We knew FamilyFun readers were a loyal bunch, but when we asked them to reveal their favorite vacation spots, we wondered if we'd gone too far. After all, who'd want to share their special island hideaway, mountain retreat or seaside camping spot? We shouldn't have worried. "This place is so good, I almost don't want to tell you about it," began many of the letters, "but I will." In fact, more than 250 of you responded, praising destinations that, in some cases, have been family secrets for years.

How on earth did we choose the 20 winners? We looked for travel ideas with a spark, the kind that made us want to pack up the car and hit the open road. We looked for letters that described new ways to enjoy classic spots or those that tipped us off to places rarely celebrated in guidebooks, such as the old-fashioned resort that hosts family reunions, or the little-known state park where the river and natural pools are just right for floating. In the process, we discovered Lake George, New York, a four-season vacation getaway where your family will delight in many outdoor pleasures and town amusements.

NEW YORK

LOYAL TO LAKE GEORGE
When you know you've got a winner, why stop betting on it? The Coombs family has traveled to Lake George for three years, and they're now planning trip number four. "We're looking forward to sitting on the shore, looking at the mountains, taking our shoes off to dive right in!" writes Pam, of Fairfield, Connecticut. The 33-mile-long lake, whose south end is lined with cabins and motels in every price range (the Coombses try a different one each trip), is a perfect place to swim, fish, boat and water-ski. If the family gets water-weary, they ride the amusements at The Great Escape Fun Park, explore chasms and caves in the surrounding Adirondack Mountains, go horseback riding at an area stable, try out a new family eatery or visit historic Fort Ticonderoga. For Lake George information, call 518-668-5755.



Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated July 2005.