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6 Reasons Why a Winter Stay at Fort William Henry Is Like No Other

With the ice bars, the winter carnival, and much more, Lake George is the place to be when the weather gets cold and snow is falling. Discover how you can put yourself at the center of all this frostily fantastic action, when you book a winter stay at Fort William Henry Hotel!

fireworks over hotel on the left, hotel beds on the right

Here are seven reasons why you should stay at this classic hotel in the Village this season:

1) Phenomenal Lake Views

view from fort william henry in winter

One of the most celebrated features of Fort William Henry is its stunning location overlooking Lake George. Guests rave about the breathtaking scenery:

  • “The staff is very friendly, the food at the restaurant is delicious, and the whole experience is amazing, nevermind the breathtaking view.”
  • “The property is just beautiful, it provides stunning views.”

Whether you're enjoying a morning coffee in your room or gazing out from the Lakeside Restaurant & Lounge, the views of the (maybe frozen!) lake and surrounding mountains are nothing short of magical.

2) Outdoor Smokeless Firepits

fire pits at fort william henry

Bundle up and enjoy the crisp winter air in style at Fort William Henry’s outdoor smokeless firepits! Perfect for gathering around and getting cozy with friends or family, these firepits offer:

  • Private setups with views of Lake George and the surrounding mountains.
  • A dedicated server to provide food and drinks during restaurant hours.
  • The option to enjoy a traditional s’mores package by the fire.

From setup to cleanup, everything is handled for you, making it a stress-free way to soak in the winter atmosphere.

Firepits can be reserved at $15 per person, plus tax and gratuity, for 1 hour and 45 minutes. Firepits are six people maximum. There’s also a gas firepit table that is first come, first serve.

Get more info on firepit rentals >>

3) On-Site Dining at Lakeside Restaurant & Lounge

people cheersing in restaurant on left, steak with green beans and carrots on the right

The Lakeside Restaurant & Lounge is one of the few year-round restaurants in Lake George, and they offer:

  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner service
  • A cozy fireplace and views of the lake
  • Winter-themed specialty cocktails like the Winterberry Martini

Guests often highlight the delicious menu and ambiance:

  • “Our dinner was beyond delicious.”
  • “Cozy! Fantastic food! Outstanding view!”

Whether you’re savoring a charcuterie board, a hearty cheeseburger, or crab cakes, the restaurant’s warm atmosphere makes it an essential part of your stay.

See the menus >>

4) The Annual Polar Ice Bar

polar ice bar

If you’re planning your visit for late January, don’t miss the Polar Ice Bar! From January 24 to 26, 2025, this outdoor event features:

  • Stunning ice sculptures
  • Specialty cocktails served in a frosty setting
  • Live music from Chuck Kelsey on Friday and The Radio Junkies on Saturday

The Polar Ice Bar is free to attend, and it’s a one-of-a-kind way to embrace the chill of winter while celebrating the season.

5) Weekly Events at Lakeside Restaurant & Lounge

looking inside the Lakeside Restaurant and Bar from the outside

Beyond daily happy hours from 4pm to 6pm, the Lakeside Restaurant & Lounge keeps the winter fun going with:

  • Sports Nights on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with 2 large 86-inch TVs, drinks specials, and happy hour.
  • Live Music Fridays: Unwind with live performances starting at 6pm.

These events add a lively and welcoming vibe to your evenings. Follow them on Facebook to keep up to date on the latest happenings!

Bonus tip: When you're ready to wander off site for more things to do, Lights at the Lake is within walking distance of the hotel. And, Fort William Henry is right off the highway, so you can easily get where you want to go. They also have their own museum right next door...

6) Winter Fun at the Fort William Henry Museum

Dive into history at the on-site Fort William Henry Museum, right next to the hotel, which offers winter-themed activities and exhibits.

Get in on 18th century winter fun with History & Holidays, a family-friendly event taking place through February 23, 2025. Enjoy the perfect blend of historical fun, food, and winter festivities, including guided tours, interactive games, make-and-take crafts, seasonal treats, and shopping.

The museum is open throughout the winter on weekends and select dates. Admission is $19.95 for adults and $14.95 for kids, teens, and students (with valid ID), making it a fun and affordable way to explore local history.

Take Advantage of This Winter Lodging Deal

back of fort william henry in winter

Fort William Henry not only provides everything you need for a memorable winter escape, but they're even offering a Winter's Getaway deal right now: enjoy a 2-night stay at just $189 per night in their Run of House rooms, available Thursday through Sunday, through March 31, 2025 (blackout dates apply).

Book now >>

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woman in hat poses in front water
About the Author: Erin Nudi Erin is an avid reader, yogi, jogger, and hiker living in Queensbury. When she's not perusing books at Northshire, Owl Pen Books, or Beldame Books, you can find her at a local event or park with her family.