July 11, 2022

Find your own perfect way... 

You may often hear us make the suggestion that all are welcome to “invent your own perfect day" in Lake Placid. But what exactly does that mean? 

Inventing your own perfect day is a simplified way of saying that Lake Placid is a place where you’re free to join in and fill your days with the things that make life more adventurous, romantic, and fun. You get to pick, choose, plan, and create YOUR OWN unique combination of experiences customized perfectly for you. And trust me, the possibilities are pretty close to endless. 

As you begin to plan your perfect summer day, you will quickly learn that many of these combinations of activities can be found at just one location within the greater Lake Placid area. To give you a sampling, here is a breakdown of the top three ways to experience the hot spots in and around Lake Placid, New York.

Whiteface Mountain

Located just 13 miles from Lake Placid, skiers and riders flock to Whiteface Mountain every winter to experience the greatest vertical drop on the east coast with terrain for all levels of experience. But when the snow melts away, the fun doesn't stop. 

Option 1: Hike it! As the 5th highest peak in New York state, Whiteface Mountain is a unique hiking destination and the perfect fit for a 3-in-1 list as there are 3 different routes to hike this Adirondack High Peak. 

Option 2: Drive up the highest road in New York State. Experience the unique opportunity of driving or riding up the historic Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway to the top to find a stone castle, a restaurant, gift shop, and an elevator carved inside the mountaintop. At the end of your drive, you may also choose to hike the one-fifth-of-a-mile stone nature trail to the top to soak in the 360-degree views.   

Option 3: Take a scenic gondola ride. From the base of the ski mountain, take a scenic ride in the Cloudsplitter Gondola to the peak of Little Whiteface. At the top, get out and take in the breathtaking views from the observation deck. After your ride, make sure to save time for a cold drink and a bite to eat at the Cloudspin Lounge located in the base lodge.

Mid's Park on Mirror Lake

Situated on Main Street between Eastern Mountain Sports and The Haus, Mid’s Park is a beautiful location to check out next time you are in town.

Option 1: Enjoy a picnic. With its central location near a variety of eateries, Mid's Park is a convenient spot to dine in the fresh mountain air with views overlooking Mirror Lake. 

Option 2: Dance to live music. Throughout the summer, Mid’s Park comes alive with music performances and Mirror Lake as the backdrop. Every Tuesday, enjoy live music with Songs at Mirror Lake, and on Wednesdays head back down for performances from the Lake Placid Sinfonietta.

Option 3: Paddle up! Mirror Lake’s motor-free waters provide a unique paddling opportunity, whether it’s to paddle up and listen to live music or to access the shops and restaurants on Main Street. 

John Brown Farm

On the southern edge of Lake Placid, John Brown Farm State Historic Site is the home and final resting place of abolitionist John Brown.

Option 1: Immerse yourself in history. A visit to John Brown Farm will provide a glimpse of life in the 19th century and share fascinating information about the famed abolitionist and his mission to abolish slavery.

Also on display is a permanent exhibit, "Dreaming of Timbuctoo," which shares the story of Timbuctoo, a farming community created by local abolitionist Gerrit Smith for Black families to migrate to the Adirondacks and homestead. By providing land to Black men, the men were entitled to the right to vote, a crucial step in the fight against racism and slavery.

Option 2: Take a nature walk. At John Brown Farm you will find a trail system made of 3 interpretive trails that are open year-round and offer opportunities for hiking, birding, trail running, and relaxation. \

 

Option 3: Go stargazing. There is a reason we say that in the Adirondacks you will see more stars than in Hollywood. Our low level of light pollution and vast expanses of wilderness make the region an amazing stargazing destination. On a clear night, the field at John Brown Farm is one of the hot spots for stargazing.

Mt. Van Hoevenberg 

Whiteface Mountain is not the only Olympic site to offer multiple experiences. Mt. Van Hoevenberg pulls out all the stops when looking to help you invent your own perfect day. 

Option 1: Kick off your outdoor adventure from the Hiking Center. The 4.7-mile round trip hike up the Mt. Van Hoevenberg East Trail is one of the newest trails in the Adirondacks and is built to the highest standard of sustainability, truly leading the way for standards on trail building. But this amazing hike is not the only reason to check out the Mt. Van Hovenberg Hiking Center, you will also find trailheads for Sleeping Giant (More Difficult), the Nested Loop (More Difficult), Lover’s Lane (Easier), and Hi-Notch (Most Difficult) plus a variety of walking trails. 

Option 2: Explore on two wheels from the Biking Center. Explore the 30 kilometers of mountain biking that climb, dip, and twist which were built to cater to a variety of skills and abilities. So whether you are new to the sport of mountain biking, or a veteran rider, the Mountain Biking Center at Mt. Van Hoevenberg is ready to welcome you. Riders may bring their own bike, or rent one on location. 

Option 3: Get your adrenalin racing. If thrills are what you are after, Van Ho (as we call it locally) is ready to deliver. The top three activities at Van Ho for thrill-seekers are the Cliffside Coaster, the Bobsled Experience, and the new Climbing Center. Reservations for these activities are highly recommended. So visit Mt. Van Hoevenberg to plan your visit. 

Ausable Chasm

Approximately 45 minutes northeast of Lake Placid, you will find the oldest natural attraction in the United States, Ausable Chasm. This destination is a must-visit when in the Adirondacks; the sandstone gorge and waterfalls offer a wide variety of unique opportunities to explore its natural beauty.

Option 1: By foot. Ausable Chasm boasts over 5 miles of hiking and walking trails that offer up some spectacular views of the gorge and waterfalls. 

Option 2: By rope. Want to bump it up a notch? Take the Adventure Trail, a thrilling and family-friendly course that gets you close to the Chasm with a series of cable bridges, a cargo net climb, edge walks, and more. In addition to the Adventure Trail, Ausable Chasm also offers rock climbing and rappelling tours. 

Option 3: By raft. Want to get even closer? Get right on the water with Raft and Tubing Float Tours. From this vantage point, you will be looking upward at the towering cliff walls and stunning rock formation of the Chasm.  

Marcy Field

Located off of Route 73 between Keene and Keene Valley, Marcy Field is an 86-acre public space with breathtaking views of the Adirondack High Peaks. In fact, it is so beautiful that it is a popular wedding venue.

Option 1: Attend the Farmers’ Market. Every Sunday from May through Mid-October, Marcy Field buzzes with activity as it hosts the weekly Keene Farmers’ Market. This is one of the most sought-after spots for local vendors to get into and if you go just once you will learn why. Attendees will find a wide range of local produce, dairy products, meat, eggs, preserves, maple products, and baked goods. In addition, local crafters and artisans offer up unique local furniture, soaps, jewelry, and more. 

Option 2: Unwind in Nature's Embrace. Immerse yourself in the serene charm of Marcy Field, a captivating haven that beckons exploration and relaxation. Nestled beside the Ausable River and boasting expansive grounds, Marcy Field presents an idyllic setting for leisurely picnics, kite flying, or simply soaking in the splendor of the Adirondacks' natural beauty.

Option 3: Explore! Beyond its picturesque allure, Marcy Field serves as a launch pad for a variety of outdoor pursuits. Whether you're a hiker, a leisurely walker, a swimming enthusiast, an angler seeking tranquility, or a biking aficionado, Marcy Field offers immediate access to these activities, sparing you the need to journey farther afield.

Clearing up the facts

So, I may have lied. Well maybe it wasn't a lie, but more an omission of a detail. I began this post by explaining that you are invited to “invent your own perfect day” in Lake Placid and how exactly to go about doing that. What I failed to mention is that one day is simply not enough. So here are some parting tips before you start planning your perfect day in Lake Placid.

  • Extend your stay. With so many unique destinations and attractions in the area, where each offers up multiple many ways to explore them, it may be worth extending that stay a few days or even a week. 
  • Plan activities mid-week to avoid crowds. Some of the popular activities and excursions can get busy and even sell out on the weekend. Plan in advance, and consider visiting on a weekday. Trust me, it will help convert a great experience into perfection.
  • Leave the Adirondacks better than you found it. We are fortunate to be positioned in such a breathtaking natural playground with so many ways to explore the great outdoors. Before heading out, we simply ask that you review and practice your leave-no-trace principles so that others can enjoy our lands and waterways for generations to come. When you're done, be sure to take the #LoveYourADK Pledge and encourage others to do the same. 
  • Find more great tips! Download the official Lake Placid Travel Guide today and have direct access to more travel tips, tricks, and insider information.

Packages and Promotions

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 25

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Bed & Breakfast Package

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Our most popular package is back and better than ever. Start your day off right by experiencing our re-imagined breakfast menu in The View restaurant, or by relaxing in your robe and enjoying selections from our room service menu delivered right to...

Valid Mar. 1

- Apr. 6

Valid Mar. 1

- Apr. 6

Midweek Ski & Stay Package

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Midweek at Whiteface Mountain provides the ultimate ski experience! Avoid the crowds and lift lines often associated with weekend and holiday periods with this incredible midweek offer.

Valid Jan. 11

- Apr. 30

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Ski with Olympic Medalist Andrew Weibrecht

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Ever dreamed of spending time on the slopes with an Olympic athlete? Well, now you can!

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

4th Night Free!

Lake Placid Lodge

Enjoy a night on us! 4th night free when you stay 3.

Valid Mar. 28

- May. 3

Valid Feb. 10

- May. 3

Stay-Cation at Cambria

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!

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!

Valid Nov. 12

- Dec. 2

Valid Nov. 12

- Dec. 2

Turkey Special in November

Adirondack "By Owner" Vacation Rentals

Turkey Special In November - 3nts/4day weekend ($500/night: $1500) or 2 nts/3 day weekend ($600/night: $1200)

Valid Mar. 1

- Apr. 6

Valid Mar. 1

- Apr. 6

Ski with Olympic Medalist Andrew Weibrecht

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Ever dreamed of spending time on the slopes with an Olympic athlete? Well, now you can! Available exclusively to hotel guests, you can now ski alongside the Inn's very own U.S. Skiing Hall of Famer & 2-Time Olympic Medalist, Andrew Weibrecht. Open to...

Valid Jun. 1

- Oct. 1

Valid Jan. 11

- Oct. 1

Golf & Stay Package

Crowne Plaza Lake Placid

Golf Packages starting at: $119.00 * Weekend & Summer packages available at higher rates

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Adirondack Guides

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Get the most out of your stay - Guide Services Available!

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Spa Escape

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

Our Spa Escape package is ideal for couples or friends traveling together.

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!

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Pamper Yourself

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Let's face it, life is hectic these days and you deserve a break. Grab your girlfriend, your mom, your sister, and head to the Inn for some much needed time away to relax and recharge. This package includes: Overnight accommodations Daily breakfast in...

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

The Adirondack Elopement

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

The ultimate, intimate "I do" experience.

Valid May. 1

- Jun. 22

Valid Mar. 24

- Jun. 22

Pre-Season Golf Package

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Stay and Golf in Lake Placid. Enjoy unlimited golf and a cart for 18 holes at the Van Kleek-designed championship course at Whiteface Club and Resort.

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Babymoon

Celebrate your growing family with $75 nightly resort credit!

Valid Jan. 21

- Jan. 21

Valid Jan. 21

- Jan. 21

Pet Getaway

Voco Saranac Lake

Your dog deserves an Adirondack getaway too. Book our pet friendly hotel near Lake Placid welcomes every member of your crew. Book our Pet Package and enjoy a dog friendly room with pet fees included.

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Couples Getaway

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...

Valid Feb. 28

- Dec. 31

Valid Feb. 28

- Dec. 31

Stay 4, Get a 5th Night Free

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

That's right, stay 4 or more consecutive nights and we'll add a 5th night onto your stay for FREE!* This offer will be available for a limited time only and cannot be combined with any other promotions. Best Available Rates start at $349.00 per night,...

Valid Mar. 7

- Mar. 9

Valid Mar. 7

- Mar. 9

Winter Pride Pet Apparel

Man and Beast

25% All toys and apparel for Pets that are Pride or Rainbow themed!

Valid May. 1

- Oct. 31

Valid Dec. 6

- Nov. 1

Zip and Whip Expedition

Farmhouse UTVs

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.

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Romance Package

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!

Valid Dec. 22

- Dec. 27

Valid Dec. 7

- Dec. 30

Discounted Holiday Dates

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...

Valid Jan. 10

- Mar. 30

Valid Jan. 10

- Mar. 30

10% off admission tickets when purchased online

High Falls Gorge

Get 10% off adult and child winter 2024-2025 admission tickets with code: WINTER25.

Valid Oct. 23

- Oct. 23

Valid Oct. 24

- Oct. 23

SAVE 10% off any weekly rentals!

New York Rental By Owner

SAVE 10% off any weekly rentals!

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

The Adirondack Elopement

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

This all-inclusive Lake Placid elopement package is perfect for those who are ready to say "I do" and want to do it in style. Elopement Package includes: 2-Nights lodging & vow ceremony in your luxurious Colonial House "Placid Suite" Breakfast each...

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Couples Getaway

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Escape with your loved one to a truly romantic experience. Choose your preferred accommodation and enjoy a $75 nightly credit, which can be used to indulge in a romantic candle light dinner in The View, a relaxing spa service or fun at The Cottage...

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Woof and Wander

Bluebird Lake Placid

Your pooch will be as comfortable as their owners with our pet friendly package!

Valid Feb. 4

- Feb. 28

Valid Feb. 4

- Feb. 28

Fabulous Value in Lake Placid: Dancing Bear Condo

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.

Valid May. 1

- May. 31

Valid Jan. 1

- May. 27

Stay & Save

The Devlin

Book a 3-night stay with The Devlin and get 10% off your visit.

Valid Nov. 27

- Mar. 30

Valid Nov. 27

- Mar. 30

10% off Gift The Gorge Package

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.

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Romance Package

Placid Bay Hotel

Surprise your significant other with a romantic Getaway!  Includes roses, wine glasses, and chocolates upon arrival.

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Spa Experience

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?

Valid Jun. 20

- Sep. 7

Valid Mar. 12

- Jun. 30

Guided Nature Immersions - 10% off for Pre-Season Registration

Adirondack Riverwalking & Forest Bathing

Picture it now...you are wading the Ausable River on a warm summer day, feel the cool water against you, hear the sounds of the birds and the water, surrounded by lush greenery and feel the textures of the river bed...

Valid Jan. 5

- Jan. 5

Valid Jan. 5

- Jan. 5

Stay More, Play More

High Peaks Resort

Stay for FREE!

Valid May. 11

- Jun. 26

Valid Mar. 6

- Jun. 26

Saranac Inn Golf & Stay Package

Saranac Inn Golf & Country Club

Includes 18 holes of golf with cart each day, continental breakfast, and sales tax 2 days / 1 night $190.00 per person 2 days / 2 nights $240.00 per person 3 days / 2 nights $310.00 per person

Valid Oct. 23

- May. 31

Valid Oct. 23

- May. 31

Stay and Save!

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Stay 3 nights and get 20% off.

Valid May. 1

- Nov. 2

Valid Mar. 17

- May. 1

Forest Bathing Guided Experience - 10% off for pre-season registration

Adirondack Riverwalking & Forest Bathing

Guided forest sensory immersion walk for all. Sign up early for 10% off!

Valid Mar. 7

- Mar. 31

Valid Mar. 7

- Mar. 31

March Special at Scenic Point Chalet

Last Minute Special! Available from Mar 1, 2025 to Mar 31, 2025 Special Rate Being Offered: $195 a night - three night minimum!

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

MILITARY AND FIRST RESPONDER OFFER

Bluebird Lake Placid

10% off our Best Available Rate for all active as well as retired military personnel, and first responders on leisure stays.

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Rustic Romance Getaway Package

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

Experience the unspoiled Adirondacks while spoiling yourself and a loved one

Valid Jan. 11

- May. 1

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Nordic Ski With Olympic Medalist Andrea Henkel Burke

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Stay and Nordic Ski with an Olympic Gold Medal Recipient!

Valid Jan. 21

- Jan. 21

Valid Jan. 21

- Jan. 21

Stay and Dine

Voco Saranac Lake

Receive a 50 dollar credit per stay to use in our Boathouse Saranac Lake Pub. Enjoy an exceptional dining experience with unparalleled views great food and craft beers in a friendly and relaxed environment.

Valid Jan. 8

- Jan. 8

Valid Jan. 8

- Jan. 8

Adirondack a la Carte

High Peaks Resort

Complete your Adirondack Vacation with a $150 dining credit to Dancing Bears!

Valid Dec. 6

- Dec. 8

Valid Jan. 8

- Dec. 5

Girls Getaway Weekend

$75 Resort Credit per room per NIGHT to pamper the Girls!

Valid Dec. 1

- Dec. 25

Valid Aug. 8

- Dec. 19

Christmas Buy One Get One FREE

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...

Valid Feb. 28

- Mar. 10

Valid Jan. 25

- Mar. 7

Prescott House ADK Winter Pride Promo

Prescott House ADK Winter Pride Promo

Valid Dec. 19

- Jan. 22

Valid Dec. 19

- Jan. 22

Winter Wonderland Special!

Stay longer and Save!

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Spa Experience

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!

Valid May. 2

- May. 4

Valid Mar. 3

- May. 4

Culinary Weekend Getaways

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

We have once again partnered with The Carriage House Cooking School. Led by Chef Curtiss Hemm to offer select getaway packages celebrating the bounty of the Adirondack Park's vibrant farm to table landscape.

Valid Feb. 11

- Apr. 15

Valid Feb. 11

- Mar. 31

Stay and Ski!

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside 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!

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Stay More, Play More

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

Linger longer in the Adirondacks and be rewarded!

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Valid Mar. 1

- Dec. 31

Babymoon

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Whether you're celebrating the news of an addition to your family, or taking that last minute getaway before the birth, this package is for you! With the included $75 nightly credit, indulge in a romantic candle light dinner in The View, a relaxing...

Valid Jan. 12

- Jan. 12

Valid Jan. 12

- Jan. 12

Supper & Stay

Stagecoach Inn

Enhance your stay at The Lake Placid Stagecoach Inn with an exceptional 3-course meal.

Valid Mar. 21

- Mar. 23

Valid Mar. 1

- Mar. 21

Your Turn Women’s Ski Clinic

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Join us March 21-23, 2025 for an exciting women's ski clinic with your hosts, instructor Lisa Ballard and two-time Olympic medalist Andrew Weibrecht. This exciting experience will help you to improve your skiing while taking in the breathtaking...

Valid Jan. 21

- Mar. 31

Valid Jan. 21

- Mar. 31

Titus Mountain Ski Package

Voco Saranac Lake

Enjoy your stay at the award winning voco Saranac Lake which includes two adult lift tickets at Titus Mountain Family Ski Center. Additional complimentary amenities include ski storage at the hotel and preferred parking at the mountain.

Valid May. 2

- May. 4

Valid Jan. 6

- Apr. 30

Yoga Retreat with Todd Norian

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

3 DAY YOGA RETREAT WITH WORLD-RENOWNED YOGI TODD NORIAN

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