Personalize the Ultimate Road Trip From Albany NY to Lake Placid
Plan a Day-Long Adventure Around the Attractions & Activities You Like the Most
Heading up north to explore the Olympic Village in the Adirondacks? Lake Placid is less than three hours from Albany via the Northway. The journey is lovely in any season, making it perfect for a scenic day trip.
If you're interested in a relaxed adventure through New York's North Country, consider visiting these exciting road trip stops between Albany and Lake Placid. Choose your favorite attractions, explore the sights, and then continue on to your final destination. It's an ideal mix of nature, history, and fun.
Visit the "Spa City" - Beautiful Saratoga Springs
Exit 14: Yaddo Gardens and Downtown Saratoga
Exit 14: Yaddo Gardens and downtown Saratoga. Start your day with a peaceful morning stroll through the Yaddo Gardens, located just off Exit 14. The rose and rock gardens are a local favorite, and admission is free. If you visit in summer, consider a guided tour for $10.
Have extra time? Head into downtown Saratoga Springs for a walk and a coffee from Country Corner Café near Broadway. If it's racing season, be prepared for larger crowds in the area.
Exit 16: U.S. Grant Cottage State Historic Site
Just 11 minutes from Exit 16 is the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage, the final home of the famous general and president. Open for tours from Memorial Day to Labor Day (with limited fall hours), it’s a must-see for history buffs and families. The grounds are always worth a visit for their breathtaking views.
Take a Trip Through "Hometown U.S.A." Glens Falls
Exit 18: Glens Falls Feeder Canal Trail
From Exit 18, take a short drive into Glens Falls and explore the Feeder Canal Trail, a scenic 9-mile path. You’ll walk along a historic 19th-century canal system with peaceful views. Good starting spots include Hudson River Overlook Park and Haviland's Cove.
Before heading back to the Northway, stop at Lox of Bagels & Moor on Main Street. It's a cozy place to grab a coffee and a fresh bagel.
Exits 19 and 20: Crandall Park & Food
The perfect stop for families with small children, Crandall Park is a favorite among Glens Falls residents. Explore the pond's islands via three bridges, enjoy the scenery and historical monuments, and let the kids release some energy at the playground. There are public restrooms at the park, as well as hiking trails right next door in Cole's Woods.
Drive about nine minutes up Route 9 for a wonderful add-on to your time at the park: ice cream at Martha's Dandee Creme (typically open through Columbus Day Weekend).
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, you can drive north on Route 9 to get back on I-87 at Exit 20.
See the Sights Near the "Queen of American Lakes" Lake George
Exit 21: Lake George Battlefield Park, Fort William Henry Museum, Adirondack Winery, and a walk down Canada Street
Take your pick of the pit stops in Lake George! While you're there, consider walking to the north end of Canada Street for a wine tasting at Adirondack Winery's Lake George Tasting Room. Sample different locally-made wines and take home a souvenir tasting glass as a reminder of your visit. You may even find a new favorite wine.
On the other side of the town, explore the history of Battlefield Park, which was the site of a battle between the Algonquin and Iroquois, the Battle of Lake George (1755) during the French and Indian War, and an American hospital during the Revolutionary War. The park also contains ruins of a British stockade and Fort George, a British stone fort that was abandoned before it was completed.
Exit 23: Warrensburg and the Warren County Fish Hatchery
Warrensburg offers a slower pace and small-town charm just north of Lake George. Antique stores, cafés, and local shops line its historic streets. It’s a great stop for stretching your legs and browsing unique finds.
The Warren County Fish Hatchery is ideal for families. Explore display ponds, let the kids enjoy the play area, and learn more at the visitor center
Driving through in autumn? Warrensburg is home to the World's Largest Garage Sale, a popular tradition and annual event you don't want to miss.
Find even more things to do in Warrensburg >>
Travel to North Hudson and the Gateway of the Adirondacks
Exit 26: Natural Stone Bridge and Caves
Located less than 10 minutes from the Northway, the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves in Pottersville is a geologic wonderland where you can walk a self-guided trail with waterfalls, pools, and a marble gorge, and be back at your car in an hour. Or, take your time and enjoy a guided adventure tour and plenty of hands-on activities for the kids.
Exit 27: Schroon Lake
Schroon Lake is known for its calm water, mountain views, and sandy public beach. Swim in the designated area or relax on the grassy picnic lawn. Check out the local farmers' market in summer for snacks and fresh produce.
Exit 29: Frontier Town Campground, Equestrian and Day Use Area
Located at the old Frontier Town site, this DEC-operated area is great for a peaceful rest stop. It has picnic areas, equestrian trails, and scenic views. It’s one of the newer destinations in the Adirondacks.
Cruise to Your Adirondack Destination of Lake Placid
Exit 30: Keene Valley
At Exit 30, leave the Northway and head northwest on Route 73 toward Lake Placid. As you pass through Keene Valley, you’ll be surrounded by incredible mountain views. It’s a beautiful transition into the High Peaks region. Enjoy the scenery and stop for photos along Cascade Lakes.
Browse gifts at The Birch Store on Route 73 or stop at Cedar Run Bakery & Market for a sweet treat. They also have a wine and spirits shop next door—perfect for picking up something special. Roaring Brook Falls offers a quick and rewarding .3 mile hike to a lovely waterfall.
Village of Lake Placid
After a fun day of driving and exploring, you'll soon arrive at your destination of Lake Placid. Whether you're just planning to spend a few hours there, or stay overnight, this Adirondack community is well worth the drive from the Albany area. You can browse a wide range of cool shops along Main Street, explore the one-of-a-kind Olympic facilities, hang out at beautiful Mirror Lake, and discover more fun things to do.
Plan your visit to Lake Placid today and see what makes this mountain village so special!
Ready for another road trip? Here are 7 family-friendly adventures near Albany >>