My weekend getaway to the Lake George Area with fall festivities, scenic lakefront views and thrilling experiences against the colorful Adirondack backdrop. From Halloween-inspired events to lake cruises and local dining, this two-day itinerary had the perfect blend of autumn adventure and relaxation. Here’s a closer look at my unforgettable autumn escape to the Lake George Area!
Day 1
My trip began with a scenic train ride to Fort Edward. Arriving at the quaint and charming Fort Edward Amtrak Station, I couldn’t wait to jump into the fall festivities awaiting me in Glens Falls!
We started our adventure with a cozy lunch at Gourmet Café, where we found some of the best paninis and French onion soup we’ve ever had. Loaded with fresh ingredients and perfectly toasted, the panini was to die for, and the soup was the perfect warm treat for a chilly afternoon. It was a great start to our Adirondack experience, filling us up for an afternoon of exploring.
After lunch, we joined the Boo-To-You Fall Festival, where the City of Glens Falls was alive with Halloween energy. Families strolled by in costumes, local vendors offered Halloween-themed treats, local talent entertained the crowd and live music filled the air. The cheerful, festive vibe was contagious, making it an ideal introduction to the fall spirit of Glens Falls. I even got to help announce the winner of the spookiest home in Glens Falls contest!
Our accommodation for the night was the beautiful Bell House Inn, a restored bed-and-breakfast with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The hosts warmly welcomed us and shared stories about the Inn’s history and unique charm. It was the ideal place to unwind after a busy afternoon, sitting by the fire as I admired the fall foliage outside allowed me to recharge before hitting the town. The Bell House Inn truly felt like a home away from home, combining modern amenities with classic Adirondack style.
The evening’s main event was the Adirondack Thunder’s hockey season opener, held in a packed Cool Insuring Arena buzzing with excitement. As the puck-drop guest for the game, I had the thrilling honor of kicking off the action in front of a sold-out crowd—an experience I won’t soon forget! The game itself was exhilarating, with the Thunder playing to the cheers of devoted fans. The atmosphere was electric, and for anyone visiting the area – attending a local hockey game is a must.
Following the game, we headed to Mint for a cozy dinner. Known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and warm atmosphere, Mint provided the perfect ending to a busy day. Every dish was bursting with flavor and the farm-to-table focus really shone through in each bite. I can’t recommend a delicious meal at Mint enough! It is a must-stop destination.
Day 2
The next morning, we enjoyed a delicious homemade breakfast at The Bell House Inn, savoring the inn’s cozy ambiance before checking out. Nothing could beat Huevos Rancheros and French toast accompanied by a fresh pot of coffee and great conversation. The Bell House Inn is truly a must for travelers looking to experience local charm and hospitality. I can’t wait to come back!
Our next adventure was a scenic cruise on the Mohican, operated by the Lake George Steamboat Company. The cruise took us through the crystal-clear waters of Lake George, bordered by fiery fall foliage and majestic Adirondack peaks. The narrated tour was a wonderful touch, giving us insight into the lake’s rich history, local legends and wildlife. For anyone visiting Lake George, a boat cruise has to be a part of your itinerary. There’s no better way to take in the area’s natural jaw-dropping beauty.
After the cruise, we explored Lake George Village, a lively spot filled with unique boutiques, cafes and souvenir shops. We strolled through the village, picking up a few Adirondack-inspired mementos and soaking up the small-town charm. For lunch, we enjoyed a meal at a charming café, savoring the flavors of the Adirondacks before making our way to our last exciting event of the trip. This stop was the perfect way to continue experiencing Lake George’s vibrant yet relaxed vibe and should certainly be added to your list if you’re a shopper like me!
As our final adventure of the weekend, we embarked on a haunted rail biking tour with Revolution Rail Co. With its spooky ambiance and eerie surprises around every bend, this haunted rail biking experience was perfect for Halloween enthusiasts! We pedaled our way along scenic tracks surrounded by thick autumn trees and picturesque landscapes. The haunted setup, complete with ghostly friends and unexpected frights, made this a thrilling activity, adding a memorable Halloween twist to our trip.
Final Thoughts
My weekend in the Lake George Area was filled with memorable moments, from scenic lakefront views and lively festivals to thrilling Adirondack hockey and a spine-tingling haunted rail biking experience. The region offered the perfect mix of outdoor beauty, small-town charm and unique autumn activities, making it an ideal destination for fall lovers. Whether you’re seeking fall festivals, lake cruises, or haunted Halloween fun, the Adirondacks have something for everyone. I left with lasting memories and a new appreciation for the magic of autumn in the Adirondacks. If you’re considering a fall getaway, the Lake George Area is a destination that combines adventure, history, and unforgettable scenery!
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 one hour drive from the train station. Don’t forget to use the See New York and Save 15% discount
