School is starting soon here in Central New York and summer is ending (it went fast didn’t it?). Here are 5 places to travel with the family before are beautiful summer days end.
Howe Caverns:This is a hidden gem in NYS. 10,000 year old cave with a fabulous guided tour, easy walking paths, and even a short boat ride made this adventure truly unique. Friendly and knowledgeable staff, student discount with ID, and delicious cheddar cheese sold that was aged in the cave all added to a very positive experience. Fun for all ages. 255 Discovery Drive, Howes Cave, NY 12092, (518) 296-8900</
Letchworth State Park: Waterfalls, spectacular views in ‘Grand Canyon of the East’. The famed “Grand Canyon of the East” boasts nearly 600-foot cliff walls and three major waterfalls along the Genesee River. The tallest waterfall in the state, Inspiration Falls, tumbles down a cliff from one of the tributaries. The park has its own conference center, campground, restaurant and hotel, the Glen Iris Inn. It was named the No. 1 state park in the country in 2015 by a national poll. Letchworth has a nearly endless variety of activities for anyone, from a casual visiter to an avid hiker or whitewater rafter. There are 66 miles of hiking trails, scenic outlooks accessible from the park road, guided walks, summer lecture tours, bike paths, bridle paths, and snowmobile and cross-country ski trails. Such a variety for families.1 Letchworth State Park Castile, NY 14482</
Corning Glass Museum: Where else can someone not just see the history of glass dating back 3,500 years, but watch the shapes it takes as artisans work with it and make some pieces of your own? Tour exhibits of the science and technology for this material that has played such a huge role in civilization at the Corning Glass Museum. Visitors can create a piece of their own, aided by instructors, but must allow it to cool overnight. Great, educational visit for all ages. 1 Museum Way, Corning, NY 14830 Phone: 800.732.6845</
Finger Lakes Wineries: My family and I just went here and it was gorgeous. The drive, the wineries and the breweries. I loved seeing this area up and running to serve its community. Though this is really most enjoyable with adults I have to say that my family and I loved every.minute AND the kids did too. The open air and ample amount space made it enjoyable for families to enjoy.</
Skaneateles Lake and the quaint culture of the picturesque downtown. Take a cruise of the 16-mile-long lake with Mid-Lakes Navigation, which offers lunch cruises featuring Dinosaur BBQ, romantic dinner cruises and more family-friendly sightseeing cruises aboard a the Judge Ben Wiles, a replica steamship. Explore the downtown shops, restaurants and galleries at your leisure, and be sure to walk out on the pier for a beautiful view of the water and the surrounding landscape. Landmark restaurants include the Sherwood Inn, Doug’s Fish Fry, The Krebs and Blue Water Grill. Enjoy an afternoon tasting at Anyela’s Vineyard, which overlooks the village, or head to Mirbeau Inn and Spa for a day of relaxation.
