This waterfront property was purchased by local owners in 1974 and continues to remain in the family — in fact, the original couple’s offspring now run the joint, hence the restaurant name change to Generations. While the brown and off-white exterior will not appeal to modernists, the place has an authentic chalet vibe that originated from these early days. Inside, a bright renovated lobby welcomes guests with the slogan “The only thing we overlook is the lake” — a tribute to the staff and quality of service. This main area acts as a Great Room with a fireplace, large windows overlooking the lake, and comfy seating areas. Next to the front desk is a white board showcasing weekly events and staff picks of things to do in the vicinity.

Hallways that attach all the sections of the resort are nothing to write home about, with their outdated green carpeting and wallpaper, but the hotel is going through renovations slowly over time starting with rooms on the first floor and working its way up. Common areas, in addition to the lobby, that have already been refreshed include a large fitness center, indoor pool, and restaurant that serves all three meals. The attached bar and lounge can be accessed from the street in downtown Lake Placid and attracts not only guests, but tourists staying elsewhere and young locals. Occasionally there is live entertainment here but it tends to shut down around midnight. Partiers taking part in the downtown bar scene will not have to drive anywhere. There's even a wine shop attached to the hotel.  

The wide range of room types translate to wide appeal, and the resort draws families, groups in town for sport-related activities, and couples (who will probably especially like the suites with fireplaces). Business travelers attending a conference across the street may also be found here during the week. There's a laid-back buzz about the place, and a genuine caring attitude about the environment, demonstrated by the recycling bins and solar panels. 

Golden Arrow Resort is an easily recognizable, long chalet-style property that stretches along Mirror Lake into the main hub of Lake Placid. Not only does it have private beach and lake access, but it also is within easy walking distance of the town center, home to a number of bakeries, restaurants and shops. Attached to the property is a charming indoor mall with boutique stores, a wine shop, and a coffee bar for espresso drinks and smoothies. 

Lake Placid is a small town known for hosting two winter Olympics. Winter activities include skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and hockey, while swimming and hiking are popular in summer months. It is central to nearby attractions, and most destinations are within short driving distance from each other. Adirondack Park is the largest in the lower 48 states and has 3,000 lakes and 2,000 miles of hiking trails to explore. A well-kept path around Mirror Lake -- literally along the property route -- offers a brisk 2.7-mile walk or jog that can be easily accessed. 

The standout benefit of the location, especially for those who splurge for Lakefront Rooms, are the views of Mirror Lake -- especially at sunrise. The hotel is across the street from the Lake Placid Conference Center.   

There are 165 reasonably priced rooms, suites and condos in this long property, which has both stairs and elevators. All rooms have Keurig coffeemakers, microwaves, and mini-fridges. While older rooms some show their age, and wear and tear, the hotel is in the process of renovations starting with the first floor and working its way up. Updates include new carpet, furnishings in neutral brown and green tones, lighting, and drapes. Guests who want to guarantee a renovated room can pay a surcharge.

Deluxe Rooms (Lakeside or Village-side) come with either two queen beds or one king bed, as well as balconies with two chairs. Lakeside rooms will have views of Mirror Lake, and first-floor rooms enjoy patios and direct access to the beach, dock, and waterfront. Village-side rooms face the parking lot and street. First-floor rooms (the first to be renovated) have a ground patio area and direct access to the lake and beach. Pet-friendly rooms are restricted to the third floor, which is actually the street level from the front side. There will be a deposit required and certain rules apply; for example, pets are not allowed to be left alone in the rooms, or swim in the lake. 

Specialty Rooms and Family Suites -- some with two bedrooms -- have the same amenities as the Deluxe Rooms but may include whirlpool tubs and/or fireplaces, as well as bathrobes. Condos and Kitchenette Suites are more akin to small apartments and include mid-sized refrigerators, stovetops, cookware, dishes and utensils. Some have lofts and may not be suitable for families with small kids. Certain units have views of the lake, while others do not. 

As the name suggests, the Golden Arrow Lakeside resort offers lakeside access. Its seasonal private beach has lounge chairs, picnic tables, a small snack hut, and free non-motorized water sport gear including kayaks, canoes, rowboats, paddle boats, and stand-up paddleboards. Since there are no motorized boats allowed in the water, it is safe to swim the entire lake and waves usually remain quite calm. Guests can arrange a gondola ride in a wooden boat that was made in Italy. This can be a family experience, or a more intimate romantic experience with wine and cheese or chocolate covered strawberries. In the winter, the lake area is made into a skating rink and the area is popular for cross-country skiing. Dog-sledding (via an outside provider) can also be arranged.

The indoor pool area — with a sauna, steam room and two whirlpool tubs — was renovated in 2007. Eco-friendly practices have been added and the water uses bromine instead of chlorine. In fact, eco-friendly techniques have been instituted all over the hotel. The lobby area, for instance, was renovated using nontoxic materials and reclaimed wood.

There is a spacious fitness center with large flat-screen TVs on the walls and towels. A racquetball court and equipment can be used at no additional charge.

Generations, the hotel restaurant, uses local produce and purveyors when possible. The dining room is open for all three meals and has a few different seating areas with varying views. The attached bar and lounge is called Straight Shot and offers specialty cocktails, house-made infused vodkas, and a great local and domestic beer list. On certain evenings, especially during peak ski season, the hotel will have live DJ music. 

Event rooms are available for weddings and for business meetings in a few different areas, including the beach for barbecue parties. Catering is available from the Generations kitchen. Parking is either underground or street level, free of charge, as is Wi-Fi throughout. The lobby has a communal Keurig coffee machine ($1 per pod), as well as an ATM. The attached shopping mall area is a charming spot to check out and there is a coffee bar for espresso drinks and smoothies.