A Calm Summer Weekend in Lake Placid, NY – Celebrating Our 2nd Anniversary

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Lake Placid has always been one of our favorite getaways, but we’ve only ever visited in the snowy winter months. This year, we thought we’d switch it up and see what the village is like in the summertime. And let me tell you, it was the perfect choice. Perfect weather, mountain views, and plenty of things to do with every shop and restaurant wide open for the season.

Where We Stayed: Crowne Plaza Lake Placid

We stuck to tradition and stayed at the Crowne Plaza, our go-to hotel in Lake Placid. Sitting at the very top of the hill, it overlooks both Mirror Lake and Whiteface Mountain with 360° views of the Adirondacks. We’ve stayed here four times now, and each time we love it more. Between the indoor heated pools, the outdoor firepits on the patio, and the cozy log cabin dining room, it always feels like a home.

We arrived around 7 p.m. on Saturday night, dropped our bags, and headed straight down Main Street for a little evening exploring.

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Dinner at Noon Mark Burger & Pie Shop

For dinner, we tried Noon Mark Burger & Pie Shop, a brand-new smash burger spot that just opened its doors earlier this year. The menu is simple. Burgers and specialty pies only. The wait was long (about 45 minutes), but after chatting with the owner we learned it was one of their busiest days since opening. Honestly, it was worth every minute! The burgers were juicy, flavorful, and totally hit the spot. Supporting a small, local business made it even better.

After dinner, we treated ourselves to Ben & Jerry’s and took a nice stroll around town before heading back to the hotel for some much-needed rest.

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Sunday Morning Views & Breakfast at The Dack Shack

The next morning, we slept in and started our day on the hotel’s front patio. It was only 54 degrees…..a crisp day in the Adirondacks but the mountain views made it worth it. This is what makes the Crowne Plaza so special: you don’t even have to leave the property to feel like you’re on top of the world.

When we finally ventured out, we skipped the crowded spots on Main Street and drove 5–10 minutes to The Dack Shack. Best decision ever. From deviled eggs to churrasco steak, chips and guac, and even a beef sandwich, everything we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and delicious. And the fries? Some of the best I’ve ever had. No long wait, great service, and even a small deli and meat shop attached. Definitely worth the short drive if you want to avoid the hustle of the strip.

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Arcade Fun & Mirror Lake Stroll

Full and happy, we spent some time walking around Mirror Lake before ducking into the arcade. From claw machines to blacklight mini-golf downstairs, it was the perfect lighthearted stop to break up the day.

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A Scenic Drive to Whiteface Mountain

We set out for Whiteface Mountain but made a quick pit stop at High Falls Gorge. (Bathroom pitstop). This natural attraction, carved by the Ausable River, features waterfalls, walkways, and suspension bridges perfect for a short hike and photo op. We didn’t get to explore it this time, but it’s definitely something to add to the list for anyone visiting. And if you are into the collectible Pennys, they have those machines!

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From there, it was on to Whiteface Mountain, one of the highest peaks in New York at 4,610 feet above sea level. The drive up is only open until mid-October, and while the wait was long (three hours in line), the views at the top made it worthwhile. Admission was $20 per person (not per car, which felt steep), but once we reached the summit, the panoramic views of the Adirondacks and Lake Placid were unforgettable. There’s even a small stone castle with a café, gift shop, and restrooms. Accessibility is also a highlight. Handicap ramps and an elevator make it possible for everyone to reach the summit.

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Adirondack Chocolates in Wilmington

On our way back, we stopped at Adirondack Chocolates in Wilmington, which felt like walking into a mini Willy Wonka factory. From chocolate-covered pretzels to maple syrups, everything looked, tasted (and smelled) amazing. This was a sweet little detour that I’d recommend to anyone with a sweet tooth.

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Closing Out the Weekend

We wrapped up the weekend with a simple dinner in the Crowne Plaza dining room, watching the sun dip behind the mountains. It was the perfect, calm ending to a weekend full of exploration, good food, and even better company.

Lake Placid is a place we already know and love, but seeing it in a different season gave us a whole new appreciation for it. Summer brought a different kind of magic to the village, and celebrating our anniversary there was everything we hoped for.

Here’s to many more anniversaries in the Adirondacks whether in snowy winters or sunny summers!

©️victoriaam