Northwood Cabins in Tupper Lake
Lucy & Ricky slept here. Experience the heyday of the American motor inn.
Cabin 10 at Northwood Cabins in Tupper Lake.
Back in the day, when the notion of a family vacation took hold, the affordable option for average American families was to travel by car. That meant they needed places to stay en route from Kansas City to Boston, Massapequa to Maine, or Baltimore to Tupper Lake.
Thus, the great American institution of the Motel (a combination of “motor” and “hotel”) was born. Okay, it was a little more involved than that. The Smithsonian Magazine has a great article about the history of the motel that’s worth a read.
Tupper Lake’s fabulous motor court at Northwood Cabins.
At one time, motels were ubiquitous in the ADK, certainly before the Adirondack Northway (I87) made access easier to the far reaches of the North Country.
Not so much anymore. We are always on the lookout for quality motels still in operation or the ghosts of these American relics and their cool, derelict neon signs that may no longer be functional but still dot the roadside.
If you seek to step back in time and experience Americana, one of the best places to do it is at the Northwood Cabins. Strategically located at the gateway to the western High Peaks, this delightful collection of cute cabins will charm your socks off.
Lovingly restored cabins in Tupper Lake.
First built in the 1930s, the motel’s current owners have lovingly refurbished and updated the nine cozy cabins that make up this motor court. Cabins range in size and sleep two to four comfortably. They are all sparkling clean and offer all the modern conveniences: AC, heat, linens, towels, cable, and wifi. All you need to do is bring your enthusiasm for good times.
Double beds at Northwood Cabins.
Each cabin is unique and offers something special. The largest cottage, #1, boasts a separate sitting area with a gas fireplace, a fully functioning kitchen, and a private outdoor space with a fire stove.
Cabin #4 has an open floor plan combining the kitchen, dining, and sitting areas. The bedroom has a queen bed plus the sweetest custom built-in daybed with curtains making it the perfect cozy den for Lil ADKers.
Every cottage has a front porch and chairs for taking in the Adirondack air. Guests also have access to several picnic areas, gas grills, and fire pits.
Kitchenette.
Weekday guests receive a “wake-up bucket” that includes coffee, tea, and hot cocoa with ready-to-go breakfast items. On weekends, guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast in the Main House. Partake in coffee and tea, baked goods, and fresh fruit while also meeting your fellow guests and hosts.
So, do as the song says and get hip to this timely tip: When you make that Adirondack trip, get your kicks at Northwood Cabins.
Places to eat, shop and things to do in the area.
Let ADK Taste help you find what you’re looking for in the Adirondacks.
Upcoming events in Tupper Lake and the Adirondack Tri-Lakes & High Peaks region.
An intimate evening of chamber music comes to Westport.
A new art show lands in Saranac Lake this spring.
An Oscar-winning documentary comes to Lake Placid for one night only.
Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with a scenic 5K or 10K on the Adirondack Rail Trail in Lake Placid.
Paddle into spring at Saranac Lake’s ‘Round the Mountain race.
Step right up. The Bindlestiff Family Cirkus Trio brings juggling, comedy, and classic sideshow spectacle to the Adirondacks.
The Ausable River Two-Fly Challenge returns with high-stakes fly fishing, riverside gatherings, live music, and Adirondack tradition.
A poet, an exterminator’s office, and a search for meaning—The Exterminating Poet brings intimate theatre and puppetry to the Adirondacks.
The Wild Center reopens May 22 in Tupper Lake—just in time for Memorial Day Weekend.
Climb one of the Adirondacks’ most iconic peaks—on two wheels.
Ready to paddle better, not just farther?
Run (or cheer) in one of the Adirondacks’ most iconic races.
One of the Adirondacks’ biggest athletic events returns July 19, 2026.
The CAN-AM Rugby Tournament returns to the Adirondacks, bringing 100+ teams, high-energy matches, and a festival atmosphere.