Though our team lost the ECAC hockey tournament, my trip to Lake Placid wasn’t a wasted effort. Summer or winter this town is alive, with shops, restaurants, and other tourist attractions.

We splurged and stayed at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and it was a worthwhile investment. Overlooking the (frozen!) Mirror Lake, it’s perched above Lake Placid Village and the quiet that surrounds it is a welcome respite from the downtown hustle and bustle. Another benefit is that you can walk down the hill so you don’t have to try to find a parking spot-difficult at best. The catch is the walk back; it’s steep and icy so be careful!

Rooms have all the amenities (a Keurig!), there was no problem with early check-in, and housekeeping was efficient. We had a snack and drink in the lodge-like dining room where no seat has a bad view. I recommend the French onion soup-cheesy and delicious!

Places to sit and relax include a woodsy room with a fireplace and a comfortable library area. And, don’t forget your bathing suit! I did, and regretted it the minute I saw the spacious pool and steaming hot tub.