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Where to Stay in Adirondack Mountains

Where to Stay in Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains New York, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types: Your Home Away From Home

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Very limited, mostly independent or small local operations. Plan for alternatives.

  • Motels/Hotels

    Range of options, from budget-friendly to mid-range chain hotels and independent lodges.

  • Resorts

    Full-service properties with dining, spas, pools, and organized activities for a luxurious experience.

  • B&Bs (Bed & Breakfasts)

    Charming, often historic homes offer personalized service, cozy atmosphere, and homemade breakfast.

Unique Local Accommodation & Rentals

  • "Great Camps"

    Historic, elaborate estates; some accessible via tours or for limited stays.

  • Backcountry Lean-tos

    Open-fronted shelters along trails, first-come, first-served. Primitive conditions.

  • APA Campsites

    Primitive designated campsites in wilderness areas. Secluded camping experience.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Widely available for more space, privacy, and amenities like full kitchens.

Neighborhood Guide: Choosing Your Adirondack Base

The Adirondacks contain diverse towns and regions, each with a distinct character and experience.

Lake Placid

Pros
  • Central to many attractions.
  • Wide range of dining and accommodation.
  • Strong activity hub.
  • Olympic sites.
Cons
  • Can be crowded and expensive.
  • Parking challenges.
  • Less wilderness feel during peak season.
  • Higher prices.

Lake George Village

Pros
  • Abundance of family activities.
  • Easy lake access.
  • Close to I-87.
  • Traditional vacation resort feel.
Cons
  • Very crowded.
  • Can feel commercialized.
  • Less "wilderness" during peak season.
  • Busy atmosphere.

Keene Valley/Keene

Pros
  • Direct access to many High Peaks trailheads.
  • Outdoors-focused experience.
  • Rustic charm.
  • Attracts serious hikers.
Cons
  • Very limited amenities.
  • Difficult to find lodging.
  • Competitive parking.
  • Minimal services.

Safety and Noise

Safety Considerations

Generally, all Adirondack areas are safe. Practice general awareness for valuables in resort towns. In backcountry, risks are environmental (weather, wildlife, getting lost).

Noise Levels and Ambiance

Lake Placid and Lake George Village can be lively and noisy. Smaller towns and remote areas offer a quieter, more serene ambiance.

Booking Strategies: Securing Your Stay

Effective booking strategies assist you in finding suitable accommodation at good prices.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (Summer & Fall Foliage): Book 3-6 months in advance.
  • Shoulder Season (Spring & Early Winter): Book 1-2 months in advance.
  • Low Season (Late Fall & Mid-Winter): Book 2-4 weeks in advance.
  • State campgrounds fill months ahead, some minutes after booking opens.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Online Travel Agencies: Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels.
  • Vacation Rentals: Vrbo, Airbnb.
  • State Campgrounds: New York State Parks Reservation System.
  • Direct Booking: Support local businesses and sometimes find better rates.

Pricing and Policies

Negotiation and Deposits
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is not common.
  • Check deposit and cancellation terms carefully before booking.
  • Vacation rentals may have stricter non-refundable policies.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Expect higher prices during peak summer and fall foliage.
  • Rates increase on weekends and holidays.
  • Visit during shoulder or low seasons for better value.

Homestay Opportunities

Availability

Less formally developed or widely advertised than in some international destinations.

Finding Options

You might find opportunities through local connections or niche platforms, but not a main tourist option.

House/Pet Sitting

Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.

Accommodation Recommendations: Matching Stays to Needs

Different types of accommodation suit various travel styles and group compositions.

Family & Long Stays

Family-Friendly Options

Vacation rentals (cabins with kitchens and multiple bedrooms) are ideal. Resorts with pools and organized activities also provide many amenities.

  • More space for children.
  • Ability to cook meals.
  • Activities for kids.
  • Private campgrounds with facilities.
Long-Stay Accommodations

Vacation rentals are generally ideal for extended stays, offering amenities that enhance comfort.

  • Full kitchens.
  • Home-like feel.
  • Weekly or monthly rates in off-peak.
  • Enhanced comfort for extended periods.

Solo & Unique Stays

Solo Traveler Recommendations

Motels and small B&Bs offer comfortable options. For adventurous travelers, backcountry camping (with skills and safety) provides profound solitude.

  • Comfortable motels and B&Bs.
  • Backcountry for solitude.
  • Joining guided group activities.
  • Flexibility in choosing location.
Properties with Cultural/Historical Significance

Consider staying at historic hotels like Mirror Lake Inn or exploring former "Great Camps" (e.g., Great Camp Sagamore for programs/stays).

  • Connection to region's past.
  • Unique architectural styles.
  • Immersive historical experience.
  • Often offer special programs.

NYS DEC Campground Details

  • Price Range

    $20 - $30 per night.

  • Best For

    Budget travelers, nature immersion, tent/RV camping.

  • Pros

    Inexpensive, direct access to nature, basic amenities (restrooms, showers).

  • Cons

    Equipment needed, less privacy, can be noisy, book months in advance.

Motel & Backcountry Options

  • Motel Price & Best For

    $60 - $120 per night. Budget travelers, short stays, convenience.

  • Motel Pros & Cons

    Affordable, convenient roadside access. Basic amenities, less character, often no frills.

  • Backcountry Price & Best For

    Free (lean-tos), permit for large groups. Avid hikers, backpackers, deep wilderness immersion.

  • Backcountry Pros & Cons

    Ultimate solitude, immersive nature experience. Needs full gear, no amenities, bears present, remote.

B&B and Resort Comparison

B&B Details

Price: $120 - $250 per night. Best for: Couples, those seeking charm, personalized service, local experience.

  • Unique character, often historic.
  • Gourmet breakfast included.
  • Less privacy.
  • Can be more expensive, fewer amenities than resorts.
Resort/Luxury Hotel Details

Price: $250 - $800+ per night. Best for: Luxury travelers, amenities, full service, pampering.

  • Spas, fine dining, organized activities.
  • Concierge services.
  • Most expensive.
  • Can feel less rustic, sometimes less intimate.

Vacation Rental Details

Price Range

$150 - $500+ (variable) per night.

Best For

Families, groups, longer stays, privacy, self-catering.

Pros & Cons

More space, full kitchen, home-like feel. Self-sufficiency needed, cleaning fees, minimum stays.