Now in its 59th season, the Adirondack Museum in Blue Mountain Lake continues to showcase outstanding Adirondack exhibits, special exhibitions and events.

The layout of the museum is perfect for letting children explore a bit on their own. We always take the prerequisite family photo in the oversized Adirondack chair. Once inside the grounds my children still rush off to the Reising One Room Schoolhouse to play games and make projects. I believe it is the only time that my son has willingly done laundry. It’s difficult to choose my favorite spots though I always make time to visit The Great Outdoors and the Marion River Pavilion exhibits.

Once again the special exhibits are diverse and engaging. Feathered Friends: Birder’s Byway is an interactive display at the Merwin Hill Pavilion highlighting Adirondack birding from the 1800s to today. Look for signs around the grounds that showcase local birds and their characteristics. Weaving a Legacy: Mohawk Basketry Traditions features practical, commercial and artistic baskets and their 150-year legacy. From August 27-30 Natasha Smoke Santiago will be the basket maker-in-residence with a unique mix of traditional and contemporary styles. Also enjoy A Sense of Place: Ellen Phelan’s Kenjockety, a new series of 24 oversized pigment prints exploring one Adirondack location.

Author and naturalist Ed Kanze provides guided nature walks along the historic path to Minnow Pond. Kanze is a wealth of information and willingly shares his love of nature with people of all ages. The Thursday afternoon walks are a separate ticket, not included in admission. Reservations are recommended as space is limited.

The Adirondack Museum is open every day from 10 am – 5 pm until October 10th. When you go, make sure to print the $2 discount coupon good off one adult admission.  All admissions are also good for a second visit within the same week. Keep in mind that August 29 is the last “Museum Monday” of the season where hours are extended until 7:30 pm so come early and stay late and see the grounds in a new light. Enjoy!

Photo of the 1901 H.K. Porter Company steam engine used with the permission of Diane Chase, AdirondackFamilyTime.com