After all these years living in Buffalo, New York, we finally made it to Lake Placid. Maybe it was the Covid19 quarantine, maybe it was a strong desire to get out into the fresh mountain air, maybe it was a big birthday you wanted to escape from, or maybe it was a longing to experience something totally new. Whatever the motivation, it was a very special treat. The fact that it’s part of New York State feels pretty great too. It was a three day two night getaway and it was just enough to tease us to return. 

      First and foremost, Lake Placid is a two time Olympic Host City. It’s the only city in the USA with that claim to fame. It happened in 1932 and 1980 and the town continues to bid on more. It’s so refreshing to see the infrastructure built for these games so actively used for training and touring. We did not take advantage of any of the Olympic sites or museums because they were still closed due to the pandemic.

    What was opened was the free and beautiful walk around Mirror Lake. The walk is 2.5 miles of lovely views and homes. There is a point in the walk when you can easily see the famous Lake Placid itself. We walked right over. The walk around Mirror Lake is paved in brick and a favorite for the locals. Many walk around two times like it’s nothing. You will see lots of people and dogs taking advantage of the pleasant walk.

  The big recommendations are driving up to Whiteface Mountain, taking a gondola, and going on a hike to see High Falls Gorge. We did not do any of that. We just enjoyed strolling down Main Street, visiting coffee shops and buying a few souvenirs. We also splurged on an exceptional meal at “The View” and a big breakfast at Generations. 

       The first night we stayed at the Hampton Inn and we were very pleased with the location. It features a spectacular view right on Mirror Lake, fire pit, many Adirondack chairs and is situated next to the Lake Placid Brewery. My husband recommends the Moose Island Ale. We noticed that the Marriott in town does not share the same desirable location. The second night we treated ourselves to the historic Mirror Lake Inn. Oh yes. Everything was so appealing. We especially enjoyed the Lake access and paddle boats, canoes and kayaks that are free for guests at the Inn for use. Be prepared to walk up a big flight of steps to the Inn built in 1942. I guarantee you will be quite pleased.

     My friend who frequents Lake Placid told me not to go the recommended 81 North to Watertown since the roads are very curvy with one lane of traffic on both sides. Her recommendation was to take the 90 to Saratoga Springs and head up 87 North past Lake George and Glens Fall. The route added a few minutes but it sure was interesting. It really is something to behold the vastness of driving up through the Adirondack Mountains.  It is six-million acres, and the largest park in the contiguous Unites States. I was shocked to learn the Adirondacks cover 1/3 of New York State. 

      Most people remember the “Miracle on Ice” during the 1980 Olympic Games when the United States with a bunch of amateur players defeated the Russian four time defending champions to win gold in men’s ice hockey. But, the true miracle of Lake Placid is God’s handiwork on magnificent display.

Tags : Adirondacks, Lake Placid, Mirror Lake, New York State