Our list of top places in the Hudson Valley to experience science with your little ones. Return to the article here.
Ulster County
John R. Kirk Planetarium and Observatory
SUNY New Paltz
The main theme for this site is astronomy. They have wonderful year-round shows that teach children and adults about our universe, from the constellations, different types of stars, and various other space phenomena.
Minnewaska State Park
Kerhonkson
We live in a wonderful region where nature parks and hiking trails are plentiful. Minnewaska State Park has wonderful trails for you and your children to explore, but they also have workshops on various topics that range from natural history to journaling.
Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary
Woodstock
This farm offers both a farm and a vegan bed and breakfast (for either a small family or just a parent’s night away!). They do educational workshops on farming techniques (lots of animal-based science), and go into detail about their rescues and where our meat comes from in the supermarket.
Rocking Horse Ranch
Highland
Rocking Horse Ranch offers many activities, including their own nature trails where you can view nature and make observations with your children. This site will definitely keep you busy, and you can easily make a weekend out of it with their family-friendly accommodations!
Forsythe Nature Center
Kingston
If the playground here doesn’t draw you in, the zoo definitely will! This is a great place to have a picnic, play on the playground, and bring some veggies and popcorn to feed the animals, while learning about the different species that they house there.
Orange County
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum
Cornwall
This site offers a variety of biology- and geology-based activities for kids and adults alike! From bird watching to fossils to their hikes, your family is sure to have a fulfilling time here!
Museum Village
Monroe
Museum Village offers a different type of science education. They have various exhibits that offer natural and historical science with their complete mastodon skeleton, their energy building, and their drug store.
Sullivan County
Frost Valley YMCA
Claryville
Frost Valley YMCA participates in environmental science research by tracking pollutants in precipitation, and operating both a rain gauge and a weather station. Family and group retreats are available for small or large groups.
Upper Room Farms
Mongaup Valley
Upper Room Farms offers an intimate petting zoo where you can just visit, or they can host your child’s next birthday party!
Dutchess County
Mid-Hudson Children's Museum
Poughkeepsie
The exhibits here change, but their commitment to helping children’s imagination and critical thinking skills don’t! They currently even have an exhibit that helps children learn about practical math!
Locust Grove
Poughkeepsie
Locust Grove offers exhibits that show the simpler side of physics with workshops introducing children to simple machines, electricity, and magnetism!