Lake Placid - suggestions.

Friends and I are driving there for two days. Looking for what to do.

What time of year?

First week in June

boat ride on the lake or rent a kayak on one of the nearby lakes; Olympic stuff, cool to watch ski jumpers landing on AstroTurf; good restaurants--a bit of a scene a la Saratoga when u are right in town

About 60 miles away, Fort Ticonderoga combines a beautiful natural setting with an important historical site.

As the area has been held by Native Americans, the French, the British, the Continental Army and finally the United States, the site recognizes each influence and at different times reflects what the fort was like at different periods.

http://www.fortticonderoga.org/

I would visit the farm of the great abolitionist John Brown which is close to the afore-mentioned ski jump.

http://parks.ny.gov/historic-sites/29/details.aspx

I would also take in the views from the top of Whiteface Mountain.  Very touristy, but must be done.

http://www.whiteface.com/activities/whiteface-veterans-memorial-highway

Drive the loop from Keene to Lake Placid to Wilmington/Jay to Keene. The views are stunning, with many places to stop. Drive up Whiteface Mountain in Wilmington. There's also a great short drive between Lake Placid and Saranac Lake. Stop at Tail of the Pup road stand en route. You can also drive from Saranac Lake to Paul Smith's. Great panoramic views and also short hikes at what used to be the visitor's center. Check out White Pine Camp between Saranac Lake and Paul Smith's.

A walk around Mirror Lake in Lake Placid is nice after dinner. And don't miss John Brown's Farm!    

Keep in mind that the lake in the town of Lake Placid is actually Mirror Lake.  If you can, rent a boat and take it out for a few hours on the actual Lake Placid -- just a short distance away from town. 

Half day hike up Pitchoff Mountain.  Bring a few sandwiches, a beverage and enjoy the view.

mbaldwin said:

Keep in mind that the lake in the town of Lake Placid is actually Mirror Lake.  If you can, rent a boat and take it out for a few hours on the actual Lake Placid -- just a short distance away from town. 

Yes, people often make that mistake. Of course, Lake Placid is one of the country's most beautiful and pristine lakes and is well worth exploring. We used to take the tour boat, but I'm not sure it's still available.