Forgive our bias here, but we are firm believers that it doesn’t get more picturesque than our favorite city. Whether you’re looking for the ambiance of skyscrapers or the peacefulness of a waterfront view, there’s something for everyone (and every aesthetic) in our neck of the woods.
But summer calls for adventure, and NYC is perfect for that as well, with its proximity to so many amazing towns and getaways both in New York and beyond.
And speaking of picturesque, a new study from WorldAtlas just revealed New York’s most picturesque towns, and the number one spot is an absolute summer must-visit.
What to Know: Lake Placid, NY
The town of Lake Placid sits deep in the Adirondack Mountains, enveloped by towering pine forests that make it the absolute definition of a postcard-perfect getaway.
Despite its tiny footprint—with a permanent population of only about 2,200 residents—this village punches way above its weight class.
It remains globally renowned as the historic host of both the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympic Games, giving it a rich sporting legacy that you can feel the moment you arrive.
Why WorldAtlas Says It’s the Best
According to WorldAtlas, Lake Placid claims the crown because it flawlessly blends raw natural beauty with a vibrant, historic community structure. It provides an immediate, peaceful escape from chaotic city life without sacrificing culture.
The village’s unique layout allows visitors to stroll past beautifully preserved 19th-century-style architecture while simultaneously looking out over pristine, mirror–like waters and jagged mountain backdrops, offering a rare year-round appeal where alpine wilderness completely harmonizes with a walkable, lively downtown hub.
Can’t-Miss Sites
- Mirror Lake: An absolute mandatory stop for anyone visiting the area. Because motorized boats are completely banned here, the natural waters remain incredibly dark, calm, and quiet. This glassy surface creates a flawless, stunning reflection of the entire downtown strip and the surrounding peaks. You can stretch your legs on the popular 2.7-mile trail that loops entirely around the shoreline, or rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to experience the tranquility right from the water.
- The Olympic Legacy Grounds: For travelers interested in a deep dive into sports history, the Olympic Legacy Grounds are the perfect playground. Surrounded by massive alpine forests, you can take an immersive tour of the Lake Placid Olympic Museum—which is packed with historic medals, torches, and uniforms. For a change of perspective, you can ride an elevator to the top of the towering Olympic Ski Jumping Complex or lace up your skates at the historic outdoor Olympic Oval where gold medals were won.
- Alpine-Style Main Street: The heart and soul of the town’s social life is its Alpine-style Main Street. It is a highly walkable downtown strip lined with brick and wood buildings that look like they were plucked straight out of a European ski village photograph. It’s the ultimate place to spend an afternoon popping into local boutiques, picking up homemade fudge at the Adirondack Trading Company, or simply admiring the mountain vistas framing the end of the road.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Smoke Signals: If you’re craving hearty comfort food after a long day of hiking or paddling, this Main Street staple is a must. Smoke Signals serves up acclaimed, elevated twists on classic American barbecue. Better yet, they pair their famous smoked meats with an impressive rotation of 12 different craft and local beers on tap, all in a lively atmosphere right downtown.
- The Cottage Restaurant: Perched directly on the shores of Mirror Lake, The Cottage (part of the Mirror Lake Inn) is the local hot spot for a casual lunch or a sunset drink. It features standard-setting pub fare, seasonal cocktails, and a large deck that boasts spectacular, unobstructed views of the Great Range of the Adirondack High Peaks.
- Top of the Park: For something a bit more sophisticated, head over to Top of the Park on Main Street. Famous for their slogan “Spirits with a View,” this bar features an expansive second-story deck overlooking the water. It is the premier spot in town to sample a meticulously curated selection of high-end scotches, bourbons, craft beers, and signature cocktails alongside beautifully prepared small plates.
