Ready for a road trip that mixes lakeside fun with mountain views and cool history?
Lake Placid might be famous for the Olympics, but there’s so much more to explore than just sports stuff.
Think secret islands you can paddle to, dreamy lakeside dinners, easy hikes with epic views, and even waterfalls you don’t have to hike miles to see.
Get ready to explore one of New York’s top destinations.
1. John Brown Farm State Historic Site
John Brown Farm State Historic Site is the actual home and gravesite of John Brown, the famous abolitionist who led the raid on Harpers Ferry.
You can tour his 1850s farmhouse, explore the barn and fields where his family lived, and visit the peaceful hilltop where he’s buried beneath a massive stone.
It blends history and nature, with quiet walking trails, epic mountain views, and even a giant statue of John Brown himself.
2. Lake Placid Olympic Museum
Just a short drive from the farm, the Lake Placid Olympic Museum is where you’ll find an incredible collection of Winter Games history in the U.S.
This place is packed with Olympic gear, old-school medals, and even one of the original torches used to carry the flame to Lake Placid.
You’ll get to relive all the high-stakes moments of Lake Placid’s 1932 and 1980 Olympic years with fun exhibits, hands-on displays, and athlete trivia.
3. Mirror Lake Public Beach
After soaking up all that Olympic glory, cool off at Mirror Lake Public Beach, which you’ll find right in the middle of Lake Placid village.
This spot has a sandy shoreline, super clear water (no motorboats allowed!), and a chill vibe that’s ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, or just floating around.
There’s also a dock, a playground, and free public restrooms nearby, so spending the whole afternoon here without a care in the world is easy.
4. Lake Placid Lodge
When you’re ready for something a little fancier, head over to Lake Placid Lodge—it’s the definition of cozy Adirondack luxury.
Even if you’re not checking in, you can grab a drink or meal at Artisans Restaurant, which has a magical view of Whiteface Mountain across the lake.
Think hand-carved wood details, crackling fireplaces, and sunsets that’ll have you reaching for your camera every five seconds.
5. Canoe or Kayak to Buck Island
For something more adventurous, rent a kayak or canoe from one of the local outfitters, then paddle your way across Lake Placid to tiny Buck Island.
It’s close enough for beginners, but still feels like a mini expedition.
You can pull up on shore, wander the island at your own pace, and enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by open water and zero crowds.
6. Lake Placid Boat Tour from Paradox Bay
If paddling isn’t your thing, hop on a scenic boat tour from Paradox Bay and let someone else do the steering.
These boat tours take you around the real Lake Placid and not just the town that shares its name.
Along the way, your guide will share fun facts about local history, celeb homes, and the Adirondack Great Camps that line the shore.
It’s super relaxing, the views are unreal, and if you time it right, you might catch the mountains glowing pink during golden hour.
7. Cobble Hill
Back on land and ready to stretch your legs?
Cobble Hill may be a quick hike just outside the village, but its summit delivers sweeping views of Mirror Lake and the High Peaks.
It’s under 2 miles round-trip, with some fun rock scrambles near the summit—totally doable and worth it for that epic photo.
8. High Falls Gorge
If you’re in the mood for waterfalls, High Falls Gorge is just a 10-minute drive from town and feels like walking straight into a nature documentary.
There’s an easy path with glass-floor walkways and sturdy bridges that let you get up close to four roaring waterfalls without needing hiking boots.
It’s quick, dramatic, and family-friendly but fair warning: your camera roll will be 90% waterfall shots by the end.
9. Cloudsplitter Gondola Ride
Once you’ve had your fill of forest trails, take your adventure to the sky with the Cloudsplitter Gondola Ride at Whiteface Mountain.
This comfy lift glides you up Little Whiteface, where gorgeous views of Lake Placid and the High Peaks stretch as far as the eye can see.
It’s perfect if you want mountain scenes without a hardcore hike—just sit back, unwind, and soak up those jaw-dropping panoramas.
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