From world-class skiing in winter to epic paddling in summer to incredible fall foliage, this postcard-perfect village is an ideal year-round destination.
LessDrive five minutes to Big Slide Brewery for a view of the Olympic Ski Jumps and great craft beer. The brewery's farm-to-table menu includes wood-fired pizzas, salads made with market-fresh ingredients, and 10 brews on tap. The beer selection changes every month, and restaurant guests can watch the brewing process unfold from every table since the brewery is located inside the restaurant.
Head to Smoke Signals on Main Street, a favorite of locals and visitors alike for its Southern-style barbecue. In summer, sit outside on the restaurant’s deck, which overlooks Mirror Lake, so named for its still waters, and the distant peak of Whiteface Mountain. In winter, the cozy atmosphere is perfect for families and couples alike.
Explore 31 miles of impeccably groomed trails for all levels at Lake Placid's Olympic Sports Complex at Mt Van Hoevenberg, one of the premier venues of North America.
It wouldn’t be a trip to Lake Placid without dipping your toes in the village’s epic sports history. Visit the Olympic Center on Main Street to learn about competitions past including the famous “Miracle on Ice.”
Take a 26-story elevator to the top of the 120k tower at the Olympic Jumping Complex for spectacular views.
Beautiful in all seasons, Mirror Lake is a sought-after lakeside vacation in summer and a popular foliage viewing vacation in fall. In winter, the frozen surface of Mirror Lake comes alive with ice skaters, cross-country skiers, pond hockey tournaments, and dog sledding teams. For a low price, take a thrilling dog sled ride across Mirror Lake. Two teams offer a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape, Thunder Mountain Dog Sled Tours and Mike Arnold Dog Sled Rides.
If you’re visiting during the summer or fall, hop on a captain-narrated scenic cruise at the Lake Placid Marina and explore the lake that named the town. Lake Placid’s stories, including a ghostly tale of an unsolved crime, come to life as you travel around the lake and between the two islands.
A local favorite for its fresh Mediterranean dishes and wood-fired pizzas, Caffe Rustica is the perfect spot for an after-adventure dinner.
There’s nothing better than a sweet treat at the end of a meal. If you’re still hungry, hit up Emma’s Lake Placid Creamery on Main Street. This Lake Placid landmark may have a line out the door during the summer months, but one taste of their maple soft serve makes it worth it.
No trip to Lake Placid is complete without a visit to Whiteface Mountain. If you’re visiting in winter or early spring and are up for a day on the slopes, skiing or snowboarding and take a break to enjoy the delicious snacks on offer at the Taste of NY Cafe in the base lodge. For anyone new to the sport, the Bear Den Lodge offers learn-to-ski programs for all ages.