High Peaks Resort, Lake Placid, New York

This traditional lodge in the heart of Lake Placid provides an easy and comfortable base for families who choose outdoor adventures in the Adirondacks.

Located in the northernmost park of New York State, the Adirondack Mountains region offers a plethora of outdoor activities, scenic sights and a number of quaint towns with an always welcoming ambiance. While each town has their own unique appeal, Lake Placid’s relaxed and old-fashioned small town charm attracts couples and families from all over the country who are looking for an escape. Lake Placid also features an array of places to stay, from bed and breakfasts to resort hotels, cozy cabins or high quality resorts.

If you opt for a very family-friendly spot, The High Peaks Resort has all the amenities of a luxury resort and is conveniently located on the Main strip of the town. Since it overlooks the various shops and eateries, as well at the sensational Adirondacks and the serene cerulean Mirror Lake, you won’t need to get into the car all the time to enjoy yourselves.

Luxury amenities in a Natural Environment

At our fall visit, once we awoke, an almost floor-length window located inside the room provided a beautiful view of the surrounding trees’ vibrant hues. Take a closer look outside from your own deluxe balcony. You’ll find the iron clad table and chairs can accommodate your entire family while the clear, crisp mountainous air revives everyone.

There are also three on-site restaurants that cater to you and your family’s eating wishes. The Dancing Bears restaurant is a laid back establishment that offers standard American fare. Whether you stop in for breakfast, lunch and dinner, you’ll not be disappointed by the quality and quantity of your meal. Also, if parents drop by between 4pm and 7pm, the bar features the coldest beer in Lake Placid — Mega-Freeze Polar Beers poured through taps encased in blocks of ice for only $2 a pint. The kids will love the make believe bear décor, but not to worry these aren’t real stuffed bears, think oversized friendly stuffed animals. Also, if you and your little ones peer around the bar (with adult supervision of course), the kids will get a kick at the intricate mural of bears frolicking about in their natural habitat, festively partying in a similar manner to that of humans.

If you and your family want to enjoy a more upscale dining experience, The Reflections restaurant is perfect for a gourmet meal combined with an elegant yet comfortable and relaxing setting. Unique dishes are created daily but you’ll find something to satisfy everybody in your pack. If you and your family are on your way in or out of the resort, and want to enjoy a refreshing beverage or a light appetizer, try the The PR lobby bar, named for local dignitary Peter Roland, whose family began the hospitality industry in this location nearly 100 years ago. The lobby bar faces a warm fire surrounded by inviting couches and chairs where you and your family can reflect on your day’s activities. Also in the lounge, a flat screen TV and a variety of board games are provided to ensure fun entertainment for everyone. There’s also a spa and salon at the resort filled with pampering services the tired parent can appreciate. Try a hot stone or a deep tissue massage guaranteed to make you feel like a new person. 

Out & About in Lake Placid with Kids

Once you and your family reluctantly leave your accommodating resort and decide to explore the village, there are a variety of fun shops and activities. With the immense number of activities offered throughout this region, it’s almost impossible not to plan a second trip next year. Outdoorsmen (or women) can choose from ice fishing, climbing and skating; mountain biking, bobsledding, whitewater rafting, hiking and cross-country or alpine skiing, depending on season.

If you’re chilled or overheated after a long day outdoors, there are a lot of enjoyable indoor places to visit. As you may remember, Lake Placid was home of the 1980 and (1932) Olympics; therefore this town offers many Olympic themed venues and museums. The 1932 & 1980 Olympic Center and Museum allows you to explore the legacy of the winter Olympics and features exhibits that feature, video highlights, athletes uniforms and equipment and historical information about all of the area’s historic Olympic sites.

If you’re feeling a bit daring and don’t get nauseous in high places, the Olympic Jumping Complex (almost immediately visible upon entering this region), allows you to visit this 400-foot jump tower and even provides a skydeck for those who can stomach it. Accessible by chairlift or elevator, visiting this popular attraction will definitely give you a first hand Olympic experience.

Keene Valley, a neighboring town, is known as the region with the most mountain hiking trails, including the trail to summit Mt. Marcy, the highest mountain in New York. Another nearby town worthy of visiting is Saranac Lake, known in winter for its world-famous ice castle built of ice blocks. Summers, this is a beautiful spot for boating excursions and wildlife encounters.

If outdoor recreation is more your style, Glen Falls convenient location on the outskirts of the Adirondacks provides easy access to outdoor sports during every season. For more information please visit the Adirondack Mountains Website.