If you’re looking for a cozy mountain getaway the entire family can enjoy year-round, pack your bags and head to Lake Placid in Upstate New York. As an avid adventurer always on the lookout for mountain towns bursting with unique things to do, I promise you’ll be instantly hooked.
In this family-focused guide to Lake Placid, I break down where to stay, what to do in every season and how to plan a seamless weekend packed with outdoor adventure, Olympic history and charming Main Street moments.
What the reader will learn in this article
- Top Family Accommodations: A look inside the rustic-luxury suites of The Whiteface Lodge and the boutique Scandinavian charm of Eastwind Hotel.
- Must-Do Olympic Experiences: How to explore iconic 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympic sites, including ski jump views and ice skating sessions.
- Seasonal Adventure Guide: From apple cider slushies at local orchards in the fall to family-friendly skiing at Whiteface Mountain in the winter.
Editor’s Note: The writer was partially hosted.
Where to Stay in Lake Placid With Kids
The Whiteface Lodge (Ideal for Multi-Gen Rustic-Luxury Stays)
Kick back at The Whiteface Lodge, a destination in itself, tucked into the Adirondacks’ High Peaks region. Designed to evoke “the Gilded Age splendor of the historic Adirondack Great Camps,” the one-to-three-bedroom cedar and mahogany suites offer special comforts every season of the year.
You’ll find cozy throws at every reach, roaring fireplaces, breathtaking views of Adirondack Park and one of the Top 100 spas in North America, according to Conde Nast Traveler. I recommend warming up in a furnished lean-to, complete with fire pits and s’more roasting, or enjoying a flick with the family in the in-resort movie theater. There’s even a seasonal ice cream parlor, which is truly the cherry on top.
There’s no need to leave the property if you choose not to. The Lodge provides a daily printout of everything there is to do, making planning your day much easier.
Another plus? The Lodge offers a delicious daily breakfast spread. Take it from me and grab a warm chocolate croissant, or a few, to take back to your cozy room! And, at the end of each day, the sweet tooth fanatic in me was so eager to be welcomed by freshly baked chocolate chip cookies (which taste gooey, melt-in-your-mouth-good) in my suite.
Eastwind Hotel (Boutique Stay Steps From Main Street)
Another accommodation located in the heart of downtown is Eastwind Hotel. If you love boutique hotels that provide ample activities for the family, but also serve as a quiet retreat to return to at the end of a long day, Eastwind is certainly worth checking out.
The property is complete with a vintage library, bar and lounge, sauna, fire pits, hammocks, pool and community BBQ area. If your family loves to bike, spend an afternoon exploring Lake Placid with the hotel’s Retrospec bikes.
Eastwind has a variety of beautiful Scandinavian cabins, rooms and suites, including the King & Queen Suite with a private balcony, which is ideal for a family of four.
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Things to Do in Lake Placid With Kids (Year-Round)
Each season offers endless possibilities when it comes to activities and adventure in the area for your Lake Placid family vacation.
Canoe Club Water Sports on Lake Placid
If you’re guests at The Whiteface Lodge, be sure to spend time at the resort’s beachfront Canoe Club, where abundant water activities await. Here, the family can make memories canoeing, paddle boarding, pedal boating, swimming and more, right on Lake Placid. You can also hop aboard a pontoon boat for a full day of relaxation, soaking up the sun, and casting a few lines for fishing.
Rulfs Orchard (Apple Picking and Fall Family Fun)
Be sure to visit Rulfs Orchard, it’s well-worth the short drive. This beloved farm destination offers family fun year-round, including country-farm store shopping, meeting cute animals at the petting zoo, taking a pumpkin ride and navigating the orchard’s corn maze. Rulfs also offers pick-your-own apples, strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, depending on the season.
Whatever you do, I highly recommend trying the orchard’s iconic apple cider slushies and browsing its selection of mini pies and baked goods. (The strawberry rhubarb pie is my absolute favorite and the area’s specialty!) And, if you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy moment with the family, be sure to top off your slushie with a pumpkin spice donut as I did.
Explore Lake Placid’s Olympic Sites
Take it from me: You can’t visit Lake Placid without exploring its epic Olympic sites. The Winter Olympics were held in Lake Placid in 1932 and 1980.
At the Olympic Jumping Complex, take the elevator all the way to the top of the 100 and 128-meter ski jumps for incredible views and memorable family photo ops. (It was truly surreal to experience this in person and see just how grand the jumps are—especially from the ground! I felt so small, but in the best way.) For added excitement, the zipline ride back down to the base is an experience in itself.
Be sure to also check out the Olympic Center, where public skating sessions and hockey tournaments are held year-round. While there, take a guided tour of the rink where the “Miracle on Ice” occurred during the 1980 Winter Olympics.
Main Street Shopping and Sweet Treat Stops
Main Street in Lake Placid is filled with endless charm and so many fun shops. At Saratoga Olive Oil, you can sample divine homemade oils and balsamic vinegars and make your own flavorful marinade. I’ll let you in on a little secret: My favorite combo I blended together is the Basil Infused Olive Oil paired with the Fig Balsamic Vinegar.
Then, pop into Adirondack Chocolates to stock up on sweets for late-night snacking. If your family prefers savory treats, Adirondack Popcorn Co. offers a variety of flavors, from dill pickle and double cheddar to classic movie theater-style popcorn. For a very authentic country store experience, check out the rustic home decor items and cozy sweatshirts at Adirondack Decorative Arts & Crafts. I ended up grabbing a puffer vest and dad cap from this shop as two special souvenirs.
Family-Friendly Hiking Trails Near Lake Placid
Another Lake Placid staple is exploring its hiking trails, and the area is bursting with family-friendly options. Cobble Mountain offers a 1.5-mile round-trip hike, and it’s supposedly a local favorite. You can choose between easier and more challenging routes. Another scenic option is Henry’s Woods, near the U.S. Olympic Training Center. Here, you’ll find five trails ranging in levels of difficulty. If your family loves the good old outdoors, both options are definitely worth it.
Whiteface Mountain Family Skiing and Snowboarding
Slip into your gear and hit the slopes at Whiteface Mountain for a full day of snowy fun. Whiteface offers more than 299 ski-able acres of trails fit for every skill level. What sets Whiteface Mountain apart is its dedicated park for families, kids, and beginners. The Bear Den Learning Center equips kids with everything they need to know to confidently tackle the slopes. When it’s time for a break, pop into the family lodge to warm up with hot cocoa and a yummy meal.
Where to Eat in Lake Placid With Family
The Cottage at Mirror Lake Inn
After shopping Main Street, The Cottage at Mirror Lake Inn is a short walk and quaint place to dine. Situated on the shores of Mirror Lake, this restaurant is considered to be Lake Placid’s “hot spot,” delivering gorgeous views of the Great Range of the Adirondack High Peaks. During the nice weather, snag a table on the porch and dig into comforting favorites like pulled pork nachos and flatbread pizzas. I grabbed a cozy table by the window while enjoying a refreshing cocktail and grilled shrimp salad. It was the ideal spot to kick back for a bit and soak up the stunning autumnal views.
Noon Mark Burger & Pie Joint
Burgers and pies? Sign me up! This quaint, casual spot has some of the best burgers in town—including the Maple Bacon Burger with maple aioli and sharp cheddar cheese—accompanied by homemade pie. You can grab a slice, mini pie, or even a whole pie. Savor flavors like strawberry rhubarb, apple, blueberry peach and very berry.
Lisa G’s (Dog-Friendly Dining)
For an “off the beaten path” experience, check out Lisa G’s. This is truly a great spot to visit in the summer and fall when you can enjoy your meal on the deck and patio. And if your furry friend is along for the ride on the family vacation, you’ll be happy to know this restaurant is dog-friendly.
The Pickled Pig (Best Wings in Lake Placid)
If your family loves wings, chili, and classic barbecue fare like brisket and homemade pickles, The Pickled Pig does not disappoint. In fact, the eatery won the 2019 Grand Championship Best Wings in Lake Placid and again a 2018 Fan Favorite Best Wings in Lake Placid at Wing Wars. The outdoor fire pits are roaring in the winter and the deck serves as a fun spot to enjoy your BBQ platter in the warmer weather months.
Lake Placid Family Vacation FAQs
Lake Placid is a perfect designation to visit year-round. While summer means hiking and water sports, fall is an ideal time for leaf peeping and apple picking. Winter is all about hitting the slopes, while springtime offers a more peaceful retreat to explore the area.
Some of the top activities include water sports on Lake Placid, touring the Olympic sites, tackling family-friendly hiking trails, skiing and snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain, shopping Main Street, lakeside dining and seasonal farm fun at Rulfs Orchard.
If you’re looking for spacious suites where the whole family can stretch out, The Whiteface Lodge provides the ideal accommodations for multi-gen getaways. If your taste is more boutique charm that’s walking distance to downtown, Eastwind Hotel is a great option.
Yes. Lake Placid’s Main Street runs parallel to Mirror Lake, providing a seamless, scenic walk that’s also stroller-friendly. If you stay downtown, a ton of eateries, shops, and attractions are within walking distance.
This highly depends on your family’s interests. Summer is a great time to enjoy lake activities, hiking and biking. Fall makes for a cozy getaway filled with pumpkin patches, apple cider and crimson foliage. Winter is the best time for skiing, snowboarding and checking out the Winter Olympic experiences. If you prefer vacationing without the crowds, late spring or early fall are your best bet.
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