With meeting spaces, a range of accommodations, activities and outdoor recreation to consider, the Silver Bay YMCA Conference and Family Retreat Center offers everything you need for a memorable group event in one convenient location.
Sitting on the shoreline of Lake George at the base of the Adirondack Mountains, the expansive 700-acre campus boasts a scenic backdrop ideal for gatherings of all sorts and sizes, from corporate conferences, weddings and school groups to spiritual retreats, workshops and family reunions.
“Most conferences that come to Silver Bay are looking for something a little different,” says Lindsey Butler, Silver Bay YMCA’s vice president of sales and marketing. “Rather than needing to plan activities for free time or arrange catered functions each night, we can offer built-in programming and three chef-driven meals served daily in our dining room, with additional options for catered functions, beverage service and customizable team-building events.”
A meeting space inside the Silver Bay YMCA, one of multiple local locations on the National Register of Historic Places
Meeting planners can take their pick from more than 15 dedicated on-site event spaces for groups of every size — from intimate rooms for gatherings of just 12 people, to the historic auditorium that can seat more than 650. Each space has unique features, facilities and decor.
“The William Boyd Center Conference Room can seat roughly 300 guests lecture-style and features built-in projectors, screens and sound systems, all of which are easy to operate right from the podium,” Butler says. “At the other end of the spectrum, the Boathouse sits right on Lake George, with café lighting and a wood-burning fireplace. There really is something here for everyone.”
When the day’s work is done, conference attendees are welcome to enjoy campfire pits scattered across the property, or just sink into a rustic rocking chair and relax with stunning views of the lake. Other downtime possibilities include guided hikes, canoe and kayak excursions, relay races, a low-ropes course, boating, swimming, archery, tennis, crafts, live music and more.
“Our philosophy is that no two groups are looking for the same outcome when it comes to team building,” Butler says. “Our experienced Sales Team and Program Team members work with each group contact to make sure we’re creating an itinerary that meets your needs.”
Silver Bay YMCA works closely with event planners to be mindful of food allergies and dietary restrictions, always making sure gluten-free and vegetarian options are available at all daily meal services. There’s also a pizza shop, ice cream parlor and sundries store, and vending machines are stationed across the property for quick snack access 24/7.
Overnight accommodations at Silver Bay YMCA include more than 130 standard hotel rooms, charming cottages with full kitchens and large guesthouses where visitors can truly make themselves at home.
Silver Bay YMCA stays busy year-round, booking family reunions, weddings and vacation groups during the peak summer season. Fall and spring are prime times for conferences and school retreats.
“During the winter, we host holiday parties and end-of-year corporate retreats that utilize our services for catered dinners and cocktail hours,” Butler adds.
For more information about planning your event at the Silver Bay YMCA Conference and Family Retreat Center, visit silverbay.org.
