A Perfect Summer Escape to Lake George Area: Railbikes, Rosé & Roller Coasters
There’s nothing quite like summer in the Lake George Area. Nestled in the southern Adirondacks, it’s the kind of place where your days can be as laid-back or adventurous as you want them to be—and where every sunset feels like the perfect reward for getting outside and soaking it all in.
As my final adventure with New York By Rail as Miss New York 2024, this trip felt like the perfect send off: full of scenic views, meaningful conversations, small-town charm, and unforgettable fun. Whether you’re road-tripping with friends, planning a family getaway, or seeking a peaceful solo escape, here’s why the Lake George Area should be at the top of your summer travel list.
Day One: From Rails to the Lakefront
We kicked things off with a one-of-a-kind adventure at Revolution Rail Co., where we took part in their Rails to Sails experience. As luck would have it, it started to rain just as we began pedaling—and honestly? It felt like something out of a summer sitcom. We laughed the entire time, soaked through and loving every minute of it. Railbiking through the trees and over the river with the rain coming down made the whole experience even more memorable and added a little spontaneity to our day.
After the ride, we checked into Surfside on the Lake, a charming lakeside resort just steps from the Village of Lake George. We were greeted with chilled Prosecco and a beautifully arranged fruit plate—such a thoughtful welcome after an afternoon out in the rain. Our room had stunning lake views, and the location made it easy to walk everywhere we wanted to go.
For dinner, we chose The Lagoon, a casual lakeside restaurant with breezy summer vibes and delicious comfort food. We ordered calamari, lobster mac and cheese, and a turkey club—all of which hit the spot after an adventurous afternoon. As the skies cleared, we took a peaceful walk by the water and treated ourselves to ice cream. The sunset over the lake was the cherry on top of a perfect summer day.
Day Two: Steamboats, Strings & Summer Baseball
Saturday started aboard a historic cruise with the Lake George Steamboat Company. The weather was misty, and while many might’ve stayed inside, we danced in the rain on the upper deck—making memories and embracing the mood. I even had the chance to step into the captain’s cabin and steer the ship, which was such a surreal experience.
Later that afternoon, we arrived at Adirondack Winery for a special event called Winds & Wine, in partnership with the Lake George Music Festival. The space was buzzing with energy as a clarinet and bassoon trio played beautiful classical arrangements while guests savored charcuterie boards and sipped wines perfectly paired with the charm and sophistication of the live classical music. Before the fun started, I got to tour where they bottle and store their wines. This was SO cool!
In the Queensbury Tasting Room we were greeted with wine flights, cider, and whiskey pairings. One standout was Cascade, the brand-new rosé-infused cider from Extreme Heights Cidery. It was released on June 9th, so get there quick and you can be one of the first to try it! It was crisp, refreshing, and the perfect summer sip. I also got the chance to chat with Alex Lombard, President of the Lake George Music Festival, about the power of combining music, wine, and community. It was such a cool intersection of local talent and local flavor.
After a quick refresh at the hotel, we headed to Lake George Beach Club for dinner. The live music on the deck, views of the lake, and cozy summer atmosphere made it a highlight. This is such a fun, family-friendly summer spot. I ordered a smash burger and sat back to take in the view—it felt like we were right in the middle of everything, in the best way.
The night wrapped up at East Field, cheering on the Glens Falls Dragons. I had the honor of throwing out the first pitch (nerves and all!), and it was such a blast to be part of the local baseball scene. The crowd was lively, the players were warm and welcoming, and it was the perfect end to a full day of summer adventure.
Day Three: Pancakes, Parks & A Sweet Goodbye
Sunday morning started slow and sweet with a peaceful stroll through the Village of Lake George. We stopped at The Breakfast Spot Club, where we shared chocolate chip pancakes that were fluffy, golden, and full of comfort. A quick stop at Bank Café for coffee gave us that perfect last-lake-day boost as we continued a walk along the water.
Our final destination was Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor, where I had the chance to meet guests, sign autographs, and take in the fun of the park. I am an adrenaline junky, so OF COURSE I had to take a spin on some of their most exhilarating roller coasters—including The Bobcat, the park’s newest wooden coaster, and The Comet, a fan-favorite—and fully leaned into the summer fun.
I don’t think I have ever screamed my head off on a ride like I did at Six Flags Great Escape, and I mean this in the most positive way possible! Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor is a must if you’re looking for a bit of theme park thrill in New York State. The energy was contagious, and the joy on every guest’s face was the perfect close to our weekend.
As we boarded our train back to New York City, I felt deeply grateful—not just for this trip, but for the opportunity to experience the Lake George Area in its full summer glory.
Final Thoughts
The Lake George Area is the kind of destination that truly offers something for everyone. From lakefront relaxation and outdoor adventure to local food, live music, and family fun—it’s all here, wrapped in stunning scenery and small-town charm.
Whether you’re planning a weekend away or dreaming up your next big adventure, let this be your sign to put the Lake George Area at the top of your list. It’s the place where summer memories are made—and where every age, every traveler, and every kind of trip finds its perfect rhythm.
Thank you, Lake George Area, for the laughter, the flavors, the sunshine—and the most beautiful send off to an unforgettable year traveling our incredible state as Miss New York 2024.
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Take Amtrak to Lake George
Experience all of the the Lake George Area via Amtrak to the Fort Edward-Glens Falls Station, only 4 hours from Moynihan Train Hall in Manhattan. The Lake George Area is approximately a 25-minute drive from the train station. Don’t forget to use the See New York and Save 15% discount!
