Lake George hotels

The Inn at Erlowest sits on the western shores of Lake George, just two miles from the city center. The crown jewel of the property is a magnificent stone castle that dates back to 1989 and was once the summer home of the Governor of New York.

Today, the Queen Anne-style castle has been transformed into an inn that has become one of the best hotels in Lake George. What I love about this property is that it has adults-only lodging and family-friendly options.

Only adults can stay in the castle, which offers a series of luxurious, lakefront suites with views of Lake George. Families can book one of the property’s villas or townhouses, which are located by the lake for easy access to activities. All guests can enjoy dining in Shepard’s at Erlowest, the hotel’s 4-diamond restaurant.

If you prefer to stay in the heart of the action book a room at The Inn of Lake George. The property is right in the middle of the village, a short two to three-minutes’ walk to the lake itself.

The property is small and charming, making its mark as one of the standout boutique hotels in Lake George. There are just 10 thoughtfully designed guestrooms, each with a private bath.

My favorite feature of this adults-only hotel is the lobby bar, which has soft lighting and a cozy feel complemented by dark furnishings and enchanting ceiling moldings.

While not technically in the village, I included The Queensbury Hotel on the list because of its many perks. Just 20 minutes south of Lake George it is a beloved Glens Falls hotel.

For starters, it’s a truly historic property with a story that dates back to 1926. That means the hotel has been welcoming guests for nearly 100 years (that should tell you something about the quality of service you can expect). For all its history, The Queensbury Hotel has a contemporary feel, with 123 renovated guestrooms to choose from.

Another of the factors that makes The Queensbury one of the most unique hotels around is the fact that in the summer you can dine al fresco, while in the winter, they set up igloos for one-of-a-kind igloo dining.

Just down the road from The Inn at Erlowest, on the western shores of Lake George, sits The Lodges at Cresthaven. The property takes great pride in its location, which is right on the edge of Lake George.

Although Cresthaven is considered a lodge, with each residence offering one to two bedrooms and full kitchens, it remains one of the best hotels in Lake George. As a mother, I love the fact I can put my daughter to bed in a closed-off room and cook in the kitchen instead of eating out. As an added plus, if you visit in the fall or winter, you can utilize the in-room gas fireplace.

The lodge is set on 11 acres, with amenities for the whole family, including a private sandy beach, a playground, an indoor-outdoor pool, and a handful of ball courts.

I love the fact the Adirondack Diamond Point Lodge off Lake George is family owned – and that’s something you can feel throughout the property. The owners have been busy making sure it remains one of the best hotels in Lake George by adding new lodging types and amenities like a sauna and picnic pavilion.

There are several room types at the Adirondack Diamond Point Lodge, but I suggest booking one of their new offerings – particularly the standalone log cabins, which are set in the woods and almost make you feel like you’re camping (albeit with a fireplace, full kitchen, and Wi-Fi). Select cabins are pet-friendly and every guest has access to the lovely heated pool and the brand new year-round sauna.

The Courtyard by Marriott Lake George is one of the few hotels on this list that’s located in the heart of Lake George village. There’s nothing like waking up and being able to walk through downtown in search of a coffee and baked goods. For that reason alone, the Courtyard is among the best hotels in Lake George.

That said, since the Courtyard has its own restaurant (which serves breakfast), you can also wander down to Charlie’s Bar and Kitchen in your robe without having to leave the hotel.

The rooms at the Courtyard are clean and contemporary but basic. If you’re looking for that wow factor, request a room with views of Lake George or head up to the hotel rooftop which overlooks the lake.

Just south of the village of Lake George is the Adirondack area’s Holiday Inn. The property brands itself as being extremely family-friendly, and while it’s not directly on the lake, the famous Million Dollar Beach is an easy walk from the hotel.

My favorite thing here is the surprisingly large pool area. There are a series of indoor, outdoor, and kiddie pools, along with hot tubs. And, as you might expect from a family-friendly hotel, the Holiday Inn also has a playground and sports courts, along with a mini golf park.

At this resort-style property, you’ll also be treated to free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center, and on-site dining. Plus, as an added perk, kids eat free – just another reason this is one of the best hotels in Lake George for families.

The clean, modern Home2 Suites is technically located in the neighboring town of Queensbury. But I included it in this round-up because it’s a great option if you’re looking for an affordable nightly rate and easy access to the lake.

The Home2 Suites is a 10-to-15-minute drive from the shores of Lake George and Million Dollar Beach. This hotel is a standout when it comes to accommodating all types of travelers, which I appreciate as I’ve found many properties in or around Lake George focus on either families or couples.

The Home2 Suites, however, has pet-friendly rooms for animal-loving visitors and the option to book connecting rooms if you’re embarking on a multi-generational trip and want to be close while ensuring you have your own space. Each room has a private kitchen and breakfast and Wi-Fi are free.

Like the Home2 Suites, the Country Inn & Suites is located just down the road from Lake George in the town of Queensbury. The added 10-minute drive that it takes to get to the shores of Lake George means that room rates will be a bit lower than what you’ll find at hotels set right on the lakefront.

The country-style building gives the hotel a warm, welcoming feel that some of its competitors lack – plus it's located just off Interstate 87, making it easy to get to and from Lake George.

For me, a key factor that makes this one of the best hotels in Lake George is the free hot breakfast each morning. I’m a sucker for the Country Inn & Suites’ signature waffles – a must-try if you’re new to the brand.

The Lake George Hampton Inn & Suites is just south of downtown Lake George village. While just out of town, the property is still walking distance to Million Dollar Beach and the iconic, crystal clear waters of Lake George.

In the winter, the property offers something unique: snowmobile trails that run right outside the hotel, allowing snow, motor, and outdoor enthusiasts easy access to the clean air and open spaces the Adirondacks are known for.

But what sold me on the Hampton Inn & Suites is the fact that it’s comfortable and affordable, and has all the amenities you’d expect from an overnight stay. Perks include an indoor pool, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary hot breakfast. Plus, at this property, parking is free and dogs are allowed to join in on the fun.