The Adirondack Wild Center Named #2 Science Museum in America

Number 2 in the Nation

A beloved Adirondack attraction got some national attention recently when it was nominated as one of the USA's best, and when the results came in, it earned one of the top spots in the country.

The Wild Center in Tupper Lake has officially ranked #2 Best Science Museum in the United States in USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

After being selected as one of 20 finalists by an expert panel, the Wild Center competed against some of the biggest and most well-known science museums in America — and finished second nationally.

Big Win for the ADKs

This is a nice little win for the Adirondacks, and certainly can't hurt tourism.  I've only read about this place and seen photos online, but it looks fun.

Situated on a breathtaking 115-acre campus in Tupper Lake, The Wild Center blends science, nature, and hands-on learning in a way that’s uniquely Adirondack. Its 54,000-square-foot indoor facility features interactive exhibits exploring wildlife, natural history, climate science, and cutting-edge technology.

Outside, visitors can explore scenic trails, a private pond, and riverfront experiences that bring science to life in the middle of nature.

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The museum is also home to hundreds of live animals and offers year-round programming, including naturalist-led walks, animal encounters, and seasonal events.

For families across the Capital Region and beyond, it has long been a must-visit destination.

Now, it’s officially recognized as one of the very best in the nation — proof that something truly special is happening right here in Upstate New York.