Glens Falls, a city located in upstate New York, is big enough to offer plenty of activities for children, yet small enough to have a hometown feel. Situated just south of the Adirondack Mountains, Glens Falls boasts picturesque scenery and is a wonderful place to visit any time of the year.
The Civic Center is located in the heart of Glens Falls, and offers many activities including child-friendly sports, concerts and special events such as the circus, rodeo or theater. There is an indoor ice rink, and when the weather outside is not conducive to taking a walk with the children, the Civic Center opens its doors to those who would like to walk around the facility.
Glens Falls Civic Center
1 Civic Center Plaza
Glens Falls, NY 12801
518-798-0366
glensfallscc.com
On Warren Street in Glens Falls, parents will find a child-friendly facility named Explore!, which offers hands-on activities for children such as a climbing loft, a pirate ship and castle and a nature center where children can check out many small creatures from the Glens Falls area. Explore! also offers a water discovery area, a pretend restaurant and animal care area, as well as a quiet, soft space for children 3 and under.
Explore!
103 Warren St.
Glens Falls, NY 12801
518-793-7803
exploreinglensfalls.com
For children who love the outdoors, Moreau Lake State Park is a popular destination in Glens Falls. Children can swim in the lake or build a castle on the sandy beach. Fishing, boating, nature trails and picnic facilities are available, and for those who cannot get enough done in one day, campsites are available.
Moreau Lake State Park
605 Old Saratoga Road
Gansevoort, NY 12831
518-793-0511
nysparks.state.ny.us
For bike riding families, Glens Falls is the midway point in a bike path that extends north to the popular tourist destination of Lake George. Head south and the path takes you to Saratoga Springs. Provided by the Adirondack/Glens Falls Transportation Council, this paved path is a safe area for children to ride their bikes. Pick up the trail at 30 Dix Ave., between Cherry and Sagamore streets, in the heart of downtown Glens Falls. Pack a few dollars and stop at one of the ice cream shops along the way.
Adirondack/Glens Falls Transportation Council
518-746-2199
agftc.org
This art museum opens its doors and welcomes children with regular programs throughout the year. During the school year, kids can come every Wednesday afternoon to create their own masterpieces. Visitors can also meet local artists, or make creations together with their families. Special "Tours for Tots" are geared for 3- to 6-year-olds.
The Hyde Collection
161 Warren St.
Glens Falls, NY 12801
518-792-1761
hydecollection.org
Jiggawatts is a one-of-a-kind place for kids who love video games. They offer every video game system and game available, and kids can pay by the hour to play on their very own flat screen while relaxing on comfortable leather seats. Play individually or against other gamers, and competitive children can look into joining organized leagues.
Jiggawatts
62 Lawerence St.
Glens Falls, NY 12801
518-832-1415
jiggawattsgaming.com