‘Tis the Season for Ice Bars
Looking for a cool place for a cocktail? Find out why Lake George is the hot spot for ice bars in the ADK.
The Sagamore Resort, Bolton Landing, NY
Why do we think it’s a great idea to sit outside in the freezing cold on a block of ice and consume beverages that lower our body temperature – thus, hastening hypothermia?
While you’re pondering that, we’re going to head over to Lake George and have a cocktail at one of the fun ice bars that seem to pop up each winter about this time. Here’s the itinerary we’re following.
NOTE: Please remember to imbibe responsibly and if you can’t appoint a designated driver, stay home.
The Sagamore Resort
We’ll start in Bolton Landing at The Sagamore Resort. Each year they construct a crystal wonderland on their terrace overlooking Lake George. We must admit, if the weather cooperates, no ice sculpture can compete with a winter sunset on Lake George.
However, The Sagamore certainly tries. First, they construct an outdoor cocktail lounge made entirely of ice — the bar, barstools, tables, chairs and even sofas. It takes over 18,000 pounds to make the frozen magic happen.
Photo courtesy The Sagamore Resort
Their ice sculptures are among the most artistic you’ll see in the area. This year’s theme is “Arctic Wild,” so prepare to see igloos, penguins and polar bears. Oh, my!
The Ice Bar will be open for two weekends — January 20 & 21 and 27 & 28, on Fridays from 4 pm to 10 pm and Saturdays from noon to 10 pm, with fireworks on both nights at 9:45.
You don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to visit, but you do have to pre-purchase a ticket ($30 per person) if you’re not staying there.
NOTE: If you’re the designated driver, we suggest you skip the ticket for the ice bar and have your compatriots pitch in for you to have a massage at The Sagamore’s spa while they booze it up at the ice bar.
The Gem
Carve your own cubes at The Gem
This relative newcomer to the Bolton Landing scene is bringing the Brooklyn Hipster to Bolton. We’ll reserve judgment on that (for now).
What we do like is the cool vibe at this place. Their ice bar features delicious concoctions from their master mixologists (they seem to know their way around a bottle of booze).
In fact, they will allow you to chisel your own ice cubes off of a crystal-clear block of ice for a very hand-crafted Old Fashioned. It doesn’t get more artisanal than that.
The ice bar is open January 20 and 21, as well as from January 27 until Sunday the 29th. No reservations or special tickets are required.
Adirondack Brewery
Let’s head south to Lake George Village for the coolest celebration since last weekend. Adirondack Pub & Brewery hosts its epic event, Funky Ice Fest, on the last two weekends of January.
Chill out in an ice-filled atmosphere and explore their hand-carved sculptures. Even better? Enjoy your favorite craft beer or a signature cocktail at one of several icy bars as classic funk hits spin on the DJ's turntable. Click the link to learn more about their BYOV policy.
We love that Funky Ice Fest is family-friendly – kids and adults alike can enjoy awesome games, delicious food specials, plus access to Uber/Lyft for safe travels. Plus, the best part? Admission's freeeee!
The Lagoon Bar & Grill
Located directly on the shoreline in Lake George Village, The Lagoon’s ice bar starts the last weekend of January and continues through February during Lake George Winter Carnival (more on that later).
Check out ice sculptures, a bean bag toss (made of ice), and warm up with The Lagoon’s soups and chili.
The ice bar features a fire pit and is a great place to enjoy your favorite drinks or hot beverage.
Its location lakeside makes it a great spot on Saturday evenings in February for front-row seats to the Lake George Winter Carnival fireworks.
Wherever you choose to go, dress warm, don’t freeze your keister and have fun!
Know of other ice bars in the ADK? Drop us a line at info@adktaste.com.
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