Upstate New York

HunterdonPaul · Aug 18, 2002

Hi guys-
We had to cancel our vacation this year. It was supposed to be in Williamsburg, VA. It was a family reunion on my dads side. Unfortunately my father-in-law got very sick and landed in the hospital. Fortunately he seems to be getting better but we ended canceling the vacation for fear of the worst. Since he was getting better, I thought we could take a nice (short) trip to perhaps Lake George, NY. I have never been there and thought maybe it would be a good place for the kids.

I noticed that alot of you are from upstate NY. I was wondering if you could give be a recommendation as to where to stay in Lake George or perhaps another recommendation for a trip one week in advance somewhere in update NY. I hate to just open the AAA book and pick a place at random because I have been burnt before.

Paul

s1120 · Aug 19, 2002

I have been to Lake George a ton of times, and I got to say it is one BEEE UU TTT FULLL lake. Most of the hotels are nice, and there is a lot to do. If you get a chance take one of the boat rides. The best way to see the lake is on it. If you get board, "The Great Escape" is just down the road.

MDNY · Aug 19, 2002

pborsetti,

The Lake George area is a really nice place to visit and things to do vary greatly just by the individuals interests. You have Lake Placid & the Vermont border within an hour or so each and that helps by adding diversity to what you do.

If this is a family vacation then ther are lots of hotels, camp grounds and of course the amusement park. If this is just for the parents then there are great B&B around the area and Lake Lazuerne has one I would suggest: The Lamplight Inn. Very nice owners and excellent breakfast each morning.

Have fun.

rancar · Aug 19, 2002

Hi Paul...

I live about an hour's drive southeast of Lake George. The summer season will be ending for these guys soon and you shouldn't find it too difficult finding a place to stay. There are a lot of good motels to select from and referring to the AAA travel guide isn't such a bad idea. They're usually on the money. There are plenty good restaurants to pick from, too many that I couldn't just recommend one. If you get a little south to Saratoga Springs, you might want to eat at Cliff's on the southern end of Saratoga Lake. Bring a hearty appetite as they serve humongous portions of everything on the menu. If you like ice cream, you'd have to stop by the soft serve ice cream stand across from the Great Escape. Order the large cone....just make sure you do so on an empty stomach. These cones are the biggest around.

You might want to combine a trip to Lake George with a trip to Lake Placid as the previous poster mentioned. Other notable sights are Ausable Chasm, Fort Ticonderoga and Fort William Henry, and the ferry ride across Lake Champlain to Charlotte, VT. In Vermont, there's plenty to see. Try out Stowe, VT and visit the Von Trapp Family Lodge....beautiful place to see and stay.

You'll enjoy this vacation to Lake George....a place somewhat off the beaten track but very quaint and just a pleasant place to visit. Enjoy!

Regards,
Bob Ancar
Cambridge, NY

HunterdonPaul · Aug 19, 2002

Thanks guys for your input. I knew I could count on you all.

We are going to try a 3 or 4 day trip. I (and mapquest) figure it will take about 4 hours to drive. The kids are looking forward to it.

Thanks,
Paul

GaryM · Aug 20, 2002

You mention Stowe VT. and that made me curious. Many years back some of the ski areas operated alpine slides during the off season. Is that still done? I've not been in that area for about 30 years.

Thanks

RichZ · Aug 20, 2002

Boondox could answer that question!

gobbler · Aug 20, 2002

Gary,

I know they do at Killington. You can see the runs from Rte. 4.

Jim

JJT · Aug 20, 2002

Avoid staying in the village unless you have $ to burn.

I'll second MDNY's suggestion re the Lamplight Inn. There are numerous dude ranches in the area if that's your thing, 1000 Acres in Stony Creek as well as the more rustic BitNBridle. There also are several state comp grounds as well as a few smaller private sites.