About Hunterdon County NJ

Just a 90-minute drive outside of both New York City and Philadelphia, the communities in “The Other Side of Jersey” are consistently ranked in the top 10 for most beautiful small towns in state and national surveys. Hunterdon is also regularly recognized as one of the healthiest counties in the state and ranks among the best places to reside in the United States!

Located in the northwestern part of the state, Hunterdon County is renowned for its rolling hills, fertile farmland, and charming small towns. With a rich history dating back to the 17th century, it boasts a wealth of well-preserved historic sites, including some of the oldest colonial-era buildings in the United States.

The county is known for its commitment to preserving its rural character and open spaces, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful, bucolic escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Hunterdon County is a place where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. From rural landscapes to quaint river towns, residents and tourists alike enjoy popular farmers markets, festivals, shopping, outdoor recreation and memorable dining experiences. 

Things to Do in Hunterdon County in the Fall

Fall is a great time to enjoy the local produce, exquisite farm-to-table dining, haunted houses, wineries, and more. Some of the best Main Streets to stroll along include Milford, Clinton, High Bridge, Flemington, Frenchtown, Stockton, and Lambertville.

Fun on the Farm

Fall U-Pick season is now in full-force throughout Hunterdon County. Apples and pumpkins are the primary picks of the season with many farms in the area offering pick-your-own. Check out Melick’s Town Farm, Bonacorsi Berry Farm, Peterson Family Farm, Schaefer Farm, Cervenka Farm, and Phillips Farm.

From spring through fall Hunterdon County offers plenty of farmer’s markets where you can find fresh, local food and artisanal vendors. Stangl Market and Dvoor Market (both in Flemington) are my favorites.

And no matter what time of year you visit, check the Hunterdon 579 Trail for farms, restaurants, wineries and events in the area.

Haunted Houses and Tours

The iconic Red Mill Museum Village’s annual Haunted Red Mill in Clinton draws one of the biggest scare-seeking crowds in the state. The annual experience is intended for those who don’t scare easily, so grab your scream-worthy friends and be sure to get your tickets early before it sells out. 

For the younger crowd, the Red Mill Museum Village also hosts Happy Haunt. Children and their families can explore a portion of the beautiful grounds with a friendly ghoul and enjoy face painting before taking a hayride. 

Every fall, Schaefer Farms in Flemington transforms into a “Farm of Horrors.” This immersive attraction includes haunted corn mazes, chilling hayrides, and horrifying haunted houses. Whether you’re braving the chainsaw-wielding clowns in the corn maze or confronting the terror of the undead in a zombie-themed house, Schaefer Farms provides an unforgettable and frightful night of fun that is sure to leave you with goosebumps and lasting memories.

The Official Flemington Ghost Walk will take you back in time to learn about the colorful history of Flemington and the Spirits that still haunt it. The Ghost Walk is guided by real paranormal investigators and you will hear stories about spooky experiences at approximately 15 different locations. Get your tickets early – this one fills up fast! 

Hop aboard the Wine Train Or Pour a Fall Brew 

All aboard the wine train! Old York Cellars offers the Hunterdon Wine Express, a round trip excursion on the historic Black River & Western Railroad. The steam engine train departs from Flemington, NJ and arrives in Old York Cellars Winery in Ringoes, NJ, where you will be treated to a wine tasting and lunch with perfect vineyard views.

In addition to the wine train, Angelico Winery, Beneduce Vineyards, and Federal Twist Vineyard all offer events from music to unique tastings. Events vary by vineyard so check individual websites for the most up-to-date offerings. 

For those seeking pumpkin ales and spiced IPAs, check out the Hunterdon Beer Trail! Pick up a Brewery Passport at participating Hunterdon County craft breweries and earn a commemorative hat when you visit all six: Conclave Brewing, Descendants Brewing Company, Lone Eagle Brewing, Odd Bird Brewing, Readington Bewery & Hop Farm, and Sunken Silo. 

Outdoor Activities in Hunterdon County

It’s easy to get outside and leaf peep in the county that was named the “Healthiest in New Jersey” by The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. From the hills of Bethlehem Township to the Delaware River Valley, there is no shortage of trails to hike and bike, or rivers and reservoirs to kayak or canoe.

There are over 50 trails available (I highly recommend the Columbia Trail in High Bridge!), with several of them running along the beautiful Delaware River. Spend the morning hiking or biking, then enjoy eating and shopping along one of the quaint Main Streets.

Don’t miss Point Mountain (see my “hidden gem” below) and Ken Lockwood Gorge, named one of the “Ten Most Beautiful Places in New Jersey” by New Jersey Monthly Magazine.  

Best Restaurants in Hunterdon County, NJ 

Hunterdon County is a haven for food enthusiasts. With its lush farmland and proximity to local producers, the restaurants in Hunterdon County have the advantage of sourcing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that serve as the foundation for delectable and innovative cuisine.

Breakfast, Lunch & Treats

One of my all-time favorite places to eat in Hunterdon County is Teaberry’s Tea House in Flemington. Housed in a Victorian-era home, it’s the perfect place for a birthday tea party or special celebration, but just as wonderful for a casual lunch with friends. The decor is a feast for the eyes with florals, china, teapots, stuffed animals, and dolls (as well as their infamous bathtub full of hats!) everywhere you look. The food is equally impressive. Their afternoon tea features a variety of sweet and savory finger foods and pots of tea, or choose from their exquisite soups, sandwiches and salads. (Note: As of October 2023, Teaberry’s is temporarily closed to move to a new location in Flemington. They are expected to re-open in the Spring of 2024.)

When it comes to breakfast, you can’t beat Gronsky’s Milk House in High Bridge. This beloved local institution gives retro, greasy spoon vibes and you’ll almost always have to wait for a table – but the food is worth the wait. Their pancake of the month is HUGE and the flavors are always amazing. Gronsky’s is also renowned for its premium homemade ice cream. Grab a cone and sit out on the picnic tables by the river!

Sweet Melissa Patisserie is a trendy cafe in Lebanon. If you can tear yourself away from the display case filled with incredible baked goods, do sit down for breakfast or lunch. I highly recommend the Sweet Melissa Club or the quiche du jour with a side of thick-cut maple bacon.

For a coffee fix, check out the Stone Bean at Riverside in Clinton. They always have several delicious, seasonal drinks and they use my favorite Harney Teas.

Scout’s Coffee Bar & Mercantile in High Bridge is another great place to stop for a snack and a sip. This is my go-to after a hike on the Columbia Trail. Try the avocado toast or the sausage and sweet potato burrito.

The Frenchtown Cafe is the perfect stop after a walk along the Delaware-Raritan Canal State Park Trail. From omelets to salads to burgers, they have a variety of unique offerings.

For something sweet, run – don’t walk – to Chocolate in the Oven in Milford. This bakery (which I visit way too often!) has incredible baked goods.

If you’re craving ice cream, get yourself over to Humdoo Ice Cream in Flemington. They have amazing flavors and those fun, crazy, giant milkshakes.

Dinner

For a casual, fine-dining dinner experience, Juniper Hill in Annandale offers a menu curated seasonally with ingredients from local bakers and farmers. They also have a creative team of bartenders pouring and crafting house cocktails. 

Ironbound Farm in Asbury offers a fresh, rotating menu to pair with their renowned ciders. The dishes feature produce and proteins their farm’s current harvest,  as well as fresh and local ingredients from their local network of growers and producers.

Lambertville is a well-known tourist town with many excellent restaurants, bars and entertainment options and I’ve recently discovered a couple new spots I can highly recommend. Brian’s at the Grill offers a prix fix menu that changes daily. I had some legendary short ribs and my husband says their tiramisu is the best he’s ever had. El Tule is the place to go for Mexican/Peruvian food. I loved the guac topped with Mexican street corn, the skirt steak tacu tacu, and the fun, casual atmosphere.

Hidden Gem

Point Mountain in Lebanon Township is one of my favorite places to hike. It’s the third highest point in Hunterdon County and offers a variety of trails between one and ten miles. The terrain to the summit is steep and rocky, but worth it for the views!

Trails parallel the scenic Musconetcong River, traverse a mature forest, and follow mowed paths along cultivated fields. The 935-foot-high summit of Point Mountain offers sweeping views of small towns, fertile farmland, and the river valley.

General Vibe

Hunterdon County is a fantastic mix of peaceful farms, natural beauty, and charming small towns. The vibe is relaxed, with plenty of outdoor activities and excellent food.

Want an easy weekend planned? Utilize Explore Hunterdon’s road trip guides, which include everything from the best coffee houses, thrift stores,  ice cream shops, breweries, and more!

The post Small Town Spotlight: Fall in Hunterdon County, NJ appeared first on East Coast Small Towns.

This town still has railroad roots but it offers a fun day of shopping, eating, drinking, and even hiking. Here’s what to expect from Sykesville, Maryland.

About Sykesville

Sykesville has a vibrant downtown area filled with unique shops and restaurants. Visitors can explore antique stores, art galleries, and specialty shops, and enjoy a variety of cuisine, from traditional American fare to international cuisine.

Nearby, Sykesville is surrounded by natural beauty, including parks and trails. Patapsco Valley State Park is just a short drive away, offering hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities. Piney Run Park is also a popular spot for boating, fishing, and hiking. Kids will love the Little Sykes Railway Park, the impressive playgrounds at Millard Cooper Park, and rolling through the South Branch Skatepark.

Sykesville hosts a variety of community events throughout the year, including a weekly farmers market, concerts in the park, Art & Wine Festival, Craft Beer Festival, and a holiday-themed festival. These events bring the community together and offer visitors a chance to experience the town’s unique charm and character.

A Brief History of Sykesville

Sykesville played a significant role in the development of the B&O Railroad in the 19th century. The town’s location along the railroad made it an important stop for trains carrying goods and passengers. Today, visitors can learn about the town’s railroad history at the Sykesville Gate House Museum.

As a result of its past, Sykesville has a historic district that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The district includes many 19th-century buildings that have been preserved and restored, giving visitors a glimpse into the town’s past.

Our Favorite Things

We love grabbing a bite to eat at the longstanding E.W. Beck’s (the spinach salad is amazing!). If you’re a train buff, you might enjoy a bite at Sykesville Station, a former train depot that still sits right next to an active railroad. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a bit of a show if you’re sitting outside. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, pop into Firehouse Creamery for some of the best ice cream around.

There are plenty of shops worth checking out including Tidal Salt, a boutique on Main Street, A Likely Story bookstore, and Revive & Co for fun trinkets. Also on Main Street, look for Sweet Simplici-Tea which is an old-fashioned Tearoom, Bakery and Gift Shoppe.

If you’re looking for some adult fun, stop into Pataspco Distillery for a sampling of their Maryland made vodka, gin, and bourbon. Or enjoy some wine and outdoor entertainment at The Vine on Main offering well-priced wines and craft beers, as well as a shop full of fair trade, hand-made, recycled, socially conscious, unique gifts.

Hidden Gem

The one can’t miss place in downtown Sykesville is The French Twist, a little French Crepery that is literally hidden behind Main Street! Tucked behind the historic buildings is a house that now serves as an authentic French crepery offering both sweet and savory crepes in a fun cafe environment, with ample seating upstairs and outside.

General Vibe

Sykesville is a quiet laidback town full of mainly locals or residents from nearby towns. If you’re looking for nightlife, elegant restaurants, and quaint B&Bs, this is not the town. But if you’re looking for a day trip for a destination that’s great for lunch or fun for festivals and farmer’s markets, you’ll like this chill shopping and sipping atmosphere.

Who Has Been

Fadra lives just minutes away from this historic little town and visits often. Lindsay traveled to the area and stumbled upon this little town and spent her time at… The French Twist!

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The East Coast of the United States is a treasure trove of historical sites, and few things embody the region’s rich history more than the castles that dot the landscape. From Maine to Florida, these fortresses tell the story of America’s past, and offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who once called them home.

What is a castle?

It seems like an obvious question. It’s a towering fortress, typically from medieval times but also found in fairy tales. Some can be as elaborate as Peles Castle, which is technically a king’s palace, or as simple as a strategically positioned military fortress, like Bran Castle, the supposed inspiration for Dracula’s castle.

Can you tell I visited castles when I traveled to Romania?

In fact, castles are essentially fortified buildings typically used during medieval times. Since the United States wasn’t established until much later, you could argue that these east coast castles are simply fashioned in the style of castles. However you look at it, it’s fun to check out castle like buildings right here on the east coast.

Top Castles to Visit on the East Coast

Boldt Castle, New York

Located on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands region of New York, Boldt Castle is an example of architecture from the Gilded Age, which started just after the end of the Civil War. Built in the early 1900s by millionaire George C. Boldt, of Waldorf-Astoria fame, as a tribute to his wife, the castle features grand ballrooms, ornate gardens, and a stunning view of the St. Lawrence River. Today, visitors can tour the castle and its grounds, which include a power house and a children’s playhouse.

Website: boldtcastle.com
Address: Alexandria Bay, New York (reachable only by boat)

Bannerman Castle, New York

Bannerman Castle is a unique and historic landmark located on Pollepel Island in the middle of the Hudson River. The castle was originally built in the early 20th century by Francis Bannerman VI, a wealthy businessman who made his fortune in the military surplus industry. The castle was designed to store and showcase his vast collection of military surplus, including weaponry, ammunition, and uniforms. Today, the castle is in ruins but visitors can take a tour of the island and explore the castle’s exterior, which includes a grand entrance, a clock tower, and a number of unique architectural features.

Website: bannermancastle.org
Address: 2 Red Flynn Dr, Beacon, NY 12508 (dock location)

Fonthill Castle, Pennsylvania

Fonthill Castle is a historic mansion located in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. It was built in the early 20th century by the wealthy American archeologist and tile maker Henry Chapman Mercer. The castle is known for its unique architecture and features a mix of Gothic, Byzantine, and medieval styles. Fonthill Castle has a rich history and has served as Mercer’s residence, as well as a museum and cultural center. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms, including the grand hall, library, and Mercer’s private quarters, and view its extensive collection of art, ceramics, and furnishings.

Website: mercermuseum.org/about/fonthill-castle
Address: 525 East Court Street, Doylestown, PA 18901

Hammond Castle, Massachusetts

Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Hammond Castle is a medieval-style fortress that was built in the 1920s by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr. Today, the castle is open to the public and offers a glimpse into Hammond’s eccentric life, as well as a collection of medieval artifacts and artwork.

Website: hammondcastle.org
Address: 80 Hesperus Ave, Gloucester, MA 01930

Belcourt Castle, Rhode Island

Belcourt Castle is a historic mansion located in Newport, Rhode Island. It was built in 1894 by wealthy businessman Oliver Hazard Perry Belmont and features an impressive combination of Gothic, Renaissance, and French styles of architecture. The castle has a rich history and has served as a residence for several notable families over the years. Today, it is open to the public for tours where visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms, including the grand ballroom, library, and chapel, and view its extensive collection of artwork, antiques, and furnishings.

Website: belcourt.com
Address: 657 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 0284

Montpelier Mansion, Maryland

Originally built as a simple farmhouse in the 1700s, Montpelier Mansion was transformed into a grand neoclassical estate in the early 1800s by its owner, Samuel Owings. Today, visitors can tour the mansion and its grounds, which include a formal garden and a working farm.

Website: pgparks.com/3044/Montpelier-House-Museum
Address: 9650 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, MD 20708

Castillo de San Marcos, Florida

Built by the Spanish in the late 1600s, the Castillo de San Marcos is a massive stone fortress that once protected the city of St. Augustine from attack. Today, the castle is a National Monument and offers visitors the chance to explore its history and architecture, as well as take in stunning views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

Website: nps.gov/casa
Address: 11 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Fort Knox, Maine

Named after the famous fort in Kentucky, Fort Knox in Maine is a 19th-century military fortress that was built to protect the Penobscot River. Today, visitors can explore the fort’s underground tunnels and bunkers, as well as take in views of the river and the surrounding countryside.

Website: fortknoxmaine.com
Address: 740 Fort Knox Road, Prospect, Maine 04981

Biltmore Estate, North Carolina

Biltmore Estate is a historic mansion located in Asheville, North Carolina. It was built in the late 19th century by George Washington Vanderbilt II, a wealthy businessman and art collector. The estate features a magnificent French Renaissance-style chateau with 250 rooms and is set on over 8,000 acres of landscaped gardens and woodlands. Visitors can explore the mansion’s many rooms, including the grand staircase, banquet hall, and library, and view its extensive collection of art, furniture, and decorative objects. The estate also features a winery, a farm, and a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.

Website: biltmore.com
Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803

Lyndhurst Mansion, New York

Lyndhurst Mansion is a historic Gothic Revival-style mansion located in Tarrytown, New York. It was built in the mid-19th century and served as a residence for several prominent families, including railroad magnate Jay Gould. The mansion is renowned for its stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds, which feature sweeping lawns, gardens, and towering trees. Today, Lyndhurst Mansion is open to the public for tours where visitors can explore the mansion’s many rooms, including the grand entrance hall, library, and dining room, and view its extensive collection of art, antiques, and furnishings. The estate also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and picnicking.

Website: lyndhurst.org
Address: 635 S Broadway, Tarrytown, NY 10591

The East Coast of the United States is home to some of the most impressive castles or “castles” in the country, each with its own unique history and architectural style. While the United States doesn’t offer true medieval fortresses, there’s a castle on the East Coast that’s sure to capture your imagination. Plan a trip to one (or all!) of these incredible sites and explore the history and beauty of each region for yourself.

The post Castles on the East Coast appeared first on East Coast Small Towns.

Where is West Chester, Pennsylvania?

West Chester is a charming town located in the heart of Chester County, located in the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Under the best traveling conditions, it’s an accessible day trip from many locations

To West Chester PA from:

• Baltimore, MD – 87 miles
• Washington, DC – 120 miles
• York, PA – 68 miles
• Lancaster, PA – 42 miles
• Philadelphia, PA – 36 miles
• Wilmington, DE – 17 miles
• Allentown, PA – 60 miles
• Trenton, NJ – 58 miles
• NYC – 120 miles

What to See and Do in West Chester, Pennsylvania

West Chester is known for its historic architecture, vibrant downtown, and rich cultural offerings. It’s also home to West Chester University, a public research university offering undergraduate and graduate programs.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, there are plenty of things to do in West Chester to make your visit a memorable one.

First and foremost, a visit to West Chester wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through its downtown area. The downtown is lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon shopping or dining. The architecture of the downtown buildings is also noteworthy, with many of the structures dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The brick sidewalks and old-fashioned lampposts only add to the charm of the area. If you’re interested in history, there are several walking tours available that explore the history and architecture of the downtown area.

One of the most popular attractions in West Chester is the Chester County History Center. Run by The Chester County Historical Society, it is dedicated to preserving the history of Chester County and offers visitors a glimpse into the past. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including artifacts from the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. There is also a research library on site that is open to the public.

If you’re looking for outdoor activities, West Chester has several parks and recreational areas to explore. One of the most popular parks is Everhart Park, which features playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas. The park is also home to several annual events, including a summer concert series and a fall festival. Other outdoor attractions in West Chester include Stroud Preserve which offers hiking trails and opportunities to enjoy nature.

For art lovers, West Chester has a thriving arts community that is worth exploring. The town is home to several galleries, including the Chester County Art Association and the Art Trust Gallery. The Chester County Art Association offers classes and workshops in a variety of mediums, including painting, pottery, and photography. The Art Trust Gallery features rotating exhibits of local and regional artists.

Finally, no trip to West Chester would be complete without sampling some of the town’s culinary offerings. West Chester has a thriving food scene, with a wide range of restaurants offering everything from casual dining to upscale cuisine. Some of the most popular restaurants in town include Roots Cafe, Iron Hill Brewery, and Teca. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, sushi, or a hearty steak, you’re sure to find a restaurant in West Chester that fits the bill.

West Chester, Pennsylvania is a town that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do in West Chester to keep you entertained. And with its charming downtown and thriving food scene, the town is the perfect place to spend a day or a weekend exploring.

Our Girls Day Out in West Chester, PA

Our usual itinerary includes meeting for lunch, walking through a picturesque downtown, do a little shipping, and enjoy a sweet treat before we head home. And we were able to accomplish all of that! Here’s how we did it.

Lunch at Roots Cafe

Street parking was readily available and we all met up at Roots Cafe for a light lunch and a little day drinking. I ordered the Brown Sugar Jalapeño Margarita, made with tequila, brown sugar simple syrup, orange liqueur, fresh lime juice, and fresh orange juice.

Shopping in Downtown West Chester

The best way to walk off day drinking is to go shopping! We like to call it stimulating the economy. We meandered in and out of many stores on Gay Street, Market Street, and Church Street. Some of our favorites included:

All The Dogs – Lindsay and I are the dog lovers and we always check out any pet related stores

A Taste of Olive – It’s become our thing to both taste and buy olive oils and vinegars when we’re together.

La Chic Boutique – Lindsay bought a purse here!

Pine + Quill – We didn’t buy but we loved browsing here.

There are lots of downtown shops good for a stroll when the weather is nice. And when you’ve walked off your lunch and shopped til you’re about to drop, it’s time for…

Sweet Treat in West Chester

We’re totally health conscious until we hit that mid-afternoon slump and then we want caffeine and a little sugar! We found both at La Baguette Magique, an urban French patisserie with handmade baked treats and light fare.

It was there that we discovered a brioche filled with whipped cream. To be fair, we split it three ways although I could have easily eaten it myself.

Whatever you like to do, West Chester has that east coast small town vibe while still being just on the outskirts of a metropolitan area. Next time, we’re back in the area, we’d love to venture just a little further out and visit Longwood Gardens which is just a quick 20 minutes away from West Chester.

What are your can’t miss things for a day trip to West Chester, Pennsylvania?

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Here are the top five things to do in Lake Placid, NY.

Check out the Olympic Venues

Lake Placid was the site of the 1980 Winter Olympic Games and there are several cool spots you can visit to learn about the town’s Olympic history.

The Olympic Center is a must-see for any visitor to Lake Placid. Home of the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” hockey game, the complex includes an Olympic Museum, the Herb Brooks Arena, and the outdoor speed skating oval.

At the Lake Placid Olympic Ski Jump Complex, you can ride the Skyride, an eight-passenger gondola, up to the base of the ski jumping towers. From there, take the glass elevator to the sky deck of the 128 meter ski jump. At the top, you’ll find incredible 360-degree panoramic views of Lake Placid. It’s also pretty crazy checking out the ski jump from the top!

If you’re feeling brave, try the ziplines located next to the ski jump, emulating the rush of ski jumping at speeds up to 30 miles per hour.

The Olympic Sites Passport gets you access to several activities at the Lake Placid Olympic sites for a bundled price of $40 (kids six and under are free). You’ll be able to visit the Olympic Ski Jump Complex, the Olympic Center and Museum, and the gondola ride to the top of Little Whiteface Mountain. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, the passport also provides discounts on special experiences like the bobsled, skeleton, and biathlon.

Visit Whiteface Mountain

Beautiful Whiteface Mountain is a four-season destination where you can ski, hike, bike, gondola, or drive to the summit for stunning views of the Adirondack region.

There’s always something fun happening at Whiteface. Activities such as mountain biking, horseback riding, air bag jumping, and several festivals are happening spring through fall. And when the snow falls, they offer skiing, tubing, skating, bobsled and luge rides, zamboni rides, and more.

Hike at High Falls Gorge

High Falls Gorge is another place to enjoy Lake Placid. Explore the Gorge’s four beautiful waterfalls and quiet forest trails. A half-mile round-trip hike provides waterfall views and a glass-floor walkway suspends you over the rushing waters of the Ausable River. The one-mile, wooded nature trail is simply stunning in the fall and exhilarating in snowshoes!

After your outdoor adventure, enjoy lunch at the unexpectedly cozy River View Cafe. Tucked in the back of the visitors center/gift shop, this little cafe offers excellent soups, sandwiches, baked goods, coffees, and a beer and wine bar to help you refuel after your hike. There’s an outdoor picnic area during the warmer months, but we loved relaxing by the fireplace in their rustic, authentic, Adirondack décor.

Enjoy Mirror Lake

The downtown area of Lake Placid is flanked by Mirror Lake (Lake Placid is actually north of the town). The lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and picnicking. You can even ice skate in the winter.

Motor boats are not allowed on the lake, making it peaceful and perfect for kayaking, canoeing or pedal-boats. 

If you’re not interested in water sports, there is a beautiful 2.7-mile path that surrounds the lake. Walk or bike and take in the serenity of the lake and the surrounding forests. You’ll have the chance to to get to know the town better, too.

Explore Downtown Lake Placid

There are plenty of shops and eateries to enjoy, all while strolling along the lakefront. After a day of adventure, you might want to try a blissful foot soak and massage at Adirondack Foot Sanctuary.

The Lake Placid Christmas Company is a beautiful store to browse through any time of year. You’ll find tons of ornaments, gifts and decor. Adirondack Decorative Arts and Crafts is another store I recommend. It’s mainly a furniture showroom, but you will be amazed at the gorgeous carved wooden furnishings, rustic gifts, and home decor accessories they offer.

When you’re ready to eat, I recommend Smoke Signals BBQ and Dancing Bears Restaurant.

The perfectly-smoked brisket at Smoke Signals was amazing, as were the pulled pork tacos. You can choose from pulled pork, chicken or brisket for your tacos and mix-n-match is allowed!

Dancing Bears is located at High Peaks Resort and offers classic American pub fare in a warm, cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed a hearty breakfast before our day of sightseeing and then went back the next day for dinner.

Where to Stay in Lake Placid

High Peaks Resort offers three options for accommodations on Mirror Lake, all within walking distance to shopping, dining, and Olympic attractions. The Resort has indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and an on-site spa.

The recently renovated Lake House features modern, rustic rooms with beautiful views of Mirror Lake. Read about my family’s stay at the Lake House – we loved the cozy Great Room!

The Waterfront Collection makes a perfect summer choice – you can walk out of your room and right into the lake. Kayaks, paddleboats and other equipment are right there for your pleasure. Enjoy your morning coffee, or evening wine, on your lakefront patio.

The Adirondack Inspired Rooms have more of a “hotel” feel than the Lake House or Waterfront. The rooms are luxurious, bright, and have the same tranquil view.

From the Olympic Center to the quaint downtown to the stunning Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is a destination that should not be missed.

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