
The Whiteface Lodge
Best for couples and families who want a full‑service resort with spa, multiple on‑site dining options, and on‑property activities.
Prices in other currencies are estimates. You’re charged in USD.
The Whiteface Lodge is a 4.5-star all‑suite Lake Placid resort with a full spa, heated indoor/outdoor pool complex, and family programming — for travelers who want a higher-end Adirondack resort. Best Western Saranac Lake is a midscale, recognizable chain hotel on Lake Flower that suits travelers who want a practical, familiar base within easy driving distance of Lake Placid.
Updated · about a 10-minute drive apart

Best for couples and families who want a full‑service resort with spa, multiple on‑site dining options, and on‑property activities.

Best for budget-conscious or chain‑loyal travelers seeking a simple, convenient hotel on Lake Flower close to Saranac Lake attractions.
When The Whiteface Lodge wins: choose The Whiteface Lodge if you want roomy suites, a destination spa (The Spa at Whiteface Lodge), a heated indoor/outdoor pool complex with hot tubs, shuttle access to a private Canoe Club beach, and more on-site activities for children and adults.
When Best Western Saranac Lake wins: choose Best Western Saranac Lake if you want a recognizable, practical hotel on a lake in downtown Saranac Lake with free breakfast, free parking, an indoor pool, and straightforward meeting space.
Bottom line: The Whiteface Lodge is a higher‑end, full‑service resort experience geared to families and spa/food-focused travelers; Best Western Saranac Lake is a solid, no‑frills choice for travelers who prioritize location on Lake Flower, a known chain brand, and value amenities like free continental breakfast and meeting space.
| Category | The Whiteface Lodge | Best Western Saranac Lake |
|---|---|---|
| Overall vibe | Upscale, lodge‑style resort with suites and Adirondack craftsmanship | Midscale, practical chain hotel on Lake Flower |
| Location | Lake Placid High Peaks region; shuttle to downtown and private Canoe Club beach | Saranac Lake, on Lake Flower; walkable to local attractions |
| Size | 96 rooms/suites across 3 floors | 69 rooms |
| Ages / audience | All ages — family programs and kids' activities available | |
| Pools | Heated indoor/outdoor pool complex plus hot tubs (no lifeguard; hours posted) | Indoor pool (listed); children's pool also noted |
| Restaurants & bars | KANU (fine dining), Peak 47 (casual bar/grill), Old Fashion Ice Cream Parlor | Not published |
| Spa & wellness | The Spa at Whiteface Lodge — 8,000 sq ft, reservations recommended, Sanctuaries and treatments | Not published |
| Meetings & events | Extensive event spaces (multiple venues, largest ~3,100 sq ft); wedding and group services | Conference space ~988 sq ft and 1 meeting room |
| Known for | Full‑service resort amenities, private Canoe Club beach shuttle, spa and family activities | Lakefront location on Lake Flower and convenient downtown Saranac Lake access |
| Parking & transport | Free self parking, valet, electric car charging, complimentary shuttle to beach and town | Free long‑term and self parking, RV/bus parking, nearest airport SLK preferred |
The Whiteface Lodge sits in the Lake Placid High Peaks area; it’s a short drive to downtown Lake Placid and offers a shuttle to its private Canoe Club beach.
Choose Whiteface Lodge for easy access to Lake Placid attractions and a private beach shuttle.
Best Western Saranac Lake sits on Lake Flower within walking distance of local museums, shops, and restaurants in Saranac Lake.
Choose Best Western for lakeside convenience in downtown Saranac Lake.
The Whiteface Lodge is all‑suite with multiple bedroom configurations aimed at families and longer stays.
Whiteface Lodge works better for families or groups needing multiple bedrooms and living space.
Best Western Saranac Lake offers standard hotel rooms with king and double‑queen layouts, including some first‑floor pet‑friendly options.
Best Western is a practical choice for single travelers, couples, or small families who want basic in‑room conveniences.
The Whiteface Lodge has a range of on‑site dining options from fine dining to casual and dessert spots.
If dining variety and an upscale restaurant matter, Whiteface Lodge provides both casual and formal options.
Best Western Saranac Lake includes a daily complimentary continental breakfast; other on‑site restaurant details are not published in the supplier listing.
Best Western is best when you want a simple included breakfast and easy access to town dining.
The Whiteface Lodge highlights a heated indoor/outdoor pool complex with hot tubs and year‑round access.
For a resort pool experience with both indoor and outdoor options, Whiteface Lodge is stronger.
Best Western Saranac Lake lists an indoor pool and a children's pool among its recreational offerings.
Best Western provides a straightforward indoor pool for families and leisure travelers.
Whiteface Lodge provides a full spa, 24‑hour fitness center, and some evening entertainment options.
If spa services, fitness facilities, and evening activities matter, Whiteface Lodge offers more variety.
Best Western Saranac Lake focuses on practical guest services and nearby recreation rather than a destination spa.
Best Western suits guests who plan to spend time exploring town or nearby outdoor activities rather than using on‑site wellness facilities.

The Whiteface Lodge — full 8,000‑sq‑ft spa, treatment sanctuaries, and 24‑hour fitness center.

Best Western Saranac Lake — on Lake Flower and within easy walking distance of Saranac Lake attractions.

The Whiteface Lodge — children’s programs, bowling alley, private beach shuttle, and many on‑site activities.

Best Western Saranac Lake — recognizable chain standards, free continental breakfast, and meeting space.
The Whiteface Lodge is located in the Lake Placid area and offers shuttle access to town; Best Western Saranac Lake is in downtown Saranac Lake, not Lake Placid.
The Whiteface Lodge pool has no lifeguard on duty and guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Best Western Saranac Lake lists an indoor pool but the supplier listing does not state lifeguard status.
Some room types at Best Western Saranac Lake are pet friendly (QQP - Double Queen Beds Pet Friendly - 1st Floor); a pet fee of USD 25 per accommodation, per night is listed.
The Whiteface Lodge has multiple named venues (KANU, Peak 47, Old Fashion Ice Cream Parlor). Best Western’s supplier listing only confirms a complimentary continental breakfast; other on‑site dining details are not published.
Explore how The Whiteface Lodge stacks up against other hotels nearby:
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