*Featured Photo by Kacey O' Brien.
The beautiful and upscale Bolton Landing, part of the larger Town of Bolton, is just 10 miles north of Lake George Village, and has been welcoming both vacationers and visitors for centuries.
Combining the best of both worlds, Bolton Landing is a wonderful mix of landmarks and hotspots, as well as plenty of outlets for outdoor recreation — whether you’re looking for lake or mountainside.
Adventures await around every corner in this family-friendly community, drawing people with the crystalline waters of Lake George, and welcoming them back for the various sights and attractions taking place.
A Brief Overview of Bolton Landing
Since the late 1800s and early 1900s, Bolton Landing – including the Town of Bolton – has become a popular place to vacation. In fact, many hotels and mansions were built along the shorelines, as well as on several of the featured islands, creating what has been referred to as “Millionaires Row.” Several of these landmarks can still be seen today, including the iconic Sagamore Resort.
Many famous writers, artists, and musicians have visited Bolton Landing, and were as a result, inspired by the breathtaking scenery that the waters of Lake George - as well as the Adirondack Mountains – create. Names include landscape painter Thomas Cole, opera stars Louise Homer and Marcella Sembrich, and even steel sculptor David Smith. You can discover even more local history by visiting the Bolton Historical Museum.
Today, Bolton Landing is quiet, yet refreshingly modern, offering various outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, hiking, and golfing. Visitors will also find restaurants, shops, lodging, and everything they’re looking for during their stay.
Whether you come for a day, a week, or even a lifetime, this inviting community offers a perfect hub in the middle of the Lake George Area.
Things to Do in Bolton Landing
Hiking
With miles upon miles of lush forests and woodlands, Bolton Landing is a hiker’s destination, complete with dozens of trails and preserves.
Many of the trails in Bolton are maintained by the Lake George Land Conservancy, a non-profit organization whose work ensures these pathways are well-kept and accessible for everyone to enjoy. These trails vary in length and difficulty, meaning all levels of hikers are accounted for.
LGLC trails in Bolton Landing include:
Pictured: A Scenic View at The Pinnacle Hiking Trail.
Meanwhile, for the most experienced hikers, consider checking out the Tongue Mountain Range, consisting of five primary peaks and spanning over 18 miles. An access point is available at the Clay Meadows Trailhead nearby. With plenty of scenic outlooks, this is a perfect vacation activity for the outdoor enthusiast. There are also two lean-tos along the trail for hikers to rest if you want to make this a multi-day hike.
*Make sure to watch out for rattlesnakes on the Tongue Mountain Trails. Please do not disturb.
On the Water
One of the most popular activities when visiting Bolton is to explore the waters of Lake George, recognized as one of the cleanest lakes in the world. Whether through swimming or by boat, one must witness the waterfront for themselves.
There are two public beaches in Bolton Landing, both with recreation courts, public docks, pavilions, and, of course, plenty of sand for a full day’s worth of family fun. Rogers Memorial Park features a bandstand and gazebo on the pier for summertime concerts, while Veterans Memorial Park includes a playground, perfect for kids of all ages.
*Veterans Memorial Park is undergoing renovations and is expected to be completed August 2025. The beach is still open to the public. Please check out the Bolton Parks and Trails page for further information.
Pictured: The Gazebo at Rogers Memorial Park.
Boating is a timeless tradition to be had on the waters of Lake George, and it just so happens that Bolton Landing has multiple available marinas, perfect for launching your boat, or perhaps renting one for the day’s adventures. Options include Chic’s Marina, F.R. Smith & Sons Marina, and Norowal Marina. Bolton Boat Rentals is also an excellent option for boat and watersport rentals, as well as guided scenic tours around the lake.
Check out other Bolton Marinas and Rentals here:
If kayaking is more your speed, the Lake George Kayak Company not only offers kayak rentals, but canoes and stand-up paddleboards as well.
Educational and Entertaining
Whether you’re a major supporter of the arts, have a strong desire to learn some local history, or are simply looking for something to do, Bolton Landing has a strong outlet for arts and culture that is certainly worth exploring.
Uncover the history of Bolton, Lake George, and the surrounding area at the Bolton Historical Museum. The building itself has quite the fascinating story, originally built as a church in 1890 before becoming a museum in 1967. Members of the museum and the Bolton Historical Society are proud to present exhibits and collections that showcase the history of the local area and its people.
Honoring the life and legacy of Polish soprano Marcella Sembrich, The Sembrich museum displays a unique collection highlighting her musical legacy. Open to the public since 1937, the building itself was actually Sembrich’s former teaching studio and retreat. Observe exciting exhibits, take a stroll on the enchanting lakeside grounds, and don’t miss out on the annual Gilded Age Summer Music Festival, honoring the musical stylings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries through a series of concerts, lectures, and films.
Discover the natural beauty of the Adirondacks at the Up Yonda Farm Environmental Education Center. With nearly 75 acres of trails, forest, and even a gorgeous view of Lake George, there’s no better place to learn about the nature of the area. The staff present a variety of nature programs throughout the year, complete with exhibits on the native mammals and birds. Guests can also look for wildlife while hiking almost 3 miles of woodland trails, explore the perennial gardens, visit the sugar house, and much more. Up Yonda Farm is a year-round, fun-for-everyone location where you can fully engage with nature. The trails can even be used for snowshoeing during the winter.
Other Bolton Landing Hotspots
Looking for adventure? Then head to Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course —the first aerial adventure course to open in the United States! Get ready to navigate through the awe-inspiring Adirondack treetops with four kids and six adult courses. These courses feature various obstacles, including wobbly bridges, swinging logs, ziplines, and more. Think you have what it takes to reach the end? Adirondack Extreme is also home to the area’s only zipline tour, where participants make their way through the scenic Adirondack forest.
Pictured: Ziplining at Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course.
Originally built in the late 1800s on the shores of Lake George, The Sagamore Resort has stood the test of time to not only become an iconic lodging option, but also a historic landmark in the area. The Sagamore offers a diverse range of classic, yet upscale accommodations, including the original hotel, lodges, suites, residential-style condos, and more. However, perhaps more impressive are the various activities that can be found on the resort’s 70 acres, and are available to the public. Over half a dozen waterfront restaurants, a 19th-century cruise tour, a full-featured spa, a championship 18-hole golf course, and plenty more are in store at this luxury escape.
Bolton Landing Events
The community of Bolton Landing is filled with celebrations all year long. From festivals and concerts to other types of activities.
Check out our Events page to search for a wide selection of themes and interests.
Below are some popular standouts happening in Bolton Landing:
Girlfriends Getaway – An empowering weekend filled with classes, speakers, and fun activities at the Sagamore Resort. Learn and grow while surrounded by the beauty of Lake George and the Adirondack Mountains.
Bolton Summer Concert Series – Come to Rogers Memorial Park every Tuesday evening during July and August for free live music, featuring a variety of local artists and cover bands.
Bolton Live Music Festival – A free all-day music festival at Rogers Memorial Park. Several acts perform throughout the day, while visitors can also explore the local shops and restaurants. A fireworks display is also held at the end.
Dining in Bolton Landing
Bolton Landing is well-known for its waterfront dining options. If you’ve ever wanted to savor a full meal while captivated by lakeside views, then there are definitely opportunities for you to do so here. Whether it’s the sensational seafood at The Algonquin, the seasonal specialties at the Blue Water Manor’s Tavern on the Lake, or perhaps one of the fine dining options at The Sagamore Resort, such as The Pavilion or The LakeHouse, waterfront dining in Bolton Landing is an experience to try at least once.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking to cleanse your palate with a good beverage, Bolton Landing is home to multiple locally-sourced craft beverage producers, creating flavors inspired by the local surroundings. Whether it’s the American Oak Distillery’s whiskeys and bourbons, the brewed beers at Bolton Landing Brewing Company, or the cocktails and spirits served at The Gem, there’s a drink that will cater to your taste buds.
Other local standouts include igloo dining at The Barrel during the winter, live music and entertainment at The Huddle, and a terrific breakfast to start your day at the Sunrise Cafe.
And there’s more where that came from. Check out below for even more Dining Locations in Bolton Landing.
