Visiting Lake Placid in the winter is like stepping into a winter wonderland. Visiting during a blizzard is like getting stuck in a snow globe. I suggest both…the reasons listed below.
Winter on Mirror Lake
You would think Lake Placid is literally known for Lake Placid…however, every picture of the lake (ice skating, dog sledding, people walking on a lake) is actually of Mirror Lake which nestles right up against Main Street. Walking around Mirror Lake is slightly over 2 miles (and can be done in -2 degrees…just bundle up!!). The walk consists of Main Street, a small neighborhood with beautiful, remote roads, the passing of a brewery and a restaurant here and there, and, of course, the lake itself.
Although you can walk across the lake, I suggest only entering where you can tell where you’re stepping. Even in negative temps, there were a few melted spots and a few spots with a few feet of snow covering the top of the lake. I was definitely not trying to lose a toe on my visit!
Main Street in the Winter
Walking Main Street mid-January, smack-dab in the middle of winter, is basically strolling through the epitome of a cute winter town. Although it’s cold, it’s worth walking the streets to visit the local shops. Stop by the local bookstore, The Bookstore Plus, to grab a book to cozy up to by the fireplace later when the temp drops below zero. Drop in the Lake Placid Gift Co and Lake Placid Christmas Co to stock up on next year’s Christmas gifts. At the end of Main Street, you can stumble into Mirror Lake Inn, an elegantly decorated resort and spa. If you’re like me, and trying to save up to pay your monthly rent (but also pretend you’re classy AF), you can stop in and dine in the Taste Bistro & Bar, the less expensive dining option at the hotel.
Breweries
A reason to drink? A reason to drink alcohol?! The answer: Lake placid in the winter. A few breweries around town, there are several options to choose from, and not much else to do when you get chilly. I recommend The Lake Placid Pub and Brewery , which is situated a little off of the main road near the other side of Mirror Lake, but worth the short walk. Even when you feel like you’re the only person in Lake Placid, you’ll realize it’s all because they’re hanging out here. Placed in the top 10% of brewpubs nationwide, there’s no beer shortage here!
Take Time to Wind Down
Finding yourself in Lake Placid in the winter time is perfect if you just want a weekend to wind down. Pick up a book, write in a journal, or binge watch Netflix with a friend. A little advice though…steer clear of horror films…you’re in the middle of the woods.
Photography
Nothing short of picturesque, if you want a few updated photos, think no further than a visit to Lake Placid in the winter. Almost everywhere you turn offers a vantage point different from the previous, ideal for photography lovers.
Reasons to visit Lake Placid in the winter don’t end here! You can come to visit the Olympic center, ski the nearby mountains, and hike the surrounding nature trails. The options are really endless. Just be sure to pack your warmest clothes!