Did you know that Lake Placid was host to the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics? This lovely place is where we escaped for our mini winter vacation. My vision of a winter getaway includes snow capped mountains, a roaring fire, a brisk winter walk and lots of delicious eats. I also imagine myself resting up in a cozy bed, and drinking a mug of delicious coffee in my robe while gazing out over the beautiful lake vista.
We had the pleasure of staying at the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort in Lake Placid with its breathtaking views of Mirror Lake, and spacious bedrooms with a fireplace so easy to light that even I was able to make a fire. The rooms have comfortable beds, gorgeous views of the lake, and all the amenities that would make one’s visit pleasant including indoor access to a small mall strip and a terrific restaurant - Generations, and a swimming pool/hot tub on the premises. The Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort is within easy walking distance to all the shops and restaurants, and the Olympic Museum which we were able to explore. The staff was incredibly helpful in assisting us with getting around town.
Spectacular view of Mirror Lake from the lobby
Our cozy bedroom with fireplace!
Breakfast at Generations while enjoying a view of Mirror Lake
We were hoping to get in some cross-country skiing at Mt. Van Hoevenberg, but the rainy conditions made it impossible so we went with plan B. We took a tour of the Olympic grounds including riding to the top of the Olympic Jumping Complex - the very one where famous olympians skied for the gold. We rode a chair lift then an elevator to a glass enclosed observation deck where we could take a view of what the olympians would see as they prepared for their ski jumps. The height of the ski jump ranged anywhere from 90 to 120 meters high! Next, we rode to White Face Mountain ski resort where we able to take a gondola to the very top for spectacular views of the snowy mountains. It was busy with skiers enjoying the slopes and snowboarders hitting the snow with their cool stunts.
The ski jump where competitors competed for Olympic gold
On our way out of Lake Placid we stopped at High Falls Gorge where we took a trail hike with beautiful views of the waterfalls. High Falls Gorge is a 22 acre privately owned nature park. The trails are safe for all age groups and they even fit you with snow shoes for added safety. My son was given a map to look for clues along the trails. He used it to answer questions then he was able to turn it in for a cool prize. The day we chose to hike was sunny and warm making it that much more enjoyable. We explored the waterfalls, makeshift bridges and various trees, topping it off with a delicious lunch at the restaurant attached to the shop.
A gorgeous water fall at High Falls Gorge
We also were able to explore all the shops, go on a dog sled ride around Mirror Lake and had a wonderful session of ice skating. We dined at Smoke Signals for dinner where sides and sauces are made daily from scratch. The walls at this lovely restaurant are lined with photos of famous musicians such as David Bowie, Tina Turner, and Mick Jagger - photos are part of the collection of the father's owner who owns Electric Lady Studio! This delicious eatery has many mouth watering barbecue dishes and wonderful signature cocktails. Lake Placid was a magnificent centerpiece to our relaxing and fun stay. Whether you want to ski, snow board, ice skate, explore the Olympic museum, shop or just dine there is so much to do in and around Lake Placid. Our favorite part of the entire trip was returning to the Golden Arrow each evening to relax by the fire while viewing Mirror Lake - a truly spectacular winter getaway.
*I have received complimentary accommodations for the purpose of this review. As always, all options are 100% of my own.
