The Best Grocery Stores in the Lake George Area: A Guide for Vacation Planners

When you're vacationing at Lake George, one thing that can make or break your experience is access to the right grocery stores. Whether you're planning for a week of home-cooked meals, stocking up on snacks for days spent out on the water, or picking up essentials for your lakeside cabin, knowing where to go is key. From larger supermarkets to charming local spots, here’s a detailed guide to the best grocery stores around Lake George—north, south, east, and west of the lake.

South Side: Queensbury

If you’re staying at the southern end of the lake, Queensbury is a major hub for grocery shopping and services. The go-to options here are Hannaford and Price Chopper (now part of Market 32). Located just a short drive from the lake, both stores are well-stocked with fresh produce, meats, dairy, and pretty much anything you might need. These are convenient for large grocery runs, especially if you’re planning to cook for a family or group. They also offer curbside pickup, which can be handy if you're in a rush to get back to the lake.

If you prefer something a little more local and quaint, check out Beans Country Store, also located in Queensbury. This charming general store offers freshly baked goods, a great deli selection, and essential grocery items. It’s a great spot to grab some fresh bread or deli sandwiches for a picnic by the lake. Beans Country Store has that old-fashioned vibe, making it a fun stop for visitors looking to experience something authentically local.

North End: Hague and Ticonderoga

If you’re vacationing at the northern end of the lake, you won’t need to head south for groceries. The Hague Market serves as a local favorite for fresh produce, baked goods, and other essentials. Although it’s a smaller store compared to others, it’s perfect for grabbing last-minute items or fresh pastries to start your day before hitting the lake.

Venturing farther north into Ticonderoga, the Ticonderoga Natural Foods Co-op is a gem for those looking for organic, local, and sustainable grocery options. The co-op is focused on supporting local farms and businesses, so you'll find fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and artisan goods from the surrounding area. It's an excellent choice if you're looking to elevate your meals with local, high-quality ingredients, making your stay even more special.

East Side: Cleverdale and Beyond

If you’re on the eastern side of Lake George, Cleverdale Country Store is a beloved stop for locals and visitors alike. This store not only offers a good selection of groceries and essentials but is also famous for its homemade breakfasts and lunches. Their sandwiches are particularly popular—perfect to grab before a day out on the lake or exploring nearby Kattskill Bay or Sandy Bay. Plus, the store’s welcoming atmosphere makes every stop feel like a small-town experience.

West Side: Bolton Landing

For those staying closer to Bolton Landing or on the western side of Lake George, the local convenience stores scattered along the main streets are great for quick trips. However, if you’re planning a bigger grocery run, it’s worth heading over to Tops Friendly Markets.

Premium Grocery Stores in Saratoga Springs

If you’re willing to make the drive to Saratoga Springs, about 30-45 minutes from Lake George, you’ll find a variety of premium grocery stores offering a high-end shopping experience.

One of the standout options is Healthy Living Market & Café, located in the Wilton Mall. This market is a dream come true for foodies and health-conscious shoppers. Offering organic produce, grass-fed meats, specialty cheeses, and an array of gluten-free, vegan, and gourmet products, Healthy Living is more than just a grocery store—it’s a destination. They even have a full-service café that serves up fresh salads, sandwiches, and coffee, making it a great stop if you're on your way back from Saratoga and need a quick bite.

Another fantastic option is Four Seasons Natural Foods, a store and café in downtown Saratoga Springs. Specializing in organic and local products, Four Seasons offers a unique selection of bulk goods, specialty diet products, and farm-fresh produce. If you're looking to pick up high-quality organic items, this is the place.

Lastly, don’t miss Saratoga’s Farmers’ Market, especially if you’re staying during the summer months. Held twice a week, this market features fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and artisanal foods from local farms around the region. It’s a wonderful place to pick up fresh ingredients for a lakeside barbecue or to grab locally-made treats to take home as souvenirs.

In the Middle of the Lake? We've Got You Covered

Even if you're out on a boat in the middle of Lake George you can still get groceries (at least in the summer). Tucked away on Glen Island, The Glen Island Store is a gem for boaters and island campers. This little store offers snacks, drinks, and some essential supplies, perfect for those who are out camping on one of the lake's many island campsites. You can dock your boat and grab something for a midday break or stock up for an overnight stay on the islands. It's convenient, quaint, and a fun stop while you're out on the water.

What Else Can You Rent?

Besides your groceries, Lake George offers several other rentals to make your vacation even more enjoyable. Boat rentals are a popular choice, and there are numerous marinas around the lake where you can rent anything from pontoon boats to speed boats. A few standout places include FR Smith & Sons in Bolton Landing, Chic’s Marina, and Lake George Boat Rentals. Make sure you’re aware of Brianna's Law, which requires everyone operating a boat to have a boating safety certificate by January 1, 2025. Plan ahead to ensure you're compliant with local regulations.

In addition to boats, you can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and even fishing gear from various rental shops around the lake. This makes it easy to fully enjoy the water, whether you’re planning a laid-back paddle along the shore or an adventurous day of fishing.

Conclusion

Whether you're staying on the north, south, east, or west side of Lake George, there are plenty of grocery stores and local markets to meet your needs. From big-box supermarkets like Price Chopper to smaller, charming stores like Cleverdale Country Store and Hague Market, you’re sure to find everything you need to make your vacation a success. And if you’re looking for premium grocery experiences, a quick trip to Saratoga Springs will give you access to some of the best high-end grocery options in the region. Now you can focus on enjoying your time at the lake, knowing that you’ve got the food situation covered!