water safari admission

Enchanted Forest Water Safari in Old Forge: Hours, admission and more info

• Updated: Apr. 23, 2015, 7:15 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 23, 2015, 6:15 p.m.
• Julie McMahon | [email protected]

Old Forge is where the fun never stops, especially for families looking to cool off and get away. When you make your way through the Adirondack Mountains to the entrance of the Enchanted Forest Water Safari amusement park, you'll be greeted by the massive, unwavering Killermanjaro. Some go straight for the park's biggest water slide and slip down at 30 mph. Some prefer the wave pool or a lazy, lounging river ride. Either way, New York's largest water park is a great way to beat the heat.

What to expect

A child floats down the Raging Rapids ride at the Enchanted Forest Water Safari in Old Forge.

Water Safari: The highlight of this amusement park, easily, is feeling like your in a wet, splashy, life-sized version of shoots and ladders. There are hours of high-speed slides, kid's slides, pools, tube rides, lazy and not-so-lazy rivers. You can go up and down these with a buddy on a double-tube or fly solo. Snacks and refreshments are scattered throughout the park to keep you hydrated and happy as you slide the day away.

Enchanted Forest: The Enchanted Forest has been overshadowed by it's partner water rides, but for those looking for a break from the chlorine, the rides at the northeastern part of the park are classic carnival rides like the scrambler and Ferris wheel.

Calypso Cove: For turf group activities, Calypso Cove offers rock climbing, go-karts, arcade games and bumper boats. Nearby the park itself, you can also find a handful of mini-golf courses.

3183 State route 28 Old Forge, NY 13420

Opening day is June 17 and the park stays open through Sept. 7. The park is generally open from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the summer months. Opening and closing weeks have reduced hours.

Adults (12 and up): $30.95 Children (3 to 11): $27.95 Children 2 and under: Free Season pass: $84.95 if bought before June 1

*Discounted prices available online

Parking lots near the entrance of the park are free.

For more information about Enchanted Forest Water Safari, visit the amusement park's official website . For more information about things to do in Lake George, visit our Old Forge page . For more information on amusement parks in Upstate New York, visit our amusement parks page.

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An Enchanted Time at Water Safari – Old Forge’s Awesome Water Park

Last updated on August 11, 2021.

It’s no secret that the Adirondacks is one of my absolute favorite places on this planet. If you’ve been following along on Instagram , you’ll see it’s been full of mountain views lately! Every summer growing up my parents would take my brother and I camping up at Old Forge. Some of our favorite childhood memories were made in days at Enchanted Forest Water Safari exploring the storybook area with our best friends. In the evenings we’d return to our campsite to watch out for bears (no joke). Water Safari is not only the biggest water park in New York state, but it’s rated one of the best in the country . It’s also one of TripAdvisor’s top choices! Intrigued? I bet you are. Find out what makes Water Safari in Old Forge one of the best summer destinations.

This article was originally published in 2019. In 2021, Enchanted Forest Water Safari invited me to come back to check out the new water slides and update the article. Thanks, Water Safari!

How to Save Money at Water Safari in Old Forge

Purchase your ticket at a local business.

By buying your ticket ahead of time, you’ll be able to save over $7 off your admission! You can find pre-sale tickets at local grocery stores like Price Chopper and Wegmans.

Get more than a day’s visit with the Siesta Pass

If you arrive at the park after 3pm (or 2pm on the days they close earlier), you can pay admission for the remainder of the day and get a FREE pass to return again the next day . Best. News. Ever. My recommendation? Arrive after that cut-off and enjoy all of the dry rides. Then, return in the morning to spend the day by the pools sunbathing and getting soaked on the wet rides! No worrying about changing your clothes or having enough time to fit it all in.

Book a Stay ‘N Play Package

The Water Safari Resort has two accommodations available. If you’re looking to spend a few days in Old Forge (which I highly recommend), check out their Stay ‘N Play Packages . Guests who stay at either of the properties receive discount tickets to the park.

First up is the Water’s Edge Inn across the street from the park. Guests receive free continental breakfast, have access to an indoor pool and sauna, and can relax on the lakefront property in the evening. Plus, you can actually walk across the street to the park – it’s super convenient!

A little down the road you’ll find Old Forge KOA , where I always camped as a kid. There are a variety of tent sites, cabins, and cottages to choose from depending on your style. The resort also offers a shuttle bus to take you to and from the park, so you don’t need to worry about parking.

Join the Paul Bunyan Club

While you’re at it, make sure to take your photo with Paul Bunyan. Yes, it may be cheesy. Yes, a group of us 30-somethings looked like a giddy bunch of children getting our photos taken. But I don’t regret it for one minute! As soon as you enter the park you’ll see the giant statue of Paul Bunyan, and it is the must-have photo opportunity of the park.

For an extra $4 with your first visit this year, you can join the Paul Bunyan Club . As a member, you’ll receive half-off your admission for the rest of the season. Half-price tickets must be purchased at the admission gate.

Get a season pass

If you plan on visiting on at least 3 different days during the summer, it’s worth it to get yourself a season pass. That will get you unlimited admission for the season and 10% off food and drinks in the park.

What Is There to Do at Water Safari in Old Forge?

Before you do anything at the park, get yourself a splash card . These new cards act like your cash inside the park, so you don’t have to worry about carrying around actual cash or a wallet. Plus, the cards are waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about them on the wet rides.

Second, if you want to take photos and videos on the water rides, grab a waterproof phone pouch from any of the gift shops in the park. They seriously work wonders!

Lastly, if you brought a bunch of stuff into the park with you – and chances are you’ve got at least a bag with a change of clothes and towels – get a locker. That way you can stash your stuff in a locker and go enjoy the rides.

The Dry Rides

My favorite? The classic Skyride – take the ride up and get relaxing views of the whole park! But you’ll also find the traditional ones like the bumper cars and tilt-o-whirl. The wet rides are what really shine! (Also why the siesta pass is a great option!)

The Wet Rides

This is where Water Safari does it best! Believe it or not, there are 33 heated water wides ! The most popular is definitely “Curse of the Silverback”, a group ride where your tube circles around a giant funnel like a toilet bowl. And then – drop! For a relaxing day, you can choose from two different lazy rivers – the “Log Jammer” and “Safari River Expeditions”. Plus, there’s everything in between! Races, wave pools, single riders, partner and group tubes… Enough to fill your whole day!

While the park was closed in 2020, they built three new water rides . The lines may be long, but they are definitely worth it.

• Serengeti Stampede replaced the old, basic racing slide. The new, colorful slides have bumps and turns to make them a lot more fun. And the new mats have handles, making them easier to hold onto.
• Mamba Strike is a 285-foot drop water slide that loops around the Serengeti Stampede tubes. This slide has guests stand on a platform at the top of the slide that is dropped beneath them. An adrenaline rush for sure!
• Killermanjaro is back and better than ever. The speed slide features one long 207-foot drop.

Relive your childhood with Storybook Lane

Another one of my favorite childhood memories is visiting all the nursery rhyme recreations! And you can bet that I did that again on my most recent visit. From Cinderella’s pumpkin carriage to Hansel & Gretel’s gingerbread house, they are over 20 stories recreated along a path through the woods in the park. Meant for the children to visit in awe, but reminiscent for the adults as you listen to the stories play.

Family Circus

Twice daily you can watch the circus show. From the standard jugglers and trapeze artists, you’ll also find more unique acts like performing dogs and the famous motorcycle cage rider. It’s a great chance to catch a break from all the adrenaline of the day. Grab a snack and find a seat while you enjoy the show.

Play with the animals

Are you an animal lover like me? Then check out Paul’s Barnyard to play with and feed the sheep, goats, pigs, and birds that are there. I recommend going in between some of the dry rides!

Where to Eat at Water Safari

Water Safari is one of the most lenient places when it comes to bringing in outside food and beverages. BUT, why worry about lugging around your cooler and finding a place to store it while you’re in the water? There are plenty of restaurants and snack stands throughout the park. So there are plenty of options to please any palate.

Options include pizza, nachos, burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and more. A staff favorite is the Bosco sticks at the pizza shack. Get two cheese-filled breadsticks served with marinara for just $3. New this year, you’ll find ice cream nachos, monster milkshakes, and hot honey chicken sandwiches.

And to answer your most burning question – yes, there are alcoholic drinks for adults!

Other Things to Do in Old Forge

While you’re visiting Old Forge, be sure to get the most out of your stay.

Calypso’s Cove

Enchanted Forest Water Safari claims it’s “Where the fun never stops!” And that’s true! Even outside the park, you can continue your adventure – next door at Calypso’s Cove . From mini golf and batting cages, to an arcade, go karts, and more, you’re sure to have a blast.

Slicker’s Restaurant

After a long day at the water park, you’re sure to be hungry! Luckily, there’s a hometown favorite restaurant across the street – Slickers. Their pizza and chicken wings are fantastic. Seriously. So. Darn. Good. Get yourself some garlic parm wings and you’ll be in heaven.

Adirondack Dog House

If you’re really pinching your pennies for this trip, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Adirondack Dog House . Hot dogs with all sorts of toppings, french fries and onion rings? Delicious. Classic. And cheap. Score!

Fulton Chain Craft Brewery

What’s dinner without a beer? A visit to Fulton Chain Craft Brewery is a must. Adirondack-themed and dog-friendly, you won’t want to miss drinking their famous “Go Fluff Yourself” beer. Weird name? Yes. Delicious? Heck yes. It’s a peanut butter marshmallow beer that has become very popular in Central New York – for good reason!

The brewery was recently expanded to make a larger taproom. All of their brew tanks are named after the lakes in the Fulton Chain of Lakes throughout the Adirondacks. They also have pictures of the lakes on them, embracing their location.

Wisk Baking Co

You know I’m a sucker for a good coffee shop and bakery. Wisk isn’t that. Wisk Baking Co is an incredible coffee shop and bakery! Featuring a variety of delicious confections, the desserts are almost too beautiful to eat! Almost.

You’ll have a hard time choosing from the bagels, croissants, muffins, and more. Get yourself a slice of cake to go. I’d also recommend the “ADK Campfire” crepe, made with Nutella, Fluff, and graham crackers!

Have you visited Water Safari in Old Forge? I want to hear about it!

Tell me your favorite memories in the comments.

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What’s Included in Your San Diego Safari Park Admission?

What do San Diego Safari Park tickets include? Here’s a free vs paid tours & attractions chart. Plus the one word you’ll need to instantly know which is which. And that makes decisions so much easier.

San Diego Safari Park admission tickets include  Africa Tram, keeper talks & attractions, entertainment, animal encounters & kids playgrounds . But any activity with “Safari” in its name requires payment in addition to the cost of admission. Parking is not included.   It costs $20 minimum.

If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated. Read my Advertising Disclosure for more info. Thanks! ~ Nancy

* Save with a secret promo code on each San Diego Zoo or Safari Park 1-Day Pass. Go any day. Go directly to the gate. Click  HERE  to get your code, instructions & discounted tickets by email. By clicking the link above you agree to receive an automated email message. Valid only at aRes Travel , San Diego’s local authorized ticket seller. Read my full privacy policy .

Continue reading if you’re curious about whether you can have a great time with just what’s included with admission. I’ve provided descriptions of all the activities, animal encounters, shows, and Safaris at San Diego Zoo Safari Park for you to help you make up your mind.

What San Diego Safari Park Exhibit Areas  Are Included With Admission

First, parking is not free at San Diego Zoo Safari Park. But most of the rest of the park can be explored freely with your entry fee. When you look at the Safari Park map there are 14 different sections at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. All but two of them are accessible to you with your admission.

The 2 different areas that you are not able to navigate on your own are Africa Plains and Asian Savanna. I marked them with a yellow outline on the map above. You cannot enter these large field exhibits unless you are with Safari Park personnel. You can get inside via paid Safari experiences or via the free Africa Tram. However, many of the animals in both of these areas are visible from other areas in the park.

Highlights of San Diego Safari Park That Are Free With Entry Ticket

The following tours and attractions are some of the highlights at Safari Park. You can ride and experience them as many times as you like. They are:

Africa Tram

Do not miss riding the Africa Tram , it’s included at no extra charge with your admission. It’s also one of the must-see attractions at Safari Park. I’ve been able to ride the Tram hundreds of times (no exaggeration). And every time I notice something new. 

Sometimes its been a new baby giraffe or rhino! At other times it’s two antelope sparring with their horns. Or herds of every type of animal running in the same direction like shoppers at a Black Friday sale. Just because one giraffe became spooked by a blowing leaf.

It’s best to ride Africa Tram either early in the day or late. The animals are most active when it is cool. Ride as many times as you’d like while you’re at San Diego Safari Park.

Hidden Jungle

Hidden Jungle is a tropical rain forest aviary that’s included in your San Diego Safari Park admission ticket . It’s located in the Gorilla Forest area. This climate-controlled environment is populated by colorful birds, delicate plants and towering trees. It can be a bit humid during the summer and early fall. Visit the birds either early or late in the day during those seasons.

This is also where the Butterfly Jungle event takes place every spring . Thousands of colorful butterflies flutter by in search of nectar from the blooming jungle flowers. They often land on you. Which makes the experience special for kids and adults alike. 

At the end of the Butterfly Jungle event, the birds eat any caterpillars that have hatched. This ensures that the colorful non-native butterflies do not invade the fertile farms of the San Pasqual Valley.

The Gorilla Forest is also free with your admission . It’s home to the Safari Park’s troop of Western lowland Gorillas. 

These (relatively) peaceful, family-oriented, plant-eaters are a favorite with kids. Their exhibit includes gorilla hand and footprints (which kids love to measure against their own). There is a life-sized drawing that guests can use to compare their arm lengths to that of an adult male gorilla. And recordings of the noises made by the gorillas when they’re communicating with each other.

Kangaroo Walk

Kangaroo Walk is free with your San Diego Safari Park entry also . Mingle with kangaroos, wallabies, and waterfowl in this Australian savanna grassland environment inside Walkabout Australia. See the ‘roos with their baby joeys go bounding by.

There are a few wallabies that come on the marked paths for some gentle petting and stroking. Because of COVID, this is now discouraged. But sometimes the critters insist. Don’t worry. Wallabies feel like they look, soft and woolly! 

Do you want to know about other animals that you are allowed to touch at either San Diego Zoo or Safari Park? Then check out my article, “ Can You Hold Animals at the San Diego Zoo? “

Nairobi Station

You don’t need to pay extra to walk through Nairobi Station . You can get close-up views of some of San Diego Safari Park’s smaller animals. Depending upon the animal you may even get to touch them. Just make sure to ask their keepers first. 

Nairobi Station is also the home of the Animal Care Center . Animal babies that need to be hand-raised because their mothers cannot care for them are brought to this nursery. It can get very crowded (with people) here if this facility is hosting young lions or cheetahs. 

While you’re here, take a look at the sandcat. WARNING : If you love felines, their round faces will make your heart melt into a puddle on the floor. Even those who don’t particularly like cats have been known to succumb to their megatonne-weight cuteness.

Petting Kraal

Petting and brushing the goats in the Petting Kraal will not cost you any extra in addition to your admission fee. This is the closest thing to a classic “children’s petting zoo” at either the Safari Park or the San Diego Zoo. The pygmy, Nubian, and Boer goats are just the right size to interact with human kids. 

Be sure to close and secure any purses or backpacks. The goats are intensely curious and will nibble on almost anything. 

Playgrounds

There are 5 play areas for kids. And as far as I’m concerned that deserves its own category.

Camp Play Area

You and your kids are free to enter Camp Play Area with your park admission . It’s located in Tiger Trail (click the link for my full article). This playground is built to resemble a logging camp in the Sumatran rain forest. There are logs to climb, rope ladders and statues of tigers and their cubs to play on. And of course there are real tigers to look at right around the corner.

Jameson Research Island

This seasonal water play area won’t cost you or your kids any extra cash . It’s located on the African Loop trail within the Safari Park’s African Outpost area. It is usually open during the hot days of summer. It provides cooling splashes on the walk between the flamingos and colobus monkeys. 

Samburu Jungle Gym

  You’ll love that your kids can climb and explore here because it comes free with the Safari Park admission . This playground is located in the African Woods area. It’s close to the bird show amphitheatre and the Lemur Walk.

Your little monkeys will enjoy a shaded play area with a jeep, rhino and a lion to ‘ride’ and tree trunks to crawl through. You’ll be happy because you’ll be keeping an eye on them from shaded Samburu Terrace . Sip a cool craft beer or soda while you’re unwinding. 

Savanna Cool Zone

This seasonal water playground is open to everyone with entry to Safari Park . It’s located near Lion Camp and Shiley’s Cheetah Run track. It’s a godsend for parents who are waiting in the hot sun for Cheetah Run to start. Send the kiddos to cool off in the fountains. And if you get soaked trying to retrieve them that’s not so bad.

Village Playground

V illage Playground is also free with admission to San Diego Safari Park.   It’s located in the Nairobi Village area between the Petting Kraal and the Rodrigues fruit bat exhibit. It’s a good place for those kids who get a bit intimidated by the goats next door. 

Entertainment 

The San Diego Safari Park does a good job of disguising conservation education as entertainment. You’ll find that these 4 activities provide a fun way to learn about endangered species and how you can help save them and their habitat.

Training Talk

Entry to this 15-minute bird training session is free with your admission . It’s only 15 minutes long, but it is fascinating to watch the positive reinforcement training process. Makes you think that if the Safari Park can teach their feathered charges to do all sorts of amazing things, that you have a chance with your (sometimes) bird-brained babies. Hope!

Robert the Zebra

If Robert the Zebra was located in Las Vegas you would be paying big bucks to see him. But since he’s at San Diego Safari Park you get to see his snarky shtick free with your entry ticket.

Robert’s an interactive digital puppet that’s visible on a big screen in Nairobi Station. He tells jokes, talks with children and adults about what it’s like to be a zebra, and asks visitors questions about their experiences at Safari Park. Listen carefully, some of the kids’ answers to his queries are priceless!

Tiger Keeper Talk

Tiger Keeper Talks are another experience that is included with admission to San Diego Safari Park . Each morning the keepers interact with one of the tigers. For a bit of meat or a scratch behind an ear, the giant cat cooperates to display some of its amazing adaptations to life in the wild. 

The highlight for me is when the tiger is asked to stretch full-length upright against the protective mesh barrier so that the keeper can inspect the belly. A tiger on its hind legs is HUGE. And a little scary. 

Frequent Flyers

I would pay extra to see this bird show, but I’m glad that Frequent Flyers is free with any Safari Park admission . It’s a free-flying show, which means that any of them are free to fly off into the Escondido sky. But they don’t.

The level of training shown by the birds is impressive. It features vultures, secretary birds, hawks and 3 adorable guinea hens. But the cute star of the show isn’t a bird at all. I’m not going to tell you what it is. Just go see Frequent Flyers and have some fun. 

Cheetah Run

Unfortunately, Cheetah Run was put on hold during the COVID-19 restrictions and has not been brought back yet. But if it is brought back, it is a MUST SEE.

Sun Up Cheetah SAFARI is an early morning paid experience where you get taken in a Safari truck for an exclusive look at the park and see a cheetah run at top speed. Check it out HERE .

Bring your camera because you’ll have the best place to watch the cat run. And your guide and the trainer will arrange for you to be photographed with the cheetah.

Here are some of the best Cheetah Run viewing locations if you aren’t in the paid Safari:  

• On the bridge across from the Savanna Cool Zone. The kids can play in the water while you wait
• Below the Balloon Safari, along the walk to the Africa Tram close to the bridge. The sun will be at your back. And during the summertime that’s a blessing.
• On the other side of Shiley’s Cheetah along the path to Lion Camp. Again, close to the bridge. There are some shady spots here by the trees.

Animal Encounters

Animal ambassador stage.

The Animal Ambassador Stage presentations are free with your admission . They are your chance to view some species that may not be on exhibit. The stage is located in Safari Base Camp close to the park entrance. The Ambassadors come out from the park’s opening to noon. And then again starting at 4:00pm to when the park closes. 

The more spectacular Animal Ambassadors are usually brought out closer to noon. At that time you’re more likely to see their BIG python “Julius Squeezer”, high-jumping servals & caracals , and sometimes even cheetahs. 

Near Benbough Amphitheater (Animal Encounter)

We’ve seen a lot of cheetahs at this free presentation which takes place in Gorilla Forest. It only lasts 15 minutes, but it’s a more informal, intimate setting so you get a more up-close view. If you’re reluctant to ask your questions in large crowds, this may be the perfect place for you to get some answers. 

Lawn at Okavango Outpost (Animal Encounter)

The animal activity on the Lawn at Okavango Outpost is another, more informal free edu-tainment experience. It only lasts 15 minutes, sometimes a bit longer depending upon the animal. But it’s a wonderful photo opportunity. It’s usually uncrowded. Bob has gotten some great photos of leaping caracals here.

8 Types of Safari – Premium Paid Experiences

Here are the eight types of premium “Safari” tours/experiences offered at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Most of them have several different options. That means that there are more than 30 different types of Safaris to try at the Escondido wild animal park. 

It can get confusing.

I’m going to give you just the basic outlines below. If you’re interested in reserving one of the safaris check out my guide to choosing the best San Diego Safari Park tour for you and your family. The summary chart on that page includes prices, age limits, and trip durations which will help make your decision easier.

Balloon Safari

Fly 400 feet above the park and the picturesque San Pasqual Valley. Best to ride this between opening and noon because it can be grounded because of the strong afternoon winds. Check my balloon safari review for prices & more details. 

Behind the Scenes Safari

Tour areas that are off-limits to most park guests. Get an insider’s view of the park while exploring the nighttime ‘bedrooms’ of various animals like platypuses, elephants, tigers, rhinos, kangaroos & cheetahs, feed okapis and see the veterinary center. You can find more information including prices in my Behind the Scenes Safari review.

Caravan Safari

Take a shaded truck with a knowledgeable guide into the park’s huge Asian and African field exhibits. See herds of antelope and other animals up close. Taking stunning animal photos is EASY. Sometimes it’s hard to know where to point your camera first. The best part is that you frequently have opportunities to feed giraffes and rhinos. Best. Selfies. Ever. For more info including prices read my Caravan Safari review . 

Cart Safari

View herds of giraffes, rhinos, antelope from the comfort of a 9 passenger cart. Your driver will fill you in on the park history, weird animal facts and answer your questions about animal care and conservation. It’s a more relaxed ride than the Caravan Safari. There are great animal photo opportunities, especially when your driver offers enrichment items or treats to some of the wildlife. Find out more about the two types and prices in my Cart Safari review .

Sun Up Cheetah Safari

Get the best views of a cheetah running. Have a close encounter with another African Animal Ambassador beforehand. Then have a meet & greet with the spotted sprinter after. Take home great photos of you with a cheetah and wonderful memories. Discover more details including price in my Cheetah Safari review .

Flightline Safari

If you or your kids are adrenaline junkies, this is the safari for you! Soar over the park’s open wildlife fields like a condor. It’s an exhilarating ride over beautiful scenery and animals. Training and practice provided. Find out about prices and more in my Flightline Safari review .

Roar & Snore Safari

My personal favorite. Spend the night at Safari Park. You sleep in tents overlooking the Africa Plains exhibit. The location’s sandwiched between Elephant Valley and Lion Camp. You fall asleep to the low muttering (and sometimes trumpeting) of elephants and rise to roaring lions. Good food. Great keeper talks. And s’mores around a campfire. I’ve put more details about prices and what to expect in my Roar & Snore Safari review .

Ultimate Safari

Customize your Safari Park experience. Go behind the scenes. Meet animal ambassadors up close. Do it all with your own personal guide. And yes, they feed you too. Find out all about prices and what you can do in my Ultimate Safari review .

Closing Thoughts

I hope that you now have a better idea of what types of tours, attractions, encounters and entertainment that you get with your entry ticket. You can have a wonderful time and fill a whole day (or more) with just the activities that you get with your San Diego Safari Park admission ticket.

Nancy Ulrich

I'm nuts...about animals, polymer clay, mixed media art & husband Bob. Happily planted in San Diego among good friends, family that I would have chosen if given the choice and optimism for a bountiful future for us all.

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Where to celebrate "The Tortured Poets Department" in Philly, Record Store Day 2024, Bad Bunny this weekend

By Jessica MacAulay , Laura Fay , Frederick Sinclair , Tom Dougherty

April 19, 2024 / 4:56 PM EDT / CBS Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- If you think you're coming down with something that isn't allergy-related but is leaving you looking out the window for long periods and wishing to be outside, chances are you've got spring fever. 

The city of Philadelphia has officially thawed out from its winter frost and now people are opting to spend some more time outdoors to take in the smell of fresh-cut grass and feel the sun on their face. 

This weekend you can get outside and hit the Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink at Dillworth Park, Parks on Tap at Azalea Garden, hit the ballpark for a game at CBP and hop on the largest swing in North America! 

Businesses around the city are also celebrating Taylor Swift's latest album "The Tortured Poets Department" with festive events and Record Store Day 2024. Let's dive in!

Bad Bunny's "Most Wanted Tour" at Wells Fargo Center

Bad Bunny's "Most Wanted Tour" concert at the Wells Fargo Center was in danger of being moved to Thursday, but with the Sixers beating the Miami Heat in Wednesday's NBA Play-In Tournament, the show will go on!

The concert is scheduled for 8 p.m. Friday at Wells Fargo Center. Warning, these tickets will cost you a bit. Prices start at $205.

Record Store Day 2024: The Philadelphian's guide

The annual celebration of independent record stores is this Saturday and the Philadelphia area has plenty of shops celebrating with special releases, in-store performances, food trucks and other festivities.

Pearl Jam has a new album out, which includes a Record Store Day release as well as a limited edition Philadelphia variant of their 12th studio album "Dark Matter."  The Philly variant went on sale Friday, but the RSD release will be available Saturday.

Taylor Swift has a new double album out, "The Tortured Poets Department," and while there are no RSD-specific editions, Swifties can shop local and support their neighborhood record store by picking up the Berks County's latest record.

CBS Philadelphia has the Philadelphian's guide to Record Store Day - Repo Records on South Street opens at 9 a.m. and will have a food truck; Young Ones in Berks County is opening early at 8 a.m. and has a lineup of in-store performances too.

Philly celebrates Taylor Swift's "The Tortured Poets Department"

Berks County's finest Taylor Swift dropped a surprise double album "The Tortured Poets Department" at midnight Friday, and the Philadelphia area has several events to celebrate the pop star's latest release.

Manayunk will be very Swiftie focused but there is plenty of fun to be had for all the tortured poets in the Delaware Valley.

Taqueria Amor  on Manayunk's Main Street is serving special Swift-themed cocktails inspired by the tracklist of the latest album, such as "Guilty as Gin?" and "Down Bad #87" through April 28.

Bark Social in Manayunk is also hosting a  free all-day album drop party  on Friday with special cocktails and costume prizes every hour. ( Learn more about Bark Social .)

Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink 

Ready to roll? It's time to lace up those skates and get outside! The Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink  opened for the season Friday in Dilworth Park. 

The roller rink is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. on Sunday to Thursday and then 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Admission is $8 for kids 10 years old and under and $10 for adults. 

Group skate session rates start at $12 a person for over 10 guests. There's also a $5 discount on Monday and Tuesday matinee skate sessions from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

No skates? No worries! The Rothman Roller Rink charges $6 per skate rental. You can also bring your own skates and just pay for the price of admission. 

Skate sales may be limited in person so reserve your skate session in advance.  

Phillie Phanatic birthday and a 3-game series with White Sox

The sports fans can head to the ballpark this weekend as the Philadelphia Phillies welcome the Chicago White Sox for a three-game series at Citizens Bank Park. Friday night is another City Connect game, so the Phils will be wearing their new Nike jerseys .

Next week is the Phillie Phanatic's birthday but the Fightins will celebrate Sunday by giving away Phanatic Mittens to kids 14 and under .

Check out North America's largest swing, which is in Philadelphia!

Swing into some fun Saturday morning with the "The Swing into Spring Celebration" at Anna Verna Playground  at FDR Park.

The fun begins at 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and the family-friendly event is complete with a free concert, free water ice and giveaways for kids. CBS Philadelphia's Jan Carabeo checked out the swing Friday.

One feature at the playground is an enormous swing with 20 seats - it's the largest set in North America.

Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival 

You'll want to come hungry to this year's Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival this Sunday. This foodie paradise starts at 11 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. and includes dozens on dozens of food trucks ranging in flavors from BBQ to seafood to delicious desserts.

The event will also have two stages of live music throughout the afternoon for visitors to do their yummy food dance to! 

Visitors can also shop from local boutiques all down Main Street in Manayunk. 

Take in the Cherry Blossoms

While peak bloom for the cherry blossom trees in Philadelphia may have passed, plenty of beautiful trees are still waiting to be appreciated throughout Philadelphia. 

CBS Philadelphia has your guide to where you can take in the beauty of the cherry blossom trees  throughout the greater Philadelphia region.

Parks on Tap

The smell of springtime is in the air and it's time to get outside and soak it all in. Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and FCM Hospitality have coined the perfect way to get people outside with its  Parks on Tap  event. series. The annual outdoor tradition is back for another year bringing Philadelphians and visitors together to take in the city's parks while enjoying food, drinks, the outdoors and each other. 

The traveling beer garden changes locations each week  but the destination chosen to kick off the springtime season is the one and only, Azalea Garden. Parks on Tap is available at Azalea Garden from 4 to 10 p.m. now until Sunday.

Bubble Bash at Adventure Aquarium

Not to bust your bubble, but Adventure Aquarium's Bubble Bash is closing out its festivities in less than two weeks! It's time to celebrate the magic and mystique of all things bubble-related at Adventure Aquarium in Camden, NJ. 

The event is geared to make spring break a poppin' party for visitors of all ages. Bubble Bash festivities include a bubble scavenger hunt, a bubble party, photo opportunities, bubble-themed crafts and so much more.

Dive into Adventure Aquriaum's Bubble Bash  before it's too late! 

Super Freak: The Rick James Story

Get your funk on at The Met Philadelphia and catch " Super Freak: The Rick James Story ." This one-night-only stage play musical chronicles the fire and desire of the legendary singer-songwriter Rick James, from his early days to his rise to superstardom.

Tickets start at $93.40 and showtime is set for Saturday, April 20 at 8:00 p.m. So don't miss out on this epic night of funk and get ready to party like it's 1981.

Boy Band Brunch at City Winery Philadelphia

Missing the boy band era? Well, you can catch Boy Band Brunch featuring The Boy Band Project on Sunday. Coming down from New York, this award-winning group delivers a dose of nostalgia with a hint of Broadway talent and humor. The show starts at noon and doors open at 11 a.m. 

From NSYNC to One Direction and everything in between, they'll have you singing along to all your favorite boy band hits while you brunch. The group boasts accolades like 11 Broadway World Cabaret nominations and features in The New York Times and Good Morning America; you know you're in for a treat. Tickets  are sold out but you can still join the waitlist for a chance to take it back in time to everyone's favorite era, the boy band era.  Don't miss out on the ultimate blast from the past. 

• Delaware Valley
• Philadelphia Phillies
• Food & Drink
• Outdoor dining
• South Jersey
• Philadelphia

Jessica MacAulay is a digital producer for CBSPhiladelphia.com. Jessica started out her career in broadcast journalism originally as an intern for CBS Philadelphia. She covers breaking news, local community and crime stories.

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Philly is home to North America's largest swing set, and about to celebrate its 1st spring

Inside Battleship New Jersey's "historic homecoming" to Philadelphia Navy Yard

Volunteers plant trees in Southwest Philadelphia to get a head start on Earth Day

Tour for History Lovers Visiting Moscow

• Coffee and/or Tea
• Entry/Admission - Moscow Victory Park
• I will pick you up from ANY place in Moscow!
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Lenin's Mausoleum Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 2 Lubyanka Square Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 3 Gastronomia Eliseevsky Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 4 Lenin Statue at VDNKh Stop: 60 minutes See details
• 5 Moscow Victory Park Stop: 60 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• Alan B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Sensational guide We booked Tony from Australia and we could not have had a better guide. Extremely knowledgeable about Moscow, took us to local places, such as the vodka bars, very flexible in arrangements. Highly recommended. Read more Written May 26, 2020
• Jacky H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Another view of Moscow Super interesting from 1st minute until last. We have dicovered a lot of places of hidden Moscow. Our guide was exceptional. Effectively Moscow was completely different during soviet period. That we knew before.... But so deeply different it was not possible to imagine before this tour. Also the bar to drink shot(s) of vodka. Looking like 30 years ago. A great and unforgettable discovery. Read more Written January 3, 2020
• LondonE7 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Private six day Golden Ring tour and further north into Russian wilderness I booked Tony for the six day Golden Ring tour (there is not an option in the tour selections above). Tony was very easy to correspond with beforehand and arranging the visa documents which was a pain from my first Russia trip and has very good English. It met Tony in Moscow after arriving from Kazan. We had the six days penciled in and improvised the trip as we went along depending on interest. At Tony's suggestion we went further north of the traditional Golden Ring at Kostroma into the frontier towns of Galich and Soligalich, which are time capsules and normal road access ends. We then detoured into the wilderness from Chukhloma to the Lesney Terem Astashovo Wood Palace hotel which is a museum hotel. We then hiked thru logging mud trails and crossing a river to get to a second run down Wood Palace where a local still lives and was happy to show us around. There are videos of all our experiences on my youtube channel [departures1]. After rejoining the Golden Ring route from Yaroslavl we finished in Moscow and did a driving tour of the Soviet architecture. I really enjoyed the six day trip and this is the type of adventure if you want something more original and authentic. We spent time visiting abandoned Churches and inside derelict homes that other guides may not take you to so you can be as creative as you like with Tony. We also visited Mosques in northern Russia which I would not have expected. I would highly recommend touring with Tony and planning a great adventure together. Read more Written December 4, 2019
• SoniWarnaWarni 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An incredible day with Tony! Do you want to have an extraordinary experience in Russia or Moscow? I highly recommend Tony with his amazing UAZ! Tony is super friendly, funny & smart. We really enjoyed travelling one day in forest with delicious bbq forest near the river. It’s a new experience for us and priceless! Keep do your best man! Read more Written November 8, 2019
• Mystery_Play 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent service We wanted to do the golden ring and hence contacted tony, right from the beginning he was very responsive through wats app and catered to all our needs. I would really appreciate his patience as we kept changing our plan every other day but he always catered and adjusted to our plans. He is informative and very friendly, thank you Tony... Read more Written November 7, 2019
• Alan B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great guide in Moscow I was touch with Tony almost 12 months before going to Moscow and could not rate his service high enough. He was readily available on email or skype, and if not responded very quickly. He is flexible, knowledgeable and very customer focused. We did not finalise anything until we met in the hotel lobby in Moscow and planned our trip for the day. What we enjoyed was not only did we do the touristy things but Tony took us to places, vodka cafes, that we would not have experienced with other guides or groups. He made getting around the Metro easier and allowed us to enjoy the experience. Tony also saved us money by arranging transport to the station when we were leaving Moscow. I would highly reccommend Tony if you are wanted a great Moscow experience. Read more Written November 1, 2019
• GARYE3466 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles TRANS SIBERIAN RAILROAD My wife and I went from BEIJING TO MOSCOW BY RAIL. WE WENT THROUGH CHINA, MONGOLIA AND RUSSIA. A very interesting and informative trip.. After hearing about how bad Siberia was our entire lives it was time to see for ourselves. . Siberia is vast and the eastern part is slightly populated. Seeing the cultures involved in each country we very interesting. Discovery Russia put the trip together and did a very good job. We took five separate trains for seventeen days. We spent five nights on the train and the remaining nights in hotels in various cities along the way. All connections were done without error and we took day tours in several of the cities along the way. It is a unique, educational trip for all travelers to take.. Read more Written September 3, 2019
• 533lawrences 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Off the Beaten Path with Tony We had two great trips with Tony. I wanted to see a Russian Orthodox church in a village about 200 kilometers from Moscow. Tony set up the whole trip. We were able to attend Sunday Mass, got a tour of the church and the village from the priest, and were even invited to the priest’s home for lunch with his family!!!! It was a special day. Later that week we asked Tony to take us to the Food City Farmer’s Market in suburban Moscow. It was great fun to see all the food, trucks and people from all over Russia and former USSR states. We even had brunch in the Uzbekistan Cafe there. Tony is friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable about his itineraries. I highly recommend him. Read more Written July 11, 2019
• Dmarb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great way to see the countryside! Our family of four (with two teens) took a private 2-day tour of Vladimir, Suzdal and Sergiev Posad with Tony and Irina. Touring with them is like visiting a local friend - they are so open and willing to share their thoughts, experiences and perspectives that it made the trip so much more interesting than with most tour guides. It was great to see the Golden Ring towns, but our absolute favorite (and where we stayed overnight) was Suzdal - so charming, we didn’t want to leave. Also recommend staying at Panorama Guest House in Suzdal where the caretaker really makes you feel at home! Day 1, Tony picked us up at the airport and drove to Vladimir, where he showed us the highlights and stopped for lunch. The drive is long, but Tony’s engaging conversation helped to pass the time while getting our first view outside Moscow. Tony was accommodating throughout the day and attentive to our needs. After lunch we continued on to Suzdal, where we spent the night. On day 2, Irina took over (as Tony had previously booked a tour for this day) seamlessly and we really enjoyed getting to know her! She could tell how much we liked Suzdal, so took us to some of her favorite places in town (including an old monastery) and tried to find a specific souvenir my daughter was looking for, asking around at different shops and stalls to locate it. We eventually had to leave Suzdal and drove to Sergiev Posad, during which we had more interesting conversations with Irina about her work, world politics, social issues, etc. After dinner, Irina took us back to our hotel in Moscow. Great experience, recommend it highly! Read more Written July 10, 2019
• RuadhanKing 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Walking tour of Central Moscow Terrific walking tour with Tony - very accommodating with a late change to the start time & on the tour with a sleepy 5 year old! Highly recommended for anyone interested in an introduction to Moscow. Read more Written May 27, 2019
• teraliya 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Real Russia for delicate Moscow girl I've been in three trips with these guys (Pereslavl-Zalessky, Staritsa / Torzhok, Ushakovskiye karyery in the Tula region) - it's rather addictive and makes you want more and more. And I was amazed, how beautiful our country is. We have so many cozy authentic towns. The folks are funny, jokes and humor will accompany you through the whole journey. You can also count on them in every unpredictable situation, problems will be solved and joyful spirit of a voyage won't be hurt. Even if you find yourself at night in the middle of nowhere, the overnight stay will be found. And in such a company it’s not scary to encounter even the harsh Russian service! I also liked that the planned sightseeing program was adjusted along the way, unexpected events naturally fitted into our day - we hung out at the reconstruction festival for half a day, spontaneously got into spacious caves in a beautiful river valley, unexpectedly found a local charismatic guide and learned a lot of interesting things about the provincial life and the difficulties of the Russian intelligentsia. Read more Written May 10, 2019
• saucemaz 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles LImestone Caves Trip I am still struggling to fully explain the unique experience of exploring the disused artificial caves of the bygone limestone mining era. It was not just one of the best things I have done in Moscow, but one of my overall favourite experiences ever!! The trip is not a straightforward amble round some caves, it is a descent into another world with Tony as a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide who just bubbles over with passion for his subject. You will get some unique pictures and the experience wil stay with you. You will also hear some wild stores about the people that like to frequent the caves and as Tony said the phrase 'what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas' certainly applied deep below the surface at Domodedovo... Read more Written May 1, 2019
• avandevuurst 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great customised tour to get a in-depth understanding of Russians/Russia! End of February we were in Moscow and booked half a day with a guide, Tony. He was recommended to us and we were excited to learn more about Moscow and Russia from a local. Tony himself is well traveled, and speaks English in a clear accent, so he is easy to understand. He was punctual, the information he gave us was very detailed and up to date with current political developments. The tour was completely customised to our liking and it was the highlight of our stay in Moscow. He showed us some hidden gems that we would have not known otherwise, took us with the metro, recommended restaurants during our stay, and treated us to some local delicacies. Tony is a really great host with most importantly a great sense of humour! Because of his great personality and his broad knowledge I highly recommend booking him for a personalised tour. Read more Written March 25, 2019
• 687cam786 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles SIMPLY PUT: THE BEST THING TO DO IN RUSSIA! LET ME TELL YOU WHY: I visited Russia during the World Cup. I have been always fascinated by Russia When I travel, I never enter museums. Personally, I try to do that with real locals. What was the best decision? What was the best decision? Tony went to ensure that they were fully prepared to visit Russia. His contacts even helped handle the registration of my visa, which is a foreigner in the Russian Federation. Tony's Off-roading experience, coupled with caving, it was the most fun. From getting stuck both above and around the woods - we couldn’t have a better time. It may be dangerous, it is not at all. It is beyond safe, but it is highly rewarding as far as adrenaline goes. I’m also proud to be in touch with, and I recommend that you do the same! If you have any doubts, or even questions about Russia - PLEASE Thank you Travel Real Russia! I am currently planning another crazy adventure with him; and I recommend that you do the same! If you have any doubts, or even questions about Russia - PLEASE Thank you Travel Real Russia! I am currently planning another crazy adventure with him; and I recommend that you do the same! If you have any doubts, or even questions about Russia - PLEASE Thank you Travel Real Russia! Read more Written February 28, 2019
• jlmoffice3008 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Private Customized Tour of Central Russia and Siberia....INCREDIBLE! This trip was a once in a lifetime experience. Tony was so accommodating throughout the entire planning process and for the duration of the trip. First class service. Tony organized a private trip for me which started in Moscow to Starista, Gorno-Altaysk, Belokuriha and Perm. The Gulag in Perm was incredible and Tony arranging a meeting with a Russian Hound expert was the icing on the cake of a perfect trip! Read more Written August 22, 2018

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Tour for History Lovers Visiting Moscow provided by Travel Real Russia