I'm in the serious planning stages of a family trip (myself, my husband, and our 14-year old son) to the Adirondacks in mid-late July. We plan to take a train from DC to NYC (arrive early and have the afternoon to do a little NYC), spend the night in NYC and take Amtrak's "Adirondack" up the Hudson. We're not going all the way to Montreal but want to stop on the route and stay 3 nights ... somewhere. Now we get bogged down. Lake Placid looks lovely but maybe too sedate for our 14-year old (but great for mom and dad). Lake George looks more his speed but I keep reading "tacky" posts. However there is lots to do, including an amusement park and water parks and that's more Son's speed. One man's tacky is another man's fun, so I don't know what to think.

We're not outdoorsy people -- meaning no hiking or mountain biking, though we walk, a lot, love to be on the water, and husband would like to fish.

How far is a drive from Lake George to Lake Placid -- should we consider both? Are there other locations we should consider on this trip? What would you do?

If Lake Placid is too sedate for your 14 year old, the whole region may be. I like Lake George. The boat ride on the Lake is fun, and the scenery is nice. I can see why people considerate it "tacky', but I think it has a cool retro, corny, 50's feel to it. I liked Lake George when I was a kid. The tacky places appealed to me. I went to Lake Placid as a child too. Other than the trampoline on the first floor of the Marcy Hotel, the area didn't do much for me. Of course as an adult, I'd now prefer Lake Placid.

I live in the Adirondacks and though I'm not a huge fan , I'd say Lake George probably fits the bill with a 14 year old. There is plenty to do to keep him occupied.

It's less than 2 hours between LG and Lake Placid. Maybe a daytrip?? Will you have a car?

Another place to think about is Saratoga which is about 1/2 hour from LG.

Anne, tell me more about Saratoga and what it would be like to stay there.

Staying in Saratoga during racing season is VERY expensive. A nice quaint town with great shops and restaurants.

There are lots of fun things to do in and around Lake Placid and Lake George. LP is a more adult oriented especially if you're not "outdoorsy". Tons of beautiful lakes for swimming and great fishing & "hikes" (or walks) to ponds, waterfalls, etc. Driving is also wonderful - very scenic especially around LP. You can ride the bobsled at Mt Van Hovenberg in LP or the Comet (rollercoaster) in LG. Stay in LG but go check out the northern Adirondacks during your visit. I live in Saratoga area and don't think the area would be as fun for a 14 yr old as LG. Have fun!

Hi Marla

I agree with the previous posters, Saratoga is quaint, lots of little shops etc and during mid-late July -- EXPENSIVE due to the racing season. I still think that a 14 yr old would like LG best.

If you are looking for upscale accomodations, the Sagamore in LG might be for you. Otherwise there are some chains (Ramada, HOJOs) and some smaller, independent places.

If you need more info -- let me know and I'll give you my real email!!