With a beautiful Memorial Day Weekend on the horizon, the Village of Lake George is looking to jump-start its summer tourism season.
“For decades, what you would see is thousands of people all around,” said Gina Mintzer, the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce’s executive director. “Every hotel full and mini-golf course full, and you know, hundreds of boats out and about out on the lake.”
But scattered around the village, you’ll find a lot of signs reminding people to remain socially distant and to wear masks.
“You know, the nice thing is with Lake George Village, Warren County, there is plenty of space to spread out,” said Warren County Sheriff Jim LaFarr. “A family can come into town, find their little piece of real estate, and have no problem socially distancing.”
Business leaders from around the region say there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy this holiday weekend, including hiking and biking trails.
“We do want people to understand that we’re here and all of our natural beauty that has always been here is here for them,” said Warren County Tourism Director Joanne Conley.
Most hotels, motels, cabins, and resorts are opening, but with capacity restrictions. Restaurants and local breweries with the ability to offer curbside pick-up and or delivery will be open.
“I would say that everybody here knows how important it is to keep our guests and our customers safe and happy, but also just as importantly, our employees and our community,” said Adirondack Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Michael Bittel.
Million Dollar Beach and other beaches across the state will reopen Saturday for the weekend through Monday, with restrictions in place. In Lake George, only 500 people will be allowed.
“The minute you come here, we want you to wear your mask, we want you to socially distance, and be responsible,” said Mintzer. “And if you have had any symptoms, we want you to stay home.”
With a smaller but sizable crowd expected to be out and about, law enforcement will have additional staff on hand to ensure people are following the rules.
“We’ve received a number of complaints, and every time we do, an officer will respond, have a conversation with people, and raise awareness,” explained LaFarr.
“We’ve got courtesy and love up here,” said Bittel. “We’d really like to have the same when you come on up here and show that courtesy, love, and responsibility.”
Memorial Day parades, though, have been canceled in an effort to avoid a large gathering of 10 or more people. Lake George is hosting a small dedication ceremony on Saturday at noon in Shepard Park.