Powder Mills Park Fish Hatchery

The first time we drove past Powder Mills Park, I was more interested in the "mushroom house" next to it. I took my son there specifically so I could get a better view of a home that looks like something straight out of the Ewok Village - Bright Tree Village on the Forest Moon of Endor, to be exact, for all you fanboys and fangirls out there. I love driving by and imagining what it would be like to actually live there.

Turns out the park is fun, too.

There are six pools holding tons and tons of trout at different ages. They are certainly not the prettiest fish, but they are still fun to watch. Bring quarters and a plastic cup or bag so you can buy fish food pellets from the dispensers at the park. When your kids throw the food into the water, the trout make a mad dash to get some. Caution: they splash, especially the big ones.

After we feed the fish, we usually stop by the two ponds. The first is next to the fish pools; there are usually some more trout in there as well as ducks and geese. (beware of goose feces as you walk around)

The second pond is across the park road. There are benches in the shade to enjoy the pond view, as well as a little dock for fishing or checking out the pond. My boys love to scare me by hanging over the railing on the dock. I hate being "that mom," you know, overly cautious. But at the same time, I do not want to have to jump into that pond. Ever. Gross.

Powder Mills Park Fish Hatchery is located at 115 Park Road in Pittsford, NY. There is a gazebo with picnic tables by the fish pools, so you can bring lunch or snacks. However, I have yet to find a restroom there. Thanks to my fellow ROCmomma Kim for providing the following information about the restrooms: They are located in the park office building adjacent to the six fish pools. Hours are limited to when the office is open.

Parking is free, and the park is stroller-friendly. If you have older children, there are some trails through the woods that can be fun. We started out on them once, but I quickly decided that we needed one adult per child at this stage, with a 2 1/2 and a 5 year old. When you walk back toward the parking lot, before crossing the bridge over the creek, follow the creek to the right into the woods and you'll see the worn trails. That part is definitely not stroller-friendly.

If you are looking for a low-key place to take the kids and get some fresh air, Powder Mills Park is a great place. If everyone still has energy to burn after visiting the Fish Hatchery, there are some other areas to stop along Park Road and visit more of Powder Mills Park.

Enjoy, and as always, thanks for reading.