The Making of American Resorts: Saratoga Springs, Ballston Spa, and Lake George - Paperback

How Lake George Became a Resort

Before Saratoga Springs became the premier destination of the American leisure class, Lake George was in the running. The Making of American Resorts tells the story of how Caldwell on Lake George, Ballston Spa, and Saratoga Springs competed to define what an American resort could be — and why Saratoga ultimately won.

Historian Theodore Corbett’s argument is more interesting than a simple rise-and-fall narrative. He shows that successful resorts didn’t just react to demand — they anticipated it. Caldwell and Ballston Spa’s landlord-developers hedged their bets, treating tourism as just one of several possible paths to prosperity. Saratoga committed fully: lavish hotels, parks, pleasure gardens, a reliable workforce, and the infrastructure to support five months of intensive seasonal activity. The result was a resort that defined American leisure for a century.

For anyone who has ever wondered why Lake George feels like it almost became something even bigger — this book is the answer.

About the Author

Theodore Corbett is a historian and member of the St. Augustine Historical Society, previously published by Rutgers University Press and the University of Oklahoma Press.

Book Details

• Author: Theodore Corbett
• 312 pages, paperback
• Dimensions: 7 × 10 × 0.65 inches
• Publication date: January 2001
• Publisher: Rutgers University Press
• ISBN: 9780813528427
• Ships free to all US addresses

Makes a Thoughtful Gift

A compelling read for anyone interested in Lake George history, Adirondack heritage, or the social history of American leisure. Pairs well with Sweet Peas and a White Bridge and other Lake George historical titles in our collection.