Ready to trade the usual itinerary for lake views, small-town discoveries and open-road scenery? Washington County offers Upstate NY day trips perfect for outdoor adventurers, history lovers, foodies and families alike. All within easy reach of Lake George, Saratoga Springs and Vermont.

This guide moves from Lake George’s eastern shore through central and southern Washington County, highlighting places to hike, paddle, eat, shop and explore. Choose one region for an easy day out, or combine several stops into a longer scenic drive.

Northern Day Trip Ideas Along Lake George’s Eastern Shore

While the western shore of Lake George is mostly within Warren County, Washington County makes up most of the eastern shore. Starting from Kattskill Bay and Pilot Knob, Washington County runs north almost all the way to Ticonderoga. This north-south trip takes about an hour, and there are some great stops along the way, making it perfect for anyone looking for scenic Upstate NY day trips.

Kattskill Bay & Pilot Knob, New York

Located on the southeastern tip of Lake George, Kattskill Bay is a small hamlet in the Town of Queensbury in Warren County and in the Town of Fort Ann in Washington County.

• Kattskill Bay is home to Fischer’s Marina, which is a great option if you want to rent a boat on Lake George.
• At the northern end of Kattskill Bay is YMCA Camp Chingachgook. Drop the kids off for Camp Chingachgook’s day camp program.
• If you don’t want to go too far from Kattskill Bay, check out Pilot Knob Preserve. This local preserve offers a short hike for beginners that leads to a gazebo and views of the lake.

North of Kattskill Bay is the popular Shelving Rock Area. You can spend time hiking the trails at Shelving Rock, relaxing at nearby Log Bay, or heading west to Sleeping Beauty Mountain.

Huletts Landing, New York

Located on the quiet eastern shore of Lake George, Huletts Landing offers a peaceful alternative to the lake’s busier communities. Spend a summer day at Huletts Park, a free public beach with a swimming area, picnic tables, grills, a playground, sports courts and a dock for canoes and kayaks. Because hours and lifeguard availability are seasonal, check current information before visiting.

Want to stay longer? Huletts on Lake George offers family cottages and classic Adirondack recreation, including a nine-hole golf course, boating, tennis and an ice cream parlor. It’s an ideal choice for visitors seeking an old-school Lake George getaway surrounded by water and mountains.

Putnam, New York

Bordered by Lake George and Lake Champlain, Putnam is a rural northern Washington County community known for its natural scenery, wildlife and outdoor recreation. Its quiet roads and location between the two lakes make it a rewarding detour for hikers, birders and travelers exploring the region by car.

The Lake George Land Conservancy’s Sucker Brook Preserve protects more than 1,000 acres and offers over six miles of trails. Depending on the route, visitors can discover views across Gull Bay, forested hillsides, streams, beaver ponds and an active great blue heron rookery. The preserve is open year-round from dawn to dusk, although its parking areas are not plowed during winter.

Central Washington County: History, Museums & Small Towns

As you move further away from the eastern shore of Lake George, you’ll find even more to experience in the rest of Washington County, NY! Central Washington County runs from Whitehall down to Granville and Hudson Falls.

Whitehall, New York

At the southern end of Lake Champlain, Whitehall combines waterfront scenery with an important place in American history. Known as the Birthplace of the U.S. Navy, the community invites visitors to explore its maritime and canal heritage at the Skenesborough Museum or tour historic Skene Manor during its seasonal hours.

For time outdoors, head to South Bay for fishing, paddling and wildlife watching against a scenic mountain backdrop. Whitehall is also one of several fascinating stops along the historic canals of Washington County.

Looking for something unexpected? Discover Whitehall’s long-standing Bigfoot tradition and other weird and wonderful things to do in Upstate New York.

Granville, New York

Near the Vermont border, Granville offers a mix of industrial history, small-town attractions and outdoor recreation. Known as the Colored Slate Capital of the World, the community’s quarrying heritage comes to life through exhibits and programs at the Slate Valley Museum.

Continue exploring at the Pember Library and Museum, where natural-history collections offer an unexpected stop for curious visitors and families. Granville also has local shops and eateries, parks, a recreation trail and access to the Mettawee River, while the surrounding countryside offers farms, seasonal produce, scenic drives and even a small zoo!

Fort Ann, New York

Known as Washington County’s gateway to the Adirondacks, Fort Ann is a convenient day-trip stop between Lake George and the Champlain Canal.In fact, it’s only a 15-minute drive from the Lake George Outlets!

Learn about the community’s role in the American Revolution at the Battle of Fort Ann Heritage Site, then stop for a locally made craft beverage or a meal in the village.

Fort Ann also provides access to some of the area’s most memorable outdoor experiences. Nearby trailheads lead to Buck Mountain, Sleeping Beauty Mountain and other Lake George hikes, while the canal, ponds and waterways offer opportunities for paddling and fishing. Families can add a round of miniature golf at Hillbilly Fun Park to the itinerary, then treat themselves to some ice cream there afterward.

Hudson Falls, New York

Located just east of Glens Falls, Hudson Falls is the central village of Kingsbury and an easy addition to a day trip from Lake George. Its historic downtown offers local dining, independent businesses and entertainment at The Strand Theatre, where visitors can check the schedule for concerts, films and live performances.

For a walk or bike ride, follow the Feeder Canal Towpath Trail to see historic canal features, including the Five Combined Locks. Visitors can also stop for locally produced cheese, yogurt and other treats at the Argyle Cheese Farmer.

Drive Down To Southern Washington County: Farms, Arts & Scenic Trails

The southern section of Washington County is just as scenic as the rest of it. You’ll discover plenty of farmland and small communities as you travel through this rural area. To the west is the City of Saratoga Springs, and to the east is the Vermont border.

Argyle, New York

South of Hudson Falls, Argyle offers the quiet country roads, farms and open landscapes that define rural Washington County. The community makes a peaceful scenic-driving stop for visitors looking to slow down and experience the county’s agricultural character.

Nearby Cossayuna Lake provides opportunities for boating, paddling and fishing, with public access available at the Cossayuna Boat Launch. Along the way, watch for farm stands, seasonal products and broad views of the surrounding hills and countryside. If you’re looking for a place to stop at, check out the Locust Grove Farm Smokehouse & Country Store for a wide variety of local products, shop a huge used book selection at Owl Pen Books, or go apple-picking at McWhorter’s Orchard in the fall months!

Greenwich, New York

Within easy reach of Saratoga Springs, Greenwich makes a rewarding food-and-culture stop. Explore its walkable Main Street to enjoy local dining and craft beverages or shop for locally made goods!

Greenwich is also home to the Washington County Fairgrounds, which holds several fun events to throughout the year. This includes the annual Fair, as well as the Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival each September and a summer Gymkhana series!

Greenwich is surrounded by the famous Battenkill Valley, which includes over 65+ miles of rolling terrain along local farms and communities in southern Washington County. If you’re looking for a scenic bike ride, the Battenkill Valley is the place to go. At its heart is a world-famous fly-fishing hotspot: the Battenkill river. In fact, this area is so scenic the annual ‘America’s Queen of the Classics’ cycling race, Battenkill, is held here each spring!

Salem, New York

Continue east to Salem, a historic village known for its creative community, small-town character and surrounding farmland. Explore the outdoor sculptures, studios and scenic grounds at Salem Art Works and Cary Hill Sculpture Park, browse local shops and galleries, or check for programs and performances at the Historic Salem Courthouse.

Beyond the village, country roads lead to covered bridges, farms and beautiful rural scenery, including that around Battenkill Valley Creamery‘s ice cream parlor and Gardenworks Farm‘s u-pick garden.

Cambridge, New York

South of Salem, Cambridge combines a walkable historic village with arts, shopping, local food and outdoor recreation. Browse Battenkill Books and other independent businesses, attend a performance or community program at Hubbard Hall, or visit the Cambridge Valley Farmers Market during its season. Nearby, Lake Lauderdale, covered bridges and scenic country roads offer more ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Want a closer look at the village? Explore the shops, restaurants and history featured in our Cambridge Main Street guide.

More Fun Options For Upstate NY Day Trips

Still looking for Upstate NY day trip ideas? Discover some of the county’s most weird, wonderful and unique attractions, or find Washington County stops worth adding to a larger Upstate NY road trip.

Starting from Lake George? Follow our See, Taste, Explore day trip from Lake George. Coming from Saratoga Springs? See how you can escape the city in 30 minutes from Saratoga Race Course. You can also explore four seasons of adventure and charm in Washington County for ideas suited to the time of year.

Ready to put your day together? Use our Trip Builder to find attractions, food, shopping and experiences throughout Washington County.