While the village is a year-round resort, it is likely most known as the site of the 1980 Winter Olympics, and particularly the USA-USSR hockey game, the "Miracle on Ice," when a group of American college students and amateurs upset the heavily-favored Soviet national ice hockey team 4-3 and two days later won the gold medal. The victory is usually ranked as one of the greatest in American sports history.
Lake Placid still hosts a Winter Olympics summer training facility offering exciting opportunities to watch ski jumping, aerial jumping, figure skating, etc. The town is charming and fun especially for the outdoorsy and/or adventure-spirited traveler, as well as for families looking to get away for the weekend.
Lake Placid is located in the Adirondack Park, the largest national park east of the Mississippi River. It is home to 46 High Peaks, all of which rise above 4000 feet, and many of which can be viewed simultaneously from the summit of many of the neighboring mountains. On a clear day it is possible to see Vermont, New York, and Canada from the summit of Whiteface Mountain, which is located adjacent to Lake Placid.
'''Ice Climbing:''' [http://www.neice.com/] Keene Valley boasts some of the best ice climbing in the northeast as Adirondack ice forms reliably from November to March. In early December, the Rock and River Adirondack Guide Service in Keene, NY creates a forty foot high ice wall complete with viewing benches and spotlights for those looking to extend their experiences beyond the daylight hours.
'''Speed Skating:''' [http://www.dimonsports.com] The famed Speed Skating Oval in Lake Placid is home to some of the greatest legends in Winter Olympic history. You can take part in this heritage by strapping on a pair of speed skates from Dimon Sports ? custom fitted and hand sharpened ? every day in the afternoon during special public sessions.
'''Saranac Lake Winter Carnival:''' [http://www.saranaclake.com/wintercarnivalmap.shtml] Winter comes alive with Saranac Lake_fs annual carnival held since 1897. Each year the Carnival is based on a different theme, and to kick off the ten-day event a royal court is crowned, complete with a king and queen. Watch the famous Ice Palace takes shape or join in the Nordic ski and snowshoe races.
'''Cross Country Skiing:''' [http://www.cascadeski.com] Explore the miles of groomed Nordic ski trails on the famous Jackrabbit trail system, extending from Saranac Lake to Lake Placid, which include some of the most amazing views of the High Peaks.
'''Maple Syrup:''' [http://maple.dnr.cornell.edu] From late February onward the smoky sweet aroma of maple syrup as it_fs boiled down to that delicious amber liquid wafts through the mountain air and beckons visitors to taste this sugary treat.
'''World Cup Events:''' [http://www.orda.org] The many world cup events being held in Lake Placid every year are fantastic opportunities to see some of the greatest talent each sport has to offer. From snowboarding, bobsled, luge, skeleton, and freestyle skiing, enjoy the feats and skills of athletes who train year-round for the chance to compete against the best.
'''Mountain Biking:''' [http://www.highpeakscyclery.com] Lake Placid is home to some of the best mountain biking in the northeast. A true east-coast riding experience, the trails are technical and range widely in levels of difficulty. Two bike shops in town offer professional service and sales, as well as group rides during the summer. Mt. Van Hovenburg and Whiteface Mountain are both meccas for cross country and downhill riding.
'''Road Biking:''' [http://www.placidplanetbicycles.com] The Adirondacks have thousands of miles of road on which to ride. Some of the best views can be seen between Lake Placid and Keene, as well as all around Essex County. Whether you want to bring the family or come up to train, the road biking in Lake Placid is a fantastic experience.
'''Biathlon:''' [http://www.orda.org] With the help of a range attendant you can test your marksmanship with .22 caliber biathlete rifles at the Olympic shooting complex at Mt. Van Hovenburg. The shooting distance is 50 meters.
'''Cloudsplitter Gondola:''' [http://www.whiteface.com] The 8-passenger Cloudsplitter Gondola takes visitors from the base of Whiteface to the summit of Little Whiteface in about fifteen minutes. With views of the trails, the Ausable River, and the Intervale Ski Jumping Complex, the ride is definitely spectacular.
'''Veterans Memorial Highway:''' [http://www.whiteface.com] Beginning in Wilmington, the Veterans Memorial Highway rises to the summit of Whiteface Mountain. There is a parking area at the top.
'''Hiking:''' [http://www.adkloj.com] All 46 High Peaks of the Adirondacks can be reached from the vicinity of Lake Placid by car. Some are more strenuous than others, and while many have well-beaten paths leading to their summits, many require significant bushwhacking to ascend. Be sure to set out with a group of people with plenty of water and food as well as rain gear and safety equipment. If you desire, local guides can help you make your trek to the top more enjoyable.
Just a small selection of the many types of stores located in Lake Placid:
'''Adirondack Decorative Arts and Crafts:''' [http://www.resortstores.com/lp.tradingco.php] featured on Rachel Ray's "Tasty Travels"
'''Ruthies Run:''' [http://www.ruthiesrun.com] providing upscale outerwear and expert service
'''Adirondack Museum on Main Store and Gallery:''' rustic crafts, art and photography located downtown
'''Adirondack Yarns:''' [http://adirondackyarns.com] located next to Cuppa Joe, sip coffee and shop for yarn. Workshops also available
'''Bookstore Plus:''' [http://www.thebookstoreplus.com] full selection of books including uniquely Adirondack titles
'''Placid Planet Bicycles:''' [http://www.placidplanetbicycles.com] great service and selection on profession quality bicycles and accessories
'''Saranac Sourdough''' Route 86 about 1 mile from downtown. Homemade breads, deli sandwiches, country breakfasts.
'''Soulshine Bagel:''' great for breakfast or lunch, many bagel and sandwich options. Main St. Cash only.
'''Cuppa Joe:''' sweet, friendly service and excellent paninis
'''Black Bear Restaurant'''
'''Nicolas on Main:''' [http://www.nicolasandgrill211.com] mid-range to upscale Mediterranean dining
'''Lake Placid Pub and Brewery ("PJ's"):''' [http://www.ubuale.com] home of Lake Placid Ubu Ale, great Pub Grub
'''Lisa G's:''' [http://www.lisageez.com] family, mid-range atmosphere and lots of fun
'''Caribbean Cowboy:''' grill and southern style cuisine, one of the best
'''Bluesberry's Bakery:''' [http://bluesberrybakery.com] great for croissants and scones with coffee in the morning
'''Villa Vespa:''' homemade sauce, pasta, and pizza, a little bit of heaven
'''Mykono's:''' a taste of Greece in the Adirondacks, with outdoor seating as well
'''Hunan Oshaka:''' upscale Asian cuisine
'''Tail O'the Pup:''' outdoor BBQ and fish fries, great for the whole family. Located in Ray Brook with live music a full bar!
'''Brown Dog Cafe and Wine Bar:''' great wine selection and excellent lunch food. Offers multi-course tasting menus as well as a la carte dishes.
'''Milano North:''' [http://www.milanonorth.com] upscale and casual, excellent service
'''Interlaken Inn:''' [http://www.theinterlakeninn.com] Tuscan wine cellar, awarded by national wine publications
'''The Cottage:''' [http://www.mirrorlakeinn.com] upscale Pub Grub and excellent nachos
'''Veranda:''' [http://www.lakeplacidcp.com/dining.html] Bill Clinton celebrated his 54th birthday here, great views of the mountains
'''Paradox Lodge:''' [http://www.paradoxlodge.com] amazing upscale cuisine
'''Whiteface Lodge:''' [http://www.whitefaceclubresort.com] rated nationally, one of the most elegant and tasteful dining experiences
There are numerous resort hotels located in town as well as Bed and Breakfasts in the surrounding area. If a longer stay is desired, various condominiums and timeshare plans are available as well.