Lake Placid, NY Summary

Known best around the world as the scene of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympic Games, this village, in northeastern New York, is a quiet summer and winter resort.

The village sits on Mirror Lake—Lake Placid is north of the village—and is at the base of Whiteface Mountain. It is completely surrounded by the Adirondack Park, and is the hub of the northern Adirondacks. First settled in 1800 and later abandoned, then resettled in 1849 and finally incorporated in 1900, this little mountain village slowly developed as a resort area.

Local population is 2,520.

The Olympic facilities are wellrun attractions now. The Olympic Arena and Convention Center in town houses four ice-skating rinks, including the ice arena and speedskating oval, and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. The Kodak Sports Park Olympic Jumping Complex, site of the ski jumps and freestyle aerial facility, is 2 miles outside of town. Whiteface Mountain, scene of the downhill competitions, is about 10 miles out, and the Olympic Sports Complex located at Mt Van Hoevenberg, scene of the bobsled run, is 15 miles out. This complex includes 31 miles of cross-country ski trails.

The John Brown Farm State Historic Site and Grave, near the ski jumps on Hwy 73, is the restored farmhouse and burial spot of the noted abolitionist. The Lake Placid-North Elba Historical Society Museum occupies the old railroad station and offers exhibits on local history. Mt Marcy, the highest mountain in the Adirondacks, is close by, attracting 20,000 visitors each year to its 7-mile ascent.

Canoe trips and other adventure tours are easily arranged in this rugged wilderness area.

Lodging and dining options are above average and Main Street, in the village, attracts visitors to its many shops and restaurants.

Clinton County Airport in Plattsburgh serves the area. Buses also service Lake Placid. Cars are useful, though there are trolley rides through the village.