As temperatures drop across New York state each winter, a magical frozen world emerges in the small town of Lake George. Ice Castles is an awe-inspiring interactive sculpture attraction made entirely of ice that welcomes thousands of visitors to walk through dazzling LED-lit caverns, ice slides, fountains, and tunnels. This popular Ice Castles New York provides families and guests of all ages with an unforgettable outdoor experience.
About Ice Castles, New York
Ice Castles began in 2011 when founder Brent Christensen pioneered the concept of building elaborate castles using icicles. Locations are chosen strategically across North America based on optimal winter weather conditions. Professional ice artists grow, harvest, and hand-place icicles to construct each fairytale castle.
It takes over two months for the Ice Castles team to design, sculpt, and build the frozen attraction each winter. The artistic team starts growing icicles in November when temperatures fall below freezing. The icicles are then harvested and strategically hand-placed around sprinkler systems that drip water to encourage further icy growth. Each castle uses an astonishing amount of ice – over 25 million pounds!
Why Visit Ice Castles?
An afternoon or evening enjoying Ice Castles New York is sure to delight people of all ages. This magical ice world transports visitors into a real-life fairy tale. Some of the top highlights include:
- Ice Slides – Twist and turn down thrilling ice slides spanning 30 feet tall and designed for speedy descents. Race family or friends as you squeal with excitement.
- LED-Lit Sculptures – Walk through dazzling color-changing LED lights illuminating stunning winter sculptures, fountains, and tunnels.
- Caverns & Archways – Explore icy caverns and archways inspired by natural caves complete with frosty “chandeliers” hanging overhead.
- Winter Characters – Pose photos with the resident Ice Queen and other whimsical winter characters bringing the magic to life.
- Arctic Alcove – Book a private alcove experience inside the castle for engagements, anniversaries, and special winter proposals.
- Backdrops Galore – With stunning scenery everywhere, Ice Castles offers picture-perfect backdrops for photos with loved ones or even fun selfies. Capture those Instagram-worthy winter wonderland moments.
Beyond the beauty and interactive elements, Ice Castles New York also offers unique winter fun you won’t get anywhere else. Where else can you squeeze through small ice tunnels, explore caverns lit up in rainbow hues, or slide down an ice chute? The castles transform each winter into a magical escapade that delights the child in all of us.
Visiting Ice Castles New York
Ice Castles New York is conveniently located in the village of Lake George, nestled in the southeastern Adirondack Mountains. The town offers plentiful lodging, shopping, and dining options for visitors.
The castles are open as weather permits. Since they are outdoors and made entirely of ice, operating schedules can fluctuate depending on temperature and precipitation. Be sure to check the website for the most up-to-date hours before visiting.
Ticket Pricing
- Child (ages 3-11): $20 (Mon-Thursday), $27 (Fri-Sun)
- General Admission (ages 12+): $27 (Mon-Thurs), $34 (Fri-Sun)
- Arctic Alcove experiences and sleigh rides around the castle are available for an additional fee.
For guaranteed entry and the lowest prices, guests should purchase date-specific tickets online in advance at icecastles.com. Limited on-site ticket sales may be available for days not sold out, but pricing is higher.
What to Expect During Your Visit?
Plan to arrive 20-30 minutes before your ticketed timeslot to park, get your ticket scanned, and walk to the attraction entrance. The experience typically takes 1-2 hours to explore at a leisurely pace. The castles come alive as the sun sets when the LED lights illuminate the sculptures.
Dress warmly in winter jackets, hats, gloves, snow pants, and winter boots. The walking paths are packed with snow and ice. Cleats or micro spikes may help improve traction if you have them.
Food and beverages are available for purchase on-site. Indoor restrooms and a seating area provide chances to warm up. With ice sculptures everywhere, Ice Castles is a winter photographer’s dream. Be sure to bring your camera!
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