Adirondack Balloon Festival 27

Day 1

Welcome Aboard! Join us for an unforgettable experience in the Adirondack Mountains during the 54th Adirondack Balloon Festival. Our journey begins at Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport in Queensbury, New York, where - weather permitting - we will witness the spectacular launch of more than 60 hot air balloons. Marvel as dozens of brilliantly colored balloons ascend into the sky, creating a breathtaking display of color and excitement. Following this memorable event, we travel a short distance to Lake George, New York, where we check in to the Fort William Henry Hotel, an expansive lakeside property located at the southern tip of Lake George. The hotel is just steps from the heart of Lake George Village and offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding Adirondack Mountains. Enjoy a relaxing two-night stay at this scenic property. This evening, we gather with fellow travelers for a delicious dinner at the hotel.

Day 2

There are two ways to experience the balloons this morning: relax in the comfort of your room and hope they drift gracefully over the hotel or rise early and join your Gunther Tours Manager and Driver for a return trip to the airport to witness the spectacular morning balloon launch (weather permitting). Following this unforgettable start to the day, we return to the hotel for a delicious breakfast before meeting our step-on guide for a scenic tour of Lake George. Our tour includes a drive along the Veterans Memorial Highway to the 2,030-foot summit of Prospect Mountain (weather permitting), where you will be rewarded with breathtaking, 100-mile panoramic views of Lake George and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains. Next, we board the Lac du Saint Sacrement for a delightful lunch and entertainment cruise on Lake George. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the spectacular scenery while learning about the region's rich history through a narrated history of the lake. Cruise past secluded islands, peaceful bays, and magnificent estates along the famous "Millionaire's Row." Following the cruise, the remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Explore the many attractions, entertainment, restaurants, local shops, arcades, mini-golf courses, and pubs - all conveniently located within walking distance of the hotel. This evening, we return to the airport for our final balloon launch (weather permitting), providing one last opportunity to witness the breathtaking sight of colorful balloons filling the Adirondack sky. Experience the spectacular "Lighting up the Night" Airport Moonglow, with approximately 30 to 40 balloons illuminated against the evening sky. Dinner is on your own at the festival. Later, we return to the hotel for a restful night's sleep.

Day 3

After breakfast we depart for the renowned United States Military Academy at West Point for a fascinating guided tour of this historic and inspiring campus. Founded in 1802, West Point has played a vital role in preparing leaders of the United States Army for more than two centuries. Our approximately 90-minute combined bus and walking tour explores the history, traditions, and enduring legacy of this legendary institution. Discover West Point's important role in the American Revolution, learn about the famous Long Gray Line, and hear stories of graduates who helped shape our nation. Along the way, knowledgeable guides provide an inside look at the cadet experience and West Point's continuing mission to develop the leaders of tomorrow. The tour includes stops at the Cadet Chapel, the Plain, the heart of the Cadet academic area, the historic Parade Grounds, and Trophy Point, offering a spectacular million-dollar view overlooking the Hudson River. Throughout the tour, fascinating stories and historic landmarks bring the proud traditions of West Point to life. Following our visit, we begin our journey home, taking with us wonderful memories of the Adirondack Mountains, the excitement and beauty of the Adirondack Balloon Festival, the unforgettable sight of dozens of colorful hot air balloons filling the sky, and our fascinating visit to the United States Military Academy at West Point.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D =Dinner