Okay, so there's no need to hide the fact that this has been the year of the never-ending winter. Just when we get a little dose of spring-like weather, Mother Nature throws us a curve ball and douses us with a fresh covering of snow — or ice — or a sweet mix of sleet.
I'm ready to pull my hair out. I need a break. A getaway. A short 24-hour-ish refresh. No strenuous activities, no schedule. I know what to do.
In six easy steps I'm renewed, refreshed, and ready to return—not to work—to LP for my next vacation!
30 or so miles and I'll be at peace!
1. Hit the road!
Leaving the Hudson Valley region of New York, Lake Placid is a quick, super easy drive. (Aside: I still find it funny that the Hudson Valley is actually considered "upstate" by many.) I make the trip often as I split my time between the upstate HV and the real upstate. On a non-holiday, good weather, off-commuter time, I give myself 3.5 hours to make the trip — but let's call it 4, so as not to raise questions about my speed.
It's a Saturday in April. No commuters, no holidays, and bland weather — until we hit the mountains. So, along with my partner, Greg, and my son, Oliver, we hit the road around noon and pull into Lake Placid at 4 p.m. Perfect timing!
We dropped off Oliver and headed into town. Just as the weather really started to show its spring-like flair.
2. Ditch the kid
Kidding. Kidding. But seriously, Oliver has family in town, so we are happy to let him go visit overnight while we take advantage of an adults' night out.
The weather is just starting to turn into a wintry mix of snow and ice, and we are happy to be safe in town for the remainder of the night.
The Hampton Inn. What you can't see from this side is the fact that Mirror Lake is directly on the other side of the building!
3. Splurge for the room
Remember, this is a pamper-yourself 24 hours!
For this quick getaway we've booked a room at the Hampton Inn, and check-in begins at 4 p.m. so we head straight there. I've never stayed at this relatively new Lake Placid lodging spot; I usually head to our camp on the outskirts of Saranac Lake, or sweet talk a friend into letting me crash. But tonight I want to stay in town, in comfort, in style.
Greeted with a smile!
Within minutes of entering the hotel, we are checked in and happily unpacking our bags. Time to settle in and enjoy the awesome view from the balcony.
A room with a view. An excellent view, indeed. Imagine staying here during Ironman!
Insider's tip: Visiting during the the off-season is a great time to take advantage of discounted room rates and awesome last-minute deals. Bonus: If you're a rewards member, there are often sweet options waiting for you when you enter your room.
Our gorgeous, nicely appointed room!
4. Indulge with dinner out and about
Now that we've settled in, it's time to go out! By a random stroke of good luck, a small group of friends from near (the ADKs) and far (the Capital Region) happen to not only be in town for the night, but available to hang out. We choose Big Slide Brewery for our meeting spot.
Big Slide Brewery — because, how could we not?
With an eclectic menu, brewing tanks on site, and a knowledgeable staff that's ready to happily explain the nuances of each of their unique craft brews, this has quickly become a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
Yes, we happen to personally know the BSB team, but I'm sure Stu here would happily pull up a seat and explain the beer menu to anyone who asked.
After a thorough explanation of the brews, the table made their choices, with the dark Nippletop milk stout and the Buck Island Cream Ale topping the list.
Personally, I always choose the sampler as my first round. It's a great way to really get a taste for what's currently on tap. Plus, for those of us counting calories, it doesn't really count — they're small!
The sampler: choose five from the list!Oh, decisions, decisions! (Hey guys, did you know I was taking this pic!?)
We decided to split the pretzel nuggets and crab fritters for appetizers, and we were not disappointed. Though I have to say, I am still regretting not trying the tater tot poutine!
Pretzel nuggets! An old-school pub favorite with an urban flair.
The dinner options were just as varied as the apps and drinks.
Grilled chicken AND bacon AND tater tots? Don't mind if I do.The best thing about eating with a group? Sharing, of course!
Let us not forget dessert!
Okay, no more food pics. Sorry about that. Getting back to our six-step guide, we still have two more points to cover, and at this point about 14 hours to go.
Stuffed and happy, we say our goodbyes. And, although tempted to head out on the town, we contentedly head back to our hotel.
Inner Rant: We're literally within walking distance of the strip and we're more than happy to call it a night. I mean, c'mon, who've we become? There was a time not so long ago when we would have just been getting ready to head out for a piece of the nightlife!
Quiet time.
5. Relax and renew
Back at the Hampton we spend a little time exploring the Great Room, relaxing by the fire, and browsing the selection of board games scattered throughout the room.
We head up to our room and spend a few minutes braving the frigid temps to stand on our balcony and take in the quiet street scene below, before settling in to fall asleep watching Saturday Night Live on the flat screen.
Obligatory photo op: balcony, ADK chairs, snow gently falling, lake in the background. If only I could master the night selfie!
We wake up at our leisure. No alarms allowed! Brew a couple cups of coffee and open the curtains to see what the day has in store for us. The forecast was for 8-10 inches of fresh snow overnight; luckily the forecast was wrong. It was slushy, icy, and cold, but so far no great snow accumulation.
Coffee — oh, how I love thee.
A complimentary breakfast is served in the main part of the lodge until 10 a.m. every day. We head downstairs and are pleasantly surprised by the offerings: omelets, hot and cold cereals, fruit, pastries, waffle stations, and of course, more coffee.
Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but the fire (and breakfast) is so delightful!
Oliver thought the view was pretty cool...
6. Reunited and Ready To Take On Life
Here's where we came to a crossroad. If we leave now, we will keep fairly close to our 24-hour schedule. But we do have an 8-year-old, and we do have the option to ask for a late checkout, and there is a great pool and hot tub waiting to be taken advantage of. Besides, we should wait a bit for the roads to clear up, right?
Right.
but he reallllly, liked the pool!
It's unanimous. This getaway was well worth it.
As always, we're sad to wrap up a Lake Placid getaway — it's amazing what a little mountain air and hospitality will do for the soul.
Until we meet again...
Goodbye, for now, we'll see you soon — possibly without any snow on the ground!
30 or so miles and I'll be at peace!We dropped off Oliver and headed into town. Just as the weather really started to show its spring-like flair.The Hampton Inn. What you can't see from this side is the fact that Mirror Lake is directly on the other side of the building!Greeted with a smile!A room with a view. An excellent view, indeed. Imagine staying here during Ironman!Our gorgeous, nicely appointed room!Big Slide Brewery — because, how could we not?Yes, we happen to personally know the BSB team, but I'm sure Stu here would happily pull up a seat and explain the beer menu to anyone who asked.The sampler: choose five from the list!Oh, decisions, decisions! (Hey guys, did you know I was taking this pic!?)Pretzel nuggets! An old-school pub favorite with an urban flair.Grilled chicken AND bacon AND tater tots? Don't mind if I do.The best thing about eating with a group? Sharing, of course!Let us not forget dessert!Quiet time.Obligatory photo op: balcony, ADK chairs, snow gently falling, lake in the background. If only I could master the night selfie!Coffee — oh, how I love thee.Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but the fire (and breakfast) is so delightful!Oliver thought the view was pretty cool...but he reallllly, liked the pool!It's unanimous. This getaway was well worth it.Until we meet again...
Packages and Promotions
range
Valid Jan. 10
- Mar. 30
Valid Jan. 10
- Mar. 30
10% off admission tickets when purchased online
High Falls Gorge
High Falls Gorge
Get 10% off adult and child winter 2024-2025 admission tickets with code: WINTER25.
promotion
Activities and Attractions
range
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
MILITARY AND FIRST RESPONDER OFFER
Bluebird Lake Placid
Bluebird Lake Placid
10% off our Best Available Rate for all active as well as retired military personnel, and first responders on leisure stays.
package
Military Discounts
range
Valid May. 1
- May. 31
Valid Jan. 1
- May. 27
Stay & Save
The Devlin
The Devlin
Book a 3-night stay with The Devlin and get 10% off your visit.
package
Mid-Week Discounts
range
Valid May. 1
- Oct. 31
Valid Dec. 6
- Nov. 1
Zip and Whip Expedition
Farmhouse UTVs
Farmhouse UTVs, Experience Outdoors
Experience Outdoors and Farmhouse UTVs have teamed up to bring your family and friends the Adirondack adventure you've been waiting for. Double up on a UTV and zipline experience. Ziplines are located in Lake Placid and the UTVs are located in Gabriels.
promotion
Activities and Attractions
range
Valid Dec. 19
- Jan. 22
Valid Dec. 19
- Jan. 22
Winter Wonderland Special!
Stay longer and Save!
package
range
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
4th Night Free!
Lake Placid Lodge
Lake Placid Lodge
Enjoy a night on us! 4th night free when you stay 3.
package
Mid-Week Discounts
range
Valid Jan. 9
- Dec. 31
Valid Jan. 9
- Dec. 31
Babymoon
The Cottage, The View Restaurant at the Mirror Lake Inn, The Spa at the Mirror Lake Inn
Celebrate your growing family with $75 nightly resort credit!
package
Dining Deals, Spa
range
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Adirondack Guides
Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa
Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa
Get the most out of your stay - Guide Services Available!
package
Activities and Attractions
range
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Woof and Wander
Bluebird Lake Placid
Bluebird Lake Placid
Your pooch will be as comfortable as their owners with our pet friendly package!
package
Other
range
Valid Dec. 22
- Dec. 27
Valid Dec. 7
- Dec. 30
Discounted Holiday Dates
New York Rental By Owner
New York Rental By Owner
Sunburst Cottage on Mirror Lake in Lake Placid! Sunburst is an Adirondack lakefront house that features a 7-person hot tub and free wifi. This is the premier vacation rentals on Mirror Lake with 6 bedrooms , each with their own private bath. In...
package
Holidays, Mid-Week Discounts
range
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Spa Experience
Town House Lodge by the Lake
Town House Lodge by the Lake
What better way to connect and relax with your partner after a long day on the mountain than to enjoy an in-room spa experience for two?
package
Spa
range
Valid Jan. 12
- Jan. 12
Valid Jan. 12
- Jan. 12
Supper & Stay
Stagecoach Inn
Stagecoach Inn
Enhance your stay at The Lake Placid Stagecoach Inn with an exceptional 3-course meal.
package
Dining Deals
range
Valid Jun. 1
- Oct. 1
Valid Jan. 11
- Oct. 1
Golf & Stay Package
Crowne Plaza Lake Placid
Crowne Plaza Lake Placid, Lake Placid Club Golf Courses
Golf Packages starting at: $129.00 * Weekend & Summer packages available at higher rates
package
Golf
range
Valid Feb. 8
- Feb. 7
Valid Feb. 8
- Feb. 7
Stay More, Play More
Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa
Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa, The Spa at Whiteface Lodge
Linger longer in the Adirondacks and be rewarded!
package
Spa
range
Valid Jan. 8
- Jan. 8
Valid Jan. 8
- Jan. 8
Adirondack a la Carte
High Peaks Resort
High Peaks Resort, Dancing Bears Restaurant
Complete your Adirondack Vacation with a $150 dining credit to Dancing Bears!
package
Dining Deals
range
Valid Nov. 27
- Mar. 30
Valid Nov. 27
- Mar. 30
10% off Gift The Gorge Package
High Falls Gorge
High Falls Gorge
Treat someone you love with the gift of nature!
This is an e-gift card program with packages for admission to the park, money to spend in the Gift Shop, and even more to spend in the River View Café.
promotion
Activities and Attractions, Holidays, Dining Deals
range
Valid Feb. 11
- Apr. 15
Valid Feb. 11
- Mar. 31
Stay and Ski!
Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort
Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort, Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort
When you book your stay at Cambria Hotel Lake Placid, you'll save on your lift ticket for mid-week skiing at Whiteface Mountain. Our affordable weekday rates, paired with this ski offer, make it the perfect time for your next getaway!
package
Mid-Week Discounts, Ski
range
Valid Dec. 6
- Dec. 8
Valid Jan. 8
- Dec. 5
Girls Getaway Weekend
The View Restaurant at the Mirror Lake Inn, The Spa at the Mirror Lake Inn
$75 Resort Credit per room per NIGHT to pamper the Girls!
package
Dining Deals, Shopping Deals, Spa
range
Valid Mar. 28
- May. 3
Valid Feb. 10
- May. 3
Stay-Cation at Cambria
Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort
Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort
Take a Staycation!
Can't get away to somewhere warmer for spring break this year? Get away with us instead!
promotion
Local Deals
range
Valid Jan. 5
- Jan. 5
Valid Jan. 5
- Jan. 5
Stay More, Play More
High Peaks Resort
High Peaks Resort
Stay for FREE!
package
Other
range
Valid Dec. 1
- Dec. 25
Valid Aug. 8
- Dec. 19
Christmas Buy One Get One FREE
Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort
Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort
Buy One Get One FREE on stays December 1 - December 25! Call 855-421-3002 to book today! Terms: Buy One Get One Free valid for stays December 1-25, 2024, Sunday - Wednesday nights. Not valid on existing reservations; new reservations only. Cannot be...
package
Local Deals, Mid-Week Discounts
range
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Romance Package
Town House Lodge by the Lake
Town House Lodge by the Lake
Package Details Surprise your significant other with a romantic evening waiting for you on the day of your arrival!
package
Other
range
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Romance Package
Placid Bay Hotel
Placid Bay Hotel
Surprise your significant other with a romantic Getaway! Includes roses, wine glasses, and chocolates upon arrival.
package
Other
range
Valid Feb. 8
- Feb. 7
Valid Feb. 8
- Feb. 7
Spa Escape
Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa
Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa, The Spa at Whiteface Lodge
Our Spa Escape package is ideal for couples or friends traveling together.
package
Spa
range
Valid Oct. 23
- May. 31
Valid Oct. 23
- May. 31
Stay and Save!
Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort
Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort
Stay 3 nights and get 20% off.
package
Mid-Week Discounts
range
Valid Feb. 28
- Mar. 10
Valid Jan. 25
- Mar. 7
Prescott House ADK Winter Pride Promo
Prescott House ADK Winter Pride Promo
package
Special Events
range
Valid Nov. 12
- Dec. 2
Valid Nov. 12
- Dec. 2
Turkey Special in November
Adirondack "By Owner" Vacation Rentals
Adirondack "By Owner" Vacation Rentals
Turkey Special In November - 3nts/4day weekend ($500/night: $1500) or 2 nts/3 day weekend ($600/night: $1200)
package
Holidays
range
Valid Jan. 8
- Dec. 31
Valid Jan. 8
- Dec. 25
100th Anniversary Package
100 years at the Inn gets you $100 Resort Credit PER DAY!
package
Other
range
Valid Feb. 8
- Feb. 7
Valid Feb. 8
- Feb. 7
Rustic Romance Getaway Package
Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa
Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa
Experience the unspoiled Adirondacks while spoiling yourself and a loved one
package
Other, Special Events
range
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
The Adirondack Elopement
Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa
Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa, The View Restaurant at the Mirror Lake Inn, The Spa at the Mirror Lake Inn
The ultimate, intimate "I do" experience.
package
Dining Deals, Other, Spa
range
Valid Mar. 2
- Mar. 9
Valid Feb. 12
- Mar. 6
Winter Pride 3rd Night free!
Book Whiteface Farm for your Adirondack Winter Pride weekend and receive your third night free!
package
Special Events
range
Valid Oct. 23
- Oct. 23
Valid Oct. 24
- Oct. 23
SAVE 10% off any weekly rentals!
New York Rental By Owner
New York Rental By Owner
SAVE 10% off any weekly rentals!
package
Mid-Week Discounts
range
Valid May. 2
- May. 4
Valid Jan. 6
- Apr. 30
Yoga Retreat with Todd Norian
Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort
Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort
3 DAY YOGA RETREAT WITH WORLD-RENOWNED YOGI TODD NORIAN
package
Special Events, Dining Deals
range
Valid Jan. 9
- Dec. 31
Valid Jan. 9
- Dec. 31
Couples Getaway
The View Restaurant at the Mirror Lake Inn, The Cottage, The Spa at the Mirror Lake Inn
Escape with your loved one to a truly romantic experience - sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries overlooking spectacular views of Mirror Lake and the Adirondack High Peaks is just the beginning...
package
Dining Deals, Spa
range
Valid Feb. 4
- Feb. 28
Valid Feb. 4
- Feb. 28
Fabulous Value in Lake Placid: Dancing Bear Condo
Adirondack "By Owner" Vacation Rentals
Adirondack "By Owner" Vacation Rentals
- The condo is a bright, spacious and charming 1 bedroom. Completely renovated and beautifully furnished. Perfect for couples. Surrounded by exquisite views of the mountains and lake a few steps from the condo, adjacent to the Whiteface Club and Resort.
package
Mid-Week Discounts, Other
range
Valid Jan. 11
- Apr. 30
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Ski with Olympic Medalist Andrew Weibrecht
Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa
Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa
Ever dreamed of spending time on the slopes with an Olympic athlete? Well, now you can!
package
Ski
range
Valid Jan. 11
- May. 1
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Nordic Ski With Olympic Medalist Andrea Henkel Burke
Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa
Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa
Stay and Nordic Ski with an Olympic Gold Medal Recipient!
package
range
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Valid Jan. 11
- Jan. 11
Spa Experience
Placid Bay Hotel
Placid Bay Hotel
Enjoy an in-room spa experience for two with your stay. What better way to connect and relax with your partner after a long day on the mountain!
package
Spa
Success!
You have successfully entered this contest. Be sure to check your inbox for your customized travel inspiration.
Thank you!
Thanks for updating your information. Be sure to check your inbox for your customized travel inspiration.
Thank you!
Thanks for being awesome by subscribing to our newsletter. Be sure to check your inbox for your customized travel inspiration.
Success! Message Sent.
Thanks for being awesome. We have received your message and look forward to talking with you soon.
Thank you!
Thanks for being awesome. You can now download the guide.
Thank you!
You have successfully completed the Snowmobile Map Request form. You should receive a physical copy by mail in 1-2 weeks.
