensburg, this museum offers a glimpse into the area’s vibrant past

  • Fort William Henry Museum – Discover the storied past of this historic fort in Lake George, which played a pivotal role during the French and Indian War.

  • Fort Ticonderoga – Step into history at Fort Ticonderoga, where you can explore one of America’s most significant Revolutionary War fortifications, located in Ticonderoga.

  • Hyde Collection Art Museum – Explore world-class art exhibitions, from classic to contemporary, in a stunning historic setting in Glens Falls.

  • Old Fort House Museum – Travel back in time at this historic site in Fort Edward, where you can learn about the area's Revolutionary War history.

  • Slate Valley Museum – Discover the fascinating story of slate quarrying and its influence on the region in Granville.

  • World Awareness Children's Museum – Spark curiosity and global understanding with hands-on exhibits designed for young learners in Glens Falls.

Each of these destinations offers unique experiences, making them perfect for a day of discovery and inspiration. Plan your visit today!

Outdoor Adventures for All Ages

Skiing and Snowboarding

Experience the thrill of skiing and snowboarding in the Adirondacks at Gore Mountain and West Mountain, two premier destinations offering trails for every skill level. Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or an expert carving through challenging terrain, these mountains provide breathtaking winter vistas and top-notch facilities. Gore Mountain boasts a vast trail network with over 110 trails, nine lifts, and four peaks, while West Mountain offers a family-friendly atmosphere with well-maintained trails, night skiing, and an inviting lodge for après-ski relaxation.

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Snowmobiling

For those craving adventure, the Adirondacks offer miles of groomed snowmobiling trails that weave through forests, open fields, and along scenic frozen lakes. Thrill-seekers can enjoy a variety of routes tailored to all skill levels, from leisurely rides to exhilarating high-speed adventures. With trail systems connecting charming Adirondack towns, snowmobiling is a fantastic way to explore the region's natural beauty while experiencing the excitement of winter in the mountains.

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Ice Fishing

Lake George transforms into an angler's paradise during winter, offering prime spots for ice fishing. Known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish, the lake is home to species like lake trout, perch, and northern pike. Ice fishing enthusiasts can set up shanties on the frozen lake and enjoy a day of peaceful angling surrounded by the stunning Adirondack scenery. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the sport, it’s a unique and rewarding way to embrace winter.

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Tubing and Sledding

Perfect for families and fun-seekers, snow tubing parks like those at West Mountain provide a thrilling winter activity without the need for special skills or equipment. Glide down specially designed tubing lanes, ride the lift back up, and do it all over again! For a classic winter pastime, nearby sledding hills offer hours of nostalgic fun for kids and adults alike, guaranteeing smiles and laughter in the snow.

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Snowshoeing, Cross-Country Skiing, ang Guided Hikes

Immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of the Adirondack winter by exploring the region’s many snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails. These serene routes take you through snow-covered forests, across frozen landscapes, and to breathtaking overlooks. 

Experience the serene beauty of the Adirondacks this winter with guided hikes that lead you through snow-covered trails, stunning landscapes, and peaceful wilderness.

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Cozy Lodging 

After a day of exploration, retreat to one of the area's welcoming accommodations. Options range from luxurious resorts to charming bed and breakfasts, ensuring a comfortable stay that suits your preferences.

VIEW WINTER LODGING