Lake Placid, New York

This small town is located in the middle of Adirondack Park, one of the largest in the U.S.  Although its location is remote, it is well worth the trip.  The only town I’ve seen where every parking meter is sandwiched between hanging flower baskets.  At least they give you some fragrance for your quarters.  Main Street through downtown hugs the western shore of Mirror Lake, adding to the scenic beauty of this small town.  Since 1999, Lake Placid has been the site of the annual Ironman Triathlon, one of six held each year in the U.S.  ESPN's Great Outdoor Games were inaugurated there in July 2000. Lake Placid is well known among winter sports enthusiasts for its skiing, both Alpine and Nordic. The Adirondack Scenic Railroad (a seasonal tourist attraction) runs between Lake Placid and the Saranac Lake train depot. Whiteface Mountain (4,867 ft/1,483 m), about 13 miles (21 km) from Lake Placid, offers skiing, hiking, gondola rides, and mountain biking. Having hosted two winter Olympics, Lake Placid is truly a gold-medal town.  EARNS OUR HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION.