Weekend Getaway in the Whiteface Region
So, you’re looking for a weekend getaway in the Adirondacks. After some deliberation, you decided that this weekend will be spent in the Whiteface Region. Honestly, great choice. Whether it’s you and the whole family, you and some friends, or a romantic getaway, there are a lot of possibilities here. Remember, though, many dining options in the area close briefly during shoulder seasons, so it’s best to plan ahead and make sure that any of the options we list are available before you touch down in the region. I’m sure you’re aware that weekends go by quick, so let’s get into it and get you on your way!
Friday night
Before we get ahead of ourselves here, let’s make sure we find a place to stay. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or both, there are plenty of places to crash. For those traveling with friends and family there are plenty of quality motels and lodges. For couples looking for something quaint, you can’t go wrong with the Whiteface Farm Bed and Breakfast. Or if none of those options work for you, take a look at some of the really cool rentals in the area, some complete with game rooms, saunas, and more!
After dinner in the Whiteface Region, head to Adirondack Chocolates for dessert, or if you’re traveling in the summer season, head over to Whitebrook Dairy Bar or the only A&W for many miles and get something sweet for the whole family. If it’s just you and some friends or you and your significant other and you’re looking for a place to have a few drinks, then HT Tavern is a great choice. Named by Outdoor Life Magazine as one of “America's Top 10 Fishing Bars,” this is a great place to have a drink and catch up, whether you like to fish or not. Alright, now it’s time to get some rest. You have a big day ahead of you!
Saturday
Okay, you got some sleep, and you’re ready to have a day you will never forget in the Whiteface Region. If you’re anything like me, you need to fuel up before any fun can be had. To get ready for the day, I suggest you head to the Adirondack Mountain Coffee Cafe in Upper Jay. With a full breakfast menu, incredible coffee options from their own coffee, and delicious desserts like fudge, muffins, pies, and more, they have everything you need. Trust me, this is a great place to start your day.
Now you're caffeinated, full, and ready to go. It’s time to experience the region’s main attraction, Whiteface Mountain. If you’re traveling during the colder months, this is (obviously) where you’ll want to spend the day skiing and snowboarding. Any downhill enthusiast should have the time of their life here, on a mountain that’s hosted the Olympics (1980). If you’re traveling in the summer and fall, Whiteface still offers something for you that’s just as memorable. In the warmer months, you can take a Cloudsplitter Gondola Ride on Whiteface or drive the Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway to the summit and take in the view from the top of the 5th highest peak in New York state.
If you find yourself here during the shoulder seasons when there’s no fun to be had on Whiteface or if the mountain is just of no interest to you, then that’s fine too! There are plenty of places to hike, snowshoe, cross-country ski, mountain bike, fish, and so much more to do in the Whiteface Region.
Okay, you had a great time outdoors, but the energy levels are running low again. It’s time for lunch. While a lot of dining options open later in the afternoon around here, there are some options depending on where you are to grab some food for lunch. If you’re in Wilmington, then Fratelli’s Pizza and Bar II opens at noon and offers much more than just pizza. Also in Wilmington, the Little Supermarket is famous for their incredible and affordable sandwiches and more. If you find yourself in Jay, NY, then Devin’s Garage Deli is another solid option for a quick mid-day meal.
Next, there’s usually one of two options here. Option A) go back to where you’re staying and rest until dinner or B) continue to seize the day. If you’re an option B type, then there’s plenty to do. You could continue to take advantage of the endless things to do outdoors here, you could visit some of the unique shops in the area, or you could head to High Falls Gorge and take in even more of the natural beauty that this area has to offer. There’s something for everyone to have fun with here.
It’s been a long, fun day, and finally, it’s time for dinner. While you can’t go wrong with any options in the area, I strongly recommend making a reservation at the Ice Jam Inn. The service is great, the atmosphere will work when dining with friends, family, or on a date night, and the food is phenomenal. Ice Jam Inn is a converted farmhouse that offers a menu of “eclectic comfort food.” I’ve been here, I’ve had the food, and I believe this is a must try destination in every sense of the word.
Sunday morning
It’s already been a memorable time in the Whiteface Region, but the fun isn’t done just yet. Before you head on home, make sure you grab a HEARTY breakfast at the Country Bear Bakery and Diner. This place will keep you full for your entire trip home, no matter where you’re traveling to. Oh, and be sure to try the French toast. The sign on the wall near the kitchen that reads “North Country’s Best French Toast” is not hyperbole. Oh, and pro tip: it’s cash only here.
Unfortunately all good things must come to end, and it's time to head home. Remember, before you set out on your way home, gas stations in the Adirondacks can be less common than you’re used to. Just down the street from the Country Bear is the Little Supermarket (there’s an ATM for cash here for the Country Bear), where you can fuel up your vehicle and get any supplies you need for the ride home. And as for that ride home, there are stunning views no matter which way you’re leaving, and it serves as the cherry on top of an already sweet weekend. When you inevitably come back for another great weekend getaway in the Whiteface Region, create your own itinerary and try some new things to do, different places to stay, and other great places to eat. Try them all; you won’t regret it!
