Summer is all about enjoying the outdoors, but we all know the heat can get to you. It can be a tricky balance, especially with kids. If you're trying to figure out just how much sun is too much, sit back, we've got it all figured out for you. Perfect summer getaway, with a nice balance of outdoor fun, plus indoor activities that are anything but boring. 

 

 

Howe Caverns

Howe Caverns has been offering underground adventures for families for over 80 years.

Outside: 
Explore the new Howe High Adventure Park. The park features a four tower Zip Line, Sky Trail Ropes Course, a 26 ft climbing wall and air jumper. The park also includes H2OGo Balls, a 12-foot inflatable ball, with 5 gallons of water, and one long hill equals 1,100 feet of wet and wild fun. These new attractions are seasonal, May-Oct and offer guests the opportunity to stay longer and do more.

Inside: In addition, a new 6000 sq ft Gemstone Mining building opened allowing year-round gemstone panning for semi-precious minerals. Adjacent to our Gemstone mining building, is a 250 seat three-season Pavilion that may be reserved for events.

 

 

 

John Boyd Thacher State Park

John Boyd Thacher State Park is situated along the Helderberg Escarpment, one of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world.

Outside: Hike along six miles of limestone cliff-face, rock-strewn slopes, woodland and open fields, the park provides a marvelous panorama of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and the Adirondack and Green Mountains. The park has volleyball courts, playgrounds, ball fields and numerous picnic areas with nine shelters that can be reserved in advance.

Inside: Interpretive programs are offered at the brand-new $3.8M Thacher Park Visitors Center. Colorful exhibits address the park's interesting past, and interactive activities offers lots of engaging fun for kids. 

 

 

Albany Pine Bush Preserve

Located in the heart of the Capital District Region, the Albany Pine Bush represents one of the best remaining examples of an inland pine barrens ecosystem in the world.

Outside: Hike the this gently rolling sand plain, which is home to a unique diversity of rare animals and plants, including 45 wildlife Species of Greatest Conservation Need in New York State.

Inside: Explore the Pine Bush Discovery Center, with its hands-on activities devoted to the habitat of the pine bush. While the Albany Pine Bush provides a special habitat for many plants and animals. The center also hosts an ambitous roster of programming, including exploratory hikes and wildlife programs. 
 
 

 

Crossgates Mall 

Inside: This shopping center has become a mecca for family entertainment. Don't just play with the kids, immerse yourself in hands-on experiences with them! This year, Billy Beez, 5 Wits, and Lucky Strike Social, joined Dave & Buster's and Johnny Rockets at Albany's premiere shopping center, transforming Crossgates Mall into a family-friendly lifestyle center. Spend the day getting to know the new Crossgates.