This is Wild: The Ultimate Adirondack Destination
Situated in the vast wilderness of the Adirondacks, there’s a place where “wilding out” takes on a new meaning. A place where curiosity and conservation are foundational principles, and where nature’s wild heart beats right alongside your own. Welcome to The Wild Center in Tupper Lake, New York. With 115 acres of lush trails, one-of-a-kind treetop adventures, a living, immersive art installation, and 54,000 square feet of indoor space brimming with interactive exhibits, every visit to The Wild Center reveals a little bit more about the wild world around us.
Recently named the #1 science museum in the country by USA Today readers, The Wild Center’s mission is to ignite an enduring passion for nature that inspires action to ensure a thriving natural world. Since its inception in 2006, The Wild Center has been a national leader in environmental education and conservancy and helped over a million visitors get a new perspective on nature.
Let’s take a closer look at how you can get your wild on with a sample itinerary:
Journey Into the Wild: Discover a Full Day of Adventure
For adrenaline-fueled thrill-seekers and laid-back nature lovers alike, there's something for everyone in this Adirondack wonderland. Let’s start outdoors, where adventure calls from every corner of the forest.
Stickwork:
Start your day on a whimsical note with a visit to artist Patrick Dougherty’s Hopscotch Creation. The living sculpture is a larger-than-life ode to playful nostalgia, recalling the childhood forts of our youth. Crafted by coaxing sustainably sourced local saplings into an enchanted playground, the immersive space is a must-see for visitors of all ages.
Explore the Wild Walk:
Next, kick things into high gear with a thrilling ascent into the canopy of the Adirondack forest, high above the forest floor on Wild Walk. Think of this treetop journey as the wild version of New York City’s popular Hi-Line—only instead of being surrounded by skyscrapers, you’re enveloped by towering white pine trees in an endless forest. Traverse a series of bridges three stories in the air to visit the human-sized spider’s web, the giant eagle’s nest, and the four-story “Snag,” a replica of a once-mighty white pine that now serves as a natural monument. Take the spiral staircase inside the snag to climb even higher into the arboreal embrace!
Noontime Nosh:
Take a break from the excitement and grab a bite at the Waterside Café. The Wild Center partners with local farmers to offer fresh and delectable fare. Enjoy outdoor seating near the pond and recharge for a river adventure!
Paddle the Oxbow (seasonal):
After lunch, set out on a serene guided canoe trip through the Raquette River’s Oxbow. Led by Wild Center Naturalists, all of whom are NYS-licensed guides, your trip will explore different marsh habitats and offer glimpses of native wildlife including bald eagles and beavers. (Note: this gentle paddle is suitable for all experience levels.)
Afternoon:
When the sun is high, head indoors to cool off and explore. First stop:
Zoom Out:
Hit Planet Adirondack for a live view of Earth from space. Using a high-tech system of cameras, watch real-time data and global events, track storms and weather patterns, and see airplanes take off and land all over the globe. Explore on your own at the interactive kiosk. The exhibit includes fun datasets that offer visitors a new perspective on a variety of topics, from barred owls to disco balls to a galaxy far, far away in the world of Star Wars!
Take to the Skies:
Not ready to return to Earth? Try Birdly! Don a pair of Oculus Rift 3D goggles, strap yourself onto the platform, and flap your arms as if they’re wings. Fly through a series of natural virtual settings, taking to the sky with the power and grace of avian masters. The sophisticated hardware and software puts you in control, allowing you to explore exotic destinations and fantastic imaginary worlds.
Flying Not Your Thing?
Get hands-on with the multi-media shows and learn about the natural world in fun, engaging ways. Watch award-winning films in the Flammer Theater or attend a daily animal encounter in the Hall of the Adirondacks, where you can meet otters, porcupines, or the world’s smallest falcon, the American Kestrel.
A Moment of Reflection:
Finish your day back outside, immersed in the soothing sounds of Forest Music. This unique trail features 24 speakers blending natural sounds with a musical piece composed in collaboration with the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. Let the symphony of nature and man-made music calm your senses as you walk the trail loop.
Of course, this is just a sample of the activities awaiting visitors to The Wild Center. Here’s a fun fact: the Adirondack Park is the biggest park in the Lower 48. That means Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Parks could all fit inside the Adirondack Park’s borders with room to spare!
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Accessible Experiences, Inclusive Design, and Programs for All Ages
At The Wild Center, everyone is invited to join the adventure. Each attraction and activity is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the experience fully.
Wild Walk is a prime example of this inclusivity. From the trail leading to Feeder Alley all the way up to the Eagle’s Nest on the final tower platform, the entire structure is built to accommodate assisted mobility devices and strollers. Wide pathways, ramps, and strategically placed seating areas make it easy for everyone to explore the treetops.
From visitors anxious to strap on their hiking boots, to families, empty nesters, and guests with special accessibility requirements, the diverse programming at The Wild Center allows you to discover your wild in your own way, and the friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to assist!
Seasonal Highlights: Experience The Wild Center Year-Round
Nature’s changing canvas is on full display all year at The Wild Center campus, with unique experiences that draw visitors back again and again.
Summer Adventures
Hike woodland trails and enjoy vibrant outdoor exhibits. Don't miss the Raquette River Roll on the new Fen Trail, where the interactive ball run provides fun and educational moments for young explorers.
Fall Attractions
Autumn transforms the Adirondacks into a colorful wonderland, perfect for couples seeking a tranquil getaway. Stroll through the stunning fall foliage and enjoy peaceful nature walks, all while soaking in the serene beauty of the season.
Winter Highlights
Winter brings the enchanting Wild Lights experience to The Wild Center. As the day winds down, The Wild Center’s outdoor spaces light up with stunning displays, creating a festive and magical atmosphere. It's a must-see for families, couples, and groups looking to kick off—or extend—their holiday season.
Spring Surprises
Spring at The Wild Center means renewal and discovery. The trails come alive with blooming flowers and vibrant greenery. It's also the perfect time to explore the Forest Music trail, where natural sounds and musical compositions blend to create a soothing, immersive experience.
Each season at The Wild Center offers something special—no matter when you visit, there's always a new adventure waiting to be discovered.
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Are you ready to discover your wild side? Visit The Wild Center to learn more, plan your trip, and discover a packed events calendar. And be sure to check out the Wild Center’s lively social media feeds on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Planning a trip from Rochester, Syracuse, Watertown, Albany, the Hudson Valley, Vermont, or Canada? Find directions here. The Wild Center is conveniently located and ready to welcome visitors from these regions and beyond.
Remember, your visit helps support The Wild Center’s mission of promoting conservation and educating visitors about the natural world. Visit The Wild Center and be a part of something truly extraordinary!
Finding Your Wild
TAKE THE QUIZ
Welcome to the “Find Your Wild” quiz! Read through the following questions to discover ou way to experience The Wild Center. Whether you love the great outdoors or prefer a more comfortable style of exploration, we’ve got an adventure that’s just right for you.
What kind of explorer are you?
You are an Indoor Explorer!
RETAKE QUIZ
Participate in a Daily Animal Encounter in the Great Hall!
Try Birdly and experience the sensation of flying!
Visit Planet Adirondack to explore the universe!
Plan Your Visit Today
SUPPORT THE WILD CENTER
One last thing! While you're here, consider becoming a member or making a donation to support The Wild Center’s mission. Members get free admission for an entire year, plus discounts in the store and cafe, and early access to special programming and events. Your membership helps ensure that The Wild Center can continue to inspire and educate future generations. Join today!
Discover. Explore. Support. Be a part of the Wild Center today.
Outdoor — I prefer being out in nature, hiking and uncovering hidden trails.
Indoor — I love exploring exhibits and interactive displays
Do you ever fantasize about outer space?
Yes! I'm fascinated by astronomy and the universe!
No — I'm more interested in keeping things earth-based.
How do you prefer to engage with exhibits?
Hands-on all the way! Interactive activities are my jam!
I'm an observer — I like to watch and learn from a distance.
Do you have a soft spot for animals?
YES! I love seeing and hearing about animals!
NO — I'm into other types of exhibits.
Do you ever wish you could fly?
Yes! I've always dreamed of flying!
No — I like it here on the ground, thank you very much.
How do you like to experience nature?
Hands-on please! Interactive and engaging activities are my thing!
Observing and hiking — I enjoy taking in the scenery and exploring on foot.
Do you enjoy water-based adventures?
Yes! I love activities on the water!
No — I'm definitely more of a land-lubber.
Here's how you can get Wild:
Meet otters and other animals during a live animal encounter!
Try Birdly and experience the sensation of flying!
Visit Planet Adirondack to view real-time data about Earth's ecosystems!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are a Wildlife Watcher!
RETAKE QUIZ
Enjoy a feature film in the Flammer Theater!
Visit Planet Adirondack to view real-time data about Earth's ecosystems!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are a Scientific Observer!
RETAKE QUIZ
Spend time at the Otter Falls Exhibit!
Try Birdly and experience the sensation of flying!
Visit Planet Adirondack to explore the universe!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are an Indoor Explorer!
RETAKE QUIZ
Enjoy a feature film in the Flammer Theater!
Visit Planet Adirondack to explore the universe!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are a Scientific Observer!
RETAKE QUIZ
Try Birdly and experience the sensation of flying!
Enjoy Interactive exhibits in the Flammer theater!
Visit Planet Adirondack to explore the universe!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are a Sky Gazer!
RETAKE QUIZ
Try Birdly and experience the sensation of flying!
Enjoy Interactive exhibits in the Flammer theater!
Visit Planet Adirondack to view real-time data about Earth's ecosystems!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are an Interactive Learner!
RETAKE QUIZ
Participate in a Daily Animal Encounter in the Great Hall!
Try Birdly and experience the sensation of flying!
Visit Planet Adirondack to explore the universe!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are an Indoor Explorer!
RETAKE QUIZ
Meet otters and other animals during a live animal encounter!
Try Birdly and experience the sensation of flying!
Visit Planet Adirondack to view real-time data about Earth's ecosystems!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are a Wildlife Watcher!
RETAKE QUIZ
Enjoy a feature film in the Flammer Theater!
Visit Planet Adirondack to view real-time data about Earth's ecosystems!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are a Scientific Observer!
RETAKE QUIZ
Spend time at the Otter Falls Exhibit!
Try Birdly and experience the sensation of flying!
Visit Planet Adirondack to explore the universe!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are an Indoor Explorer!
RETAKE QUIZ
Enjoy a feature film in the Flammer Theater!
Visit Planet Adirondack to explore the universe!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are a Scientific Observer!
RETAKE QUIZ
Try Birdly and experience the sensation of flying!
Enjoy Interactive exhibits in the Flammer theater!
Visit Planet Adirondack to explore the universe!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are a Sky Gazer!
RETAKE QUIZ
Try Birdly and experience the sensation of flying!
Enjoy Interactive exhibits in the Flammer theater!
Visit Planet Adirondack to view real-time data about Earth's ecosystems!
Here's how you can get Wild:
You are an Interactive Learner!
RETAKE QUIZ
® I LOVE NEW YORK is a registered trademark and service mark of the New York State Department of Economic Development; used with permission.
This story is sponsored by The Wild Center.
