Top 19 Attractions and Activities in Lake Placid, NY for 2025

I spent many a summer in Lake Placid during my childhood when I was a competitive figure skater, and it has always held a magical place in my heart as The Olympic City. There are numerous activities to enjoy in Lake Placid NY, whether in summer or winter, making it a perfect weekend getaway.

Located in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains of New York State, Lake Placid is an ideal year-round mountain retreat – and these are the best attractions and activities that will enhance your stay.

Top Things to Do in Lake Placid NY

Recently, Dave and I watched the documentary The Making of a Miracle on Ice about the American hockey team that faced off against Russia in the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid and won gold. This incredible event marked a significant moment in American sports history, making Lake Placid a must-visit for road-trippers exploring Upstate New York.

Lake Placid was America’s first winter vacation destination, known for hosting two Winter Olympic Games in 1932 and 1980. In addition to its winter activities, there are many summer attractions that showcase the beauty and intrigue of Lake Placid. Let’s delve into the many compelling reasons to add Lake Placid to your travel list.

Lake Placid Attractions

Lake Placid is situated in the Adirondack Mountains, falling within the Tri-Lake Region, which comprises Lake Placid and two additional lakes – Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake.

Interestingly, the town of Lake Placid isn’t located on Lake Placid itself; its main street runs along Mirror Lake. Lake Placid is a 5-hour drive from New York City and Boston; it’s 2.5 hours from Montreal and five hours from Toronto, Canada. So, are you ready to explore Lake Placid NY with us? Let’s go!

1. Live Out Your Olympic Dreams

Lake Placid has the honor of hosting not just one, but two Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980, and it has preserved that history valiantly with the splendid Lake Placid Olympic Museum and tours of the various Olympic facilities. During your visit to Lake Placid, it’s crucial to immerse yourself in the rich Olympic past.

Throughout the years, Dave and I revisited Lake Placid for both summer and winter activities, allowing me to reconnect with that enchanting Olympic legacy while exploring the town and its Olympic sites.

We are enthusiastic fans of the Winter Olympics, and one of the highlights of our visits to Lake Placid is realizing our Olympic dreams while discovering the iconic sites. There are numerous Olympic sites to explore in Lake Placid, and we’re excited to share some of them with you.

2. Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex

Until you’ve stood atop an Olympic ski jump, the sheer fear of it may be hard to comprehend. The thought of balanced on two slender pieces of wood, sledding down a steep ramp, and launching into the air is downright terrifying.

Lake Placid’s ski jumps remain operational for training; however, even those who don’t jump can taste the thrill of speed at the Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex.

Try zip-lining next to the 90-meter jump that mimics the feel of ski jumping at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Check out the Olympic Sky Flyer Jumper Zipline for details.

3. Olympic Skyride

If you prefer a less adrenaline-pumping adventure, consider exploring the Olympic ski jumps through a scenic gondola ride ascending the glass elevator to the impressive 120-meter ski jumping tower. From there, you’ll reach a viewing platform that offers breathtaking panoramic mountain views.

The scenery is truly magnificent. (If you don’t often ride gondolas, this experience is unique and enjoyable.) See the Olympic Jumping website for further details.

4. Stroll the Alpine Village

Walking through Lake Placid feels like visiting a charming Swiss Village replete with quaint ski chalets, unique shops, and beautiful landscapes. Nestled on Mirror Lake, Lake Placid lives up to its name, with its serene waters reflecting the surrounding Adirondack Mountains, lush trees, and quaint Swiss-style chalets.

Be sure to grab a drink at The Big Slide Brewery (Home of the Giant IPA) where you can savor a local brew on the terrace while enjoying views of the Olympic Ski Jump. Many local craft beers can be sampled, and we also recommend visiting Lake Placid Pub & Brewery for a tasting flight or a pint of their locally brewed selections.

In downtown Lake Placid, many Olympic sites are easily accessible, including the Olympic Center and speed skating oval. A visit to the Lake Placid Historical Society also provides valuable insights into the area’s rich history, from its Olympic roots to its Adirondack heritage.

In the evening, catch a movie at the Palace Theatre, a vintage cinema situated right on Main Street. Personally, I find it enjoyable to visit movies while traveling; it gives one a sense of being part of the local community.

5. Lake Placid Olympic Center

The Lake Placid Olympic Center and Museum stands out as one of the premier attractions for sports enthusiasts. When visiting Lake Placid, it’s essential to venture inside the Lake Placid Olympic Center to witness the arenas where history was written.

Located right in the heart of downtown Lake Placid, the rinks and museum are undisputed must-see sites. The museum showcases memorabilia from past Olympics, including remarkable highlights from the Miracle on Ice. As Canadians, we felt particularly drawn to these iconic arenas.

6. Herb Brooks Arena

I’ve had the exceptional opportunity to skate in all the historic venues at the Olympic Center in Lake Placid, with Herb Brooks Arena being the most renowned, built for the 1980 Olympics.

This site is historic because it was here that the US Team clinched gold in the 1980 Olympics, earning the legendary title of Miracle on Ice. Located at 2634 Main Street, visitors to the Lake Placid Olympic Center have the opportunity to skate on this historically significant ice.

In winter, you can also experience skating at the Lake Placid Olympic Oval, one of the rare places on earth where outdoor oval skating is available.

7. Paddle On Mirror Lake

I still vividly remember my first sight of Mirror Lake, where the tranquil waters mirror the surrounding beauty. Found in the very heart of Lake Placid Village, Mirror Lake feels undeniably serene.

This beautiful lake is perfect for exploration via paddle boats, kayaks, or canoes, or simply enjoy a leisurely hike around its shore (motorized vehicles aren’t allowed on the water). We found it to be our favorite activity in Lake Placid; sitting on the calm waters while soaking in the views is an incredibly peaceful experience, making you feel integrated with nature.

During winter, the lake transforms into a bustling scene with skaters enjoying its expansive ice surface, and you can even embark on dogsled rides. Additionally, one of the most exciting winter experiences in Lake Placid is sliding down the Toboggan Chute that plunges onto the frozen lake.

8. Hike The Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails

One highly recommended experience in Lake Placid is exploring the Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails. This versatile set of four trails is popular among hikers and mountain bikers in summer, and cross-country skiers and snowshoers in winter.

The Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails are mere minutes from downtown and provide lovely walking trails ideal for birdwatching and enjoying nature. Nestled on the Brewster Peninsula along Mirror Lake’s eastern shore, this destination invites visitors to explore the unmatched natural beauty of the area while engaging in outdoor pursuits such as hiking, walking, and birdwatching.

The trail network features paths meandering through a wooded environment, offering visitors a calm and immersive nature experience. Trails vary in length and difficulty, accommodating both casual walkers and more experienced hikers.

The Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails

The Lake Shore Trail offers a scenic route looping around the lake, while The Ridge Trail ascends to a picturesque ridge.

The Boundary Trail encompasses the longest trail, whereas The Corridor Trail gradients downhill toward the lakeshore.

As you take the time to explore the Peninsula Nature Trails, prepare to be greeted by stunning views encompassing the lake, surrounding mountains, and lush Adirondack forests. The trails wind through a mixture of evergreen and deciduous trees, allowing explorers to appreciate the region’s natural diversity.

9. Ski Whiteface Mountain

Having snowboarded on Whiteface Mountain, I can assure you that the thrill of following in the footsteps of Olympians here is exhilarating. This mountain hosted the downhill skiing events during the 1934 and 1980 Winter Olympic Games, drawing snow enthusiasts from every corner of the globe.

Standing at 1,483 meters (4,865 feet) high, it boasts the greatest vertical drop east of the Rockies, making it the premier skiing destination on the U.S. East Coast. With 90 trails spread across 22 miles of terrain suitable for all skiing levels, Whiteface Mountain presents an inviting challenge.

If you plan to hit the slopes, consider staying closer to Whiteface Mountain. You might like this apartment rental just two minutes from the mountain, ideal for accommodating up to eight guests, complete with a six-person hot tub!

Stay near Whiteface

Located just 30 minutes from Lake Placid, Whiteface Mountain would be an excellent choice for outdoor adventures. If you want to immerse yourself in the area’s outdoor activities, a night or two near Whiteface is recommended. Visit the Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort Website for more information.

10. Little Whiteface Mountain – Cloudsplitter Gondola

It’s important not to confuse Little Whiteface Mountain with Whiteface Mountain, as they are distinct attractions in the summer months. When winter arrives, the Cloudsplitter Gondola provides access to the ski slopes of Whiteface Mountain.

If skiing isn’t your preference, you can still enjoy a scenic ride on the Cloudsplitter Gondola, which transports guests from the base lodge to the summit of Little Whiteface. Here, you can soak in breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Adirondack Mountains and Lake Placid; on a clear day, even Vermont and Canada can be spotted!

During summer, the area offers hiking trails and downhill mountain biking opportunities, while the Cloudsplitter Gondola provides ideal access for panoramic views of Whiteface Mountain and the Adirondacks, along with perfect terrain for hiking.

11. Take a Drive up Veterans’ Memorial Parkway

Most likely, you’ll be on a scenic road trip when visiting Lake Placid. Therefore, ensure you don’t miss the chance to drive along Veterans’ Memorial Parkway, beginning in Wilmington at the Adirondacks Spruce Lodge.

This paved road winds its way along Highway 431 to the summit, with a remarkable 7.96 miles (12.81 kilometers) to traverse – a must when visiting Lake Placid. It pitches steeply at an 8% grade built back in 1932, making this drive remarkable. It’s important to note that this is not a free drive-through; you’ll need to pay a toll at an alpine-style gatehouse built in 1934. However, the drive rewards visitors with breathtaking pull-offs and stunning scenic views. Cost: $20 per vehicle plus $20 per passenger. (Children aged 6 and under are free)

Once you reach the parking area, several delightful options await you: dine at the Castle Cafe, ride an elevator up 27 stories, or trek along a beautiful trail leading to the summit. The hike to the summit is just a short 15-minute journey (0.2 miles), but the reward of incredible views makes it well worth the effort, including captivating sights of Lake Placid.

12. Visit High Falls Gorge

One of the most picturesque spots to discover in Lake Placid is High Falls Gorge. Walk through the hiking trails, glass-floored walkways, and bridges within this 22-acre nature park to experience its stunning waterfalls cascading along the Ausable River.

High Falls Gorge aptly earns its title. With four breathtaking waterfalls tumbling down the mountainside—Main Falls, Mini Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Climax Falls—you can hike to each of them. A half-mile round trip (which is accessible) ensures that visitors enjoy a leisurely 45-minute to an hour-long experience (or perhaps shorter for those who prefer swift visits, while Dave and I love to take pictures along the way).

Dedicate an afternoon to hike to spectacular waterfalls like Main Falls, which cascades down 60 feet. Climax Falls and Mini Falls are other striking sites as well. To maximize views, exalted steel bridges with glass flooring are installed at prime viewing points, allowing visitors panoramic views of the falls and the gorge below.

Winter at High Falls Gorge transforms it into a captivating frozen landscape. Admire beautiful ice forms as frozen waterfalls line the gorge. Snowshoeing is also a popular activity on the nature trails. The park features a gift shop showcasing local arts and crafts, a café serving snacks and beverages, and picnic spots for enjoying meals amid the stunning outdoors. Since this site is privately run, an admission fee is required to access High Falls Gorge.

13. Adirondack Experience

Lake Placid is located in the scenic Adirondack Mountains and naturally has capitalized on this prime location. The ADKX experience center spans 120 acres along Blue Mountain Lake and offers various outdoor activities for enthusiasts.

Embark on a hike to the Whiteface Mountain fire tower, rent a canoe to cruise along the shore, or participate in guided nature walks. You’ll also find resident artists and a plethora of activities that make this a great weekend getaway for families.

14. Olympic Bobsleigh Experience

If you wish to feel like an Olympian, consider a venture onto the Olympic Bobsleigh track. The Lake Placid Olympic Bobsleigh experience at Mt. Van Hoevenberg allows you to glide down the Olympic track with a professional driver.

The sliding center track underwent updates in 1999, converting the original, but currently, it is undergoing reconstruction; thus, checking tour availability is advisable. You can visit the website here for more information.

15. Cliffside Coaster

If the idea of bobsledding feels a bit daunting (or if it’s currently closed), consider the Cliffside Coaster instead. You’ll have control over your speed on this thrilling slide down the mountain alongside the 1980 bobsled track. We’ve experienced a few of these sliding rides, and they’re an absolute blast for the whole family. Interestingly, this coaster is the longest mountain coaster in the United States. Check for details and availability at the Cliffside Coaster at Mt. Van Hoevenberg.

16. Go Cross Country Skiing

If cross-country skiing entices you more, make your way to the Cascade Cross Country Center. With 14 miles of groomed trails, it caters to every skill level.

Cascade Cross Country Center also provides ski rentals and offers the chance to try out the very trails used for Olympic competitions at Mt. Van Hoevenberg. Visiting Lake Placid in winter entails plenty of excitement! For further information visit the Cascade Ski Center.

17. John Brown Farm State Historic Site

If history captivates you, the John Brown Farm State Historic Site is an essential stop. John Brown was an important figure in the underground railroad and relocated to the Adirondacks to establish a refuge for enslaved people seeking freedom.

Tragically, he was captured and executed in 1859. He was buried at his home, which now operates as a museum, preserving the personal effects of the Brown family. Learn more at the New York State Park website.

18. Mount Jo

Situated in the heart of the Adirondacks, hiking is a popular activity in Lake Placid. Mount Jo, located just outside of town, boasts easily accessible trails up to its 2,876-foot summit.

The trails measure a mere 1.1 and 1.3 miles long, yet they lead to stunning views of the high peaks and overlook Heart Lake.

19. Saranac Lake

Although Lake Placid offers plenty of attractions, don’t overlook the nearby gem of Saranac Lake just a short drive away.

Exploring Saranac Lake during your stay in Lake Placid allows you to relish even more of the natural beauty, rich history, and cultural charm inherent to the Adirondacks.

A mere 20-minute drive from Lake Placid, Saranac Lake is buzzing with cultural and artistic life. Be sure to visit the Adirondack Artists Guild, a cooperative art gallery representing regional artists—an ideal spot for finding locally crafted souvenirs.

During winter, Saranac Lake hosts its annual Winter Carnival, famed for its Ice Palace, a colossal structure constructed from blocks of ice sourced from Lake Flower.

The Saranac Laboratory Museum was the first medical lab specifically for tuberculosis research. Today, it serves as a museum dedicated to educating visitors about the historical significance of the disease and the village’s role in its treatment.

The Wild Center: Although this attraction lies a bit farther in Tupper Lake, it’s a must-visit for nature aficionados, housing a museum, planetarium, and the Wild Walk—a pathway elevated among treetops.

Where to Stay in Lake Placid

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa – Perfectly positioned on the lake, featuring a full-service spa, fine dining options, and private balconies offering picturesque lake and mountain views.

Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Placid – Our experience at the Hampton Inn was delightful. Location right on Mirror Lake means convenient access to the main street and the Lake Placid Winter Olympic Museum—it was our choice for our first stay in Lake Placid!

Lake Placid Inn Boutique Hotel – Situated just outside of Lake Placid, offering free on-site parking and breathtaking views right on Lake Placid.

Whiteface Lodge – Evoking the luxury of the 19th century, this grand property features a movie theater, bowling alleys, canoeing options, and winter ice skating, alongside a spa, multiple dining venues, and an indoor-outdoor pool.

Where to Eat in Lake Placid

Lake Placid Pub & Brewery: A must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of on-site-brewed beers alongside a delicious food menu.

Artisans at the Lake Placid Lodge: Offering upscale dining experiences with captivating views of the lake, this restaurant’s menu highlights locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.

The View Restaurant at the Mirror Lake Inn: Known for high-quality meals and stunning lake views, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Lisa G’s: A beloved local eatery offering a terrific selection of wings, burgers, and classic American comfort foods, making it a cute and cozy spot.

Top of the Park: Renowned for its fantastic small plates and exceptional rooftop vistas, this tapas and wine bar is popular among visitors.

Smoke Signals: If you’re craving hearty BBQ and comfort foods, don’t miss this restaurant, where the flavors will surely delight your palate.

How to Get to Lake Placid

Lake Placid is nestled in the breathtaking Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York. However, your travel route will depend on your starting point. Below are some general directions:

From New York City: Lake Placid is a 5-hour drive north from New York City. You can take the I-87 N (Northway) towards Albany, continuing on I-87 N until Exit 30. From there, venture along Route 73 towards Lake Placid.

From Toronto: If driving from Toronto, expect a journey of about 500 kilometers (310 miles), taking between 6-7 hours. You’ll follow the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) toward Niagara, cross the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge border, merge onto Interstate 190 South, then use Interstate 290 East to Tonawanda, and merge onto Interstate 90 East. Next, head north on Interstate 81, follow NY-342 East, and turn right onto US-11 North. In Malone, turn right on NY-30 South, and at Paul Smiths, take NY-86 East to Lake Placid.

From Boston: Drivers from Boston can take the I-90 W route, continuing on I-90 W to Schroon. Then, take Exit 30 from I-87 N, following U.S. 9 N and NY-73 W into Lake Placid.

From Montreal: If coming from Montreal, take Autoroute 15 S, which leads into I-87 S (toward Albany), entering the United States. At Exit 34 for U.S. 9 toward Keeseville/Au Sable Chasm/Port Kent, follow U.S. 9 S and NY-73 W to Lake Placid.

By Plane: The closest airports to Lake Placid are the Adirondack Regional Airport (SLK) in Saranac Lake, Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG), Burlington International Airport (BTV) in Vermont, and Albany International Airport (ALB). Car rentals or shuttle services to Lake Placid are available from these airports.

By Train: Amtrak services run from NYC’s Penn Station to Westport, NY, along the Adirondack Line. From Westport, shuttle services can be arranged to Lake Placid.

About Lake Placid

Lake Placid is an enchanting village nestled in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and intriguing history, let’s examine some key facts about Lake Placid:

• Winter Olympics: Lake Placid is one of the very few locations globally to have hosted the Winter Olympics twice—first in 1932 and later in 1980.
• Miracle on Ice: The 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid gained fame for the ‘Miracle on Ice’, when the U.S. hockey team triumphed against the heavily favored Soviet Union during the Cold War.
• Ironman Triathlon: An annual Ironman Triathlon occurs here, attracting competitors and spectators from across the globe.
• High Peaks Region: The village is set within the High Peaks area of the Adirondacks, home to 46 peaks exceeding 4,000 feet, making it a hub for hiking, climbing, and camping.
• Whiteface Mountain: Whiteface Mountain, the fifth-highest mountain in New York, boasts the highest vertical drop of any ski area in the eastern United States.
• Water Bodies: Lake Placid is situated near two significant bodies of water—Mirror Lake and Lake Placid—offering plentiful opportunities for water sports, fishing, and scenic enjoyment.
• Population: As of the last census conducted prior to my training cut-off in 2021, Lake Placid’s population was around 2,500 residents, yet this number swells during peak tourist seasons.
• Wildlife: The area around Lake Placid is rich in wildlife, with chances to spot black bears, deer, bobcats, and various bird species.
• John Brown Farm State Historic Site: This is the home and resting place of abolitionist John Brown, preserved as a New York State Historic Site.
• Seasonal Activities: Lake Placid offers diverse outdoor pursuits throughout the year, from skiing and snowboarding during winter to hiking, biking, and water activities in summer.

Photo credit: John Brown Mwanner at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

And now you have all the information required to plan a road trip to Lake Placid, NY. Have you visited Olympic City? What are your favorite activities in Lake Placid?