Living in Lake George means waking up to mountain views, walking along the lakefront, and having a front-row seat to Adirondack beauty. But one of the lesser-known perks? You’re surrounded by some of the Northeast’s most memorable weekend destinations—all just a short drive away. Whether you're craving culture, nature, or just a change of scenery, these weekend trips from Lake George make it easy to explore without hopping on a plane.
1. Saratoga Springs, NY – 30 Minutes South
Saratoga Springs is one of the easiest and most rewarding escapes from Lake George. Known for its historic racecourse, charming downtown, and rich mineral spring history, this city packs a lot into a walkable footprint.
Catch live racing at the Saratoga Race Course (July through early September), wander through Congress Park, or book a mineral bath at the historic Roosevelt Baths & Spa. Broadway, the city’s main artery, is lined with art galleries, upscale boutiques, and restaurants like 15 Church and Boca Bistro—perfect for a day or overnight trip with a splash of luxury.
2. Lake Placid, NY – 1.5 Hours North
If you’re looking for a weekend full of outdoor adventure, Lake Placid is hard to beat. This former two-time Winter Olympic host still thrives on sports and scenery, with Mirror Lake anchoring the town and Whiteface Mountain nearby offering hiking, biking, and skiing.
Visit the Olympic Museum, skate the Herb Brooks Arena, or take the scenic gondola to the summit for breathtaking views of the High Peaks. The walkable village is also home to breweries, cafes, and unique shops, making it ideal for a couple’s getaway or active family retreat.
3. Hudson, NY – 1.5 Hours South
Once a sleepy river town, Hudson has transformed into a cultural and design hub over the past decade. Its walkable main street, Warren Street, is now filled with antique shops, art galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants that reflect the area’s creative energy.
For a weekend trip, check out Olana State Historic Site, the Persian-inspired estate of Frederic Edwin Church, or explore nearby vineyards and breweries. Stay at a boutique hotel like The Maker or Wm. Farmer and Sons and enjoy a weekend that feels elevated without being pretentious.
4. Burlington, VT – 2 Hours Northeast
Overlooking Lake Champlain, Burlington blends Vermont’s natural charm with college-town character. It’s an ideal destination for a low-key weekend filled with good food, lake views, and a little bit of everything.
Rent bikes and ride the Island Line Trail, explore the bustling Church Street Marketplace, or catch live music at Foam Brewers, a favorite spot right on the water. Burlington is casual, cool, and packed with personality, making it a refreshing change of pace from life in the Adirondacks.
5. The Berkshires, MA – 2 Hours Southeast
If you're looking for a weekend that balances quiet beauty with rich cultural experiences, the Berkshires make an excellent choice. Just a two-hour drive from Lake George, this western Massachusetts region is known for its pastoral landscapes, historic villages, and nationally acclaimed arts institutions.
Spend your day at MASS MoCA in North Adams, a sprawling museum housed in a former factory, featuring large-scale contemporary installations and rotating exhibits. In the evening, head to Tanglewood in Lenox for a live performance by the Boston Symphony Orchestra under the stars. For accommodations, towns like Stockbridge and Lenox offer charming inns, boutique hotels, and walkable streets lined with galleries, cafes, and antique shops—perfect for a weekend steeped in both relaxation and refinement.
6. Montreal, QC – 3.5 Hours North (Passport Required)
For a weekend that feels like a European getaway, without boarding a plane, Montreal is the place to go. Just over three hours from Lake George, this French-speaking Canadian city offers a cosmopolitan mix of historic charm, cutting-edge cuisine, and vibrant street life. Just be sure to bring your passport.
Start your visit in Old Montreal, where cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and landmarks like the Notre-Dame Basilica set the tone. From there, explore the city’s thriving culinary scene—whether it’s classic Parisian fare at Modavie, innovative tasting menus at Toqué!, or artisanal goods at the Jean-Talon Market. Montreal’s blend of Old World elegance and modern flair makes it one of the most dynamic and culturally rich weekend trips close to home.
7. Cooperstown, NY – 2.5 Hours Southwest
While Cooperstown is famous as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, this lakeside village offers far more than just a tribute to America’s pastime. Located on the southern edge of Otsego Lake, it’s an ideal weekend getaway for families, history buffs, and anyone craving small-town charm with meaningful experiences.
Start with a lake cruise or paddle on the calm waters of Otsego, then explore the impressive collection of American folk and fine art at the Fenimore Art Museum, set on a bluff with lake views. For a hands-on look at 19th-century rural life, wander the working farms and historic buildings at The Farmers’ Museum, just minutes from downtown. With walkable streets, locally owned shops, and classic inns, Cooperstown delivers a relaxed, culturally rich weekend that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly authentic.
8. Stowe, VT – 2.5 Hours Northeast
Stowe offers far more than just great skiing—this quintessential Vermont town is a year-round escape with something for every season. Just a 2.5-hour drive from Lake George, it’s an ideal spot for couples or families looking to trade lake views for mountain air and small-town charm.
During spring and summer, hikers head to the Stowe Pinnacle Trail for sweeping views, while cyclists and casual walkers enjoy the scenic Stowe Recreation Path that winds through farms, woods, and village streets. A visit to the Trapp Family Lodge—founded by the real von Trapp family—offers Austrian-inspired hospitality in a uniquely American setting. From browsing local galleries to savoring farm-to-table meals at Plate or Michael’s on the Hill, Stowe blends rustic beauty with polished touches, making it one of the most well-rounded weekend trips from Lake George.
Why Weekend Getaways Matter
Living in Lake George means enjoying a lifestyle rooted in outdoor living, small-town community, and lakefront relaxation. But the beauty of the location goes beyond what’s right in front of you—it’s in the access. These weekend trips add dimension to the lifestyle, offering adventure, culture, and variety just a few hours away.
Whether you're exploring second-home opportunities or settling into full-time life here, these destinations make every weekend feel like a new experience, without ever feeling far from home.
Find Your Home Base with The Sherwood Group
Life in Lake George offers scenic views and the flexibility to explore the best of the Northeast with ease. From Vermont’s Green Mountains to the cultural pockets of upstate New York, the options for weekend trips are nearly endless, and each one offers something different.
Looking to make this lifestyle your own? The Sherwood Group knows Lake George inside and out—and they’re here to help you find the right home base for a life that balances lakeside living with boundless exploration.
