I moved up to Lake George almost nine years ago, and the wonder and beauty of this area still haven’t worn off. Every season has some kind of special charm to offer—but none are as precious to me as the quiet time before the peak summer season. If I were you, this is how I’d spend a spring day on the shores of the Queen of American Lakes before the post-Memorial Day crowds descend.
9am: Coffee & Croissants, With a View
Start your day with a shoreline stroll that kicks off at Million Dollar Beach and loops up the sidewalk through town. Head to Madeline 1982, a charming French bakery, for a hot coffee and a pain au chocolat. If you want to extend the walk, set out on the Warren County Bikeway, which begins right near Battlefield Park and continues south through miles of idyllic woods. It reopens for foot traffic in April.
11am: Shopping Is Always in Season
In early spring, the village is just waking up. Most stores are either still shuttered for winter, or their operating hours are limited. Rainbow Ranch Market, which pulls off an aloha-meets-Adirondacks aesthetic with well-curated artisan jewelry, home décor, books, and more, is one shop that’s open five days a week through the off-season. While Rainbow Ranch is located in the Lake George Outlets, you can stay in the Village and shop at Peak Season (open on weekends), where shelves are stocked with all kinds of lake-life treasures with a contemporary Adirondack spin.
Noon: Lunch in a Log Cabin
It feels counterintuitive to head away from the water, but trust me, this meal is worth it. The Olde Log Inn is nestled a few minutes outside the Village in a homey log cabin. The chronically full parking lot is a good indicator of its popularity. The food has never failed me, and the vibe is always inviting. I dream about their Oriental Chicken Salad for weeks after a visit.
2pm: Northward, Ho!
After lunch, head north to Bolton Landing. Bradley’s Lookout Trail makes for an easy hike that perches you at a 1,000-foot summit with an expansive view of surrounding peaks and islands. Park at the Pinnacle Preserve and follow the blue trail—you’re 0.8 miles away from an Insta-worthy photo op. Afterward, head to Bolton Landing’s Rogers Memorial Park to dip your feet in the icy lake water.
6pm: Barbecue, Baby
What’s a good meal without good lighting and the right energy? This is why The Gem is my go-to. Inside, the atmosphere is cozy and casual, mountain-y but modern, and thoughtfully outfitted with retro nods like nostalgic ADK decor and fresh takes on throwback cocktails. It’s a smokehouse, so food skews toward BBQ (choose your own sauce!) and comfort classics.
8pm: Before You Go…
One last stop! On your way back home, pop into The Inn of Lake George’s Lobby Bar, which is intimate and decked out with warm, old-school touches like tin ceiling tiles. I had the best ginger mule in my recent memory here. It’s a great place to cozy up and recap the highlights of your day—and plan your next trip back.
