Valentine's Day, when a person's thoughts turn to declarations of love. Part of the plan might be crafting an amazing, memorable, story-we'll-tell-together proposal scenario.
If you are wanting to "pop the question," here are some four-season tips for planning that Perfect Day in Lake Placid.
The style
Traditionally, it's a man who proposes to a woman. But you don't have to fit that particular mold. The Adirondacks have always welcomed pioneers.
While Valentine's Day is mid-February, and one would think it's a popular time to get engaged... you would be wrong. It's actually Christmas Eve, then Christmas Day, and then New Year's Day that top the list. But actually, winter is a wonderful time to propose to your special person. Consider the two of you beside a roaring fire in your room, during a sunny hike to a beautiful view (Cobble Hill is a favorite, as is the Peninsula Trail system), or around a roaring bonfire at one of our cross-country ski centers.
For a really memorable lead-in, take your prospective betrothed on a bobsled ride. Over the ice, when it's faster. Then, when their heart is pounding already, coast on that excitement with an even more thrilling invitation to merge those beating hearts! Read our blog post about how to go about it with One Way Down.
Or maybe they are more the romantic pair-skating type. Rent some skates and glide hand in hand around the Olympic Oval, or choose another outdoor spot with the help of our blogger's post, Skating in the great outdoors. If you prefer the great indoors, skate in the 1932 Jack Shea Arena inside the Olympic Center.
The top three days to propose all are in the winter. Lake Placid has all sorts of wonderful ways to celebrate this intimate season.
The element of surprise
A tradition that can work for anyone is to come in close when they least suspect it. Find some enjoyable event to take them to, and they won't realize your ulterior motive. Now, it's twice as festive.
Spring hiking has the advantage of delicate leaf buds which make the forest fill with sunshine, and an uncrowded trail for privacy. This season is also a time for saving with specials and packages. That might be a good idea... if all goes well, you'll need to save up.
A big spring thrill is our whitewater rafting. Wetsuit, helmet, and the ring tucked away somewhere. (Just don't lose it in there. You'll have to take the wetsuit off to find it. Not a smooth move.) No one will expect a secretly romantic rafting trip. Bring friends and family. There's lots of room.
Summer paddling ensures a quiet lakeshore for just the two of you. Bring a picnic.
Another option for lakeshore dining is... lakeshore dining. Feel the breeze and listen to the lapping water.
Afterward, take a walk on the paved path around Mirror Lake.
Relax. The right moment will appear.
Personal meaning
If you want to express the depth of your feeling with a bit of drama, there's no better season than a spectacular Adirondack autumn. We have miles and miles of foliage, and plenty of places to go with our scenic drives.
There are tons of pretty pull-offs, so you can stop anywhere the mood strikes.
It's a fine time for bike rides, too. Or walks in the forest. Or visiting some of our attractions which showcase ways of getting lots of lovely scenery. We have plenty of ways to celebrate this colorful season which can speak for you.
Your heart is ablaze!
Don't stress about missing the peak of the season. Here are insider tips for Finding the Peak.
Cool temperatures are all about bundling up, and snuggling up. Which brings us back around to winter. Eventually. There're 365 different days in the year. One of them will be just right.
It takes a lot of love to put your heart on the line. May the answer be "Yes."
Pick a romantic place to stay. Choose a fine dining destination for that special dinner. Come back for the wedding!
