Lake Placid is known primarily for Olympic fame – and for good reason. The games have been held twice in this upstate New York town, and it’s reflected just about everywhere you go. But the greater Adirondacks are home to a handful of historic luxury lodges that were once Great Camps to the likes of the Rockefeller and Vanderbilt families.
Today, many of those retreats now cater to visitors, and Lake Placid Lodge is among the most splendid. The origin dates back to 1882 but has served as a hotel since the 1950s and has since been rebuilt to reflect the Great Camp aesthetics after a fire. Read on for our full review of the one-of-a-kind luxury lodge.
The Look of Lake Placid Lodge
You arrive at Lake Placid Lodge via a picturesque road off Route 86. Park in the circle drive, enter the lobby, and you’re instantly delighted. First, you’ll be handed a glass of bubbly as you relax in front of a roaring fire during the check-in process: setting the stage for a serene escape.
The accommodations are just as charming as the lobby itself. What's more, Lake Placid Lodge is comprised of 13 gorgeous guest rooms and 17 cabins, all dotted along the water’s edge with porches and seating, a wood-burning fireplace, and scenic views out the big picture windows.
The Vibe at Lake Placid Lodge
The vibe can best be described as cozy-chic. The property manages to marry the lodge-y vibe with luxury amenities. The rooms and cabins are spaced out nicely so that you’ll have a sense of seclusion and privacy. That said, taking a pre-dinner drink at Maggie’s Pub or sitting down to dinner at Artisans can be a social event.
Days here are spent according to the season. In the winter months, guests might be found ice skating, skiing, snowshoeing, or simply playing a game of billiards by the fireplace. Come summer, there’s boating, fishing, tennis, golf, hiking, biking, or roasting s’more under the stars in an Adirondack chair.
Who Will Love Lake Placid Lodge
Adults searching for a quiet getaway, including couples looking for a romantic vacation, will love Lake Placid Lodge. Kids who enjoy spending time in nature will be especially enthralled by all of the outdoor activities.
Who Might Not Love Lake Placid Lodge
Travelers looking for more budget-conscious accommodations or chain properties may want to look elsewhere.
Best Amenity at Lake Placid Lodge
Your stay here includes loads of amenities (detailed below), and it’s a huge perk of staying at the property. However, being a guest also entitles you to dine at Artisans. Helmed by executive chef Derek Leinonen, the food is prepared with local and seasonal ingredients in mind and has that same rustic-chic vibe that flows throughout the property. While breakfast here is fantastic (but we recommend taking that in your cozy cabin), dinner is where the restaurant really shines. Start with the East Coast oysters or seared halloumi before digging into the big and buttery scallops or venison chop (a fan favorite). Cap off the meal on a sweet note with anything chocolate. The wine list is also fantastic.
What’s Included at Lake Placid Lodge
There are loads of incredible amenities included in the 12% total accommodation resort fee, including nightly turndown service; a fridge stocked with snacks, drinks and wine; shuttle service, nightly bonfires and s’mores supplies; a Champagne check-in; wifi, a bottle of wine upon arrival; newspapers; in-room fireplace attendance; a daily welcome amenity; plus all of the activities such as mountain biking, paddleboarding, canoes, kayaks, skiing, and so much more.
Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About at Lake Placid Lodge
The aforementioned resort fee (12%), as well as a $75 nightly pet fee.
How to Get a Deal at Lake Placid Lodge
The best way to get a deal at Lake Placid Lodge is to check the property’s offers page. Here, you’ll find the best deals, such as a “build your own package” and curated promotions that change with the seasons.
In the Neighborhood of Lake Placid Lodge
Lake Placid Lodge is a short drive to Lake Placid’s main attractions. You'll also find fantastic hiking within minutes, as well as the famed Olympic Center. Main Street, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and even more activities, is just a short drive away.
Nearest Airport to Lake Placid Lodge
Saranac Lake (SLK) Airport is 13.2 miles away from the property. Other nearby airports include Plattsburgh (PBG) (37 miles), Burlington (BTV) (43 miles), Montreal (YUL) (82.6 miles), and Lebanon (LEB) (95.2 miles).
Nearest Public Transportation to Lake Placid Lodge
While it's not considered public transportation, Amtrak travels right through the town (the station is about 10 minutes away by car).
Lake Placid Lodge offers a rustic-chic experience for those who love nature but covet luxury.