Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions by overnight guests and day visitors. If we haven’t answered yours, email us and we’ll get back to you.

Q: What time is check in and check out?
A: Check in begins at 3:00pm and check out is by 11:00am. You are welcome to arrive before 3pm check in, but your room will not be ready until 3pm. There is no day use fee for overnight guests spending time at Wiawaka before check in and after check out. Meals outside of your registered stay are an additional cost.

Q: What should I bring?
A: Wiawaka provides linens and bath towels. If you plan on using the dock and swimming area, bring your own beach towel. We do not supply toiletries. It can get cold in the Adirondacks, especially in the evening, so bring an extra layer of warm clothing.

Q: Are pets allowed at Wiawaka?
A: No

Q: Are men allowed?
A: Men are allowed at Wiawaka accompanied by a woman as day or overnight guests in the months on June and July. In August men are not allowed as overnight or day guests, they’re only allowed for the evening lectures, still accompanied by a woman but only for the night lectures. All guests must be 18 years or older, men or women.

Q: Is Wiawaka handicapped accessible?
Wiawaka is on the National Historic Registry with limited physical accessibility for visitors with disabilities. Some buildings on site date back to the late 1800’s and have narrow stairways and doors.  The grounds of Wiawaka have mixed surface pathways, including gravel, grass, dirt and wood chips. Stones, roots, and sticks are common.  We are willing to do our best to make the property accessible to all who ask for assistance. This includes providing transportation throughout the site. However, some of our buildings do require the use of stairs.  We ask that you please call ahead and work with the staff to put together a plan to make your experience a good one, within the limitations of our historical property.

Q: What meals are included with my overnight stay?

A: Your overnight fee includes dinner on the day of your arrival through breakfast on the day of your departure. You are welcome to dine at Wiawaka before check-in or after check-out for an additional charge; breakfast is $10, lunch is $17 and dinner is $22. Please notify the Front Desk of any additional meals.

Q: At what time are meals served?
A: Breakfast is served at 8am, lunch is served at 12pm and dinner is served from 6pm.

Q: Can I participate in more than one workshop during the same day or visit?
A: You may participate in as many workshops as you like provided space is available. Workshops and programs are an additional fee and registration is on the website.

Q: How close are you to the village of Lake George?
A: Lake George village is less than one mile from Wiawaka grounds.

Q: What goes on in town?
A: Besides hosting a number of annual summer events such as the very popular, Lake George Music Festival which is being held this summer from August 6th -17th, 2023, the town also coordinates many free events and concerts, most of which take place in Shepard’s Park. There are fireworks over the lake almost every Thursday and our dock offers a front row seat for this spectacle. The town also boasts a public beach and a strip of shops and restaurants for exploration. For a current schedule of activities, go to www.lakegeorgechamber.com.

Q: Could you describe the communal living that makes Wiawaka such a special place for a retreat and relaxation?
A: All guests share common spaces, where you’ll meet some interesting and beautiful women. All the screened-in porches, the dock and the dining room are great places to visit with friends but there are plenty of quiet areas for solitude too. We ask you to maintain your own room during your stay so we can keep costs low, thereby affording many more women the opportunity to experience Wiawaka. For the same reason, we’ll also ask you to bus your own table at mealtimes.

Q: Is it possible to volunteer some time while I am a guest at Wiawaka?
A: We welcome any and all volunteers as their help is essential to the success of Wiawaka. There are always things to do. Ask the Front Desk when you check in on how you might be able to help.

If you’re a Day Visitor

Q: Can I use Wiawaka’s facilities, such as the dock and the grounds for a day of relaxation or a place to meet with friends?
A: A day visit costs $15 and is a wonderful way to meet and enjoy Wiawaka. Day visitors have full use of the grounds, dock and open workshops for a fee while visiting. Meals are not included. You may bring a picnic or dine with us for an additional cost.

Q: Is breakfast, lunch, or dinner included in the Day Pass?
A: No, but you may dine at Wiawaka for any meal for an additional fee. Breakfast is $15, lunch is $20 and dinner is $25. Please call ahead to make a meal reservation. There is limited seating.

Q: I will be at Wiawaka for a Day visit. May I attend the workshops which Wiawaka is offering on that day?
A: Day visitors are welcome to attend workshops and must register in advance of their visit to confirm availability.  See our calendar for a complete list.

Q: Is Wiawaka available for weddings?
A: Yes, Wiawaka has been the setting for many lovely weddings and receptions, showers and private retreats. We provide the beautiful setting, and you arrange for a caterer of your choice and any decorating. Liability insurance must be obtained by anyone using Wiawaka. People using the facilities are required to obtain a liquor license and liquor liability insurance, if alcohol will be served. Contact the Executive Director with any other questions at wiawakadirector@gmail.com.