In the heart of the Adirondacks of New York State, The Wild Center is an extraordinary destination for nature lovers and adventurers of all ages. Located on a 115-acre campus in Tupper Lake, New York, this award-winning natural history museum offers a blend of education, exploration, and entertainment. Whether you’re captivated by the serene beauty of the surrounding wilderness or the innovative exhibits within, The Wild Center provides a one-of-a-kind experience that immerses visitors in the wonders of the natural world. And it’s the destination for my son, Z Man and me on this beautiful January weekend.
What’s the draw for us to head to the Wild Center in January? In the winter months, The Wild Center transforms into a dazzling wonderland, inviting visitors to experience the magic of the season through Wild Lights. This annual event illuminates the grounds with thousands of colourful lights, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
While we are in the area for the weekend and the snow conditions are right, we have some more exploring to do around Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake. I’m so excited to share with you all of the amazing things we did, from cross-country skiing to riding a beautiful carousel, so let’s get to it.
Where are Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake?
Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake are both located in the heart of the Adirondack region of upstate New York.
Tupper Lake is a town surrounded by wilderness and snow-coated trees about 35 miles southwest of Lake Placid.
Saranac Lake is an artsy and historic town on beautiful surrounding lakes 20 miles northeast of Tupper Lake.
Both towns are part of the Tri-Lakes region (along with Lake Placid) and are known for their natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
The Wild Center is located at 45 Museum Dr, Tupper Lake, NY 12986, in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York.
From Toronto, the drive is 5.5 hours, crossing the border in Eastern Ontario. From Kingston and Ottawa, the drive is about 3 hours.
What Is The Wild Center?
The Wild Center in Tupper Lake is a must-visit for anyone looking to mix outdoor adventure and a love of nature with interactive learning! From the moment you drive onto the property, park and exit your vehicle, you’ll find opportunities to connect with nature in meaningful and interactive ways. The Wild Center features an amazing range of attractions, including treetop walkways, art installations, and immersive soundscapes – inside and out.
This place totally blew my son, Z Man away, and he is already talking about when we are going to return. He saw the sign that said “museum” as we were driving up and said to me, “Uh oh”, but then he realized it was the coolest museum he had ever been to! The real otter and the real fish sold him first. But then…
What Do You Do At The Wild Center?
Whether you’re strolling the treetop Wild Walk or playing hide and seek at the stunning Stickwork sculpture “Hopscotch,” there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring experiences.
Starting indoors, thoughtfully curated exhibits and live animal encounters bring the ecosystems of the Adirondacks to life, offering insights into the region’s unique biodiversity and the challenges it faces.
The first attraction that drew us in when we walked inside was Birdly — where you can put on virtual reality goggles and soar like a bird or a Turtle. My son decided to visit the Coral Reefs as a turtle and ride the waves. Think kind of like Crush from Nemo. Please note this is an extra charge of $6 for non-members.
Our recommendations of what to see and do inside The Wild Center are:
Hall of the Adirondacks: This exhibit takes you on a fascinating journey through the Adirondacks, from the highest mountain peaks to the marshy lowlands. It features interactive stops that showcase the ecosystems and wildlife of the region and you’ll get to know the fish species of the region.
Otter Falls and Outdoor Otter Play Yard: If you’re an otter fan because they’re really cute, this is the spot for you! Watch the playful otters swimming, sliding, and frolicking in their custom-designed habitats. I will warn you; this area does smell due to the exhibit on decay across from them. The otters don’t smell that bad, I don’t think!
If you’re feeling inspired by the planet’s beauty, check out the Climate Solutions exhibit, where you’ll find uplifting stories of people taking action in their communities.
There was a lot inside The Wild Center for me and my son to spark curiosity and wonder.
Wild Lights at The Wild Center
Wild Lights at The Wild Center is where winter magic meets the Adirondacks! From November 29 to February 22, 2025, this dazzling event transforms the forest into a glowing wonderland on Friday and Saturday nights from 5 PM to 8 PM. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting during Holiday Week (December 26–31) or President’s Week (February 14–22, 2025), you can experience Wild Lights every night!
The Wild Lights is the big draw for us to travel from Ontario to The Wild Center in January.
The Wild Walk
Walking through the treetops on The Wild Walk is like stepping into another world. Suspended high above the ground, this accessible trail takes you through the canopy of the Adirondack forest, offering breathtaking views and a whole new perspective on nature.
By day, the experience is all about fresh air, stunning vistas, and the sounds of the forest. From a massive eagle’s nest where you can perch and take in the view to a giant spider’s web, you can actually climb onto, The Wild Walk is as fun as it is educational.
But at night, during Wild Lights, it transforms into something straight out of a dream. Twinkling lights trace the path, casting a magical glow over the treetops, and suddenly, a walk through nature becomes an ethereal adventure. This treetop trail is an absolute must-visit.
Stickwork
There’s something so magical about stumbling upon a piece of art that feels like it belongs in the landscape, and that’s exactly how Patrick Dougherty’s Stickwork sculpture, Hopscotch, feels at The Wild Center. Created from woven branches and natural materials, this massive, intricate structure invites you to step inside and get lost in its maze-like twists and turns.
It’s like walking into a fairytale, where the lines between art and nature completely blur. As someone who appreciates both creativity and the great outdoors, I love that Stickwork feels like it is constantly changing. I’d love to return and see how it weathers and evolves over time.
During Wild Lights, the experience is magical. Soft, glowing lights highlight the organic curves and tunnels of the sculpture, casting shadows and making it feel like a secret woodland hideaway. Z Man loved running through it while I was in awe of the craftsmanship and scale of the installation. This is that perfect mix of adventure and artistry; don’t miss checking out this incredible piece.
Forest Music
There’s nothing quite like wandering a snowy wooded trail while being completely enveloped in music. The Forest Music experience at The Wild Center takes a simple nature walk and turns it into something deeply immersive and almost otherworldly.
Trees are wrapped in colourful lights, and as you move along the path, you’re surrounded by an original soundtrack composed specifically for this environment. The blend of nature sounds with the ambient, dreamy music makes the whole experience feel cinematic—like you’re part of a story unfolding in the forest. Songs for an Old Pine Forest, composed by Whatever Penny, were just relaxing and gave such a vibe.
I found myself pausing multiple times just to take it all in. The lights shift with the music, casting deep blues, warm oranges, and brilliant purples across the snow-covered ground, turning the entire scene into a living, breathing light show. And it was gently snowing, giving even more of an aura to the environment!
You’ll want to slow down for Forest Music in the beautiful lights and truly savour.
Do not forget to grab a hot chocolate for the stroll or take a break at one of the Adirondack chairs in front of the fire. I certainly did while my son made a snowman. If it was a clear night, I bet there would have been an amazing view of the stars out there.
Tickets are super reasonable for The Wild Lights —$12 for adults, $7 for kids (5-17), and free for little ones under 4. If you’re a Wild Center member, you get a discount ($7 for adults, $2 for kids). Pro tip: book your tickets in advance to skip the lines!
Where To Stay In Saranac Lake?
After a day of exploring The Wild Center, there’s no better place to unwind than the Historic Hotel Saranac. This beautifully restored landmark in the heart of Saranac Lake exudes vintage charm with modern comforts, making it the perfect home base for an Adirondack adventure. We stayed in Room 703. We had two double beds and a sofa. The room was huge and so cozy, yet sports sophisticated decor and plush bedding.
To locals, the hotel is affectionately known as “The Hot Sara” due to the lights on the exterior sign burning out, and let me tell you—this hotel lives up to its name. Hotel Saranac is steeped in history, originally opening its doors in 1927 and still holding onto its old-world elegance.
The second-floor Great Hall is beautiful, with many sitting areas, a fireplace and a bar. It is stunning. Camp Fire is the restaurant on the main floor.
Free ample parking is available.
The gift and confection shop – Academy and Main – carries lots of fun and memorable Saranac Lake memorabilia.
Where To Eat In Saranac Lake?
Origin Coffee Co., 77 Main St, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
Let me start by saying that the chai latte was so good we went back the next day to get one to go for the drive home. Just a hop, skip and jump from Hotel Saranac, Origin is a friendly, local gathering spot for neighbours and travellers. Their menu is complete with all the coffee shop favourites, including pour-overs, espresso, cold brew, lattes, drip coffee, and more. Try the avocado toast with egg; the baked goods are great!
Early Dawn Confections, 28 Woodruff St., Saranac Lake, NY 12983
Located on the main floor of what was once a house, Early Dawn feels like you’re eating in someone’s kitchen and ordering a freshly baked breakfast pastry from your aunt. Lots of locals were here, reading the newspaper and discussing politics, it’s my kind of coffee and baked goods shop and a safe place for all.
Campfire Adirondack Grill + Bar, located inside Hotel Saranac, 100 Main St, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
A beautiful and casual interior, Campfire, inspired by the sophistication and elegance that the Vanderbilts serves absolutely amazing high end comfort food and has a good selection of craft beers from the area.
My son and I ate so well. I had the appetizer of pear with goat cheese; he had the cauliflower au gratin. He had the flank steak for his main, and I had a burger. Since it was in the lobby of the hotel, we didn’t have to travel very far at all. Well worth it!
And while I didn’t get to visit these locations personally, they come highly recommended:
Bitters & Bones, 65 Broadway, Saranac Lake, NY 12983 – Family-friendly with two rooftop decks. Food prepared with local ingredients.
RiverTrail Beerworks, 79 Woodruff Street, Saranac Lake, NY – Local brewpub serving a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free items.
Our Plates, 7 Broadway, Saranac Lake, NY 12983 – Celebrating a combination of Cape Verdean-American and Caribbean cultures’ culinary traditions.
Where to Eat in Tupper Lake?
Raquette River Brewing, 11 Balsam St. #2, Tupper Lake, NY 12986
You know it’s a good brewery when you see snowmobiles parked outside. This large beerhall, complete with artisan chandeliers, boasts 44 beer taps of their own brews. For food? Be sure to check out the food trucks right outside. You can buy food there and bring it in, great options! My son and I enjoyed pizzas, and I was sure to pick up some cans of sour to take home.
Dinner at Woodshed on Park, 218 Park St, Tupper Lake, NY 12986
Aesthetically, this is one of my favourite places I have ever eaten in. As soon as I saw the entrance foyer, I knew I was in the right spot. Step into the restaurant, and if you can catch the Beetlejuice nod in the china cabinet, you’re my mind of people. Woodshed on Park serves French-Canadian-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails, and if you know how good food from Quebec is, you know how good the food here is.
I ordered the pork chop, and my son got the three-cheese cavatelli. It is so decadent, filling, and worth it.
What Are Other Activities To Do In and Around Saranac Lake?
Saranac Lake is an outdoor lover’s paradise, no matter the season. It’s the perfect basecamp for adventure.
In the winter, the region transforms into a snowy playground, offering incredible cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at places like Paul Smiths College VIC, as well as downhill skiing at nearby slopes. Ice fishing, snowmobiling, hiking, and even winter paddling for the brave add to the list of cold-weather activities.
Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing at Paul Smiths College VIC
On your way to Saranac Lake, we made a stop at Paul Smiths College VIC, where over 25 miles of trails transform into a winter paradise for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. My son and I rented cross-country skis and hit the trails together—XC skiing is a family favourite activity, and there’s nothing quite like gliding through the serene, snow-covered woods.
The trails at Paul Smiths VIC offer a mix of a peaceful escape in nature or a heart-pumping workout, easy, family-friendly routes and more challenging terrain for seasoned skiers, making it a great experience for all levels. We stuck to the beginner’s trail – Logger’s Loop, as my son is still relatively new at the sport, but I grew up doing it and love it.
A valid day or season pass is required for winter trail use, and rentals are available at the main building. Trails are open from Wednesday to Sunday until dusk.
Hike Baker Mountain
189 Forest Hill Ave, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
Baker Mountain is the perfect little hike when you want those breathtaking Adirondack views without committing to an all-day trek. Sitting right on the edge of Saranac Lake, this 1.8-mile round-trip hike is part of the Saranac Lake 6er Challenge, which means it’s got some bragging rights attached. It might be short, but don’t be fooled—Baker gets your heart pumping right from the start with a steady climb from Moody Pond, verified by me.
The trail splits into two loops: take a left if you want an easier ascent, or go right if you’re up for a steeper challenge with some fun ledges to scramble over. Either way, you’re rewarded with an epic summit view overlooking the Village of Saranac Lake, McKenzie Mountain, and the stunning Adirondack High Peaks.
If you’re tackling Baker in the winter, microspikes are a game-changer. You can grab a pair at Blue Line Sports, conveniently located right across the street from Hotel Saranac. They open at 10 AM, so there’s time for a leisurely breakfast before hitting the trail. I travel with my own in my trunk.
Trust me—Baker is one of those hikes that feels like a true Adirondack adventure without totally wiping you out. It’s a must-do if you’re in the area! Parking is not in a parking lot or a driveway but rather along the side of the road.
Saranac Laboratory Museum,
89 Church St Suite 2, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
The Saranac Laboratory Museum tells the fascinating story of how this little Adirondack town became a world-renowned tuberculosis treatment destination. Built in 1894, this was the first lab in the U.S. dedicated to TB research, and today, it’s an eye-opening museum that gives visitors a glimpse into the past—when fresh mountain air was considered the ultimate cure, known as fresh air therapy. I bugged my son the whole time we were in there telling him the cure for everything is to go outside! I always tell him that!
Operated by Historic Saranac Lake, the museum is small but packed with exhibits on the history Dr. Trudeau, the lab that he built, his theories on tuberculosis treatment, the science behind the disease, and the experiences of the patients who arrived hoping for a cure. You’ll find artifacts from the era, scientific equipment, and even personal stories that bring this history to life.
Open Tuesdays to Saturdays, plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour here—it’s the perfect stop to break up an outdoor adventure with a little history and perspective on Saranac Lake’s past. If you love learning about unique pieces of the past, this museum is definitely worth a visit and the curator we met when we entered was so enthusiastic and friendly.
Adirondack Carousel
2 Depot Street, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
If you’re looking for a little old-fashioned fun in Saranac Lake, the Adirondack Carousel is a must-stop, no matter your age. This isn’t just any carousel—it’s a beautifully handcrafted ride featuring Adirondack wildlife instead of traditional horses. Think black bears, moose, bald eagles, and even a fish, all carved and painted with incredible attention to detail. It’s a celebration of the region’s natural beauty wrapped up in a nostalgic, whimsical experience.
The carousel sits inside a cozy pavilion, whether you need a break from the summer sun or a warm spot on a chilly winter day. My son loved the ride and I enjoyed it too (obviously), but even as an adult, I couldn’t help but admire the artistry and charm of it all. After riding it was complete, we took some time to work on a puzzle and relax a bit.
Open on weekends, this spot is a great add-on to any Saranac Lake adventure.
Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake deliver the ultimate Adirondack winter adventure, blending outdoor thrills, cute small towns, and a little bit of winter magic. Exploring the Saranac Laboratory Museum, tackling the Baker Mountain hike, and even spinning on the Adirondack Carousel, every stop along the way offers something unique. Cross-country skiing at Paul Smiths College VIC is the perfect way to soak in the region’s pristine winter beauty, while a stay at the historic Hotel Saranac brings that cozy, old-world charm.
But the true highlight? Wild Lights at The Wild Center, where thousands of glowing lights transform the snowy landscape into a dazzling wonderland. From wandering the treetops on The Wild Walk to stepping inside a larger-than-life Stickwork sculpture, this family-oriented experience is sure to please!
