Your Guide to Lake Placid, New York
As the host of the 1932 and 1980 Olympic Winter Games, Lake Placid continues to dazzle visitors with its Adirondack charm and perfectly preserved historic sites. So, whether you’re speeding down Whiteface Mountain, paddling Mirror Lake, toasting the day’s excursions at the Big Slide Brewery, or simply kicking back in an Adirondack chair to gaze at the stars at night, our hand-picked experiences are sure to treat Opal guests to the best of the High Country. We guarantee you’ll see the best and brightest of Lake Placid’s cool outdoor adventures and relaxation hot spots.
Top Lake Placid Landmarks
Olympic Center
The “Miracle on Ice” happened here in 1980 when the U.S. beat the Soviet Union, and golden moments still happen during hockey and figure skating competitions. Check out the Olympic Museum and check out preparations for the 2023 University World Games.
2634 Main St,
Lake Placid, NY 12946
Whiteface Mountain
This Lake Placid ski resort has the greatest vertical drop east of the Rocky Mountains, and it has 22 miles of trails. Brave the double-black wilderness skiing on the slides, or simply cruise down the corduroy of groomers served by an enclosed gondola and high-speed quads.
5021 Route 86
Wilmington, NY 12997
High Falls Gorge
A billion years ago, natural forces carved a deep crevice into this part of the Adirondacks, leaving behind four incredible waterfalls cascading over the rocks. An easy, 30-minute walk will give you a first-hand look at the Gorge along the AuSable River.
4761 NY-86,
Wilmington, NY 12997
Most Popular Things to Do in Lake Placid
Lake Placid Bobsled Experience
Yes, you’ll be in a real bobsled, and yes, you’ll fly down the same track as Olympic athletes during this one-of-kind experience you won’t soon forget. The Instagram-worthy attraction delivers speeds of 55 miles per hour on a slick track more than half a mile long.
220 Bobsled Run Ln Rd,
Lake Placid, NY 12946
The Wild Center
Embark on the Wild Walk at the Wild Center in nearby Tupper Lake, and you’ll see the Adirondack forest with a new perspective from the treetops. A trail of bridges wanders among storybook surprises and glimpses of bald eagles; don’t miss the 24-speaker enhanced outdoor music experience.
45 Museum Dr,
Tupper Lake, NY 12986
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
This is the home and final resting place of John Brown, an abolitionist who was made famous after his death with the song “John Brown’s body lies-a-mouldering in the grave.” Learn about the clever ways Brown planned to liberate enslaved people in the South, and breathe in the fresh air of upstate New York during a hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski.
115 John Brown Rd,
Lake Placid, NY 12946
The Best Restaurants in Lake Placid
Obviously no trip here is complete without eating your way through Lake Placid Lodge’s signature restaurant, Artisans, but if you decide you want to venture off property and into town for a bite – here are our local favorites.
The Breakfast Club
This lakeside eatery serves up the best meal of the day in a hearty, European-inspired way—from röstis and benedicts to French toast, smoothie bowls and a robust cocktail menu to match. Don’t miss the delicious “Butterbeer Steamer,” a sweet twist from the in-house coffee shop.
2431 Main St,
Lake Placid, NY 12946
The Big Slide Brewery & Public House
Featuring farm-to-table eats and 10 house beers on tap, the Big Slide Brewery is just a mile from several Lake Placid attractions, like the bobsled track and Whiteface Mountain. Take home a trucker hat, a six-pack, and some IPA-infused homemade jerky.
5686 Cascade Rd,
Lake Placid, NY 12946
Smoke Signals
For fans of barbecue and music, there’s no better spot than the patio of this waterfront restaurant, which also offers takeout for those looking to picnic in the Adirondacks.
2489 Main St,
Lake Placid, NY 12946
A Local’s Favorites in Lake Placid
Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails
Spidering around the shores of Lake Placid, this network of trails offers easily accessible hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities for the entire family. Our pick: The Ridge Trail, for its steady climb and scenic forest.
Brewster Peninsula Rd,
Lake Placid, NY 12946
Emma’s Lake Placid Creamery
Maple Crème soft-serve ice cream? We’ll all scream for that! Mouthwatering options, including sundaes and milkshakes, abound at this retro, old-school spot, which also sells souvenir Lake Placid gear.
2507 Main St,
Lake Placid, NY 12946
Mirror Lake
While the Adirondack High Peaks have more than 2,300 ponds, lakes, and 1,500 miles of rivers, our pick is the pristine body of water that sparkles as the centerpiece of Lake Placid. Rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard to experience this 128-acre, 1-mile-long lake.
49 Parkside Drive,
Lake Placid, NY 12946
Where to Stay | Lake Placid Lodge
