Nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks, Lake Placid is a historic small town that previously hosted two winter Olympic games and presently hosts an annual Ironman.

The town prides itself on its small-town charm, with a main street that is home to both major outlets as well as small, locally run businesses. Alongside the GAP Outlet, you’ll find a chocolatier that produces its own sweets and snacks.

The town is also known for being a year-round destination. Whereas in the summer the lake is the main attraction for tourists, fall brings leaf peepers chasing changing leaves, and winter attracts skiers and snowboarders craving the drops that Whiteface Mountain offers.

But the lesser-known aspects of the town are some of its greatest highlights. Big Mountain Deli, a business run by a local family, offers 46 of the most popular sandwiches in the dirty ‘dacks; they have been mentioned in the NY Times multiple times, and are a favorite of locals and tourists alike. The family has recently expanded as well, opening three other locations across the town.

In addition, the hikes closest to the Placid region provide a perfect escape for those who are less outdoor-inclined than our OC brethren. Rather than gallivanting your way to the summit of a High Peak that could possibly be hiding sub-zero weather atop its windy peak, you could instead test out the easily accessible Cobble Hill. Located less than a mile from Mirror Lake, Cobble Hill is a quick jaunt coupled with great views of the surrounding area.

If you’re less inclined to venture off campus at the present moment, you could always wait a few more months until the snow provides a nice warm blanket- and you have a greater incentive to stop by the Lake Placid Pub and Brewery.

One of the best past-times in Lake Placid comes around only in the colder months, after the lake has frozen over and the summer home pensioners have left their 4,000 square foot homes to return to warmer climates. Dog-sled rides allow you not only to get closer to some adorable husky puppies, but also to experience the panoramic picturesque views Mirror Lake has to offer without ever getting wet (hopefully).