Explore the Adirondacks and Get Closer To Nature at The Wild Center – Episode 109
Over the years, I’ve had a chance to explore many regions throughout New York, including The Catskills, Rochester, and The Finger Lakes, but this was my first time visiting the Adirondacks, known for its wild mountains, scenic vistas, miles of lakes and charming small towns and villages. Accompanied by my family, we packed our bags and set off for a road trip to Saranac Lake in upstate New York. We had a chance to visit The Wild Center, a natural history museum committed to seeing people and the natural world thrive together. But this isn’t your traditional four-walled museum. Sitting on 115 acres, discover the Adirondacks through various fun, hands-on outdoor and indoor experiences.
Some of my favorite outdoor exhibits, which you’ll hear about in this narrative-style episode, include Wild Walk, Forest Music, and Stickwork Sculpture. The Center is home to various animals like otters, turtles, birds — accessible and marked hiking trails, its own river, and more. Perfect for families and people of all ages, visit to learn about what makes the Adirondacks so special.
If you haven’t already, also listen to Episode 110 where at the Climate Solutions Exhibit we discover how different people in the Adirondacks are committing to finding solutions for climate change and how you can too!
Listen to the podcast episode below.
Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Pandora | Any podcast player
A special thank you to The Wild Center for an incredible introduction to the Adirondacks. All opinions expressed in this episode are my own.
Music Credits: Music from Forest Music featured in this episode, “Emma Lazarus” written by Eric Sturr, violin performed by Sarah Franchino, mixed by Tim Segado.
The Wild Center Adirondacks: Where Family Adventure Awaits
In this episode, we cover:
- Highlights from our trip to Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake, New York
- Where to stay in Saranac Lake
- Fun facts about the historic Hotel Saranac
- Reasons to plan a trip to The Wild Center in Tupper Lake
- Things to do at Wild Center
- Our favorite outdoor exhibits
- How long to spend at the musuem
What is Wild Center Tupper Lake, NY?
The Wild Center in Tupper Lake is a natural history museum highlighting nature and wildlife from the Adirondacks region. The museum features traditional educational indoor exhibits, animal viewing, and immersive outdoor experiences which offer visitors different viewpoints, from overlooking the forest treetops to canoeing the Raquette River.
Helpful Tip: If you would like a canoe tour of Raquette River with a naturalist, book ahead of time. Tickets are sold separately.
Is Wild Center infant-friendly?
We visited the Center with our 5-month-old baby and felt comfortable exploring the outdoors with a stroller. Wild Center is accessible via stroller or wheelchair, and none of the activities were physically demanding, which was exactly what we were looking for. The majority of the campus is flat and has no stairs.
Is the Center only for children?
Wild Center caters to people of all ages. There’s plenty of things for adults to see and do.
Whether you want to spend time with the Adirondack wildlife, watch educational videos, walk above the trees, listen to music in the forest, or find a quiet place to wander and be alone with your thoughts, there’s something for everyone.
Overall this is the perfect place to visit if you are interested in nature, animals, and the environment.
Listen to this podcast episode on Spotify.
How long do people spend at The Wild Center?
Plan to get the most out of your experience (and not feel rushed) by spending 3-4 hours at the museum. There are plenty of sitting areas if you need to rest and a cafe on site if you’re looking for a bite to eat.
We spent a half day exploring the outdoor exhibits, including Wild Walk (a treetop walkway), the trail system, and Forest Music.
Is Wild Center worth it?
Yes, visiting is worth it.
I highly recommend families with children of all ages plan a visit to the museum.
Children love running around Stickwork Sculpture, climbing up to the giant bald eagle’s nest, and bouncing on the spider’s web.
No matter your age, there’s something to enjoy at the Center, especially if you are interested in nature, wildlife, climate solutions, and the arts.
Where to stay near Wild Center?
Inside The Grand Ballroom.
Only 25 minutes from Wild Center, Hotel Saranac is an excellent choice if you’re looking to stay at a central location close to all the action.
This charming hotel was built in 1927 and proudly displays Adirondack heritage and the local way of life. With a 24-hour gym, complimentary coffee, a salon and spa, and a stylish ballroom inspired by a 14th-century Italian palace, Hotel Saranac has everything you need for a comfortable stay in the middle of Downtown Saranac Lake.
Recommended nearby places to eat include Blue Moon Cafe for breakfast and Origin Coffee Co. You can also find museums, art galleries, and other attractions nearby.
Helpful Tip: Since this is a Hilton Hotel, don’t forget to give your Hilton Honors number so you can earn points for your stay.
Our cozy room, had modern amenities while transporting us back to the 1920s.
Plan a Visit to The Wild Center
Website: www.wildcenter.org
TikTok: @thewildcenter
Instagram: @wildcenter
Twitter: @wildcenter
While we visited in the summer, there’s plenty to do in the winter.
The Wild Center Address:
45 Museum Drive
Tupper Lake, NY 12986
Read the full podcast episode transcripts below.
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Other Episodes You’ll Enjoy
What To Pack For Road Trips – Episode 101
How To Define Your Travel Style – Episode 102
5 Reasons To Visit Rochester, New York – Episode 86
Danielle Desir Corbett is an award-winning and 6x grant-funded travel writer and podcast host who went from financial struggle to visiting 27+ countries all without waiting until retirement. Her story is proof that budget doesn’t limit adventure. Tune into The Thought Card Podcast for practical strategies to travel smarter and live on your terms. Say hello: thethoughtcard (at) gmail (dot) com.
