Ultimate Family Road Trip: Exploring the Stunning Lakes of the Adirondacks, NY

Summer is the perfect time to make memories in New York State with your family! Head to the Adirondacks for a special getaway filled with adventures. This trip is perfect for families who love the water—you’ll enjoy all the endless fun! Get ready to take in the gorgeous mountain scenery, swim in a state park, and go river rafting. 

Start 10 miles southeast of Albany on US Route 4 where this scenic route through the Adirondacks offers jaw-droppingly gorgeous views of the Hudson River, Champlain Canal, Lake George, and finally, Lake Champlain. Without stops, the approximate driving time is just under four hours.

Saratoga Spa State Park

Split off from the route for a detour to Saratoga Spa State Park where you can picnic, walk nature trails, or take a dip in the park’s two kid-friendly swimming pools (dates have yet to be announced for 2021). Kids will especially enjoy the kiddie pool and waterslides at Peerless Pool. The stately Victoria Pool was actually built in the 1930s when it was a hot spot (literally—it was the country’s first heated pool) for the rich and famous.

While you’re at it, head to the charming, historic town of Saratoga Springs and feast on locally-sourced, picky-kid-pleasing comfort food at Comfort Kitchen.

Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark

Rides and attractions for all ages are another 30-minute drive away at Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark in Queensbury. This might make a great reward in exchange for good behavior all-trip long, just saying...

Fort Ticonderoga

Photo Credit: Carl Heilman

Any families with kids learning about American history in school should stop the car for a tour of Fort Ticonderoga, the site of a famous American victory during the Revolutionary War. Young students can watch their lessons come to life through reenactments, hands-on activities, specialized tours, demonstrations, and seasonal Fifes and Drums of Fort Ticonderoga performances.

Ausable Chasm

Not only is the natural beauty of the Ausable Chasm—aka “the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks”—mind-boggling, but there is so much to do that you might consider spending the night at their campground or a nearby motel. Families can explore the chasm on foot and raft on the Classic Tour or bike on the 15 miles of mountain bike trails. During the summer, you can also inner tube down the river and even take a lantern light tour at night on Fridays, and Saturdays in May and June, with Wednesdays added in starting in July.

Don't forget to share your summer vacation with us! Share New York State pictures on Instagram and Twitter with #ILoveNY and #iSpyNY and tag us on Facebook!