Spring Weekend Guide: Adventures, Shopping, and Dining in Lake Placid

Lake Placid, nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, comes to life in the spring. As the snow melts and the lakes thaw, the village transforms into the perfect weekend getaway, offering outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and fantastic dining. This is a must-visit spot in the United States for a weekend escape. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush or a peaceful retreat, Lake Placid has something for everyone.

Photo Credit: Lake Placid 

Morning: Outdoor Adventures

There is nothing quite like waking up to the beautiful sounds of nature and taking in the beauty of a quiet lake in the morning. There are plenty of options in Lake Placid to get that surreal feeling. If you’re up for a moderately challenging hike, Mount Jo is an absolute must. The summit rewards you with incredible views, making it the perfect balance of effort and payoff without being too strenuous.

For an even more laid-back experience, consider hopping aboard the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. It’s a unique way to take in the landscape while relaxing in comfort. They offer a variety of train ride experiences for both kids and adults, from Tea Time to Beer & Wine, all the way to the Polar and Easter Bunny Express.

If you’re looking for something new, check out the Mountain Pass Lodge at Mount Van Hoevenberg, a newly opened stop for hikers offering food, restrooms, and gift shops. If you'd prefer a more exciting adventure with a view and less physical exertion, the Skyride Experience is the way to go. This gondola ride, featuring a glass-enclosed elevator, soars above skiers with breathtaking mountain views.

After your adventure, consider dining in Lake Placid at Fresh Tracks. Whether you need a caffeine boost or a quick bite, their menu offers delicious options to keep you fueled for the rest of the day.

Photo Credit: Fresh Tracks

Afternoon: Explore & Shop

Once you're recharged, take a stroll through Lake Placid’s charming downtown on Main Street. This area is full of boutique shops, bakeries, art galleries, restaurants, and outdoor gear stores. If you’re a history buff, stop by the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, where you can experience the town's Olympic legacy. Lake Placid has hosted the Winter Olympics twice, in 1932 and 1980, and the museum offers a fascinating look at the athletes, events, and memorabilia that helped establish the town as a world-renowned Olympic destination.

If shopping is on the agenda, head to High Peaks Cyclery. In the summer, they are the go-to shop for all models of bicycles, with brands like Giant, Liv, Yeti, Salsa, and BMC, along with gear and clothing for bikes, triathlon, running, hiking, and backpacking. They also carry canoe, kayak, and SUP equipment, rock climbing gear, fishing gear, footwear, books, maps, and much more.

For a calming getaway experience, visit The Whiteface Lodge for a spa day or lodging. If you need something to do with the kids, they host Campfires & S’mores every night from 6-9 p.m. With multiple campfire locations, rain, cold, or snow never stops this nightly Whiteface Lodge tradition. If you want to maximize your time outdoors or traveling around the area, instead of dining indoors in Lake Placid, grab a Fresh Tracks lunch to go and enjoy a picnic at Mid's Park, one of the area’s most beloved parks. The open space provides stunning views of Mirror Lake and the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy your meal.

Evening: Dining in Lake Placid with a View

As the day winds down, you’ll want to experience a dinner with a view. The View Restaurant offers upscale American cuisine with some of the best vistas in Lake Placid. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a meal with loved ones, this spot is a must-visit. If you're after something a bit more casual but still offering great views when dining in Lake Placid, Top of the Park Restaurant is a perfect choice. With vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options, it's a great spot for any dietary needs while still enjoying a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.