Things to do in Lake Placid, NY
A Guide to the village of Lake Placid in the Adirondack Mountains
Craving an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Adirondacks? Look no further than Lake Placid, NY! This charming village, famed for hosting the 1980 Winter Olympics, is nestled amidst breathtaking mountains and has a ton of activities to keep you entertained. This guide is your key to maximizing your time in this Adirondack gem, listing the best things to do in Lake Placid, and ensuring you experience the best it has to offer.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adrenaline seeker, or a history buff, Lake Placid caters to all interests. This area even offers stunning locations for those planning an Adirondack elopement! Imagine exchanging vows amidst awe-inspiring landscapes and serene lakeshores – an unforgettable experience, to say the least!
Top things to do in Lake Placid
BEST OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
© ROOST/Lake Placid
- Hiking and Backpacking: The Adirondack Park surrounding the village is a hiker’s paradise, with options to suit every adventurer – weekend warriors and seasoned trekkers alike! Whether you crave a chill stroll through a valley bursting with wildflowers or an epic ascent to an ADK high peak, there’s a trail waiting to become your next unforgettable hiking adventure!
- Water Sports and Activities: Lake Placid offers a variety of exciting water sports and activities for all ages and skill levels! Whether you’re looking for thrilling adventures or relaxing days on the water, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top water activities you can experience in Lake Placid:
↟ Whitewater Rafting
↟ Paddling, Kayaking, and Canoeing
↟ Wakeboarding, Waterskiing, and Wake Surfing
↟ Boating and Boat Tours
↟ Fishing
↟ Swimming
↟ Tubing - Cloudsplitter Gondola Ride: Soar above the Adirondacks on the Cloudsplitter Gondola for breathtaking panoramic views. Enjoy a scenic ride to the top of Whiteface Mountain, and take in the stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
- Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway: Discover the thrill of reaching the summit of a 4,867-foot mountain with ease on the Veterans’ Memorial Highway! This incredible road takes you straight to the top of Whiteface Mountain, offering you the unique experience of standing atop an Adirondack high peak without the strenuous hike. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views as you explore one of the region’s most iconic summits. We had an amazing elopement adventure here with one of our couples, Susan and Katy! Check out their elopement gallery highlights here!
- Outdoor Rock Climbing: Lake Placid boasts some of the top rock climbing spots in the Adirondacks, catering to climbers of all levels. The High Peaks region includes a range of options, from expansive wilderness cliffs to hidden backcountry walls. Whether you’re into traditional rock climbing, summer mountaineering, or exploring remote crags, this area has something for everyone.
- Indoor Rock Climbing: Mt. Van Hoevenberg’s Indoor Climbing Center offers everything you need for an indoor climb, catering to all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, you’ll find the perfect challenge and support to hone your skills in this top-notch facility.
- Ziplining: Experience the thrill of soaring through the Adirondack treetops on a zipline course. Several outfitters offer ziplining adventures in the Lake Placid area, providing a unique way to explore the natural beauty of the region. Here are some website with zip line tours and packages you can check out:
↟ Experience Outdoors
↟ Olympic Jumping Complex - Cliffside Coaster: Experience the thrill of the Cliffside Coaster at Mt. Van Hoevenberg! This exhilarating ride offers a unique adventure for all ages, winding through the beautiful Adirondack landscape. Feel the rush as you navigate twists, turns, and drops, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.
MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT
Other things to do in Lake Placid
© ORDA/Lake Placid
- Lake Placid Olympic Center: Immerse yourself in the rich Olympic history of Lake Placid. Visit the Olympic Center and Museum to see exhibits on the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, explore the iconic ski jumps, and even take a ride on the bobsled track (weather permitting).
- John Brown Farm State Historic Site: Learn about the life and legacy of abolitionist John Brown at his historic Lake Placid home. Explore the farmhouse, barns, and grounds, and gain insight into a pivotal moment in American history.
- Other Lake Placid Legacy Sites Activities: Lake Placid legacy sites have tons of other indoor and outdoor activities you can consider checking out! They offer a blend of history, excitement, and inspiration, making them essential stops on any trip to Lake Placid! Glide across the Olympic Oval, visit the Olympic Jumping Complex, and experience bobsledding at the Olympic Sports Complex. Explore Mt. Van Hoevenberg for cross-country skiing and biathlon, or head to Whiteface Mountain for alpine skiing and stunning summit views! (Bonus: They offer exclusive packages or “Passports”, tailor-made in every season for visitors looking to enjoy three or more activities!)
Conclusion and final tips for an unforgettable adventure
Lake Placid, with its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and abundance of outdoor activities, is a truly remarkable destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure, a peaceful elopement location, or simply a nature-immersed escape, this charming village in the heart of the Adirondacks is sure to leave a lasting impression. Explore the many things to do in Lake Placid, NY, and create unforgettable memories in this destination!