Family Adventures in the Adirondacks: The Perfect 5-Day Trip
Explore the best of the Adirondacks with this adaptable itinerary designed to suit families of all ages and abilities
Boasting 6 million acres of publicly protected land in northeastern New York, the Adirondacks are the perfect destination for families looking for fresh air, quaint villages, and a dose of old-fashioned fun. With abundant lodging options and endless room to roam, it’s easy to tailor a trip to your crew. This five-day itinerary highlights activities that can be adapted for a range of ages and abilities.
Days 1-2: Lake Placid and High Peaks
Ease into your Adirondack escape with a stroll around Mirror Lake, where the calm, crystal-clear water reflects the surrounding High Peaks and the charming village of Lake Placid.Stop for an ice cream cone at Emma’s Lake Placid Creamery,anddive into the town’s Olympic legacy at the Olympic Center and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum.Just outside town, the Olympic Jumping Complex offers a close-up view of ski-jump towers—and if you’re up to it, a scenic gondola ride.
When you’re ready to hit the trailheads, set your alarm and head to Mount Jo.The 2-mile loop is short and manageable, with just enough elevation to feel like an accomplishment, especially for younger kids. Aim to arrive at the Adirondack Loj lot in the early morning (or later in the afternoon) for the best chanceat a spot.
Looking for something more challenging? Try the 4.7-mile Mount Van Hoevenberg East Trail, or go big with Cascade and Porter Mountains, two of the Adirondacks’ famed 46 High Peaks.
Stay: For a walkable base with multiple on-site restaurants and indoor and outdoor pools, you can’t beat High Peaks Resort. In summer, head to the waterfront to rent a boat; in winter, borrow snowshoes from the front desk for a brisk walk along the lake.
Eat: For some of the North Country’s best barbecue, make a beeline for Smoke Signals for brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. There’s also a kid’s menu for smaller appetites. The Lake Placid Pub & Brewery is another lively spot, offering comfort-food classics, house-brewed beers, and a children’s play area on the top floor.
Days 3-4: Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake
Explore by sidewalk and by water. Spend the morning wandering the quaint streets, cafes, and boutiques of downtown Saranac Lake,and then head to the marina to rent a kayak, canoe, or pontoon boat to cruise the Saranac Chain of Lakes. The interconnected waterways wind past pine-lined shores, quiet coves, and classic Adirondack camps—ideal for a leisurely paddle or a full afternoon on the water.
When you’re ready for something new, head 20 miles southwest to Tupper Lake and spend a few hours at The Wild Center. Part natural history museum, part outdoor adventure hub, it offers an engaging, hands-on look at the region’s history and natural heritage.
Stay: A restored 1920s landmark in the heart of downtown, Hotel Saranac, Curio Collection by Hilton features free loaner cruiser bikes and plenty of cozy gathering spaces to relax and connect. The hotel even has suites that accommodate larger families of up to six, making it an easy home base for a few nights.
Eat: Refuel at The Woodshed on Park after a long day on the trails or the water. This cozy tavern serves small plates and hearty mains, with from-scratch sauces and house-made breads that elevate the comfort-food menu.
Day 5: Lake George
Lake George Village leans into its retro charm, with kitschy downtown shops, old-school arcades, steamboat cruises, and a classic lakeside amusement park that feels delightfully frozen in time.
Spend the afternoon at Million Dollar Beach, where a wide, sandy shoreline is perfect for wading, swimming, and sandcastle building. If you prefer to lace up your hiking boots, the family-friendly trail up Shelving Rock Mountain rewards you with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding Adirondack peaks.
Stay: The centrally located Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Georgeoffers spacious rooms for families and a free hot breakfast to fuel your Adirondack adventures. For a splurge, consider The Sagamore Resort, a AAA Four Diamond property boasting multiple pools, restaurants, and on-site activities for all ages, including golf, tennis, and lawn games.
Eat: Start your day at Bear’s Cup Bakehouse with one of its popular baked goods—just be ready for a line during the peak summer season. Later, settle in at Adirondack Brewery for comfort-food favorites, fresh salads, craft beers, and even DIY s’mores to cap off the day.
Timing your trip to the Adirondacks
No matter where you roam, the season will shape your Adirondacks experience. For young families, the warmer months are an ideal time to visit, with long days made for paddling, hiking, and lakeside lounging. Keep timing in mind: Spring often brings fast-flowing water from snowmelt, and early summer is known for its black flies. By mid- to late summer, the weather is at its best—though you’ll be sharing those postcard-perfect days with more visitors.
If your schedule is flexible, consider an early fall escape. Crisp air, vibrant foliage, and lighter crowds strike a near-perfect balance.
Whenever you choose to go, the Adirondacks offer the kind of easygoing adventure that brings families together for vacation time well spent.