If you’re looking for adventure, you’re in the right place. The Wild Center in Tupper Lake, NY, fully reopens on July 1, 2021!
Visitors will be welcomed inside the main museum building at the Wild Center where they can explore the Living River and Otter Falls, grab a bite to eat at the Waterside Cafe, shop at the Wild Supply Company, and more.
Indoor Amenities: Hiking Trails, Live Animals, Shopping and Cuisine
While strolling inside the museum, you may see an otter or two. In the middle of the Hall, Otter Falls stands twenty feet tall, and visitors can watch the otters move around and play with one another in the pools. That’s not it for live animals, though!
The Living River mirrors a High Peak Adirondack Trail. This indoor excursion gives visitors a hiking experience without the harshness and uncertainty of upstate New York weather. You’ll pass through forests, waterfalls, rivers, and lakes, and take in more than 2,000 live creatures that can be found in and around the trail. Now that’s a lively river! The Living River has been made into a one-way loop to allow for safe, physical distancing.
The Wild Center has expanded their shopping and food amenities as well. The indoor store, The Wild Supply Company, now offers even more products, including family-fun games, books, nature trivia and even a DIY-Cheese Kit. Beginning on July 1, guests can pre-order brown bag lunches from The Waterside Cafe. There is space available outside for eating and also curbside pickup. The Snack Bar at the Wild Walk Kiosk will continue to provide healthy pre-packaged food options.
Outdoor Experience: Treetop Adventure, Canoe Trips and Local Art
There are three outdoor highlights you can expect at The Wild Center’s 115-acre campus this summer. The first is a series of sculptures created by two nationally-known artists – this viewing experience is included with general admission tickets.
The second is the Wild Walk, which leads up to the top of the Adirondack forest. If you’re looking for a good view, you’ve come to the right place! Visitors can walk between bridges to reach the highest point, the bald eagle’s nest.
Down below the treetops, you’ll find the third outdoor highlight, the Forest Music trails. While wandering along the paths, Wild Center speakers surround hikers in natural forest sounds.
Countless other trails and play areas are available to keep the whole family entertained. If you’re looking for an extra add-on, guided canoe trips (which run daily from May 25 – September 6) will allow visitors to explore the marsh habitats around the Raquette River’s Oxbow.
Updated Safety Procedures
Safety is always put first at the Wild Center. Stephanie Ratcliff, the Wild Center Executive Director, argued the importance of waiting to reopen until science said it was safe to do so. She hoped for returning members to be able to experience the Wild Center like never before, while prioritizing safety regulations. The anticipation of reopening only inspired more excitement in the new opening plan.
The Wild Center staff has implemented numerous health and safety protocols for indoor exhibits. This includes hand sanitizing stations, frequent disinfection and a one-way walking system to allow for social distancing. Masks are required while indoors. However, fully vaccinated individuals may remove their masks while visiting outdoor facilities.
Let’s Visit!
Due to capacity limits, reservations are required. For convenience, reservations can be made online, over the phone or by email. The Wild Center will be open seven days a week from 10am-5pm until October.
