*Featured Photo by Kacey O' Brien.
Where the Sacandaga River meets the Hudson River, you'll find the picturesque Town of Lake Luzerne, bordering just to the south of Lake George.
With roots dating back to when Native Americans lived off the land, there's adventure around every corner in this southern Adirondack town.
Whether you consider yourself a local or a vacationer, this small and charming community offers new experiences for everyone.
A Brief Overview of Lake Luzerne
Lake Luzerne has catered to visitors since President Ulysses S. Grant stopped in this town for rest and recreation after the Civil War. The grand old hotels of that time period have been restructured into more modern accommodations such as inns, restaurants, parks, and even museums.
During the early 20th century, dude ranches flooded the sprawling, wooded hills of the area, with some properties, such as the Mountain View Rocking B Ranch, remaining intact and fully functional today. Unfortunately, many of these properties switched hands or were repurposed during the 70’s and 80’s, but a good portion have since been revitalized, a good example being Nettle Meadow’s Hitching Post Tavern. You can learn even more about this town’s historic past by visiting the Hadley-Lake Luzerne Historical Society's Frances Garnar Kinnear Museum.
Today, Lake Luzerne is home to adventures of all types. From whitewater rafting and camping to summer concerts and beach trips. The town even makes for a perfect winter trip with activities like ice fishing or snowmobiling. Both scenic and peaceful, it’s certainly worth the drive if you happen to be in the Lake George Area!
Things to Do in Lake Luzerne
Whitewater Rafting
Embark on some rip-roaring whitewater rafting with the whole family at one of three outfitters based in Lake Luzerne.
With access points to both the Hudson and Sacandaga Rivers, Luzerne makes the perfect base for a rafting adventure. The Sacandaga River is great for beginners, releasing slow-flowing Class I and II rapids. Meanwhile, the Hudson River offers a more experienced challenge, bringing Class III to Class V rapids. Snowmelt in the spring builds giant whitewater and deep pools that daring paddlers love. The summer heat then lowers the water to more manageable levels, creating a perfect group outing.
Check out the Adirondack Adventure Center, Tubby Tubes River Company, and Wild Waters Outdoor Center. All three offer an immersive tour accompanied by highly certified guides.
Horseback Riding
Saddle up and navigate the Adirondack woodlands on horseback with guided horseback riding tours. Guides who know the trails and horses like the back of their hand will ensure that your ride is a safe experience while you observe the scenic forest trails.
Both the Mountain View Rocking B Ranch and Ruggiero’s Public Horseback Riding offer select trail ride packages for various ages and experience levels, creating a customizable outdoor adventure.
Pictured: Horseback Riding at Mountain View Rocking B Ranch.
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, Lake Luzerne has a strong outlet for arts and culture that is certainly worth exploring.
At the Adirondack Folk School, visitors can learn about the arts, crafts, and traditions of the Adirondacks through a wide selection of courses offered year-round. Instructors from around the country share their knowledge and craftsmanship in a variety of subjects such as Adirondack chair building, twig and rustic furniture, caning, ceramic arts, organic gardening, blacksmithing, and so much more. There are classes for varying ages and abilities, so make sure to check it out.
Pictured: Adirondack Folk School - "Stained Glass for Beginners;" Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
Tap into the history surrounding Lake Luzerne by making a stop at the Hadley-Lake Luzerne Historical Society's Frances Garnar Kinnear Museum. The museum is a Victorian home furnished in the style of its day. Historical artifacts and exhibits tell about the Hadley-Luzerne area's history, from summer camps, dude ranches, and grand hotels, to farming, logging, and manufacturing.
Do you hear music? Chances are it’s coming from the Luzerne Music Center! Founded in 1980 by Philadelphia Orchestra cellist, Bert Phillips, and Steinway pianist, Toby Blumenthal, the music center has since been the home for thousands of upcoming musicians from across the world every summer. Concert series and festivals are held throughout the season, featuring renowned guest artists such as the Philadelphia Orchestra, the American String Quartet, and the NYC Ballet Orchestra. Stop by for a free student concert or make the trip for a professional performance at an affordable price.
Other Lake Luzerne Hotspots
Get ready for a beach day at Wayside Beach! This small, quaint public beach comes with plenty of sand, a large parking lot, and even a small launch for canoes or kayaks. Kids will love splashing in the main swimming area, while the more experienced outdoor adventurers can paddle alongside the scenic woodlands.
Come one, come all! The rodeo tradition is alive in the town of Lake Luzerne. The Painted Pony Championship Rodeo has been entertaining families since 1953, and has been recognized as the oldest continuous weekly rodeo in the U.S. A variety of events and competitions take place, including Bull Riding, Steer Wrestling, Barrel Racing, and much more. Don’t forget to grab some Southern-style BBQ, cooked up in the smoke pits and served by the kind and talented staff.
Pictured: Bull Riding at the Painted Pony Championship Rodeo.
A classic combo of mini-golf and ice cream awaits the whole family at Bon’s Ice Cream & Adirondack Golf. At Bon’s, you can enjoy a wide selection of both hard and soft ice cream flavors, as well as flurries, shakes, sundaes, and floats. Meanwhile, their iconic 18-hole mini golf course has golfers face unique obstacles like waterfalls, windmills, and more. Also worth noting is the fact that Bon’s was actually the first ADA-accessible mini golf course created in the United States.
Lake Luzerne Events
Lake Luzerne is a town 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 Lake Luzerne:
Lake Luzerne Food Trucks and Music - Occurring weekly on Wednesday nights throughout July and August at the Benjamin C. Butler Pavilion Park, grab your lawn chairs and tune into a variety of performances from local bands and regional artists. A wide-range of food trucks will also be serving tasty treats.
Pugs & Pumpkins Party - Calling all pug lovers! Dress up your pugs and get ready for a day of family fun. Featuring vendors, a parade, and much more. There's also an assortment of contests and awards — from fastest runner to most creative costume.
Lake Luzerne Holiday Celebration - A town-wide celebration filled with holiday ambiance. Gather around for the traditional tree lighting ceremony, collect some sweets and goodies, and even witness a guest appearance from Santa.
Dining in Lake Luzerne
While small, the town of Lake Luzerne has a handful of eating establishments to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
The family-operated Long Horn Restaurant and Pub features a classic menu, along with weekly specials and specialty sandwiches to keep each and every visit exciting. There are also feature events at the pub, including Trivia Thursdays, live music on the weekends, and more.
A true down-home country store experience awaits you at Harris Grocery & Deli. Here you’ll find a deli with great subs, homemade baked goods, salads, and plenty more. Their location is also a convenient source for campers staying at the neighboring Luzerne State Campground.
Located in a historic hitching post, Nettle Meadow’s Hitching Post Tavern produces and sells gourmet cheese, charcuterie foods, and artisan wares. Participate in a cheese tasting, and try their tavern menu utilizing their award-winning cheeses.
Pictured: Nettle Meadow Hitching Post Tavern and Cheese Shop; Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
Places to Stay in Lake Luzerne
If you’re looking for a more private escape away from the hustle and bustle of Lake George, then you’re in luck. Lake Luzerne provides some gorgeous accommodations for a quaint, yet fulfilling experience.
One of the things Lake Luzerne is perhaps most well known for is its beautiful waterfront properties, delivering a cozy ‘home away from home’ while also offering picturesque views of nearby waterbodies such as the Hudson River, Fourth Lake, or Lake Vanare. Choose from cottages such as the ones at Elms Waterfront Cottages & Lodge, Hide-A-Way Waterfront Cottages, or Pine Point Cottages & Motel. There are also cabin and lodge rentals, such as at Kastner’s on the Lake or Lake Vanare Cabins & Lodge.
Lake Luzerne is also a terrific place to set up camp, with the natural Adirondack wilderness surrounding you. The state-run Luzerne State Campground includes over 170 tent and trailer sites on Fourth Lake, perfect for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. RV and tent sites, as well as camping cabins, can be found at the Lake George KOA, a family-owned property under 200-foot towering pines. Or, if you prefer a more luxurious camping, or ‘glamping,’ experience, Huttopia Adirondacks features large, modern tents spread out over 300 acres of woodlands, complete with a wide selection of amenities and activities.
Other accommodation options include a romantic bed and breakfast in the 19th-century Victorian-style Rockwell Falls Inn, the beachfront suites and studios at Motel Luzerne, and the pet-friendly Luzerne Court Motel.
For even more accommodations, check out below for all Lodging Options in Lake Luzerne.
