Lake Placid, New York, is best remembered for hosting the 1980 Winter Olympics. But you don’t have to be a figure skater to appreciate the quaint town about 300 miles north of New York City (or 5.5 hours by car), or the winter (and summer!) wonderland surrounding it. Whether you’re here for wintertime skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, or want to hike, bike, fish, or boat in the warmer months, Mirror Lake Inn makes for a luxurious base camp. Here’s our review of the nearly 100-year-old hotel.  

What You Need to Know

The Look of Mirror Lake Inn

The hotel’s white-hued, Colonial-style buildings are spread along seven picture-perfect acres on the shore of Mirror Lake. In the warmer months, the landscaped gardens bloom with colorful flora. Inside, stone fireplaces, wood paneling, and elegant, Colonial-style furnishings create a distinctly cozy aesthetic. Deer antlers adorn the walls, and the greenery-filled indoor pool area, its ceiling painted to resemble the sky, brings the outdoors in. At The View, the more formal of the two restaurants, tables dressed in crisp white linens overlook the lake through floor-to-ceiling windows. The Cottage is more laid-back and has a wood deck for alfresco drinks and bites. 

All 124 rooms and suites have a classic lodge look with Mission-style wood furniture, Oriental rugs, and rocking chairs. Even standard rooms have a sunroom sitting area with oversized chairs; select room categories and suites also feature stone fireplaces, sumptuous four-poster beds, and whirlpool tubs. Regardless of the category, every accommodation faces the lake for knockout views of the surrounding mountains.

The Vibe at Mirror Lake Inn 

The Goldilocks of Adirondacks resorts, Mirror Lake is not too formal, not too relaxed. The interiors may be upscale, but guests dress casually to partake in activities or head into town. The seven-acre property — which includes indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, a private beach, an on-site ski shop, and plenty of fireplace-warmed common areas — has plenty of room to roam — it never feels crowded.

Acclaimed for its culinary program, The View is a splurge-worthy spot for dinner and drinks: Mouthwatering dishes include housemade bucatini with white wine truffle butter sauce, venison bolognese, and gouda custard served with peach butter, walnuts, arugula, and a honey-ginger dressing). The 800-bottle wine list features vintages from near (the Finger Lakes) and far (South Africa).  

Who Will Love Mirror Lake Inn 

Anyone who loves the outdoors — families, couples, groups of friends — and wants a beautiful mountain escape will enjoy Mirror Lake Inn.

Who Might Not Love Mirror Lake Inn

It’s not for the budget-conscious: Depending on the season, starting rates range from $300 to upwards of $600.

Best Amenity at Mirror Lake Inn 

In the summer, the private beach area is a highlight, with complimentary paddleboards, canoes, rowboats, and kayaks. Free s'mores are also offered at the beach every Saturday night into the fall. In the winter, the on-site ski shop offers gear rentals so you can grab whatever you need before hitting the slopes — so as long as you reserve equipment in advance.

Money Matters

What’s Included at Mirror Lake Inn

Your room rate includes wifi and access to the indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center, and other activities.

Extra Fees & Costs You Should Know About at Mirror Lake Inn 

While there is no resort fee, standard taxes should be expected here. While guests can use the spa pool, sauna, jacuzzi, and fitness center, note that treatments, therapies, and massages cost extra.

How to Get a Deal at Mirror Lake Inn 

Browse the current offerings on the resort website’s packages tab. Some include free golf, while others throw in breakfast, a daily resort credit, a bottle of wine, and/or treats like chocolate-covered strawberries. 

The Sweet Season

Visit during Lake Placid’s shoulder season (April and May, October and November) to avoid the crowds and snag lower room rates. Outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, golf, and fishing are still generally available in spring and fall. 

In the Neighborhood of Mirror Lake Inn 

The resort is a two-minute walk from Lake Placid’s picturesque Main Street, which is lined with shops and restaurants, and under three miles from the Lake Placid Olympic Ski Jumping Complex. Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort, the region’s most popular skiing spot, is 15 minutes away by car.

Getting There

Nearest Airport to Mirror Lake Inn

Tiny Lake Placid Airport is just about a mile from the hotel (however, it's only available for private planes and scenic rides over the Adirondacks), and Adirondack Regional Airport (SLK) is 17 miles away. United flies to Plattsburgh (PBG), 48 miles away. Or you can take Amtrak from NYC or Montreal to Westport, NY (about 40 miles away).

The Bottom Line 

Between the world-class food and beverage programming, ample amenities and outdoor activities, and rustic-chic accommodations, this stunning lakeside inn is a year-round destination.