8 of the Best Lake George Family Resorts

Lake George is one of America’s original vacation destinations. Families have flocked to the lake located at the base of the Adirondack Mountains in northeastern New York every summer for generations. 

Many of the resorts were built around mansions that once made up Millionaire’s Row, a collection of mansions built to provide summer homes for America’s wealthy elite. These resorts give a taste of what it was like to live in Lake George decades in the past, providing a historically unique experience for those who like a more laid-back vacation. 

You won’t lack options if a more modern vibe is your thing. Lake George features a variety of completely-renovated hotel chain resorts and modern family-owned establishments that provide a relaxed feel with playgrounds, pools, and beaches you and your kids will love.

The Lodges at Cresthaven

Those looking for that perfect mix of luxury and comfort will find both in abundance at The Lodges at Cresthaven. This property features professionally-decorated two bedrooms and two bath lodges right on the shore of Lake George. They also offer one-bedroom lodges and hotel rooms for visitors who don’t require as much space.

Other lodge amenities include fully-equipped kitchens, gas fireplaces in addition to central heat and air, and washers and dryers. The amenities continue once you leave your room. Those who enjoy the water can take advantage of the resort’s private beach, grotto spa with a sundeck overlooking the lake, indoor and outdoor pools, and various watercraft available for rent.

There is a lot for children to do as well. The lodge features a large playground and seasonal activities such as face painting and glitter tattoos, fishing, and treasure hunts. They even have a video game room if the weather doesn’t cooperate for outdoor activities.

The Lodges at Cresthaven provides the perfect getaway for your family. Pets are not allowed, however, so make sure to make other arrangements for your furry family members.

Depe Dene Resort

This family-owned resort boasts one of the largest private sandy beaches on Lake George. You will lack no space or opportunity to sunbathe, relax, and swim along the 300-foot beachfront. They have kayaks and standup paddle boards available for those looking to go farther from shore.

Kids can enjoy two large playgrounds and an open green space to play their favorite sport. The resort also features specific areas for various sports such as tennis, basketball, and horseshoe pits.

This is Upstate New York, so remember it can get chilly quickly. On days when the lake is too cold, or you just don’t feel like dealing with sand, Depe Dene offers a large heated pool to swim in and relax. A high fence surrounds the pool for privacy and safety.

Depe Dene offers the perfect lodging for any sized group. Their smaller motel-style rooms overlook the lake providing great views for a more affordable price. Those bringing the entire family and more can book the Estate Mansion. 

This historic mansion was built in the 1800s and offers panoramic views of Lake George, features a billiards room and an enclosed veranda, and can sleep up to 24 people.

Holiday Inn Resort Lake George

The Holiday Inn brand is popular all over the world for top-notch rooms and service, and that quality is present at their Lake George resort. The resort features more than 100 rooms, including suites for those with larger families. Suites are on the third floor and include a separate large living room area with views of the lake and surrounding Adirondack Mountains. 

Pets are not allowed at this Holiday Inn Resort, but there are a variety of activities for your human children to enjoy. There are daily activities for children available from July 1 through Labor Day. The resort employs a Kid’s Activity Director to ensure your little ones have the best experience possible. 

If you have older kids with you and can step away for a bit, adults can relax at the resort’s large outdoor firepit when the sun goes down. They also have a great cocktail lounge for those who enjoy a good drink. This resort is not directly on the water, so owners and staff have put in the effort to ensure guests are comfortable within their grounds. 

Holiday Inn Resort provides a variety of options for your active and relaxing pleasure, so make sure to check out their website to see what they have going on during your visit.

Scotty’s Lakeside Resort

You won’t lack things to do with your kids at this lakeside resort. One of Scotty’s calling cards is its massive pool, complete with a splash pool, giant mushroom sprayer, super shower, and spray zone. This setup is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy water just steps from their room, and it is especially appealing to those with kids a bit too young to take into the lake. 

There is also a large modern playground area for kids to jump, climb, and slide.

Those wanting to go into the lake will be impressed with Scotty’s Lakeside Resort’s 350ft of beachfront, including a large sandy beach. If you are more interested in getting out onto the water, they have kayaks, canoes, paddleboats, and more available for taking out onto Lake George. Scotty’s also offers a public boat launch if you brought your watercraft. 

Don’t worry about being bored and stuck in your room if you have a day of bad weather. Scotty’s offers a massive game room filled with old-school arcades, foosball, and other favorites. It’s located right on the beach, so it can easily be enjoyed on sunny days or rainy days.

There are also amenities perfect for those who love food and drink. A family-friend picnic area, complete with multiple charcoal grills, is located just off the beach. 

Scotty’s Beach Bar and Cafe provide a great place to grab a drink or a quick bite while still enjoying views of the lake and mountains through extra-large windows. The Cafe menu and Beach Bar drink list can both be found on Scotty’s website.

The Sagamore Resort

Everything about The Sagamore Resort says luxury. This upscale establishment was built in the 1880s as an exclusive resort for America’s wealthy and, in many ways, still stays true to its heritage today. 

The Sagamore features a large infinity pool right on the Lake George waterfront that provides beautiful panoramic views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains. There is also an adult-only pool for those who can escape older kids for a bit for some quiet time.

The Sagamore Golf Course is where this resort stands out the most from other resorts in the area. The 18-hole course was built in 1928 and was named a Silver Medal Resort by Golf Magazine. 

The Spa and Salon is another luxury offering that showcases The Sagamore’s commitment to luxury. The spa features a variety of packages designed to provide ultimate relaxation for guests. 

Don’t think the luxurious amenities are only for adults. Kids will enjoy 10,000 sq. ft. of indoor activity space featuring a small baseball diamond, ping pong tables, a rock climbing wall, and a mini-golf course. They can go outside on sunny days to enjoy activities, such as volleyball, horseshoes, and tennis. The Sagamore is easily one of the best Lake George family resorts.

The Sagamore is one of the few Lake George resorts that doesn’t scale down operations in the colder months. Visit their website to stay up-to-date on the resort’s year-round offerings.

Marine Village Resort

This resort provides the perfect combination of relaxing privacy while still being very much in the center of things. Marine Village Resort lies within The Village of Lake George, the residential and commercial hub of Lake George, which offers the opportunity to expand your dining and shopping opportunities while maintaining a relaxing home base.

Once inside the Marine Village Resort, it’s easy to forget The Village is so close. The resort is right on the lake, so you can walk out of your room and walk directly into the water to enjoy the 300-ft sandy beach while being surrounded by a panoramic view of the Adirondack Mountains. You can rent a variety of watercraft to go out onto the lake or bring your pole and enjoy some fishing. 

Marine Village has many different room options to choose from, depending on the size of your family. Small children will enjoy getting their energy out by climbing, sliding, and swinging in the resort’s playground. 

Daily activities are available from Independence Day to Labor Day. Partake in fun and delicious activities such as Taco Tuesday and BBQ on the Patio. Check out their activities page to know what is available during your visit. 

Tiki Resort

One of the longest-running Polynesian-themed shows in America can be found on the beach of Lake George. Tiki Resort has thrived as a truly unique Upstate New York experience since it opened in 1960. The Tiki is also unique among Lake George resorts as one of the few that allows pets with a daily fee. 

Kids and adults will love the Tiki’s massive in-ground pool with views of the Adirondack Mountains. You can also kick back by the large firepit when the sun goes down to enjoy the night air. There’s also a playground for the kids when they’ve had enough time in the water. 

Tiki Resort offers most of the same basics as any other resort on Lake George, but their Polynesian Dinner and Show is what sets it apart. The Waikiki Supper Club runs throughout July and August, featuring hula dancers and a blazing fire act. The menu is just as exciting, offering exotic fares such as coconut shrimp, Kahuna’s Chicken Popo, and Waikiki Crispy Orange Beef. 

Tiki has a somewhat flexible schedule of activities, including its Polynesian show, so make sure to visit their website to ensure you don’t miss out on this unique experience that has made this one of the best Lake George family resorts for decades. 

Sun Castle Resort

Sun Castle is nestled in a 15-acre property that is steeped in history. Erlowest, an 1898 mansion nicknamed Sun Castle, is the core of the resort. Some of the surrounding resort accommodations were constructed in the mid-90s to house those who visited the owner. More accommodations were built when Sun Castle was purchased by a developer in 1999.

Perhaps the history lesson wasn’t necessary, but it’s such a unique factor that sets Sun Castle apart that we had to include it! 

Sun Castle stays true to its origins of providing accommodations for friends and family. Every option, from the one-bedroom villa to a huge two-bedroom townhouse, features either a kitchenette or a full-sized kitchen with stunning views of Lake George and the Adirondack Mountains. 

When you are not actively partaking in resort activities, swimming, or just walking the idyllic grounds, you can’t help but feel as if this is a home away from home. 

Inside the mansion is The Inn at Erlowest. This restaurant provides a fine-dining option for those who want to sit back, eat, and look out onto the lake in the same manner as the mansion’s owners and guests did throughout the decades. The resort’s website provides more information on your dining options, as well as more about Sun Castle’s history. 

Enjoy the Best Lake George Family Resorts

Lake George is home to resorts from simple to extravagant. No matter your vibe or budget, you will be able to find a place to kick back and relax. 

Remember that most resorts only offer their full availability of offerings, including dining services, during the summer months. So, if you’re looking to head to Lake George for cold weather relaxation, we recommend you not only look at websites but also call resorts to ensure you will be completely satisfied with your vacation.