Tucked amidst New York’s breathtaking Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid gained fame as a 1980 Winter Olympics venue, and continues to charm year-round visitors with its abundance of natural wonders. Accommodation options range from simple rural hideaways to luxurious lakeside lodges, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whether they’re at the water’s edge or hidden in the surrounding countryside, the best places to stay in Lake Placid brim with warmth and character.
With 46 peaks over 4,000 feet, the Adirondack Mountains are marvellous for thrill-seeking explorers. Come during the winter months for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tobogganing, snow shoeing and dog sledding in stunning surroundings. Local businesses are well-equipped for both experienced sports fans and eager beginners, so this is also a great family choice. Summer visitors can hike, horse ride or mountain bike. Whiteface Mountain — the only one of the peaks which can be summited by car — is brilliant for expansive views towards New York, Vermont and Canada. Head to Lake Placid or Mirror Lake for sailing, kayaking, fishing and swimming.
Back in town, don’t miss the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, the Historical Society Depot Museum or the burgeoning crop of great bars and eateries. Popular with couples, friends and families throughout the year, the best places to stay in Lake Placid can book up very quickly. It’ll be hard to believe that you’re just five hours’ drive from New York!
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Lake Placid (New York State)
Handsome downtown hotel, minutes from Mirror Lake. Fresh, classic contemporary rooms, some with picture perfect lake views. Communal spaces offer comfy sofas and an open fire. There's a rooftop bar to drink in mountain views plus restaurant serving local fare. An easy base for outdoor adventuring.
Lake Placid (New York State)
A fun modern hotel in the centre of town. Chic yet cosy rooms and suites are a mishmash of Scandi/Japanese influences. Think tongue and groove walls, pale green and beige colour scheme and lots of wood. Head to Apres Only Bar for charcuterie platters and draft beer. Great value for active types.
Lake Placid (New York State)
Lakeside inn with rustic accents and plush home comforts. Interiors are decorated in a simple Arts and Crafts style with emphasis on wood panelling, calm neutrals and well-crafted furniture. Floor-to-ceiling windows open rooms up to panoramic lake views. Three dining establishment and on-site spa.
Lake Placid (New York State)
Nestled in Lake Placid, this stylish retreat combines Scandinavian elegance with Adirondack charm. Chic rooms and cabins offer cozy amenities, while the bar and firepits invite relaxation. Explore nature and town charm on a free bike, all in the scenic embrace of the Adirondacks.
Lake Placid (New York State)
A vintage boutique inn set in the most historic building in Lake Placid. Five authentic, luxury and spacious suites with antique furnishings, molten brown products and sweeping vistas. Enjoy a delicious two-course gourmet breakfast on the porch. Sit by the fire pit and sip on handcrafted cocktails.
Lake Placid (New York State)
Rustic deluxe hotel for outdoorsy folk who like a cosy bed to snuggle into after a day on the slopes, the river, the road or the trail. All-suite accommodations feature wood panelling and kitchens, and some have fireplaces and hot tubs. Two pools, gym, sauna, spa, salon. Ice parlor, restaurant, bar.
Lake Placid (New York State)
Luxurious apartment hotel on the banks of Mirror Lake. Cool loft-style apartments with period arched windows and tall lakefront balconies feature contemporary decor and fully-stocked kitchens. Options include multi-bedroom suites, jetted tubs and fireplaces. No restaurant but endless options nearby.
Lake Placid (New York State)
Lake Placid Lodge caters to creature comforts with traditional Adirondack hospitality. Nestled on the west shore of Lake Placid, rooms and suites offer panoramic lake views. Stone fireplaces, wooden beams and authentic pieces for sale add to the charm. Elegant restaurant serves fresh artisanal fare.