31 Best Things to Do in Lake Placid, NY This Summer

Post summary: 30+ of the best outdoor activities and things to do in Lake Placid NY in the summer

There’s a feeling I only get in Lake Placid in the summer. It’s the scent of pine needles warming in the sun, the crisp chill of the lake water on a hot afternoon, and the taste of a craft beer at Big Slide Brewery after a long, satisfying day on the trails.

Lake Placid has been my go to escape in the Adirondacks for as long as I can remember. While it’s famous for its Olympic history and the 48 High Peaks, I think the real magic of Lake Placid is in the variety of experiences it has offer. You can spend one day tackling the highest mountain in New York State and the next just lounging by Mirror Lake with a good book.

This isn’t just another list. This is my personal guide, filled with the spots I return to year after year and the insider tips I’ve learned along the way. 

Let’s dive in to the 30+ top things to do in Lake Placid NY in the summer!

Guides to help you plan your trip to Lake Placid in the summer

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How to Use Google Maps to Plan Your Next Road Trip (Step-By-Step Tutorial With Examples)

What to Pack for a Day Hike: Essential Gear and Complete Packing List

15 Useful Apps to Download Before Your Next Road Trip (for Free!)

Best Things to Do in Lake Placid for Adventure + Epic Views

These are the best things to do in Lake Placid on the days where you want to chase the most epic views and get your heart pumping. 

1. Take in the views from the summit of Whiteface Mountain

The 360-degree view from New York’s fifth-highest peak is non-negotiable! While you can hike it, the most practical and scenic way for most people is to drive to the top via the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway.

The paved road is about 5 miles long and is a whole experience in itself! There are multiple scenic overlooks to pull off at and on a clear day, you can even see all the way to Lake Champlain and Vermont. 

From the parking lot, you have a final 0.5-mile walk to the true summit. It sounds short but I see people underestimate it all the time. The path is a combination of stone staircases and natural rock pathways that can be surprisingly slippery, even on a dry day. 

My Pro Tip: Wear proper hiking boots with good grip, not flip-flops or casual sneakers. I see people struggling with this every time I’m there. Also, it’s always 10-15 degrees colder and much windier at the summit than in town. Pack a windbreaker, even on a hot day.

Good to know: The Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway is open daily from 8:45 am – 5:30 pm between May 24 – October 14. Parking costs $20 per vehicle and driver, with an additional $20 per passenger.

2. Explore the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks” at Ausable Chasm

This amazing spot is just a 30 minute drive from town and is a total geological marvel. Standard admission gets you access to the rim trails, which are a series of well maintained paths and bridges that give you incredible views down into the gorge. 

If you only have a short time in Lake Placid, I highly recommend you make time for Ausable Chasm!

Must-do’s while you’re there: 

• The Rim Trail: A beautiful walk with spectacular views of Rainbow Falls and Elephant’s Head.
• Float Tours: For a different perspective, I highly recommend the rafting or tubing tours that take you right through the chasm itself. You glide between the towering rock walls, getting a view you can’t see from above.

My Pro Tip Before You Go: Book your rappelling and climbing tours in advance online, especially on summer weekends because they do sell out! The combo packages are the best value.

3. Hike to an Unbelievable View on the Cobble Lookout Trail

This is my top recommendation if you want a massive payoff for minimal effort.

The Cobble Lookout Trail in Wilmington Wild Forest is definitely more of a leisurely stroll. The whole trail is just 2.6 miles round-trip to a rocky ledge with panoramic views that rival some of the much harder hikes in the area.

• Getting There: The trailhead is in Wilmington, about a 20-minute drive from Lake Placid.
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• What to wear: We always see a lot of people wearing sneakers and sandals on this hike. While it’s short and easy, the trail is pretty muddy year round. You should definitely wear proper hiking boots and leave the flip flops at home.
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My Pro Tip: This hike is one of the best hiking trails in Lake Placid for sunset in the summer! And because it’s so accessible, it can get really crowded. For a more peaceful time, go on a weekday or for sunrise (which is equally as beautiful). You might end up with the entire place to yourself.

4. Catch sunset from Mt. Jo

Sunset on Mt. Jo is a classic for a reason. The view of Heart Lake with the High Peaks in the background is iconic. The summit is small and rocky but gives you the perfect little perch to watch the sun dip behind the mountains. 

There are two trails to the summit: the “Short Trail” is steeper and more direct, while the “Long Trail” is a bit more gradual.

I’ve hiked this trail no less than 50 times over the years and find the easiest way is to take the “Short Trail” up and the “Long Trail” down. The short trail up saves on time (especially if you’re racing up for sunset!) but the long trail down is a lot easier on your knees.

Also, this should be obvious, but bring a headlamp for the hike down if you’re staying for sunset. The trail gets dark very quickly once the sun is gone.

Getting There: The trail starts just across from the payment booth at the Adirondack Loj parking area, which requires a fee ($15 per day as of 2025). This is the same lot as many of the High Peaks trails so it can completely fill up on weekends, so plan accordingly. 

If you’re looking for more big-bang-for-your-buck hikes like this, check out my guide to the short hikes in the Adirondacks for a whole list of my favorite trails!

5. Tackle an Adirondack High Peak

If you’re an experienced hiker, you’re in the heart of the 46 High Peaks (although I’m sure you already knew that!). But if you don’t know what they are, the 46 High Peaks are a collection of mountains in the Adirondacks that are over 4,000 feet (1,129 meters) tall. 

Gothics and Big Slide are my personal favorites, but Cascade Mountain is the most popular “first High Peak” because it’s moderately difficult but still gives you the incredible summit views.

For a serious challenge, Mount Marcy, the state’s highest point in New York State. It’s the ultimate NY bucket list hike but make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into before you head out. 

Super Important:Always check trail conditions before you go, even in summer!! Ice can linger at the highest elevations well into June. Pack layers, sturdy footwear and the 10 essentials before you go.

6. Go Rock Climbing with a Pro

The Adirondacks are a legendary rock climbing destination. If you’re an experienced climber, you’ll love the classic routes at Pitchoff Chimney Cliff. If you’re super adventurous, there are also multi-pitch routes on Gothics and options for overnight excursions.

For Beginners: Do not attempt this without a guide. Book a half-day or full-day guided trip with High Peaks Mountain Guides. They are fantastic, licensed professionals who will provide all the gear and instruction you need for a safe and thrilling introduction to the sport.

7. Cool off in a natural swimming hole

On a hot summer day, nothing beats a dip in a crisp mountain swimming hole.

There are so many natural swimming holes around Lake Placid and theyre super popular with visitors and locals in the summer. While you definitely won’t have them to yourself, they’re well worth the drive because there’s truly nothing like a chilly Adirondack river on a hot day.

• Flume Falls: Located off Route 86 in Wilmington, this is the most popular and accessible spot. It’s a beautiful series of cascades and pools. Be care of the current here, especially when the water is high. There have been accidents in the past.
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• Split Rock Falls: A bit out of the way, but well worth the drive. This spot has a series of waterfalls and a popular cliff jumping spot (for the brave and experienced only).

My pro tip: These are wild places, not public pools. Go early to avoid crowds, wear sturdy water shoes, and practice strict Leave No Trace principles by packing out everything you bring in (including apple cores and orange peels!)

Top Things To Do in Lake Placid: Downtown, Culture + History

These are the top things to do in Lake Placid if you love discovering the charm of Lake Placid village and the history of the area. 

A few of my personal favorites that I visit on every trip:

• The Bookstore Plus: A wonderful independent bookstore. I always grab a new read here for lazy afternoons by the lake. They have a great local authors section.
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• Adirondack Decorative Arts & Crafts: This is where you find the good stuff. It’s filled with unique, locally made art, pottery, and home decor that isn’t cheesy or mass produced.
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• Simpli Nature: Their handmade soaps and candles make for perfect gifts. The “Adirondack Pine” scent is my favorite.

My local tip: If you don’t mind driving, you have to also check out Dartbook Rustics. It’s about a 20 minute drive south of Lake Placid, but is my go-to for all things Adirondack home decor. Everything in there is higher end (read: very pricey), but I’ve already bookmarked half the store for my future mansion..someday.

10. Learn the Real History at the Six Nations Iroquois Cultural Center

This is a bit of a drive (about 30 miles), but I consider it a must-do while you’re in Lake Placid this summer.

This small, family-owned museum shows you the powerful and authentic history of the Six Nations of the Iroquois Confederacy (the Haudenosaunee people), who have called this land home for centuries.

The stories and artifacts here are things you simply won’t find anywhere else.

What to know: This small museum is owned and operated by members of the Mohawk of Akwesasne, who are often happy to share stories that have been passed down through generations. They’re open on a varied seasonal schedule so check the opening times before you head over!

11. Explore the Lake Placid Olympic Sites

You can’t come to Lake Placid and ignore its Olympic legacy. 

The Olympic Sites are one of the best things to do in Lake Placid NY in the summer. Lake Placid hosted not one – but TWO – Olympic Winter Games, in 1932 and 1980, so they’re kind of a big deal here.

The four main Olympic sites are open year round:

• Olympic Center and Museum: Located right in town, this is where the “Miracle on Ice” happened. The recently updated museum is fantastic and interactive.
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• Olympic Jumping Complex in North Elba: It’s a wild sight to see ski jumpers training in the summer. Take the glass elevator to the sky deck of the 128-meter jump for insane panoramic views.
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• Mt. Van Hoevenberg: Home to the bobsled track. In the summer, you can ride the Cliffside Coaster, which follows the path of the track down the mountain. It’s a blast.

I think you should know: Guided tours of the Lake Placid Olympic & Paralympic Training Center are free. But the best way to actually partake in activities is with the Lake Placid Olympic Sites Passport, which gives you one-time access to most of the venues. Buy it online in advance to save time.

12. Attend a Lake Placid Horse Show

If you’re visiting Lake Placid from late June to early July, the horse shows are a unique (and very prestigious) event for world class Hunter and Jumper competitions.

You don’t need to be an equestrian expert to enjoy it though! The horse shows are one of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon watching incredible athletes (both human and horse). 

it’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon watching incredible athletes (both human and horse).

It’s very family friendly and admission for children under 12 is free. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.

13. Visit the John Brown Farm State Historic Site

This is a deeply moving and important historical site in Lake Placid. It’s the home and final resting place of the abolitionist John Brown, who played a significant role in the abolition of slavery in the United States.

It’s a quiet, contemplative place that puts the beauty of the Adirondacks into a broader historical context and well worth a stop while you’re in the area.

14. Dive Deep at the Adirondack Experience Museum on Blue Mountain Lake

A trip to the Adirondack Experience Museum is one of my top favorite things to do in the Adirondacks in the summer. Located on Blue Mountain Lake (about an 1.5 hour scenic drive from Lake Placid), this is the most comprehensive museum in the entire Adirondack Park.

It covers everything from logging and mining history to the art and culture inspired by these mountains. I found the exhibits to be very well done and incredibly immersive. 

My top tip for you: The Adirondack Museum is an all day affair. Definitely don’t try to just squeeze it in. Every time I’ve come here, we spend about 3 hours – there’s seriously so much to see! The drive itself is also so beautiful, so consider that part of the experience!

15. Browse the Local Farmer’s Market

Farmer’s markets are a tradition in Lake Placid! Much of what you find at the markets are food sourced from local farms and handicrafts made by local artists. There’s always something new to find and it’s a fun place to pick up a little souvenir before you head home.

The farmer’s markets worth your time:

• Lake Placid Farmer’s Market: (Wednesdays, June-Sept) Located at 2634 Main Street, it’s a great spot for fresh produce and local goods.
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• Keene Valley Farmer’s Market: (Sundays, May-Oct) This is my personal favorite. It’s at Marcy Airfield and has a larger selection of handicrafts from local artisans. It’s a perfect stop on your way in or out of the High Peaks.
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  I always like to grab a snack and take it to the river across the street. There’s a little parking area and river access where you can enjoy the views or take a little dip when it’s hot out! 

Best Things to do in Lake Placid: Best Food + Drinks

These are my classic go-to spots to refuel after a full day of adventures or just to grab a drink and enjoy the view!

16. Grab a Beer at Big Slide Brewery

This is my absolute go to spot every single time I’m in Lake Placid (and you’ll easily see why). It’s a bit outside the main tourist drag, which is why it feels more like a local’s spot. They have a fantastic, super creative selection of locally brewed beers and really great “gourmet pub” food.

What to Order: The “Giant IPA” is their flagship beer and a must try if you love your beer with a lot of hop. For food, the pretzel bites with beer cheese are non-negotiable. Their wood fired pizzas are also excellent!

You need to know: They don’t take reservations and the wait can be over an hour (!!) on a Saturday night. My strategy is to go for a late lunch around 2 PM or an early dinner around 4:30 PM to beat the rush. The outdoor patio is dog friendly!

17. Enjoy a Lakeside Meal at Smoke Signals

If you’re a fan of BBQ, this is your spot! They have the most incredible in house smoked brisket and ribs. But the real reason to come here is the location.

Their back deck sits directly on Mirror Lake so you can have dinner with one of the best views in town. It’s the perfect place for a happy hour drink and some appetizers as the sun starts to set! 

My local tip: This is one of the best restaurants in Lake Placid (especially in the summer), so it gets really busy. Make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance if you want a table on the deck.

18. Have Breakfast on a Bench from The Breakfast Club

This is one of my favorite morning rituals and the best budget friendly breakfast in town. The Breakfast Club is a classic diner on Main Street that serves up delicious and hearty breakfast sandwiches. 

Personally, I always grab a “Trailblazer” sandwich (egg, cheese, and sausage on a hard roll) and a coffee, walk directly across the street, and find an open bench along the Mirror Lake Loop Trail. It’s a million dollar breakfast view for about $10! 

19. Go Wine Tasting at Highlands Vineyard

A perfect way to unwind after a morning of hiking. They specialize in cold-hardy grapes that can survive the harsh Adirondack winters, which creates unique wines you won’t find elsewhere.

I recommend getting a tasting flight to sample a variety. My personal favorite is their unique maple syrup wine. Pack a picnic, buy a bottle, and relax in their Adirondack chairs overlooking Lake Champlain. Stay for live music on Friday nights during the summer!

Easy and Relaxing Activities in Lake Placid

These are the best things to do for the days you want to soak in the scenery without breaking a sweat.

20. Paddle on Mirror Lake

The water on Mirror Lake is usually calm and pristine which makes it perfect for a relaxing paddle. You can rent kayaks, canoes, or stand up paddleboards from Downstairs Boat Rental right on the shore. 

My pro tip: Go in the early morning! If you get there before the sun gets too high, the water is like glass, the air is cooler, and sometimes you’ll have the entire lake to yourself. It’s a magical and meditative experience.

21. Walk the Mirror Lake Loop

This easy, paved 2.7-mile loop is a local favorite for a reason. It takes you right through the heart of town and past the beautiful homes that line the shore. It’s the perfect walk for a morning coffee or an evening stroll.

Your walk around Mirror Lake takes you past Lake Placid Public Beach, through the business district and past the beautiful homes that line the shore of Mirror Lake.

The Mirror Lake Loop is a popular spot, so try going early in the morning for some peace and quiet. Personally, I love to first grab a breakfast sandwich from The Breakfast Club and eat it on one of the benches along the Mirror Lake Loop Trail.

Local tip: Keep an eye out for the little canoe “carry path”. Follow it all the way down to the water for some beautiful views.

22. Book a cozy Adirondack cabin

There’s nothing more quintessentially Adirondack than spending a night in a cabin. It’s the perfect way to unplug and connect with nature. You can find everything from rustic, off-the-grid A-frames on Hipcamp to more luxurious waterfront chalets on Vrbo.

I’ve stayed at dozens of cabins near Lake Placid, but here are a few of my very top favorites:

• Juniper Hill Cabin
• ADK A-Frame

• Black Pine Lodge

Pro tip:Look for rentals in the surrounding towns like Wilmington or Keene for better value and a more local feel than staying right in Lake Placid.

Juniper Hill Cabin, Wilmington NY (@juniperhillcabin)

23. Lounge on Lake Placid Public Beach

Lake Placid Public Beach is on the south shore of Mirror Lake, smack dab in downtown Lake Placid. You can easily spend a whole day swimming, fishing, and padding, and water biking here in the summer.

The water is crystal clear and the shoreline is shallow, making it great for swimming.

Travel tip: Every July, the Lake Placid Public Beach is THE spot to watch Fourth of July fireworks.

24. Feel the Power of High Falls Gorge

This is one of the most accessible and well-maintained waterfall attractions near Lake Placid. It’s a 0.5-mile loop of sturdy bridges and glass floor walkways that take you right over a series of four stunning waterfalls.

This is one of my year round favorite spots for photography, especially in the spring when the water is roaring.

What to know: High Falls Gorge is privately owned, so you do have to pay an entrance fee. Entrance fees change frequently, so click here for most up to date information before you go.

25. Take a Narrated Boat Tour on Lake Placid

Don’t confuse Mirror Lake (the lake in the center of town) with the much larger Lake Placid! Lake Placid is actually north of the town of Lake Placid and is lined with super fancy homes. 

The best way to see it is with Lake Placid Marina & Boat Tours. The narrated tours take about an hour and take you past stunning views of Whiteface Mountain and the historic, multi-million dollar “Great Camps” hidden along the shore.

Some famous people own those million dollar mansions on Lake Placid and they are definitely a sight to see!

26. Ride the Cloudsplitter Gondola to Little Whiteface

For the same epic views without the hike, the 15-minute gondola ride from the base of Whiteface Mountain to the peak of Little Whiteface is fantastic. From the top, you get some of the best views of Lake Placid, Lake Placid Village, Lake Champlain and some of the tallest peaks in all of New York State.

Cloudsplitter Gondola rides are open late June to early October.

27. Immerse Yourself in Nature at The Wild Center

Located in nearby Tupper Lake (about 40 minute drive from Lake Placid), The Wild Center isn’t just a museum – it’s an entire “Adirondack adventure park”.  

It’s a blend of indoor and outdoor exhibits with interactive displays, animals, and a planetarium. But the highlight is the Wild Walk, an elevated boardwalk that takes you up into the treetops for a bird’s-eye view of the forest. It’s incredibly well done and fun for all ages.

There are also walking trails, canoe trips, and guided tours available, which let you immerse yourself in the Adirondack wilderness.

Photo Credit: The Wild Center (wildcenter.org)

28. Walk through Henry’s Woods

Henry’s Woods is a beautiful place for a quick in Lake Placid. It’s a network of well-maintained trails close to town, perfect for when you want to be in nature without committing to a full hike. 

Follow the 0.9 mile Plateau Trail to a nice view of the mountains or head to the Heaven Hill trails to enjoy phenomenal views of the High Peaks from the Orchard Loop.

29. Explore the Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails

Another great option for an easy walk, these trails are situated right on the shores of Lake Placid.

The Lakeshore Trail is my favorite because it has beautiful water views and a serene forest setting. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching, so bring a long lens if you love bird photography!

Worthwhile Day Trips from Lake Placid

30. Take a day trip to Lake George Village

Known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George is about a 90 minute drive south and has a completely different vibe. It’s definitely more bustling and touristy than Lake Placid, but a lot of fun.

What to do: Take a historic steamboat tour on the lake, visit the Fort William Henry Museum, hang out at the beach or simply stroll through the lively village. I wrote a whole post on our favorite things to do in Lake George! 

31. Try Your Hand at Fly Fishing in the Ausable River

The West Branch of the Ausable River is world renowned for fly fishing! It’s home to a variety of fish and people come from all over the world to fish for trout, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout.

A local guide at The Hungry Trout Fly Shop in Wilmington can take you out for the day and show you all the best spots.

Important: Before you go, you need a New York State fishing license. Everyone who fishes in New York also needs to follow the rules at ‘catch and release’ areas to help maintain a healthy fish population.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many days do you need in Lake Placid?

I recommend at least three full days to get a real taste of the area. This gives you enough time for a good hike, some time on the water, and a chance to explore the village without feeling rushed.

Is Lake Placid expensive?

It can be, but it doesn’t have to be. While there are luxury resorts, there are also plenty of cozy cabins and budget-friendly hotels (like The Devlin). The best activities, like hiking, are free. You can also save money by packing picnics for lunch and focusing on happy hours for dinner.

Read next for your stay: 12 Best Hotels in Lake Placid 

Can you swim in Mirror Lake?

Yes! The public beach is the best spot. Mirror Lake is known for its clean, clear water. Note that motorboats are not allowed on Mirror Lake, which is why it’s so peaceful for swimming and paddling.

What is the best month to visit Lake Placid in the summer?

July and August have the warmest, most reliable weather for swimming and water activities. However, I personally love early September. The crowds have thinned out, the black flies are gone, the weather is still beautiful, AND you start to get that first hint of autumn crispness in the air.

If you’re planning a summer getaway and want inspiration for where to go, you can also check out my full guide to the best places to visit in July for even more ideas!

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I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable summer trip to one of my favorite places on Earth. As always, reach out with questions. I love to hear from you!

Did I miss one of your favorite spots? Let me know in the comments below!

More Upstate New York Travel Guides:

Fall in the Adirondacks: 13 Amazing Things to Do in the Adirondacks for Fall

Upstate New York hikes: 20 Bucket List Hikes in Upstate New York for Every Skill Level

NY State Parks: The 13 Most Beautiful State Parks in NY – From a Local

NY Wineries: 15+ Hudson Valley Wineries and Vineyards You Need to Visit in NY

NY Photography: 17 Most Instagrammable Places in Upstate NY