For several decades, the Lake George Area—and its location in the Adirondacks—has been widely recognized as a recommended vacation destination for travelers and families of all sizes. Having been brought up in social circles not just across the country, but also internationally, its influence has certainly reached far and wide.

 

However, what if we were to tell you not only has the Lake George Area been visited by millions, but it has also been showcased on television and movie theater screens around the globe? Indeed, you can find a handful of the area’s hotspots and attractions on various hit series and films watched by adoring audiences.

 

Have you ever wanted to vacation where some of your beloved shows and movies have been filmed? Then check out the below shows, and their fan-worthy locations, to add to your travels.

The Real Housewives of New Jersey

Episode: “When Joes Collide” – Season 5, Episode 7

Premiere: July 14, 2013

 

Everyone’s favorite Jersey housewives—and their husbands—have filmed up in Lake George, showcasing their iconic adventures that have resulted in more than a few fights.

 

The hit reality TV show has been broadcast on the Bravo network since 2009, and during their fifth season, they resided on the frozen shores of Lake George for a winter getaway at the luxurious Erlowest.

 

During shooting, the cast spent their time obtaining fishing licenses to go ice fishing out on the lake, cooking in the kitchen at the resort’s four-star restaurant, and overall enjoying all that the accommodations had to offer. However, there was also some intense fighting, including an infamous scene in the Erlowest’s ballroom, as well as behind the scenes.

 

Regardless of the drama, if you’re big fans of certain cast members like Teresa or Melissa, you can also reserve a stay at The Erlowest’s beautiful lakefront castle, complete with decorated suites, award-winning dining, and many available activities on the lake itself.

Succession

Episode: “Vaulter” – Season 2, Episode 2

Premiere: August 18, 2019

 

This critically acclaimed, satirical dark comedy series on HBO, starring famous actors like Kieran Culkin and Nicholas Braun, won multiple Golden Globes and even an Emmy during its run. It also just so happened to film at the Lake George Area’s theme park—the Great Escape.

 

The show, revolving around the family of a media empire, takes a lighter turn in this opening where they celebrate one of the child character’s birthdays, featuring various rides and attractions at the park.

 

Though it’s only a short portion of the episode, it was fantastic to see some of this storied park on television. And whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a special occasion, or even just a delightful family outing, you too can explore The Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor, open seasonally from May through October.

 

And for even more fun, just across the road is the Great Escape Lodge’s Indoor Waterpark, open year-round, and with available rooms and suites perfect for family stays.

Jersey Shore: Family Vacation

Episode: “The Dude Ranch” – Season 2, Episode 21

Premiere: July 18, 2019

 

From the Jersey Shore to the shores of the Hudson River. The sequel to MTV’s beloved “Jersey Shore” saw fan favorites like ‘Snooki’ and ‘JWoww’ saddle up for an authentic dude ranch experience at Stony Creek’s 1000 Acres Ranch. JWoww herself was actually born and raised in Upstate New York, which is what inspired her to plan the trip.

 

Everyone needs a weekend getaway, and that’s just what the cast did at this all-inclusive ranch resort. The episode showed the gang go fishing on the river banks, lodge in one of the cabins, and tell some haunting ghost stories by the campfire.

 

If you’re craving an outdoorsy Adirondack experience, you can also book a stay at 1000 Acres Ranch, and even take part in more available amenities than what was shown in the episode, including:

  • Horseback Riding on property trails
  • Swimming in both outdoor and indoor pools
  • River Tubing and Kayaking
  • Live Entertainment
  • …and much more!

 

If you’re looking for classic ranch vibes with natural beauty surrounding you, then 1000 Acres is just what you’re looking for. The ranch is only 20 minutes away from Lake George Village, and is open seasonally from May through November.

Billions

Episode: “Johnny Favorite” – Season 6, Episode 10

Premiere: March 27, 2022

 

The Sagamore Resort is a highly popular destination spot in the Lake George Area, welcoming guests for over a century. However, not everyone may know that the resort grounds were the filming locations for the Showtime hit drama series, “Billions.”

 

In the season six episode of this New York-based high-stakes narrative—featuring famous actors like Paul Giamatti, Matthew Lillard, and Corey Stoll—the main characters spend a few days on this 70-acre private island. From skeet shooting on the resort’s signature golf course, meditation close to the lake, and even dining at the on-site Club Grill Steakhouse.

 

Chuck Rhoades and friends certainly enjoyed some of what the resort has to offer, and your group can too! In fact, there’s much more to discover on The Sagamore’s expansive property that the episode didn’t have time to showcase.

 

Experience a much-needed spa day with 14 different treatment rooms, dine at one of up to eight on-site bars and restaurants, or take part in the seasonal events that the resort hosts, including their Glacier Ice Bar in January.

Escape at Dannemora

Episode: Episode 7 (Finale)

Premiere: December 30, 2018

 

A scenic landscape perfect for your own getaway. This seven-episode crime drama on Showtime, directed by Ben Stiller, features some spectacular cinematography from Natural Stone Bridges and Caves in Pottersville.

 

Based on the true story of Richard Matt and David Sweat’s escape from a correctional facility in Upstate New York, this limited series follows two escaped inmates on the run. During the opening three-minute scene of the finale, audiences can see the pair at the peak of Catamount Mountain, as they gaze out at the stunning vista of the nearby hills and peaks.

 

If you wish to see this view for yourself, you can also hike the 1.8-mile trail, along with the 4.6-mile trek of Green Hill. Both climbs, located on the Stone Bridge property, are part of the Chester Challenge series of hikes, a true challenge for hiking enthusiasts, and an invitation to observe the beauty of the Adirondacks.

 

The multi-point cave tour of Natural Stone Bridge and Caves is also highly recommended, even by Ben Stiller himself, who stated that the property was “…our favorite location…” for filming.

Ghost Hunters

Episode: “Empire State Haunt” – Season 6, Episode 22

Premiere: November 10, 2010

 

Most fans of the paranormal have probably heard of the Syfy classic, “Ghost Hunters,” but have you seen the episode where they explore Lake George’s Fort William Henry Museum?

 

In this adventure, originally debuting in 2010, the TAPS team—The Atlantic Paranormal Society—explores the haunted legends surrounding the fort, featuring a storied history dating back to the French and Indian War, when the grounds were once occupied by the British. Over the years, there have been reports of hauntings and paranormal experiences, as shown in the episode. From the eerie flickering of the lights to the daunting sounds of footsteps and moving exhibits.

 

Today, you too can go on a Haunted History Tour at Fort William Henry, where a tour guide will share ghost stories that have been passed along over the years and take you through these seemingly haunted grounds at night. Who knows what you may discover.

 

Meanwhile, if you prefer to stray away from all things spooky, there are other available tours and demonstrations at the fort, held frequently year-round. Also considering booking your stay at the Fort William Henry Hotel next door for lovely, non-haunted year-round accommodations and on-site dining.

Puppy Bowl

Episode: Puppy Bowl XVII - Current

Premiere: 2021 - Current

 

A fun fact for all animal lovers—Animal Planet’s fur-tastic sporting event, the annual Puppy Bowl, has been filmed annually at Glens Falls’s Harding Mazzotti Arena since 2021.

 

Broadcast each year on Super Bowl Sunday, a collection of adorable, and adoptable, puppies are brought out to play in a series of games and competitions. This feel-good event helps raise awareness about rescuing puppies and the potential of giving them good, loving homes.

 

From its initial conception back in 2005, the specials were filmed at a studio in New York City. However, when the need for proper social distancing protocols arrived during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the cast and crew relocated to the Harding Mazzotti Arena in the heart of downtown Glens Falls. In fact, the new choice of venue was so well-liked; it has been the home for the bowl ever since.

 

When not being host to cute and cuddly canines, this multi-purpose arena presents the Adirondack Thunder Hockey home games from October through May, and organizes a variety of events and performances throughout the year.

Radium Girls

Premiere: April 27, 2018

 

The filming of a vintage era in the timeless locations of Lake George Village and the City of Glens Falls.

 

The 2018 movie, Radium Girls, starring actresses Joey King and Abby Quinn, shot several scenes in the village, with segments including known locations like Usher Park and the Wiawaka Center for Women. Even Canada St. and Lawrence St. were blocked off from traffic temporarily due to filming. Meanwhile, in Glens Falls, the now artist-filled Shirt Factory, once a successful production plant, played historical significance relevant to the production.

 

Unfortunately, the film’s story carries a tragic tone, depicting the horrid working conditions of women factory workers in the early 20th century. This drama specifically showcases the main characters, who used radioactive paint for the luminous dials of watches and other instruments.

 

Though the subject matter is rather dark, it serves as a cultural milestone for the eventual improvements of women’s rights. Today, in the 21st century, everyone is welcome to visit the locations shown in the movie, and possibly reflect on how far we’ve come for the safety and humanity of all workers.

Honorable Mentions

Of course, the Lake George Area and the surrounding Adirondacks have been referenced in many more instances of popular culture. Check out these well-known and highly watched examples.

 

Lake George

  • Seinfeld –  “The Revenge” Season 2, Episode 7
  • The Sopranos  - “Long Term Parking” Season 5, Episode 12
  • The Undoing – “The Bloody Truth” Season 1, Episode 6

 

Adirondacks

  • This is Us –  “Three Sentences” Season 1, Episode 13
  • Mr. Robot – Season 1, Episode 4 and Season 2, Episode 2
  • Cheers – “The Coach’s Daughter” Season 1, Episode 5 and “Rebound: Part 1” Season 3, Episode 1
  • Kevin Can Wait – “Kevin’s Bringing Supper Back” Season 1, Episode 11
  • Friends – “The One in Barbados” Season 9, Episode 23
  • Aqua Teen Hunger Force – “PDA” Season 1, Episode 16

 

And one last special mention goes to the 1992 film, “The Last of the Mohicans.” While not shot in the Lake George Area or the Adirondacks, this action and romance movie is well known for its portrayal of the conflicts that took place at Fort William Henry during the French and Indian War.

Sources

Special thanks to information found from these outside sources: