11 Top Resorts in the Adirondacks

Located in the northeastern corner of New York State, the beautiful Adirondack Mountains are one of the region's top tourist attractions and home to several of New York's top ski resorts. It's also where you'll find some of the state's best hotels and resorts.

Given the region's natural beauty and ruggedness, it's perhaps no surprise that many of the best places to stay focus on an authentic American lodge-style of accommodations. This is certainly true of top locations such as The Whiteface Lodge and Lake Placid Lodge, both located in the historic village of Lake Placid and appealing to those who enjoy a little luxury with their outdoor experience.

Also worth considering are the Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa, also in Lake Placid, and The Point on Saranac Lake, both of which offer a high level of quality and elegance.

Find the best place to stay for your next Upstate New York mountain vacation with our list of the top resorts in the Adirondacks.

Lake Placid Lodge, Lake Placid

The sumptuous 5-star Lake Placid Lodge is a fine luxury property that offers an authentic Adirondack vacation experience. Considered one of the best places to stay in Upstate New York, this popular resort was built in traditional wilderness lodge fashion, with rough-hewn beams and plenty of stone features.

A member of the prestigious Opal Collection of luxury hotels, this charming lodge offers upscale suite-style accommodation options which can, in some cases, be combined to make even larger multi-bedroom units.

Another popular choice are the lodge king rooms. These deluxe units feature king beds, spacious bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers, as well as real wood-burning fireplaces. They also feature furnished balconies. Accessible rooms are available for those with mobility issues.

In addition to its large meeting and conference rooms and indoor activities, such as cooking and arts and crafts classes, Lake Placid Lodge also makes full use of its natural setting to provide plenty of outdoor fun. Highlights include water-based activities such as fishing, paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking, as well as wildlife interactions.

Come winter, you'll be able to enjoy such fun activities as dogsledding, snowshoeing, and skiing. Regular family movie nights are also hosted. Feeling peckish? Enjoy a meal in the on-site restaurants, including both fine and casual dining options.

Address: 144 Lodge Way, Lake Placid, New York

The Point, Saranac Lake

Considered one of the most stylish vacation addresses in the Adirondacks, the elegant adults-only The Point on Saranac Lake should be on everyone's bucket list of must-visit destinations. It's an especially popular location for those seeking a memorable romantic getaway in Upstate New York.

This plush 5-star resort's most requested accommodation is The Boathouse. This boutique-style accommodation option literally sits atop the lake above the resort's boat storage, and is popular for engagements, weddings, honeymoons, and anniversaries.

Notable features of this luxe unit include a large master bedroom with a four-poster canopied bed, a spacious bathroom with a bathtub big enough for two, plus a pair of twin beds hanging from the ceiling of the huge wrap-around deck. Adding to the luxury (and the romance) are a large fireplace, a dining table for two, and plenty of comfy spots to relax.

If the Boathouse isn't available, you won't go wrong booking a stay in any one of the resort's 11 classy accommodations.

Set in a number of huge log homes dotted around the resort, these chic, spacious suites feature exquisite décor that includes original old paintings, custom-built furniture and four poster beds, real stone fireplaces, separate living rooms, as well large bathrooms with either clawfoot bathtubs or waterfall showers. The balcony views over the lake top off this perfect romantic getaway destination.

When not lounging about in your comfortable quarters, head out for a day of fishing, waterskiing, or boating...or a little of all of them. Other sporting activities available to guests include tennis, croquet, or badminton. Use of canoes and kayaks is included with your stay, and barbecues are provided.

Address: 222 Beaverwood Road, Saranac Lake, New York

Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid

Just a few minutes' drive away from the many attractions of the village of Lake Placid, the 4-star Whiteface Lodge blends in well with the natural surroundings thanks to its rustic log construction.

One of the best resorts in Lake Placid, Whiteface Lodge emphasizes luxury experiences, from world-class amenities that include a full-service spa and fine dining in its splendid restaurants, to the inclusion of its very own movie theater.

Also available for guests to enjoy are a fitness center, heated indoor-outdoor swimming pool, and hot tubs. There are also tennis courts, a games room, campfires, and even an ice cream parlor to sample during your stay.

A popular choice of accommodations at the Whiteface Lodge are the spacious one-bedroom units. Designed with a nod to the region's past, these elegant units come with separate bedrooms with king or queen beds plus a pullout queen-sized sofa bed in the expansive living area. They also boast large bathrooms with jet tubs, and custom-made furnishings and accessories. If available, ask for a suite with a fireplace.

Address: 7 Whiteface Inn Ln, Lake Placid, New York

Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa, Lake Placid

Another excellent 4-star choice for a memorable Lake Placid getaway, the elegant Mirror Lake Inn offers a variety of luxurious accommodation options.

A popular choice is the bright and airy "Lookout Rooms." These exquisite suites come with two queen beds, tile flooring throughout, and huge windows offering superb views over the lake or mountains. They also feature a separate seating space that can be closed off from the bedroom area.

Better still for larger families are the 1,200-square-foot family suites. These spacious units cover two levels and boast three bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a large living room with a cozy fireplace.

The amenities consist of a large, heated indoor swimming pool with its adjoining hot tub and sauna, along with a fitness center. There are also a variety of dining options from which to choose, most including kid-friendly menu items. Be sure to try the resort's afternoon tea experience.

Golfers are granted privileges at the nearby Whiteface Club, while skiers and snowboarders are just steps away from the slopes.

Address: 77 Mirror Lake Drive, Lake Placid, New York

High Peaks Resort, Lake Placid

Consisting of three distinct, and distinctive, vacation properties, the 4-star High Peaks Resort is located in the very heart of historic Lake Placid. Whichever building you stay in, you won't be disappointed: the accommodations are of a high quality and comfortable, each with a décor and design that reflects its Adirondacks roots.

A great choice for couples and families alike is the spacious one-bedroom suites. These spacious units each come with a good-sized private entrance area, a large living room, plus a wet bar with mini-fridge and microwave. They also feature a dining area and two private furnished balconies offering superb views over what is undoubtedly one of the best lakes in New York state.

On-site amenities include a large state-of-the-art fitness center, and an impressive four swimming pools (two indoor, two outdoor). Kayaks and paddleboards are available for guest use. Casual and fine-dining restaurants are also available.

Address: 2384 Saranac Ave, Lake Placid, New York

The Sagamore Resort, Bolton Landing

Constructed in 1883 and carefully restored to maintain its charm and character, the elegant 4-star Sagamore Resort remains one of the most popular resorts on Lake George. Highlights of a stay at this 70-acre Adirondack getaway destination include its casual and fine-dining establishments, a heated swimming pool, and plenty of space to spread out and relax.

The resort consists of 137 rooms and suites, each boasting Adirondack-themed décor. Expect standard features to include quality furnishings, spacious marble-accented bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers, pullout sofa beds, and balconies, some with lake views.

For a truly luxurious stay, book into "The Castle." This stunning 2,000-square-foot vacation home comes with no less than six bedrooms and four bathrooms. Other features include five gas fireplaces, a full kitchen, a dining and living room, and superb lake views.

Sagamore Resort is also a great fishing spot, and canoes and kayaks are available for guest use. Other highlights include a reproduction touring vessel offering trips across the lake, as well as a spa, tennis courts, and a championship golf course. There are also plenty of fun things to do in and around Lake George, too, so be sure to spend a little time exploring the area.

Address: 110 Sagamore Rd, Bolton Landing, New York

Garnet Hill Lodge, North River

A popular back-to-nature destination for couples and families alike, the 3-star Garnet Hill Lodge looks every bit as if it has always been a part of the landscape.

This historic, rustic lodge has, in fact, been offering quality Adirondack vacations for decades, continues to attract guests year-round for winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and is a popular place to stay in New York for downhill skiing enthusiasts.

Other fun outdoor activities available include hiking, biking, and white water rafting. Best of all, you'll also have use of the resort's canoes, kayaks, and bikes, included with your stay. On-site amenities include a restaurant with lake views (be sure to try the fish and chips). Their hearty breakfast is complimentary.

A variety of accommodation options are available, including two standalone cabins set in the surrounding woods. Other popular choices include the traditional log house rooms with good-sized marble bathrooms and glass showers. If available, be sure to request a lake view.

Address: 39 Garnet Hill Rd Section 2, North River, New York

Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort, Lake Placid

Highly regarded for its respect for the environment, the family-owned Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort in Lake Placid offers guests a modern take on the traditional Adirondack resort vacation. A highlight of a stay is relaxing on this 3-star resort's private sandy beach or hopping aboard a rowboat, kayak, paddleboat, or canoe. Paddleboards are also available.

Other amenities include a large, heated indoor swimming pool with adjoining hot tubs, steam bath, and sauna, as well as a well-equipped fitness center. There's also an on-site restaurant offering casual food.

A great choice for families is the two-room Algonquin Suites, which can sleep up to five guests. Features include a master bedroom with a king bed, a living area with a pullout couch and authentic wood-burning fireplace, HDTV, and a private balcony. They also come with a mini-fridge, a microwave, a Keurig coffee maker, and a spacious bathroom with a jet tub. Larger two-bedroom units are also available.

Address: 2559 Main Street, Lake Placid, New York

Crowne Plaza Lake Placid

Part of the IHG hotel group, the 3-star Crowne Plaza Lake Placid is a great choice for those seeking a high-end vacation location in the Adirondacks. The amenities are top-notch and include a state-of-the-art fitness and wellness center, an indoor heated swimming pool plus hot tub, and on-site dining.

Its lakeside location is a real draw, with inspiring views from pretty much everywhere, including at the hotel's fire pits, where guests congregate each night.

The accommodations are equally high quality and include a number of accessible units for those with mobility challenges. Options include king or double queen beds with upgraded mattresses and bedding, work desks, HDTVs, and spacious bathrooms.

Address: 101 Olympic Drive, Lake Placid, New York

The Alpine Lodge, North Creek

The Alpine Lodge in North Creek was constructed in the Adirondack Great Camp style. Just a five-minute drive to Gore Mountain, which is a popular winter ski destination, Alpine Lodge is also within walking distance of downtown North Creek's shops and restaurants.

The 3-star hotel has a mix of rooms and suites, including family rooms. The most expensive rooms here come with Jacuzzis and wood stoves that create a romantic ambience. The decor throughout is mountain chic with lots of polished wood, giant area rugs, and cozy leather couches.

If you are driving an electric vehicle, there is a charging area on-site. Other amenities include kids' play equipment, an outdoor fireplace, a picnic area, and 24-hour check-in. While there is no on-site restaurant, there are a number of choices within walking distance.

Address: 264 Main Street, North Creek, New York

Hotel Saranac, Curio Collection by Hilton, Saranac Lake

Fresh from a five-year multi-million-dollar renovation, the historic Hotel Saranac, Curio Collection by Hilton is a landmark property in Saranac Lake Village. Today the 3-star hotel has a modern look inside that doesn't forget its historic roots.

Rooms and suites feature fun retro ski lodge decor with lots of bright pops of color, as well as crown molding and quartz vanities. Make sure to check out the Great Hall, which was inspired by a 14-century Italian palace and designed as a central meeting place for guests and locals.

Amenities include a spa for a full range of pampering services. Grab a bite to eat at Campfire Adirondack Grill, which was designed to look like one of the old Great Camps. It serves locally sourced comfort food. There is also a fitness center on-site. A shuttle bus service to nearby outdoor attractions is available. Parking is free.

Address: 100 Main Street, Saranac Lake, New York