12 Things to Do in Lake George New York Summer: Top Activities for an Unforgettable Vacation

Lake George, New York, is a popular summer destination known for its natural beauty and variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy the outdoors, explore the town, and find options that fit many interests and ages.

People enjoying summer activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, picnicking, hiking, fishing, cycling, and swimming at Lake George surrounded by trees and mountains.

This article highlights 12 things to do in Lake George during the summer, offering a useful guide for anyone planning a visit. These activities provide a mix of relaxation and adventure, making the most of the season.

1) Boat Cruise on Lake George

A passenger boat cruising on a clear blue lake surrounded by green forests and hills under a sunny sky.

A boat cruise on Lake George offers a calm way to see the lake’s 32 miles of shoreline. People can choose from small tours or larger cruise ships. These trips provide views of the natural beauty and local history. More details are available at Lake George boat tours and cruises.

2) Visit Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor

Families and visitors enjoying rides and water attractions at Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor on a sunny summer day.

They can enjoy over 135 rides and attractions at Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor. The park features thrill rides, family rides, and a large water park. It is located near Lake George, making it a popular summer destination for visitors.

More details can be found at Six Flags Great Escape’s official things to do near Lake George page.

3) Hike Prospect Mountain

Hikers walking up a forested trail on Prospect Mountain with Lake George and hills visible in the background on a clear summer day.

They can hike a 3-mile trail starting near Lake George Village. The path is steep with rocky sections but leads to clear views.

Alternatively, visitors may drive up Veterans Memorial Highway for easier access to the summit and a 100-mile view of the area.Prospect Mountain Trail details.

4) Explore Lake George Village

A busy lakeside village with people boating, walking, and relaxing near colorful shops and green mountains in summer.

Lake George Village is easy to walk around. It offers shops, restaurants, and small museums. Visitors enjoy the waterfront views and local events. The village has a relaxed, welcoming feel that suits all ages. More details can be found at Wandering Wagars.

5) Relax at Million Dollar Beach

People enjoying a sunny summer day at a sandy beach by a clear lake surrounded by green trees and hills, with boats on the water.

Million Dollar Beach offers a large, sandy area perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It has lifeguards and family-friendly amenities. Visitors can enjoy peaceful time by Lake George’s clear waters. Learn more about Million Dollar Beach activities here.

6) Kayaking on Lake George

A person kayaking on calm water surrounded by green trees and hills under a blue sky.

Kayaking on Lake George offers a calm and scenic way to explore the water. The best time to kayak is late spring through autumn when the weather is mild. Visitors can rent kayaks or join guided tours to enjoy the lake’s clear waters and beautiful surroundings.

For more information on paddling options, see Kayaking & Canoeing In & Around Lake George.

7) Attend Lake George Music Festival

People enjoying a summer music festival outdoors near a lake with a stage, trees, and clear sky in the background.

The Lake George Music Festival runs from June 8 to 19, 2025. It features a mix of performances and educational programs. The festival takes place in Lake George Village and offers a variety of musical styles. More details are available at the Lake George Music Festival site.

8) Island Camping in Lake George Narrows

A small green island with a tent and campfire surrounded by calm lake water, pine trees, and distant hills under a blue sky.

Visitors can camp only by boat on the islands in Lake George Narrows. The Narrow Island Group offers quiet, state-owned campsites surrounded by nature. Campers should plan ahead and follow regulations, including no dogs allowed on the islands and docks.

More details about camping on these islands are available at the Lake George Islands campgrounds page.

9) Zipline Adventure at Adirondack Extreme

A person ziplining above a dense green forest with bright summer sunlight and clear blue sky.

Adirondack Extreme offers zipline courses suitable for beginners and experienced riders. It features 12 ziplines and 9 walking bridges through a forest setting. The “Low Rider” course is perfect for first-time zipline riders aged 9 and up. For more details visit Adirondack Extreme’s zipline page.

10) Visit The Hyde Collection Art Museum

Visitors enjoying a sunny summer day outside The Hyde Collection Art Museum surrounded by trees and flowers in Lake George, New York.

The Hyde Collection Art Museum in Glens Falls offers a mix of European and American art. It includes Old Masters and modern works. Visitors can enjoy the historic house and rotating exhibits. The museum is open Thursday to Monday. Learn more at The Hyde Collection Art Museum and Historic House.

11) Enjoy Free Summer Concerts

People enjoying a lively outdoor summer concert by a lake with trees and mountains in the background.

Lake George offers free summer concerts at several locations. Shepard Park hosts concerts every Wednesday and Friday nights. The Lake George Arts Project runs a long-standing Summer Concert Series at Crandall Park Bandshell. These events provide a chance to enjoy live music outdoors with family and friends. See more details on free concerts in Lake George.

12) Walk the Lake George Ice Cream Trail

People enjoying ice cream along a lakeside path at Lake George on a sunny summer day with trees, water, and boats in the background.

The Lake George Ice Cream Trail offers a simple way to enjoy the area’s best ice cream shops. Visitors can travel around the lake, stopping at different spots for a cool treat.

It’s a fun way to explore the town while tasting a variety of flavors. The trail is especially popular in summer. For details, visit the Lake George Ice Cream Trail.

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