Situated in the Adirondack Mountains in New York, Lake Placid is a beautiful region for a relaxing getaway. This area also features plenty of activities for those seeking an adventure. The water is perfect for boating, swimming, fishing, and kayaking, while the mountains beckon hikers and rock climbers. Art lovers can catch a show at the Depot Theatre in Wesport, and history buffs are encouraged to explore the historic Fort at Crown Fort. Vacationers who simply want to sit back and unwind should stay at one of the many peaceful Lake Placid vacation rentals. Some of these accommodations are tucked away in quiet valley villages such as Trudeau and Keene. Here are a few exciting places to check out in and around Lake Placid.

1. Lake Placid

Lake Placid is best known for hosting the Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980, and the town still draws visitors searching for skiing and snowshoeing. If you love sports, this is the place for you, because several events are held here each year, including the Winter Empire State Games and Ironman Triathalon. The lively downtown district has many shops and restaurants, making it the area’s destination for those searching for nightlife.

2. Keene Valley

Keene Valley is the perfect vacation rental choice for hikers, with several trailheads to the High Peaks of Adirondack Park starting in this village. Both the Garden and Johns Brook Trail start here which will take you to the heart of 5,343 foot Mount Marcy, the highest peak in New York. Spend the day exploring the peaks and waterfalls of Adirondack Park, then head back into down for a light dinner in one of the cafes along the main street.

3. Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake is host to the region’s annual Winter Carnival, including the world-famous Ice Palace, and is a sight you don’t want to miss, but you don’t have to visit here in winter to enjoy all it has to offer. Your vacation rental in the village’s downtown area puts its shops, restaurants, and boutiques all within walking distance. In the evenings, be sure to catch a live performance at the Pendragon Theater.

4. Jay

The small village of Jay is the perfect setting for a calmer vacation away from the crowded areas in Lake Placid. The Jay Village Green has summer concerts on its bandstand, with a few cafes where you can stop for a while to eat. While in Jay, you can take a stroll from your vacation rental to the covered bridge over the Ausable river, the last one remaining in this region.

5. Whiteface

A vacation rental in Whiteface is where you want to stay if you are looking for excellent skiing or mountain hiking site. Head to the mountain’s east slope to ski in the same spot as the 1980 Olympic competitors. Travel 4,610 feet to the summit and enjoy the Whiteface Castle Cafe. It has a gourmet summit dining, with spectacular views of the lakes and valleys below.

6. Wilmington

The hamlet of Wilmington is home to the North Pole and Santa’s Workshop, a theme park that has operated since 1949. Kids and Christmastime-loving adults gather here to explore Santa’s village, with stops at the Candy Shop, Toy Maker, Reindeer Barn, and Santa’s Home. Enjoy shows such as story time, Santa’s Parade, and special summer events. Your vacation rental in Wilmington also puts you near Whiteface Mountain and the Ausable River.

7. North Elba

Your vacation rental in North Elba gives you easy access to the activities of downtown Lake Placid, while providing you with a quiet oasis away from the bustle when you return home. You can rent kayaks or canoes along the shores of the lake, or go hiking on nearby trails. History buffs can check out the home and grave site of abolitionist John Brown at John Brown Farm State Historic Site. If you are interested, you can sign up for one of the guided tours.

8. Franklin Falls

Franklin Falls lies along Franklin Falls Pond and it is the perfect spot if you love to canoe. The area is part of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, often described as the water version of the Appalachian Trail. Spend the day canoeing, then go back to your vacation rental for dinner out on the porch as you watch the sun set over the pond.

9. Keene

A perfect vacation rental that’s close to Mount Marcy that also gives an easy access to shops and restaurants. You can go rock climbing at Rock and River Lodge or take a guided tour with Tamarack Mountain Guiding before enjoying comfort food in one of the local restaurants in the town’s center.

10. Westport

Staying in Westport puts you near Lake Placid, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondack Mountains and is a great base for those who want access to all three. The historic downtown area is filled with art galleries, antique stores, and restaurants. Westport also hosts a variety of theater performances in the Depot Theatre, located in the train station. If you want to have a vacation here in August, stop by The Essex County Fair held in town.

11. Crown Point

If you love history, choose Crown Point for your next vacation rental. The ruins of Fort Crown Point, built in 1759, are located here. Today, The Crown Point State Historic Site offers guided tours, museum exhibits, and hiking to scenic views. Crown Point is also conveniently located near both Lake Placid and Lake Champlain, giving you plenty of opportunities to get out onto the water.

12. St. Armand

The picturesque town of St. Armand is an excellent choice for those who go on vacation to get away from it all. There are several restored lakeside cottages that were once “cure cottages” for tuberculous, such as the Robert Louis Stevenson cottage, which is now a museum. You can spend the day walking the streets admiring these buildings, or settle down with a book near the lake for some afternoon reading.