Old-World Charm, New-School Comfort: Why the Stagecoach Inn is a Lake Placid Gem
All photos courtesy the Stagecoach Inn.
If you’ve ever driven into Lake Placid and wondered what it might feel like to stay in a place that’s rich with history, hospitality, and a touch of ghostly intrigue, then allow me to introduce you to The Stagecoach Inn — the oldest surviving structure in the village and one of the Adirondacks’ most atmospheric overnight stays.
Built in 1815, the Stage Coach Inn has been lovingly restored and sits just minutes from Mirror Lake and Main Street in Lake Placid, yet feels worlds away. Think: crackling hearths, timber beams, enormous Adirondack energy, and a sense of calm that settles over you like a wool blanket you didn’t realize you needed.
It’s the kind of place that makes you want to drink your morning coffee slowly, read actual paper novels, or run away from home just long enough to feel human again.
A historic retreat with character (and characters).
The Stage Coach Inn didn’t earn its name by accident. Long before Lake Placid was hosting Olympians, travelers stopped here while bumping along rugged 19th-century carriage roads. Today, it’s a boutique property with modern upgrades, but the bones of the place still whisper of centuries past.
One of the Stagecoach Inn’s bespoke rooms.
And speaking of whispers — yes, there’s a haunted backstory. Guests have reported footsteps when no one’s around, cold pockets in otherwise cozy rooms, and the occasional mysterious flicker of a light.
Is it a ghost? Is it old wood settling? Is it just the inn leaning into its history? Who can say? But if you enjoy atmospheric intrigue with your morning muffin, this inn delivers.
(For the record: nothing malevolent. Think “friendly Victorian mischief,” not “pack your bags.”)
The perfect location for a memorable stay.
The Stage Coach Inn is that rare lodging option that feels as intimate as a B&B but as curated as a design hotel. Here are the standout perks:
Thoughtful, exquisitely restored interiors — reclaimed wood, vintage accents, handcrafted furniture. Pinterest would blush.
Fireplaces everywhere — seriously, if your happy place has flames involved, this is your spot.
A cozy on-site lounge perfect for late-night sipping and story-swapping.
Chef-driven breakfasts that make you rethink your relationship with farm eggs.
Easy access to Lake Placid’s best attractions without the hustle of being on Main Street.
Outdoor firepit vibes for four-season ambiance (and maybe one spooky tale told after dark).
The Art Devlin Suite.
It’s a quintessential Adirondack stay with a personality — the kind of place where you half-expect a 19th-century traveler to tip his hat as he walks past you in the hallway.
Who will love staying here?
The Stage Coach Inn is tailor-made for:
Romantic getaway people
Couples looking to hide away in a place that feels luxurious but warm, historic but not dusty, and intimate without being cramped.
History buffs (and folklore fans)
Anyone with a soft spot for old buildings, Adirondack lore, or a little paranormal seasoning.
Outdoor adventurers
It’s a stellar home base for hiking, skiing at Whiteface, paddling, or strolling through Lake Placid’s Olympic heritage.
Quiet-weekend escapees
If you’re craving an unplugged reset — long bath, long book, long nap — this is your haven.
The best time to visit: all year-round.
Pick your season. There is always a fantastic reason to visit the Stage Coach Inn.
The Stagecoach Inn is magical in winter.
Winter: Peak hygge. The fireplaces practically audition to be your coziest Instagram moment. Skiers, this is your season.
Fall: Leaf-peeping from your suite window? Yes, please. The grounds glow gold.
Spring: Quiet, peaceful, and perfect for travelers who want Lake Placid almost to themselves.
Summer: Prime time for hikers, paddlers, shoppers, and anyone who wants daily ice cream (no judgment).
Tips for a great stay.
Book early for fall and winter weekends — rooms fill fast.
Ask for a room with a fireplace or soaking tub if ambiance is your love language.
Plan at least one slow morning — breakfast is worth savoring.
Bring a good ghost story if you’re staying in one of the “energetic” rooms.
Use the inn as a jump-off point for hikes around the High Peaks, paddling Mirror Lake, or grabbing dinner at Salt of the Earth Bistro or The Cottage.
What makes a stay truly memorable.
It’s the blend: The history. The craftsmanship. The warmth of the hosts. The calm of the setting. The gentle possibility that a friendly spirit is watching over the place.
You leave feeling grounded, rested, and a little like you stepped into Lake Placid’s living story — which is precisely why so many guests return again and again, craving the warmth, craftsmanship, and calm of this special place.
Find out what makes the Stagecoach Inn a special place to stay in Lake Placid.
Places to shop, eat, and experience near Lake Placid.
Shop for unique Adirondack apparel, gifts and merchandise.
ADK Talks Podcast
Love the Adirondacks? You’ll love our podcast. We take listeners beyond the guidebooks and into the heart of the Adirondacks. We share stories from the people behind the best places to eat, shop, stay and explore in the ADK. Find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.
