Are you wondering what to do with your family this summer? Well, the Saranac Lake area has some awesome family friendly activities to do. Each has something different to offer and is worth making the trip for!
Adirondack Carousel (Depot Street, Saranac Lake)
We’ve all been on a carousel, but this one is truly different! All the animals are hand carved and hand painted animals that you would find in the Adirondack Park. From a moose to a black fly to a raccoon with a utility belt, they have them all! Each one is unique and has a personality of its own. They are all so beautifully designed and crafted that it is a must see while in town. Above the animals, don't forget to check out the beautiful paintings that surround the top of the carousel. And who can say no at only $2 a ride (or 3 for $5 or 7 for $10)? Whether you are an adult with an appreciation for art, a kid or kid at heart you really need to experience this gem!
A fun bonus: there is a ladybug on every animal, can you find them all?
Paul Smith's College Visitor's Interpretation Center (VIC) (Route 30, Paul Smiths)
We all know the Adirondacks offer hikes that will take you up mountains and deep into the wilderness, but what about little ones in strollers or others who need a wheelchair? They still want to have good options for getting outdoors and having a great Adirondack wilderness experience. The Paul Smith’s College Visitor’s Interpretation Center (VIC) offers just that! They have 6 miles of interpretive trails that are very well maintained and extremely easy to use. Then if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, they also have 8 miles of back country trails. There is one handicap/wheelchair accessible trail that is a mile long complete with wheelchair accessible lookouts that overlook the beautiful marsh. They also have a wheelchair for you to borrow if you need one, just ask one of the workers. The VIC offers great outdoor adventure for all seasons, so you can see, hear, photograph and experience nature at it’s best! Before or after you take your outdoor adventure, be sure to explore the butterfly house (open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, free admission). The VIC has so much to offer, so come check it out! Awesome bonus: Dogs are welcome!!!
The Wild Center (Museum Drive, Tupper Lake)
What better way to learn about Adirondack history than to immerse yourself in it? The Wild Center is a hands-on natural history museum that offers plenty of exhibits inside and out. They have playful swimming otters, beautiful well groomed trails outside, and a full calendar of events that offers new things most days. This is a great place for adults and children alike. Kids will have fun being in a museum that they can actually touch and play with everything and adults will have fun learning all about the Adirondacks. And let’s be honest, it’s always fun to pretend to be a kid and try everything for yourself no matter your age.
Pendragon Theatre (Brandy Brook Avenue, Saranac Lake)
Ok, so it’s raining (again) and you need to come up with another inside activity to plan. Well, what about a family friendly live play? Pendragon Theatre is a local professional theatre in SaranacLake that puts on some wonderful plays each year. This year they have 2 family friendly options; Aladdin and The Complete World of Sports (Abridged). Aladdin is based upon the traditional story of a boy who found a magic lamp and at only $8 per ticket, who can say no! The Complete World of Sports (Abridged) is a hilarious comedy of 3 men who mockingly work their way through every sport in the history of mankind. ‘Sports’ is regular ticket price ($22 adult, $20 seniors, $12 age 17 & under and $12 matinee) but completely worth it! Both are a must see this season!
So come and try each of them for yourself! You will not be sorry you did.
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