New to the region? Welcome!
The Whiteface Region is big and beautiful, and if you’re planning your first trip here, you might be a little overwhelmed with all the ground there is to cover. Luckily, you’ve got a team of regional experts to guide you from point A to B, answering all your questions and setting you on the path to a legendary vacation. From High Peaks to covered bridges, resort lodging to farm stays, let us show you how to make the most of your Whiteface Region stay.
Where should I stay?
The Whiteface Region is overflowing with lodging to fit the vacation of your dreams. Whether hugged by a High Peak or settled on the shores of the Au Sable River, you can pick an experience to your liking. Adorable and charming cabins make this region cozy and inviting, where you can unwind in the private comfort of your own home away from home. Legacy resorts and hotels have been a staple of the Whiteface Region for generations (cue grand dining halls, hunting lodge interiors, and stunning grounds), but if you’re looking for something new, set your sights on a farmstay! A trend the Whiteface Region has fully embraced along with the farm-to-table movement, you can make your trip your own with a stay at a local farm, filled with animals, yummy food, and roosters as your alarm clock.
Can I bring my pet?
The Whiteface Region is as pet friendly as it gets. We love our furry family members, and we know you love yours! Whether it's on the trail, a day at the lake, or a stroll through town; you can experience memorable adventures with your buddy right by your side. The region is full of pet-friendly lodging, making staying for long trips a breeze.
Where should I eat?
From breakfast warriors and mom-and-pop lunch spots to fine dining establishments that will knock your socks off, here’s some in-depth guidance for you, from breakfast to dinner time.
Breakfast/Coffee
Perfect for pre-hike fuel, the Adirondack Mountain Coffee Cafe in Jay blends sumptuous coffee creations with a packed menu, with specials like steak and eggs, pancake stacks, or a selection of pastries if you’re on the go.
The Forks Blend & Brew in Au Sable Forks is just as adorable—and delicious—as its name. You can stop there for a hearty Acai bowl or smoothie creations constantly being innovated in the kitchen. Relax in their cozy lounge by the crackling fireplace for a slower start to your morning.
In need of gear and a good breakfast before you head out? Up a Creek in Wilmington has both! Settle down for plates filled with homefries, stuffed French toast, eggs benedict, and homey breakfast staples. When you’re done, head into the Great Outdoors Store for last minute odds and ends.
Lunch
The Twisted Raven in Wilmington takes pub food to a whole new level, with hearty portions, crispy fries, and plenty of craft beer on tap. If you judge a restaurant by the quality of their poutine, you’re in for a real treat. Try other favorites like the Raven House Burger, Raven Wings, or Loaded Tots.
Still decked out in its vintage fast-food glory, the A&W Restaurant stands tall as one of the rare fast food joints here in the Adirondacks. Made-fresh root beer, coney dogs, chicken tenders, and burgers make for a family-friendly pitstop.
Good food and good views await at the River View Cafe at High Falls Gorge. Tack this place onto your visit to the gorge, or simply come to dine! Watch roaring waterfalls flow while you tuck into a lunch of burgers, sandwiches, and more.
Dinner
For dinner, the Whiteface Region serves up mood lighting and irresistible ambiances. NewVida Preserve is home to a stunning A-frame dining room, where you’ll feast with incredible views of Whiteface Mountain and the Wilmington range. Their globally-inspired menu never disappoints.
For cozy accommodations and a spectacular menu, the Ice Jam Inn and Restaurant is waiting to welcome you home. Explore a menu that blends comfort food and modern cuisine, and dine in an authentic Adirondack inn that brings you a little closer to the region’s roots.
Sweet treats
It’s not summer vacation without something sweet. The Whiteface Region knows this, and has plenty of establishments to indulge your sugar craving. Choose from the Whitebrook Dairy Bar, operating in an original 1960s era ice cream shop; Adirondack Chocolates for an assortment of crafted decadent desserts; or the Sugar House Creamery Farmstore, featuring products from the region’s local farms.
What are the can't-miss experiences?
We know how bad FOMO can get, so we’ve made sure to include the absolute must-dos for your visit. To get some perspective, you can drive up Whiteface Mountain (yes, drive) on the Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway. With no hiking required, you’ll get unparalleled views of the surrounding High Peaks and, on super clear days, glimpses of Canada and nearby Vermont! At the summit you’ll find all sorts of features you wouldn’t find on an ordinary mountain. Discover a castle built from native stone, a restaurant and gift shop, and an elevator carved deep inside the mountaintop itself.
Rushing waterfalls flowing into a breathtaking gorge await at High Falls Gorge. Wheelchair accessible and only a 30 minute walk, a journey featuring steel bridges, walkways, and glass platforms will immerse you in the spectacular world of waterfalls and the region’s natural history. When you’re done snapping all those pics, head back to the gift shop and dine at the River View Cafe.
For you covered-bridge fanatics; you’re in luck! Jay is home to the Adirondacks’ only covered bridge, and getting there is an experience in itself. The scenic drive to the bridge will have you winding through the lush beauty of the region surrounding Whiteface Mountain, with scenery only the backcountry can provide. When you arrive, you’ll find a wooden Howe truss covered bridge, spanning 175 feet over the East Branch Ausable River.
Is the Whiteface Region family-friendly?
Yes! The Whiteface Region is where families can come to unwind and play, with plenty of outdoor and indoor adventures. The Wilmington Town Beach is the ideal family destination on sunny days. Sitting pretty off of Lake Everest, the kids and parents will love the sandy beach and picnic area, short hiking trail, volleyball net, grills, and an all access fishing platform. It's endless fun in a single stop!
In the mood for Christmas, even in the heat of summer? Santa’s Workshop in the North Pole can be found tucked away in the magical wilderness of Wilmington, where a busy Christmas village is hard at work to prepare for the coming holiday season. You’ll find elves, Santa Claus and his home, a reindeer barn filled with real reindeer, and more!
When it comes to hiking, don't be intimidated by the surrounding High Peaks! There’s plenty of family-friendly hikes to be found, like Cobble Lookout. Small but mighty, this short hike offers incredible sweeping views of the Ausable Valley and surrounding mountains. And, if you’re in the mood for a hiking challenge, the Wonders of Wilmington family challenge is perfect for beginner hikers exploring the region. Most of the challenge's trails are under half a mile in distance, with the longest being 2 miles round-trip. Hike them all to earn a patch!
What day trips can I take from the Whiteface Region?
The Whiteface Region has some gorgeous neighbors, making for fun and adventure-filled day trips. Discover Olympic history and a brilliant Main Street in nearby Lake Placid, or scale a High Peak in Keene. A little farther away, Ausable Chasm stands as the Adirondacks’ very own Grand Canyon, just on the outskirts of the Lake Champlain Region. Speaking of the Lake Champlain Region, you’ll want to head over to Fort Ticonderoga for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. Witness live reenactments, parties, and more celebrations in the coming months.
I'm not outdoorsy – is the Whiteface Region still worth visiting?
Absolutely! Although we are known as a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, our small towns are jam-packed with culture and charm. We are home to artists from all over who’ve come to the Whiteface Region for inspiration. Young’s Studio & Gallery in Jay displays the work of Sue Young, featuring handmade pottery that spans from everyday dishware to works of art. The studio is also an outfitter of fine yarns with an emphasis on natural fibers, harvested from Blue Pepper Farm and other local makers.
Looking for more art? The Jay Craft Center nearby has called the region home for the past 40 years, housing beautiful, handmade ceramics uniquely found in the Adirondacks.
Magical makers hail from the Whiteface Region, too! Unicorn Square in Wilmington is a boutique filled with a curated selection of whimsical goods. Find magical treasures, including unicorns, fairies, crystals, tea, paintings, and much more.
Your plans are made
The Whiteface Region is waiting for you, so get to planning your itinerary and pack the car! With adventure-packed days, don’t forget to take a guide to stay on course.
