The folks at Adirondack Experience: the Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, which opens for the season today, have spent the winter updating and adding to its exhibits and creating new ones. The popular “Great Outdoors” and “Life In the Adirondacks” exhibits remain along with other permanent and scenic displays.

The new Curious Creatures exhibit explores the relationship of humans, nature, and animals through taxidermy. Some of these private pieces have never been on public exhibition before.  Private Views: Collecting the Adirondacks features 19th century artists inspired to paint an Adirondack landscape. Borrowed from private collectors, this exhibit is a unique opportunity to see the work of these artists.

The third new element is an outdoor experience. In July the trail to Minnow Pond and the new ADKX boathouse will open. The ¾-mile hike offers an informational kiosk, nature scavenger hunt, and more adventurous backpacks. At the boathouse canoes, guideboats, and skiffs will be available to rent, or visitors can just enjoy the view and the traditional rustic boathouse décor.

This Adirondack museum houses over twenty buildings on 32 acres of land with beautiful gardens and ponds. There are many interactive elements. The Rising Schoolhouse includes paper crafts and era-specific wooden toys. Young people can imagine a pioneer life in the Kids’ Cabin, or climb an Adirondack fire tower.  Since that barely touches on all the activities, keep in mind all admissions are valid for a second visit within a one-week time period.

Call (518) 352-7311 for more information. The museum is open daily May 24-October 14 from 10 am to 5 pm.  If you visit the website at www.adkx.org, click on the brochure icon for a coupon good for $2 off one adult admission. There is no charge for children under six and active military personnel. Full-time Adirondack Park residents receive free admission on the second and fourth Sundays of each month. Enjoy!