Snowshoeing is an easy and affordable way to round out a day, and it's an activity accessible to nearly all ages.
AlexD75/Getty Images/iStockphotoIt feels like the Christmas holiday was just last week, but here we are in mid-February days away from the start of winter school recess.
A routine-free respite is great, but an empty slate over February break can result in video gaming sessions that require professional intervention, wall-crawling boredom and broke parents frantic to fill each day.
Fortunately, there are a number of inexpensive ways to fill the vacation week schedule. Here are some suggestions suited to a variety of interests:
Science minds: Science and math are critical to building creativity. The Museum of Science & Innovation in Schenectady's Design Zone proves just that. Kids who explore the interactive exhibit can discover the secrets behind how video game developers, music producers and others create, solve problems and innovate.
Outdoor adventurers: Moreau Lakes State Park has a variety of programs for kids of all ages, including a snowshoe obstacle course. Speaking of snowshoeing, the Wilton Wildlife Park & Preserve rents out snowshoes throughout the week from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (last call by 2 p.m.) at the Camp Saratoga North cabin on Scout Road in Wilton. There are shoes available for children and adults priced at $5 and $10, respectively. Snowshoe rentals are also available at Thacher State Park in Voorheesville for $5 to $10 per day at the Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center.
Sports fans: The Harlem Globetrotters are stopping by the Glens Falls Civic Center on Wednesday, Feb. 22, to show off their skills and athleticism. Tickets start at $18. The Glens Falls Civic Center is also home of the Adirondack Thunder hockey team, which will host a "Kids Takeover" event Saturday, Feb. 25. A $75 admission special includes four tickets, a $10 Dunkin' gift card and four tickets to bowl at Kingpin Alley in South Glens Falls.
Art lovers: The Arts Center of the Capital Region hosts a variety of winter camps for kids age 6 through teen in fashion design, ceramics and more. Art in Mind Creative Wellness Studio in Scotia offers a variety of workshops as well as open art studio drop-in sessions throughout the week. The Albany Institute of History & Art also offers a variety of exhibits, programs and drop-in sessions so be sure to check out the schedule.
Mini musicians: The Music Studio will once again host its Musical Fun Fest, a 90-minute program of teacher-led musical activities for children ages 3 to 6. The program, which includes games, songs, dances, instrument play, a make-and-take instrument and a mini kids' concert by Andy "The Music Man" Morse will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21; 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22 and Thursday, Feb. 23. Admission is $8 in advance or $10 at the door.
Critter connoisseurs: The VIA Aquarium in Rotterdam offers children the opportunity to explore our oceans — even feed stingrays — but the facility also features a reptile show where brave kids can cozy up to pythons, tarantulas and a bearded dragon. Admission to the aquarium is $20 for adults and $14 for children (2 and younger are free). Discounted tickets are available for military personnel, teachers, college students, first responders and seniors 62 and older.
Film aficionados: Catching the latest family flick doesn’t have to be super costly. There are quite a few ways to see a movie for less (sneaking in snacks aside). Matinee screenings are always cheaper. Regal Cinemas offers tickets for $6.50 on Tuesdays.
Car nuts: Those of a certain age may have absolutely no clue who James Bond is, however they can get familiar with 007 at the Saratoga Automobile Museum's "Bond in Motion" car show. The exhibit includes several cars from the film franchise. Children younger than 6 are admitted free. If they really dig the whole espionage thing, the museum is offering a Spy Institute from 9 a.m.-noon Feb. 21-24. Cost is $100 for the four-day program.
Budding anglers: The New York state Department of Environment Conservation is hosting a Free Fishing Weekend Feb. 19-20 that will allow anglers the opportunity fish without a license. In conjuction, Grafton Lakes State Park and the Capital District Sportsman Center will partner for an ice fishing clinic from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 19. Adults and children of all ages are welcome to drop in to discover more about the cold-weather sport. If you can't make that clinic, Moreau Lakes State Park is hosting one from 10 a.m. to noon Monday, Feb. 20.
Skate hounds. The Empire State Plaza ice rink is open daily from noon to 8 p.m. (closed for maintenance from 3:30-4:30 p.m.) and skating is free. Rentals are available whenever the rink is open and cost $3 for children 12 and younger and $4 for adults. Rental skates are free every Saturday courtesy of Hannaford Supermarkets. If your little one prefers wheels — and warmth — Rollerama in Schenectady offers open skating from 1 to 4 p.m. A $45 family four-pack covers admission and skate rental.
Bibliophiles: In addition to thousands of books, chances are good your favorite library has a slew of family activities. Most post those calendars to their website. And guess what? Most activities are free.
Bowling buffs: The Saratoga Strike Zone bowling alley has a “Day Off Special” during break starting at 9 a.m. each weekday. For $15, kids can spend two hours perfecting their technique for throwing a strike, or a spare; shoe rental; bumper car rides; pizza and a drink. Del Lanes in Delmar offers a similar special for $11 a person.
Sensory friendly: Bring on the Spectrum Community Space and Sensory Gym will be open noon to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday during break (10-11 am is Toddler Time). Children can enjoy ceramics, yoga, Zumba, arts, crafts, slime making and more. Online reservations are encouraged.