This guide was created to help make the month of February a little bit easier for you!
Scroll to the bottom of this guide for a list of 9 ways to entertain your kids this winter in the 518 on a budget.
BLUE IRIS PHOTOGRAPHY
Booking our most popular Heart and Soul Newborn session? Use CDM’s code: CDMHSNB50 for $50 off your session fee.
Know someone expecting?! Check out our work at www.blueirisphotos.com/newborn
You’ll both enjoy our state of the art studio, picturesque 3 acres, vintage props, client’s closet, and of course our experienced
See some session types we offer at: https://app.usesession.com/
872 Middleline Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020
Follow Blue Iris Photography on Facebook and Instagram
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-320-4862
Email: linda@blueirisphotos.
BOTTOMLESS BRICKS
Discover the ultimate destination for LEGO® fans at Bottomless Bricks where we blend a LEGO® resale store with birthday parties and events for all ages. Our store offers a treasure trove of new and preowned sets, parts, and collectible Minifigures®. We also buy your LEGO® that may be collecting dust, taking up too much space, or the bin of parts you found in the basement. Visit our website to book your party online, shop for sets and check our calendar of events, or visit our store in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.
*LEGO® and Minifigure® are trademarks of LEGO® and the LEGO® Group of companies which do not sponsor or endorse Bottomless Bricks.
163 South St #4, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Follow Bottomless Bricks on Facebook and Instagram
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 413-344-9259
Email: [email protected]
BUBBLE HOUSE RENTALS LLC
Use discount code “CDMOMS” for 10% off any order when booking online or reference it when calling.
Bounce House rentals, Soft Play, Balloons and more! The Capital Region’s premier modern bounce house company – we have everything from modern white bounce houses to classic multi-color bounce houses and everything in between. We operate YEAR-ROUND, offering soft play, several indoor bounce house options and concessions throughout the winter. We also create custom balloon decorations for every occasion and often pair them with our modern bounce houses, making for a stunning addition to any event. Currently booking for ALL of 2024, please check out our new website with easy-to-use online booking!
CAPITAL COOKS
12 Walker Way, Colonie, NY 12203
Follow Capital Cooks on Facebook and Instagram
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-810-8412
Email: [email protected]
CAPITAL DISTRICT FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC
At Capital District Family Chiropractic, we help children and families achieve optimal health! What makes our office different? We are the only neurologically-focused chiropractic office in the Capital District! Dr. Rhiannon is the only local chiropractor certified in pediatric and prenatal care through pxdocs.com. We use iNSIGHT scanning technology to locate and measure stress and tension in the nervous system that can cause behavioral, social, and developmental challenges in kiddos. Families comes to our office to find the root cause of their symptoms such as anxiety, poor digestion, immune system challenges, sleep disturbances, headaches, and more. Give your family the gift of optimal health by scheduling your nervous system assessments today!
Follow Capital District Family Chiropractic on Facebook and Instagram
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-599-0067
Email: [email protected]
CROSSGATES
One Crossgates Mall Road, Albany NY 12203
Follow Crossgates on Facebook and Instagram
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-869-3522
Email: [email protected]
DICK’S HOUSE OF SPORT
Girls Empowerment Clinic with appearances by Albany FireWolves players and head coach.
All participants will receive a prize pack. Cost $10.00 per participant.
Space is limited.
579 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110
Follow DICK’S House of Sport on Facebook and Instagram
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-213-3478
Email: [email protected]
Dryer Vent Wizard of SE Saratoga & NE Schenectady provides professional dryer vent cleaning for residential and business properties in the Capital Region. When your dryer is functioning poorly, it is likely due to a clogged or debris-filled dryer vent line. Lint, debris, and other common sources of dryer vent clogs can not only affect the efficiency of your dryer, but they can also be a serious fire hazard.
Click here to visit their website.
ELLIE MENTAL HEALTH – LATHAM, NY
Ellie Mental Health in Latham, New York isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
1182 Troy Schenectady Road Suite 204, Latham, NY 12110
Follow Ellie Mental Health on Facebook and Instagram.
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-400-5180
Email: [email protected]
GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTHEASTERN NEW YORK
This year is a new opportunity to forge your own path and discover amazing things about yourself. Don’t miss your chance to grow, learn, and laugh with new friends by your side! It’s your year of discovery with Girl Scouts! Learn more today at https://www.girlscoutsneny.org/ The 2024 Camp Guide is here! Get a sneak peek at all the incredible camp themes we have to offer and prepare for summer 2024. Registration opened on January 17th. This is your summer! https://ow.ly/2jU450Qm0bE
Service Center Locations in Albany, Queensbury, and Plattsburgh.
Follow Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York on Facebook and Instagram.
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-489-8110
Email: customercare@girlscoutsneny.
GO KIDS
Go Kids is a sports and physical activity program for ages 18 months-9 years old. Go Kids offers children the ability to develop a love for an active lifestyle through an introduction into a variety of sports such as; soccer, football, basketball, tennis, baseball, hockey, and track and field. Additionally, Go Kids offers school break camps and additional classes for school aged children including; LEGO Club, Strong Kids, and Just for Kicks. Go Kids works to meet each child where they are at to instill a love for being active.
Locations in Saratoga and Clifton Park
Follow Go Kids on Facebook and Instagram.
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-878-6502
Email: [email protected]
HUDSON BOULDERS
Calling all parents! If you haven’t heard, we’ve mastered the art of turning your little bundles of energy into tired little climbers! Our Kids Pass offers 90 minutes of non-stop climbing fun for just $29.95 per climber. Give yourself a well-deserved break while your kids have a blast and burn off all that energy. It’s a win-win for everyone!
195 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110
Follow Hudson Boulders on Facebook & Instagram.
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 838-221-7673
Email: [email protected]
KEYSTONE PHYSICAL THERAPY
12 Metro Park Road Suite 208, Albany, NY 12205
Follow Keystone Physical Therapy on Facebook and Instagram.
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-304-6006
Email: [email protected]
LOZMAN ORTHODONTICS
Dr. Robin Lozman is a lot of things. A doctor. A mother. A competitive equestrian. A volunteer for nonprofits. But one of her greatest passions comes from her work as an orthodontist: transforming her patients’ smiles. At her family practice in Latham, New York, Dr. Lozman specializes in comprehensive orthodontic treatment for children and adults, from early interventions and orthognathic surgery to braces and Invisalign. Dr. Lozman works alongside her father, Dr. Michael Lozman, to help people from all walks of life achieve a brighter, healthier and straighter smile, improving their confidence while maintaining a consistently high standard of care. Click here to learn more about Dr. Lozman.
MUSEUM OF INNOVATION AND SCIENCE
Go full STEAM ahead at miSci this fall with brand-new exhibits, events, and break classes. Visit the Museum to experience interactive activities, see historical wonders, and learn about science, technology, engineering, arts, and math! Great for the whole family, visit www.miSci.org to learn more.
15 Museum Drive, Schenectady, NY 12308
Follow miSci on Facebook and Instagram.
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-382-7890
Email: [email protected]
NY WOMEN’S EXPO
The BIGGEST event for women in the 518! Grab your girlfriends for this fun & fabulous 2 day event! With 150+ vendors, get ready to shop, sample, & pamper yourself! March 2nd & 3rd at the Marriott in Albany on Wolf Rd. Snag your tickets today! Click here to purchase tickets!
Follow the NY Women’s Expo on Facebook & Instagram.
Phone #: (518) 879-2995
Email: [email protected]
READY SET PLAY
675 Merrill Road, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Follow Ready Set Play on Facebook & Instagram
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 413-344-4228
Email: info@readysetplayberkshires.
ROBERT C. PARKER SCHOOL
Celebrating 30+ years of progressive education!
Parker’s philosophy puts students at the center of their own learning. Parker teachers focus on constructing authentic experiences that respond to students’ interests and needs while building on academic and social skills. The result is that students get to spend their day engaged in projects and learning that is individualized, meaningful, and connected to the real-world, and all done on an expansive 77 acre campus.
Programs for PreK 3 and 4 year olds through 8th Grade & Forest Toddlers (18 months- 3 years).
Join us for an open house: February 28th, March 21st or April 24th Click here to RSVP.
4254 Route 43, North Greenbush, NY 12198
Follow Robert C. Parker School on Facebook & Instagram
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-286-3449
Email: [email protected]
SARATOGA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL
Saratoga Independent School is a private day school located on a 60 acre campus, offering students from year 3 (PreK) to 8th grade with an education that inspires curious and confident learners capable of critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and articulate expression. SIS offers challenging academics, small class sizes, spanish, art and music for all grades, after school clubs and sports, before and after care programs, scholarships and financial aid. As an inclusive, nurturing community that values diversity and mutual respect, SIS strives to cultivate the knowledge, skills, work ethic, and character for students to lead purposeful, healthy lives. Schedule a tour with Colleen Fortune, Director of Admissions (Email [email protected] or call 518-583-0841).
459 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Follow Saratoga Independent School on Facebook & Instagram
Click here to visit their website.
Colleen Fortune, Director of Admissions,
Phone #: 518-583-0841
Email: [email protected]
SUMMER DAYS @ DOANE STUART
Children in PreK through 8th grade are invited to join us for seven uniquely themed weeks of enriching summer programs! Registration for SD@DS opens February 1st. Email [email protected] for more information. Now enrolling for the 24-25 school year, we invite you to visit and discover why Doane Stuart is one of the Capital Region’s premiere private schools. Register to join us at one of our upcoming Open Houses on March 6th! Learn more at www.doanestuart.org, email admissions@doanestuart.
199 Washington Ave, Rensselaer, NY 12144
Follow The Doane Stuart School on Facebook and Instagram.
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-465-5222
Email: admissions@doanestuart.
THE MUSIC STUDIO
The Music Studio has been a regional leader in music education since its founding in 1977. We offer short-term classes for children as young as age 2, and an award-winning school-year Foundation Program for children ages 4 to 7. With an exceptional faculty and bright, well-equipped classrooms, we invite students to tap into their natural love of music, challenge them to excel as musicians, and support every step of their musical journey. Find out what makes our program different at themusicstudio.com. Or call 518-459-7799 for more information.
1237 Central Ave, Albany, NY 12205
Follow The Music Studio on Facebook and Instagram
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-459-7799
Email: [email protected]
THE SALT DEN
654 Watervliet Shaker Road, Latham, NY 12110
Follow The Salt Den on Facebook and Instagram.
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-785-7258
Email: [email protected]
THE SARA MARIE SCHOOL
The Sara Marie School is a private independent school encouraging love for self, building character, and strong community involvement, all while building a firm educational foundation. Enrollment is now open for 2024-2025 school year! Full Day 3 Year, Pre-K and Kindergarten Programs. Call or email for a tour!
942 Route 146, Clifton Park, NY 12065
Follow The Sara Marie School on Facebook and Instagram.
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-280-3982
Email: [email protected]
THE SUSAN ODELL TAYLOR SCHOOL & THE DOANE STUART SCHOOL
Explore the excellence of Taylor School and The Doane Stuart School at our Winter Open House! Join us for an immersive experience into our vibrant academic community, where personalized learning, a nurturing environment, and a commitment to excellence converge. Discover how our dedicated faculty, innovative programs, and outstanding facilities create a dynamic educational journey for every student. We invite you to tour our campus, meet our passionate educators, and learn about the unique opportunities that set our schools apart.
116 Pinewoods Avenue Troy, NY 12180
Middle School (Grade 5 – Grade 8)
199 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer, NY 12144
VIA AQUARIUM
Take your family on an unforgettable journey as you explore vivid underwater worlds across 45 exhibits. Feel the soft, smooth skin of a stingray as they swim right up to your hand in Stingray Bay. Watch sharks swim overhead while schools of fish surround you in our immersive tunnel tanks. From local favorites to the depths of the ocean, explore our planet’s oceans and rivers all in your own backyard on this self-guided exploration.
93 West Campbell Road, Schenectady, NY 12306
Follow Via Aquarium on Facebook and Instagram
Click here to visit their website.
Phone #: 518-280-5100
Email: [email protected]
9 WAYS TO ENTERTAIN YOUR KIDS THIS WINTER IN THE 518 ON A BUDGET
THE BELOW IDEAS ARE FREE OR INEXPENSIVE
1. Visit a library.
Many libraries have great children’s programs and play areas for children. The Saratoga Springs Public Library has one of my favorite play areas. Click here to see pictures.
Many of the children’s programs have limited capacity and require you to register ahead of time.
2. Visit the New York State Museum in downtown Albany.
Admission is FREE to the NYS museum and it is FREE to ride the carousel that is located on the 4th floor of the museum.
3. Grab a bite to eat at McDonald’s and let the kids play at McDonald’s PlayPlace.
Click here to see pictures of PlayPlaces that I have visited in the Capital District.
**Not all McDonald’s have PlayPlaces.
4. The Wilton Mall has a FREE indoor play area.
5. Grab a museum pass for your local library and take a day trip.
7. Story Hour at the Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza
Bi-weekly story hours on Wednesdays (starting February 14, 2024) from 10 – 11 a.m. Story hour is free and recommended for ages 0 – 4 years old. Parents are required to attend with children. Space is limited so tickets are required. Click here to reserve your spot.
8. Visit the Corning Tower Observation Deck in Downtown Albany.
9. Ice Skating/Sledding
Click here to see pictures I have taken of ice rinks (indoor & outdoor) & places to go sledding in the Capital District.
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