There’s lots to love about a hot, sunny summer, but we all have our limits. As temperatures rise to scorching highs in southern states and big cities, you may find yourself facing a dilemma: spend the whole summer cooped up in AC, or risk heat-related illness trying to enjoy the outdoors. Neither option is good, and you deserve a fun, memorable summer!

The solution to your climate conundrum? Head north to Lake Placid, NY. Warm, but not too hot. Sunny, but not sweltering. With glistening lakes and fresh mountain air, this Adirondack oasis is your perfect summer escape. In addition to cooler temperatures, Lake Placid also offers tons of activities that will actually help you beat the heat!

Jump in a lake

Fed by springs and mountain streams, Adirondack lakes are cool, clean, and a joy to swim in. Whether you take a dip off a private dock or spend the day at a sandy public beach, swimming in a freshwater lake will leave you feeling oh so very refreshed.

Walk shaded forest trails

Amble at a leisurely pace beneath a canopy of emerald leaves. Breathe in the rich scent of soil, with hints of pine wafting on the breeze. Enjoy a symphony of birdsong and notice the ethereal way sunbeams streak down between the trees. Lake Placid has miles upon miles of trails for you to explore. From the Adirondack Rail Trail to backcountry paths barely wide enough for your boots, find peace in the shade of our protected forests. 

Lounge lakeside

Sometimes, all it takes to feel relief from the heat is to be by the water. Sink into a classic Adirondack chair, lay a towel in the grass, or spread out on a sunny rock. Listen to tiny waves lap against the shore and maybe catch a glimpse (or hear the call) of a common loon. Bring a picnic, a book, or just gaze out at the stunning mountain scenery. In the absence of oppressive heat, you can embrace the slower pace of lake life.

Enjoy a summit breeze

While you might work up a sweat hiking up to an Adirondack summit, feeling the cool mountain breeze at the top is well worth it. Not to mention the spectacular views! Spend a full day tackling a towering High Peak, or find equally stunning scenery on a short hike—adventures of all sizes reap beautiful rewards.

Sip a crisp drink

It’s summertime and living feels easy when you have a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) in your hand. With ample opportunities for lakeside and al fresco dining in and around town, Lake Placid makes it easy to kick back, relax, and savor your summer. Lake Placid is also home to several craft breweries and tasting rooms, perfect for creating your own brew tour.

Paddle scenic waters

From sparkling lakes and ponds to lazily flowing rivers, there are endless options for paddling in Lake Placid. Rent a canoe, kayak, or SUP from a local outfitter and enjoy a classic Adirondack pastime. For a unique experience, combine paddling with other activities! Try a paddle board yoga class, or boat up to Mid’s Park and enjoy live music from the water!

Relax in rustic luxury

Shutting yourself up indoors and blasting AC in an attempt to find relief from heat and humidity is no way to spend your days. Relaxing in a rustic Adirondack lodge or hanging out at a luxurious mountain resort, however, is summer living at its finest.

Here, you can throw open the windows to let the fresh air in. You can play lawn games with your family, or gather around a campfire under the stars. You can sip coffee on a cool morning while you gaze out from a balcony at lakes and mountains. In Lake Placid, where you stay isn’t a place to hide from the heat—it’s part of your perfect summer experience.

Stroll Main Street

On Lake Placid’s charming lakeside Main Street, you can enjoy the outdoors as you stroll between boutiques. Find unique souvenirs, designer clothing, outdoor gear, locally-made goods, and several art galleries interspersed with diverse dining. As you walk, peek between buildings for glimpses of Mirror Lake and the mountains. It’s a downtown experience that offers everything you could want or need, including outdoor adventure, within walking distance.

Hit the ice

Host of two Winter Olympics (1932 and 1980), there are elements of winter present in Lake Placid year round. Tour historic ice rinks in the Olympic Center and see where the Miracle on Ice took place. Rent skates and take to the ice yourself during a public skating session. Try your hand at curling, or catch a hockey game. In the chill of the arena, you’ll forget all about the heat! Thanks to a little Lake Placid magic, you might even find a pile of snow outside the Olympic Center! You can explore more of Lake Placid’s Olympic history at the Olympic Museum and Legacy Sites.

Craving a cooler summer? Head north to Lake Placid and experience a summer you can actually enjoy. With great weather and fun ways to beat the heat, it’s the perfect place to take refuge from a too-hot summer. Start planning your trip, and check out ways you can package your stay to make the most of your visit!