Community Spotlight: Sam Luciano, The Face Behind Fort William Henry
We had the opportunity to speak with Sam Luciano, the president of Fort William Henry Hotel and Conference Center, a family-friendly resort located at the southern end of Lake George. Learn more about Sam's past experiences and his thoughts about the future of the region.
Where Are You From, and What Initially Brought You to Lake George and Fort William Henry?
I’m originally from South Glens Falls. I started my career in Southampton before moving to Texas, where I worked as a manager in a “Supercity” office. But in 1984, I decided to return to the area.
That’s when I got hired as the night auditor at Best Western in Lake George, which began my journey here.
How Has Fort William Henry Grown Since You Started?
When I started on April 4, 1984, it was just the Best Western and Fort William Henry. Back then, we were making about $323,000 in revenue.
Today, we’re at around $12 million. We’ve expanded by acquiring properties like the Travelodge, the Conference Center, and the Carriage House. It’s been quite the journey.
How Has Your Management Style Evolved Over the Years?
I’ve stayed pretty consistent, but I’ve always recognized that there are different management styles for different situations.
I lean toward a democratic process—I believe in collaboration and gathering peer input. It’s about treating people like they matter and creating an environment where everyone feels valued.
What Challenges Do Businesses in the Region Face, and How Are You Addressing Them?
The biggest challenge is the seasonal nature of our business. We’re working hard to become more of a year-round destination.
Warren County’s $3 million investment in Winter’s Dream is a great start. It’s a learning curve—we had a mild winter, and the lake didn’t freeze, so some events were less of a draw.
But we must find ways to utilize the lake year-round and continue adapting to our market’s needs. As the demographics change, especially with more diverse visitors from the NYC area, we’ll need to evolve our offerings, like introducing more diverse restaurants.
If You Had Guests Visiting Lake George, Where Would You Take Them? Any Lesser-Known Gems?
One of my favorite spots is The Docksider. Chris does a great job with the ambiance; it’s a little hidden gem that not everyone knows about. I’d also recommend taking a ride up Prospect Mountain—the views are incredible.
And if you’re up for a drive, head to the Indian Lake area and the Adirondack Experience Museum. But really, anywhere on the lake itself is exceptional. It’s the cleanliness and natural beauty that makes it stand out.
What Local Businesses Do You Admire, and What Changes Have You Noticed in Lake George?
The face of Lake George is changing. Historically, hotels here were family-owned, but now we’re seeing more outside investors.
However, there are still family-owned businesses I admire—like the ones built from the ground up by people like Laura Kohl, the Kenneys, Crocittos, and the Mannix family.
What Makes Lake George Unique Compared to Other Communities?
It’s a close-knit community with unmatched natural beauty. The town’s maintenance is pristine, allowing it to thrive for a long time. The people here care about preserving what we have, which sets Lake George apart.
What’s Your Vision for Spending the $10 Million Grant?
I’d say don’t reinvent the wheel. Focus on improving the area's aesthetics to drive more revenue—bury telephone lines, beautify the main street.
We should also keep developing winter programs like Winter’s Dream and add attractions like the Lumina Walk.
What Do You See for the Younger Generation and the Next 5-10 Years in Lake George?
Lake George will always be a draw, but the market is getting more selective, and rates are increasing. We’ll need to be more efficient in reaching people, especially with advancements like AI. But as long as we stay adaptable, the future looks promising.
Check Out Fort William Henry During Your Next Visit!
Thank you, Sam, for speaking with us and sharing your thoughts about Lake George! Your commitment to the community and adaptability have been integral to the evolution of both the resort and the area.
If you’re coming to Lake George for a trip, check out the excellent lodging and dining options at Fort William Henry.
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