
Olympic Center and Herb Brooks Arena
Relive the 'Miracle on Ice' at the historic Herb Brooks Arena and explore the legacy of Lake Placid's Winter Olympics.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience

Olympic Center and Herb Brooks Arena
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Relive the 'Miracle on Ice' at the historic Herb Brooks Arena and explore the legacy of Lake Placid's Winter Olympics.
"Pretty darned awesome to see these sites where history happened."

Relive the Miracle
Take the tour of Herb Brooks Arena for a special recap of the 1980 hockey victory.
Curling Fun
Try the curling experience at the 1932 rink; wear tennis shoes and a helmet.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Herb Brooks Arena
Olympic Center
Stand on the ice where the 'Miracle on Ice' happened. Feel the history of the 1980 USA Hockey victory.

Olympic Museum
Olympic Center
Immerse yourself in Olympic history with fascinating exhibits and memorabilia from past Winter Games.

Cliffside Coaster
Mt Van Hoevenberg
Ride North America's longest coaster, tracing the path of Olympic bobsled tracks for an adrenaline rush.

Skyride at Olympic Jumping Complex
Olympic Jumping Complex
Ascend to the top of a ski jump for panoramic Adirondack views and a unique perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Miracle on Ice
Beyond the Arena: Olympic Adventures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Relive the Miracle
Take the tour of Herb Brooks Arena for a special recap of the 1980 hockey victory.
Curling Fun
Try the curling experience at the 1932 rink; wear tennis shoes and a helmet.
Museum Guide
Opt for a guided tour at the Olympic Museum for a truly memorable experience.
Scenic Views
Don't miss the Skyride for breathtaking views without a strenuous hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
Relive the Miracle
Take the tour of Herb Brooks Arena for a special recap of the 1980 hockey victory.
Curling Fun
Try the curling experience at the 1932 rink; wear tennis shoes and a helmet.
Museum Guide
Opt for a guided tour at the Olympic Museum for a truly memorable experience.
Scenic Views
Don't miss the Skyride for breathtaking views without a strenuous hike.
Adrenaline Rush
Experience the thrill of the Cliffside Coaster, North America's longest.
Skating Sessions
Check the schedule for public skating at the Olympic Center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Olympic Center and Herb Brooks Arena for its rich history, particularly the 'Miracle on Ice' connection. The guided tours are highlighted as exceptionally informative and engaging. While the historical significance is a major draw, the availability of modern activities like public skating and thrilling attractions like the Cliffside Coaster add to the appeal.
"Lake Placid is a beautiful town nestled in the Adirondack mountains. To think that at any given weekend, depending on the event being held here, the population can more than triple. Amazing place to visit!"
Gary Earls
"We did the curling experience, and it was actually way more fun than we thought it would be. They don’t give you much information when you sign up but you meet at the 1932 rink. They’ll give you helmets just for safety. And just wear tennis shoes. It was a lot of fun."
Ashley Moriarty
"I recommend the Legacy Tour at the Olympic Museum. Our tour guide (Tom) lived and breathed Olympic history and brought it alive. If we had wandered through the museum by ourselves, we would not have had such a memorable experience."
K KC
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Olympic Center is located in the heart of Lake Placid, NY. If driving, follow signs for the Olympic Center. Parking is available nearby. For those coming from further afield, Albany International Airport (ALB) is the closest major airport, about a 2.5-hour drive away. Public transportation options directly to Lake Placid are limited, so driving or arranging a shuttle is often the most convenient.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the Olympic Center and Herb Brooks Arena. However, during major events or peak tourist seasons, parking can fill up quickly. It's advisable to arrive early or consider alternative parking options in the downtown Lake Placid area.
Absolutely! The Olympic Center and its attractions, including the Herb Brooks Arena and Olympic Museum, are open to visitors regardless of where you are staying. It's a popular destination for day-trippers exploring the Adirondacks.
Many Olympic sites, like the Olympic Center, Herb Brooks Arena, and the Olympic Museum, are within walking distance of each other in downtown Lake Placid. For sites like the Olympic Jumping Complex or Mt Van Hoevenberg (Cliffside Coaster), driving or using local taxi services is recommended.
Public transport to Lake Placid is limited. While there are some bus services that connect to nearby cities, direct routes are scarce. Many visitors opt to drive or rent a car to explore the Adirondack region and its Olympic attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Olympic Center itself is generally free, allowing you to see the rinks. However, specific attractions like the Olympic Museum, guided tours (including the Herb Brooks Arena tour), and activities like curling or public skating have separate admission fees. Check the official Lake Placid Olympic Center website for current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance for the Herb Brooks Arena tour, especially if you're visiting during peak tourist seasons or on weekends. This ensures your spot and allows you to join a guided session that brings the 'Miracle on Ice' history to life.
Opening hours can vary for different parts of the Olympic Center complex, including the museum, rinks, and specific attractions like the Skyride or Cliffside Coaster. It's best to check the official Lake Placid Olympic Center website for the most up-to-date hours of operation for each facility before your visit.
Yes, often combo tickets or passes are available that bundle admission to several Olympic attractions, such as the Olympic Museum, Skyride, and potentially others. These can offer savings if you plan to visit multiple sites. Inquire at the ticket office or check the website for details.
While you can often see the Herb Brooks Arena from the outside or through viewing areas, access to the ice surface or specific seating areas for tours or events requires a ticket. Self-guided tours of the general Olympic Center facilities are usually free, but dedicated tours of the Herb Brooks Arena have a fee.
🎫 ⛸️ Onsite Experience
The Olympic Center houses multiple ice rinks for public skating and events, the Olympic Museum with historical exhibits, and often offers unique experiences like curling lessons. It's a hub for winter sports history and activity.
Yes, the Olympic Center frequently offers public skating sessions on its various rinks. It's a fantastic way to experience the Olympic atmosphere firsthand. Check the schedule online for public skate times and any associated fees.
The most popular tour is the Legacy Tour, which often includes a guided visit to the Herb Brooks Arena and the Olympic Museum, led by knowledgeable guides who share Olympic history. Self-guided exploration of the general Olympic Center facilities is also possible.
The Olympic Museum offers engaging exhibits that can be interesting for children, especially those with an interest in sports and history. Interactive displays and stories of athletic achievement can capture their attention.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore the museum or walk between sites. If you're participating in activities like public skating or curling, bring appropriate attire. Layers are recommended as temperatures can vary.
📸 📸 Photography
The Herb Brooks Arena itself offers iconic photo opportunities, especially with the ice. The exterior of the Olympic Center, the Olympic Museum exhibits, and the views from the Skyride at the Jumping Complex are also prime locations for memorable shots.
Photography is generally allowed inside the Olympic Museum for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits. Capturing the historical artifacts and displays can be a great way to remember your visit.
Yes, the Sky Deck at the top of the ski jump offers incredible panoramic views, making it a fantastic spot for photography. You can capture sweeping vistas of Lake Placid and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around public facilities and sporting venues due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to assume drone photography is not permitted without explicit authorization. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Daylight hours are best for capturing clear photos of the Olympic Center and its surroundings. For the Skyride, morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting and fewer crowds. Inside the Herb Brooks Arena, lighting conditions can vary depending on events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the Cliffside Coaster at Mt Van Hoevenberg for an unforgettable thrill ride that kids (and adults!) will love. The Skyride at the Olympic Jumping Complex also provides a gentle adventure with spectacular views, making it accessible for most ages. Remember to check height and age restrictions for specific attractions.
🏒 Hockey Enthusiasts
Beyond the history, check the schedule for current hockey games or tournaments happening at the Olympic Center. Experiencing the energy of a live game in this historic venue is unforgettable. You might even catch future stars honing their skills.
🏛️ History Buffs
Walking through the 1932 Jack Shea Arena and the 1980 Herb Brooks Arena provides a tangible connection to past events. The self-guided tour is free and allows for personal reflection on these historic sites.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Miracle on Ice' and Herb Brooks Arena
Visiting the arena today allows you to stand on the very ice where this historic game took place. Guided tours often provide a deep dive into the game's narrative, the team's journey, and the significance of this victory. It's an emotional experience for many, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in American sports lore.
Beyond the 'Miracle', the arena continues to be a vibrant hub for ice sports, hosting figure skating competitions, hockey tournaments, and public skating sessions. The atmosphere can be electric, especially when local teams or major events are taking place.
Adventures Beyond the Ice: Thrills at Olympic Sites
For a different perspective, the Olympic Jumping Complex features the Skyride. This gondola ride takes you up the mountain, followed by an elevator ascent to the summit of the ski jumps. From the Sky Deck, you're treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Placid and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains, offering a unique vantage point that athletes experience.
These attractions provide a dose of adrenaline and a chance to appreciate the scale and engineering of the Olympic venues. They are perfect for visitors looking for active experiences that connect them to the Olympic spirit in a fun and engaging way.
Exploring Olympic History at the Museum
Visitors can learn about the athletes, the challenges they faced, and the cultural impact of hosting the Olympics in this Adirondack village. The museum provides context for the 'Miracle on Ice' and highlights other significant moments and achievements from past Winter Games. A guided tour is highly recommended, as guides like Tom, who 'lived and breathed Olympic history,' can bring the exhibits to life with personal anecdotes and in-depth knowledge.
Self-guided exploration is also an option, allowing you to wander through the displays at your own pace. It's a fascinating journey through sports history and a great way to understand the enduring legacy of the Olympic Center.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit