The Best Science Museum in the Country Is in Upstate New York

Upstate New York is known for destinations ranging from beautiful landscapes to award-winning wineries... but did you know about the spectacular museum that's literally sitting in the treetops?

There are a few unexpected gems hidden in the Empire State. The world's longest mountain coaster, for example, is nestled in the Adirondacks and visited by thrill-seekers across the globe (below). A bit further north, there's another resource that expertly blends in with its surroundings as well.

The Perfect Upstate New York Road Trip

An upstate road trip will take visitors past some truly surreal sights, including the general store with a tree growing through it as well as the home built on top of a factory roof. But back to the museum...

The Wild Center Museum in Tupper Lake, NY

The Wild Center, which opened in Tupper Lake, NY in 2006, is a museum focused on nature, science, and "inspir[ing] action to ensure a thriving natural world". The unique design of the museum invites visitors to be fully immersed in their surroundings.

USA Today's Best Science Museum in the Country Is in Tupper Lake, NY

The museum focuses on nature through indoor exhibits as well as literally putting visitors smack in the middle of the Adirondack forest through their "wild walk" through the treetops (below). The Wild Center was rated the #1 science museum by USA Today in 2024 and made the top ten list again in 2025. 

The museum's focus on education and nature immersion is not very different from the mission of the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, which educates residents not only on their natural surroundings, but the importance of its stewardship.

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While the trip to the Wild Center will already be exciting, there are plenty more fun, weird, and interesting spots to check out on the way there. Plan your upstate New York road trip below.