The Devlin.

2764 Main Street in Lake Placid, on the central commercial strip and within walking distance of Mirror Lake, the speed-skating oval, and the village restaurants. The property is named for and trades on the legacy of Art Devlin, the 1950s Olympic ski jumper, with memorabilia from his career displayed in the lobby and corridors.

The room mix runs from standard rooms to suites with microwaves, refrigerators, and wifi, plus premium suites with full kitchens and the better views of the Olympic ski jumps to the east. The kitchens are the upgrade to pay for if you're staying more than two nights; not having to eat every dinner out makes a real difference on a longer Lake Placid week.

Dog-friendly, outdoor pool, group-friendly check-in for sports teams and bridal parties (which is the regular event traffic in Lake Placid). Year-round, with winter (ski season) and summer (Olympic site visits, road racing) as the obvious peaks. Best for families and small groups who want walking-distance village access with view rooms rather than a chain motel block away.