Discovering the Sagamore: A Family Escape to the Adirondacks
Family travel isn’t just about visiting new places; it’s about creating those magical moments that our kids will look back on with fondness. These experiences are the foundation of lifelong memories and learning, making history and geography come alive. For us, our love for travel was kindled by our annual trips to Disney World. Each visit ignited our imaginations, thanks to Disney’s storytelling and creativity.
The true explosion of my travel passion happened at 17 when we ventured beyond Disney's magic to London and Paris. As adults, my siblings and I laugh in both embarrassment and amusement remembering our reaction to seeing Europe for the time: “It looks just like Epcot!” It did but obviously better. That trip was a pivotal moment for me, transforming my curiosity into an unquenchable desire to explore the world.
As adults with many more non-Disney trips under our belts, we now know the magic is everywhere and are inspired to help our kids and others see that. We love Disney parks and take our kids there, but we also want them to explore and enjoy the magic of the real world, not just facades and rides that replicate the places that inspired Walt Disney and the Imagineers. We balance the Disney experiences with non-Disney adventures. Where as I knew only Disney as a kid, my dream is to watch my kids walk through Disney getting excited everytime they spot something that they’ve seen the real version of.
The Sagamore: A Long-Awaited Escape
I first learned about The Sagamore 21 (!!) years ago from Samantha Brown's Travel Channel show, “Great Hotels.” I was completely enamored by the beauty of the resort, the history and the serenity of her experience. Eric and I once drove past it on the way home from a camping trip and stopped to see it. We always wanted to return for a proper vacation but found it hard to justify the time and budget. It's close enough for a long weekend but still a 4-hour drive from the New York City area without traffic. While not the most expensive resort we've ever stayed in, it's a luxury resort with rates to match, making it pricey enough to make you weigh your options before booking, often comparing it to destinations further afield that seem like more of an escape.
For this Memorial Day weekend, we needed a getaway that was very much the opposite of Disney or the bustling city vacations where we tend to pack an agenda with exploration and miles of walking, never stopping to relax. After a tough spring, saying a sad goodbye to our family dog and juggling an overwhelmingly chaotic schedule, we desperately needed a break. Though we had fun at Disney in April, it wasn’t the relaxing escape we needed due to insane crowds and some fun cases of perfectly time vacation stomach flus. Planning last minute for the holiday weekend, our options were limited and needed to be strategic. We needed a place that still had availability and where we could ideally avoid the busiest holiday-weekend traffic hotspots (Jersey Shore, Cape May, Cape Cod). The Sagamore emerged as a perfect solution.
Despite some hesitation due to mixed reviews and limited photos online, we decided to book. Our mission: sit, relax, recharge, and let the kids run. Washington DC was tempting, but we knew it would turn into a marathon of museum visits and walking. The Sagamore promised a genuine vacation.
The kids had a blast running, playing, rolling down hills and just enjoying uninterrupted family time.
Lessons Learned: A Preview of Our Sagamore Experience
Our weekend at the Sagamore was nothing short of magical. It’s a place that transports you away from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to refocus on what’s important. The Sagamore, for my family and others staying there, isn’t simply a high-end resort that people stay at for an instagram shot or street cred to brag about to their friends. I observed very quickly that there were actually very few people with their phones out. A stark contrast to highly touristy places where instagramers and over-sharers capture every millisecond of their time, missing the actual point and experience.
Looking out towards Lake George from the staircase leading down from the porch.
The Sagamore feels like it takes you back in time. It’s a blend of rich history and modern comforts, a place where you can truly relax and reconnect. While it’s by far one of the best family resorts we’ve ever stayed at, you don’t need to be a family to come here. It’s a great long-weekend destination for couples, a girls weekend or even a solo traveler.
Before diving into the detailed review of our stay at the Sagamore, we want to share some key insights and lessons learned from our visit. These takeaways will give you a preview of why we fell in love with this historic resort and why we’re eager to return. Our honest review aims to inspire you to add the Sagamore to your list of dream destinations, knowing exactly what to expect and why it's such an amazing destination.
1. Its not about the rooms.
The rooms aren’t luxurious, but they’re comfortable and functional. If you go down the rabbit hole of past traveler reviews you’ll trip over a few that talk about the rooms being outdated and not worth the price. I won’t say they’re wrong. If you’re used to diamond luxury resorts, adjust your expectations. But if you’re looking to justify the rate by the level of luxury in your room you’ve missed the point. The real charm lies beyond the room.
2. Pictures Truly Don’t Do It Justice.
The property’s beauty is expansive and sensory. No photo can capture the feeling of stepping out from the lobby and looking over Lake George. I tried and eventually gave up. We took pictures for our family but no camera or gopro can capture the magic of expansive hotel and surrounding settings. It’s just beautiful and you’ll have to trust us vs. looking for pictures to understand.
3. Disconnect to Reconnect.
Spending too much time taking pictures and videos misses the point. The true magic is in soaking up the experience without a screen. For families like ours juggling full time jobs, packed kids schedules and never enough time, it’s such a gift to have the perfect balance of activities to do and nothing to do - together! Transported to a simpler time, we took walks, played mini-golf and ping-pong, sat and chatted, made s’mores and all felt the joy and relaxation of a slower pace. There’s no way to describe how important and wonderful that can be. If you’re trying to google to find out what there is to do at the Sagamore, the answer is simply more than enough and nothing at all — both in the most perfect way.
The History and Charm of the Sagamore
Experiencing a historic, family-friendly hotel like the Sagamore is truly special. It allows you to step back in time and enjoy a blend of rich history and modern comforts, making it an ideal destination for families.
The Sagamore Resort is not just a beautiful place; it’s a landmark with a rich history. Established in 1883, the resort has been a staple in the Adirondacks for over a century. The original hotel was built by Myron O. Brown and several prominent summer residents of the area who saw the potential for a grand hotel on Green Island. Named after a local Native American chief, the Sagamore was designed to attract wealthy guests from the major cities of the Northeast.
The resort has undergone several renovations and reconstructions, especially after a few fires in the early 20th century. The current main hotel building was reconstructed in 1930 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Sagamore has consistently been recognized for its excellence in hospitality, receiving accolades from travel authorities and publications. It is a member of Historic Hotels of America, an official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which recognizes hotels that have maintained their historical integrity, architecture, and ambiance.
The Sagamore today.
What makes the Sagamore truly special is its blend of historic charm and modern luxury. The resort has managed to preserve its grand, old-world atmosphere while offering contemporary amenities and services that meet the expectations of today’s travelers. This unique combination makes the Sagamore a perfect destination for those looking to experience the elegance of a bygone era without sacrificing comfort and convenience.
Our Detailed Review: What to Expect at the Sagamore
The Enchanting Entry and Lobby
The entry and lobby of the Sagamore are nothing short of charming and beautiful. The first set of French doors feels like stepping into a time machine, leading you through small entry passages adorned with floral wallpaper and tiled floors. As you pass through the second set of French doors, the lobby opens up into a beautiful, warm, and bright living-room-like space. There are multiple fireplaces, comfortable places to sit and relax, and our kids loved the life-size plush polar bears. The whole back wall is lined with windows that overlook the patio, and just beyond it, the lush lawn and sparkling Lake George. While we were there in the summer, we imagined it would be a lovely place to sit with a glass of wine during a cool fall evening or with a book on a snowy winter day.
Grounds and Scenery
The lobby opens onto a porch with fresh Adirondack air and stunning views of the lake. The expansive lawn, infinity pool, and surrounding beauty make you feel worlds away from home. The larger property is equally gorgeous with its lush greenery and flowers. Walking around the resort feels like stepping back in time, with historic architecture and beautifully manicured gardens at every turn.
Activities
There’s a wealth of screen-free fun. The rec center is fantastic, with a variety of planned activities like ice cream socials and s'mores nights around a campfire. For families with energetic kids, the open lawn is a dream, where they can run, play tag, cartwheel, and roll down hills while parents relax with a cocktail. The rec center also hosts nightly movies, which are family-friendly and include popcorn. You can also rent boats to enjoy the lake from a different perspective or engage in various water sports.
Sports and Recreation:
The Sagamore offers a range of sports facilities, including tennis courts, a basketball court, and a golf course. For fitness enthusiasts, there’s a well-equipped gym. The rec center organizes numerous activities such as crafts, games, and guided nature walks, ensuring kids are entertained throughout the day.
Outdoor Adventures
Beyond the lawn, the resort offers hiking trails that take you through the beautiful Adirondack wilderness. These trails are perfect for family hikes, providing opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna. It's a fantastic way to introduce children to nature, encouraging a love for the outdoors and providing educational experiences along the way.
Lake George Boat Tour
One of the highlights of our stay was the free boat tour around Lake George on a replica steamer. This historic vessel offers a charming and educational experience, providing insights into the lake’s history and surrounding areas. The tour is a perfect family activity, offering beautiful views and a relaxing break from the usual hustle and bustle. The steamer itself is a piece of history, meticulously maintained to give guests a taste of early 20th-century lake travel.
The boat tour lasts about an hour and includes a narrated guide who shares fascinating stories about the region’s history, the local wildlife, and the geology of Lake George. The boat takes three different routes throughout the day, so depending on when you ride, you can see different parts of the lake. It’s both informative and relaxing, making it a highlight for both kids and adults.
Water Activities
The Sagamore offers a wide range of water activities to suit every preference. The infinity pool is warm and inviting, feeling like you’re in the lake (without the slimy bottom.) Even on cooler days, the pool remains pleasantly warm. For those who prefer natural water, Lake George offers swimming and floating. At 32 miles long, up to 2.5 miles wide, and with depths reaching 200 feet, it is considered to be among the clearest and cleanest large lakes in the world. While the lake can be chilly and the bottom slimy, it’s a fun experience for the more adventurous. Additionally, you can rent boats to explore the lake further or enjoy various water activities.
Pool Experience: The infinity pool is a highlight of the resort. Heated to a perfect temperature, it’s comfortable for swimming even on cooler days. The pool area is spacious with plenty of lounge chairs, and it offers stunning views of the lake. There’s also a hot tub adjacent to the pool, providing a relaxing spot to unwind.
Lake Activities: If you prefer the natural waters of Lake George, there are plenty of options. The resort offers kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats for guests to use. For those looking for more excitement, motorboats are available for rent. Whether you want to fish, water-ski, or simply cruise around the lake, there’s something for everyone. If you're grossed out by slimy lake bottoms (like we are), you can float in a tube and still enjoy the beauty of the lake.
Boutique Shopping at the Sagamore
The Sagamore boutique is a treasure trove for guests. It has everything you need from designer swimwear and cover-ups to sundries, fashionable resort-wear, and a great range of Sagamore branded items like YETIs, golf shirts, comfy sweatshirts, and glassware. Whether you forgot to pack something or just want a souvenir to remember your trip by, the boutique has you covered.
Dining at the Sagamore
We dined at three of the hotel’s restaurants for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Each meal was fantastic. The breakfast buffet had everything for picky eaters and those with high expectations, including an omelet station and French toast. Lunch included great pizzas and burgers, and dinner featured fresh fare from fish to salads and pasta. The bucatini was a standout. The setting, overlooking the lawn where kids played, was perfect. During dinner hours, the lawn was a hub of activity, with kids running and playing while parents enjoyed their meals with a bird's-eye view of the fun.
La Bella Vita: This Italian restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating with stunning views of the lake. The menu features a range of Italian classics, from pasta to seafood, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The kids’ menu is also extensive, ensuring even the pickiest eaters are satisfied.
The Pavilion: A more casual dining option, The Pavilion offers lighter fare such as sandwiches, salads, and burgers. It’s a great spot for a relaxed lunch or a casual dinner, with outdoor seating that lets you enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Veranda Terraces: For a more upscale dining experience, the Veranda Terraces provide a sophisticated menu with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The setting is elegant, with panoramic views of the lake and mountains, making it perfect for a special dinner.
BRGR: Formerly Mr. Brown’s Pub, BRGR offers a modern twist on classic pub fare. From the people we overheard around us, it sounds like there was a lot of heart and nostalgia for the past location, but the update now features a new menu. We don’t have anything to compare it to, but everything we ordered there was fantastic. I ordered a turkey burger one night - it’s not easy to make a turkey burger exciting, but it was among one of the best burgers I’ve ever had - turkey or otherwise.
A Beautiful Oasis: No Reason to Leave
The Sagamore is so captivating that you won't want to leave the grounds. We made the mistake of leaving for a few hours to visit the town of Lake George, but it couldn’t compare to the beauty of the Sagamore. The town, filled with kitschy shops and arcades, was crowded, especially during Memorial Day weekend. The longer we stayed in town, the more we longed to return to the resort. The Sagamore truly feels like an oasis, offering everything you need for a perfect getaway.
An Honest Review of the Rooms
We stayed in a lodge, which offered more space with a pullout couch, king-size bed, and kitchenette (used mainly for the fridge). Your perspective on the rooms will very much depend on what you’re used to. If you’re used to a standard hotel room or big-chain hotels, the lodge rooms will feel bigger, more comfortable and more charming. If you tend to stay in luxury or deluxe resorts, set your expectations lower now. It’s actually easiest to describe these rooms by comparison to Disney Vacation Club, for those who know the resorts well. The Sagamore feels in line with the 1 bedroom villas before they’ve gone under the most recent renovation where the pull out couches were replaced by murphy beds and the finishings and decor were modernized.
The Lodge rooms are fine-to-good depending on where you fall on that spectrum. The room itself is spacious, giving a family a great space to stretch out and take a break after a long day of playing outside. The decor is “Home Goods chic,” and small cosmetic updates could make a big difference. I hate to say the couch was not comfortable to sit or sleep on. Our kids are little so they were fine but it’s not realistic for 2 older kids or adults to share the pullout.
Unfortunately we did not get a chance to see the Main House rooms in person although we did strike up a conversation with other guests staying in them who gave us their opinion which matched what we read: The Main House is known for its historical charm, but many reviews pointed out that the rooms are smaller and might not be ideal for families needing extra space. Staying in the Main House means you are closer to the lobby and the main dining areas, which may be helpful for those with restricted walking/mobility but realistically the lodges are close enough it may be worth the walk for the extra space.
When to Visit the Sagamore
The Sagamore is an ideal destination year-round, each season offering a unique experience. In the spring and summer, the resort is perfect for outdoor activities, water sports, and exploring the natural beauty of the Adirondacks. Fall brings breathtaking foliage, making it a great time for scenic hikes and cozy evenings by the fire. Winter transforms the resort into a wonderland, with activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, and enjoying the serene winter landscape.
For the best experience, plan your visit according to the type of vacation you seek. Families with school-aged children might prefer the summer months when the weather is warm and the full range of activities is available. Couples looking for a romantic getaway might enjoy the tranquility of the fall or winter, with fewer crowds and a more intimate atmosphere.
Whenever you choose to visit, the Sagamore promises an unforgettable experience. Reach out to our team to help plan your perfect getaway. We'll assist you in making the most of your stay, ensuring every detail is tailored to your needs and preferences. Whether it's a family vacation, a romantic retreat, or a special celebration, the Sagamore is the perfect destination to create lasting memories.
