There aren’t many places left in the Adirondacks that truly evoke the feeling of the famous Great Camps of the past—those lavishly rustic homes that the Northeast’s elites once “vacated” to every summer. Whiteface Lodge is a place where that tradition feels alive and well. From the moment you drive past its entry gate and approach its grand main lodge with its rustic timber design, you’re hit with an overwhelming sense of place. This is a resort that brings the outside in and, as a result, you’ll never forget that you’re on vacation in one of the country’s most scenic regions. During a recent stay, I found plenty of small touches and attention to detail that made my visit to the Adirondacks feel less like an average weekend getaway and more like a Capital A Adventure.
Why stay at Whiteface Lodge?
For a resort with so many historic references, the lodge itself is relatively new, having opened in 2005. It was developed by a former Olympian and has been recognized as one of the largest investments in the Adirondack’s tourism industry in the last decade. In addition to the massive main lodge with its large fireplaces, grand central staircase, timber construction, taxidermy and rustic textiles, the property also has a separate building (connected by an underground tunnel) that houses spaces for fitness classes as well as an indoor/outdoor heated pool. An underground level houses a movie theater, ice cream parlor, indoor bowling alley and a spa while nightly campfires can be found outside. You'll also find two unique lean-tos outside that are enclosed on three sides and allow guests to enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains while indulging in cocktails, cigars and hors d’oeuvres. (Phones from the lean-tos connect directly with a concierge.)
What are the rooms like?
While the lodge’s public spaces are wonderfully grand (especially the three-story great room), I would say that the strongest argument for booking a stay at Whiteface Lodge is the design of the epic guest rooms. The lodge is an all-suite property with 96 rooms. We stayed in a One Bedroom Deluxe Suite and from the second we walked through the door, our room felt more like a private cabin than a hotel room. Directly inside was a hallway perfect for storing skis and winter gear next to a half bathroom. The main living area had Adirondack-style furnishings including, wood paneling, a gas fireplace, a full kitchen (and dishwasher!) and a private cedar and mahogany balcony that was surrounded by trees. The bedroom looked out on the balcony and had its own bathroom complete with a jetted tub and—here’s the real kicker—a washer and dryer. Having all of those amenities in the room felt like the space was able to combine the best of a hotel and a short-term rental. When you compare the price of a house rental with a room here, it also makes it a much better value for the price.
What is there to eat and drink?
The lodge’s main restaurant is Kanu which serves American cuisine inspired by the region. The restaurant is located in the lodge’s soaring, three-story great room which provides a great backdrop for dinner. You can’t go wrong with any of the steaks and the lamb chops are also excellent. We had a table next to one of the large fireplaces which also provided some welcome extra heat on a cold winter night. Kanu is one of the best restaurants around Lake Placid and it’s worth visiting even if you’re not staying at the hotel. In the morning, a generous breakfast buffet at Kanu serves pancakes, eggs, oatmeal, sausage and more. The more casual dining option at Whiteface is Peak 47 which has a more relaxed feel along with live entertainment and signature cocktails. Rounding up the dining options, the Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor in the basement doles out sweet treats. (Oh, and some very delicious warm cookies are brought to your room every night.)
What is the service like?
The staff at Whiteface Lodge went above and beyond during our stay, providing information, helping with reservations and acting as guides for the surrounding area. Every day, we were given a paper detailing the many activities taking place at the resort that day—from nature walks and live animal demonstrations to dance classes. After a dish we wanted to try on Friday night at Peak 47 was sold out, a server remembered and brought it to our table the following night at Kanu. Another helpful employee at the front desk managed to snag us a time at the very popular on-site bowling alley. (Pro tip: Book your bowling time when you first arrive at the lodge before the spots fill up.)
How are the amenities?
The Spa at Whiteface Lodge is an oasis of rustic serenity on the lodge’s lower level offering many interesting treatments inspired by the region. I had a classic massage which included some lovely woodsy aromatherapy, but other unique treatments include a Lodge Mud Wrap, a Apple Cider Masque and an Outdoorsman Facial. In addition to the lodge’s fitness center, guests can use a sauna, steam room, outdoor hot tub and expansive indoor/outdoor heated pool. Down the hall from the spa, a 56-seat surround sound movie theater hosts multiple screenings a day.
What’s the area like around Whiteface Lodge?
Whiteface Lodge is located in the High Peaks region of the Adirondacks and is just a short drive from downtown Lake Placid. It’s a great central location but it’s not located directly on a lake or within walking distance of downtown. (In the summer, the lodge’s Canoe Club—just a short drive away—offers complimentary canoes, kayaks and boats so guests can get out on the water.) Lake Placid is overflowing with fun activities no matter the season. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Olympic Museum, Olympic Ski Jump and Olympic Sports Complex Bobslide Ride. During our stay at the lodge we drove to Whiteface Mountain every day which took about 20 minutes. With the highest vertical drop on the East Coast, Whiteface offers skiing options for all levels. Another nearby attraction worth exploring is High Falls Gorge. Just a short walk from the road, this dramatic path meanders through a striking gorge and past many impressive waterfalls. To round it out, downtown Lake Placid features a wide range of shopping and dining options. The vibe of the area is rustic luxury with a strong adventurous spirit.
Why you should you book a stay at Whiteface Lodge
This impressive luxury lodge combines the best of the Adirondack’s natural offerings with upscale dining and amenities. With its cabin-like rooms, the resort is a perfect destination for larger families or friend groups and its central location promises you’ll never be short of fun things to do.