For lovers of travel, there are some spots that you should really take the opportunity to visit. Especially if they’re not too far. For New Yorkers and Americans in general, one of the best lake areas in the country is just a stone’s throw away. Lake George is popular, but not a packed tourist destination. If you want somewhere laid back to enjoy some vibrant village culture and the beauty of nature, we recommend you stop by. Thankfully, it’s not deserted of visitors and things to do, either, so it has plenty to keep you busy. While you’re there, here are some places you might like to visit and things you might like to do.

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Get out onto the lake itself          If you’re visiting a lake, then you really ought to be ready to enjoy some of what the water has to offer. Thankfully the village and several stops around the lake have fun options ready for visitors of all ages. Whether it’s taking a rowboat out or enjoying a trip on a big genuine steamboat. There are lots of ways to experience this, a lake amongst the best.

The best of cultivated nature         It has more than just lakes to offer, too. If you’ve always wanted to see a meticulously kept, beautifully colorful garden, then there’s a lot of that to see here. In particular, you might want to take the garden tours that take you through several destinations. Including the King’s Garden. Whether you want to learn a bit about gardening or just take in the scent of fresh flowers, it’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon.

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Take a mountain trail          If you want your experience of nature to be a bit more rugged than that, then how about a mountain? The Prospect Mountain Trail isn’t all that difficult, for you lovers of feeling the burn. It’s a fairly easy-going, family friendly trail. All the same, it offers a great look over the lake and its surroundings. At the end, you’re even rewarded with a view of a gorgeous waterfall from the recreational area.

Local dining          If you’re spending a few nights on the lake, then you’ll be glad to hear there are quite a few choices of dining options, as well. There are plenty of Lake George village restaurants, for one. Them there’s a good selection of wine tasting possibilities to enjoy. These include the locally loved Adirondack Winery, named for the local mountain range. A small family based business that thankfully does away with snobbery to make way for a comfortable, relaxing experience.

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Get into the village          Of course, you will want to visit Lake George Village proper at some point. Not just because it offers some of the best access to the beach and the lake beyond. It actually has a rather vibrant nightlife and a schedule of festivals and music that makes the summer particularly busy. Summer’s the best time to get on the lake, so try time your arrival with some excellent concerts at the park.

Written by Jacqueline Chambers

Jacqueline Chambers

Jacqueline Chambers is the founder of TGIFguide. She uses her innate skills as a natural “connector” to serve businesses, brands and individuals in the LA area and beyond.