Raise your hand if you love fun!
Tupper Lake, NY is not just for hikers, craft beer drinkers, and fishermen … it’s for the kids! Yes, there is something for everyone in Tupper Lake - including hikes, beers, fish, and fun - but the best part is there's a variety of activities and experiences that make it so every age group can have a full weekend of excitement.
For kids, winter is often highlighted by the holidays near the end of the calendar year that equates to presents and days off from school. However, the real gift lasts an entire season! So, if you and the young people in your family find yourselves in need of a getaway this winter and fun is on the menu, make sure to pencil in a few (or all!) of these suggestions. Here’s how you can spend a few hours or a few days in the magically fun, delightfully exhilarating town of Tupper Lake!
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“Museums” often have a stuffy reputation. But there are a few attractions in Tupper Lake that will put that reputation to bed for good! Let’s start with The Wild Center.
The famous natural history museum of the Adirondacks, The Wild Center, is a true treasure that both kids and their adults will appreciate. With a 54,000-square-foot indoor space and tons of room outdoors, it’s easy to spend a lot of time here! With interactive exhibits, playful animals to meet, new things to see and do, and tons to learn (in a fun way, of course), every kid will grin from ear to ear the entire time they’re here. While hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., your visit doesn’t need to end when the sun goes down. Extend your stay until 8 p.m. with a visit to the outdoor Wild Walk to experience the illuminating Wild Lights. Kids will adore the Wild Walk covered with lights and music playing in the background. And you will too!
If your family and kids have interests that reach beyond this planet, be sure to add the Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory to your itinerary! See the stars in a whole new way, with the latest technology and knowledgeable astronomers to guide your eyes. This winter, the first and third Friday of each month will feature an open observing schedule (weather permitting). Stargazing is not just a summer activity anymore! Be sure to check their Facebook page to see if there are any winter observing events scheduled during your visit, too.
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Museums and attractions offer a more structured, curated type of fun, which is great, don’t get me wrong, but who doesn’t love a real Adirondack adventure! From groomed cross-country ski trails to untouched wilderness, there’s an option for all levels and abilities.
But let’s be honest, most kids are not up for the multi-mile romp in the woods. The James C. Frenette Recreational Trails or the Paul Smith’s College VIC offer groomed trails in and around Tupper Lake, which are perfect for beginners learning to cross-country ski or snowshoe. If your kids are ready for some miles, start checking off the snowshoe hikes of the Tupper Lake Triad.
*Bonus activity! There is a great hill for sledding at the James C. Frenette Trails. Bring a sled, toboggan, or tube for some good old fashioned fun!
And there are a million other things kids can do outdoors here - from ice fishing, snowmobiling (if your kids have the need for speed), to open ice skating at the Civic Center!
Don’t forget the food!
After so much fun, your kids are bound to be hungry. For a breakfast fit for a Tupper Laker, grab a pancake at Main Street Restaurant. For lunch or dinner, go for a slice at Little Italy. For a sweet, quick snack, get one (or one dozen) donuts from Washboard Donuts. For something that will please every generation, try The Swiss Kitchen (don’t forget pie).
Everyone has a sweet tooth (if you can’t tell by my mention of donuts and pie), so why not also take the kids to Tupper Lake’s newest sweet spot? Homemade cinnamon rolls at Spruce & Hemlock will really seal the deal of this being the best getaway ever.
Don't just walk - run to Tupper Lake for some delicious dining!
‘Tis the season
Some adventures require a little more time, and sometimes we don’t want the adventures to stop! Don’t worry, that’s just fine because Tupper Lake has plenty of lodging opportunities. Relax in a comfortable, family-friendly motel or maybe take the relaxation to the next level at a vacation rental.
Whether you’re here for a few hours, a few days, or for a lifetime, there is plenty to do that will keep the entire family smiling. And that’s what it’s all about.