When we plan our family vacations or weekend getaways, sometimes it feels we have to compromise on a fun, yet rich-with-history destination in order to find something that will please our little travelers. Add into the mix the requirement for a destination that is drivable from the Chester County area and it can be downright challenging to please everyone. Then I visited Rochester, NY which is one of the kid-friendliest cities I have explored. This beautiful area of New York is full of museums, eateries, history, education, outdoor adventures and family fun. It's about a 5 and 1/2-hour drive from our area and the scenery and towns along the way are beautiful.
Read on to learn about some of the many ways you can get outdoors and have fun with your family in the Rochester area.
Erie Canal - A ride down the Erie Canal is a must-do if you are in the area. You can hop aboard a tour bout like the Colonial Belle and experience a guided tour down the canal, and even experience travel through a canal lock. The boat ride was beautiful as a sunset cruise but traveling through the lock was an experience I'll remember as well as having to duck down each time we traveled under a bridge! Check their website for details on different cruise options.
The Village of Fairport - This is where you can board the Colonial Belle and the Village itself is beautiful and family-friendly. It is home to the Fairport Lift Bridge which is a site to see due to its unusual construction - it crosses the canal at a 32-degree angle. The Village of Fairport is also home to beuitiful walking and biking trails, shopping, dining and fun festivals like Canal Days.
Seneca Park Zoo - This beautiful zoo situated along the Genessee River is passionate about conservation and you'll leave with an increased awareness of the wildlife around you, both near and far. It is home to many animals including African elephants, river otters, sea lions, a white rhino, snow leopards, Amur tiger, a polar bear, Chester the Lion and two other African lions as well and many other wonderful animals. Check out a full listing and description of each animal's diet, habitat and more here. What's more exciting is that the Seneca Park Zoo will be expanding to include giraffes, a zebra and more in 2018. But don't wait until then to visit. This beautiful zoo will inspire you and your children to think more about conservation efforts and the animal world around them. During your visit don't miss the Eagles Landing Cafe and the Crater Canteen as well as the Zoo Shop with awesome animal-themed souvenirs from your visit.
Casa Larga Winery - A winery might not be your first thought for a family trip but many of the wineries, breweries and distilleries in the Finger Lakes region are family-friendly and beautiful. We visited Casa Larga winery, a family owned vineyard situtated in Fairport, NY. You can check for upcoming events like their Purple Foot Festival here https://www.casalarga.com/events/ Read more about the Finger Lakes region including wineries and beyond here: http://www.visitrochester.com/things-to-do/finger-lakes/ We love finding spots that feel adult enough for mom and dad but fun for our kids as well.
Letchworth State Park - Known as the Grand Canyon of the East, Letchworth State Park is breathtaking! Your family can enjoy hiking, camping, dining and white-water rafting and breathtaking views of gorges and waterfalls in the park. You can also visit the new Humphrey Nature Center which offers a chance to learn more about the local area as well as activities for families.
Campgrounds in New York - Want to camp during your vacation? New York state offers so many options for families from roughing it in a tent to family-friendly cabins. Grab your sticks and marshmallows and get ready to enjoy the New York outdoors. Find more information on camping here: http://www.campcony.com/
Want to learn more about visiting museums and zoos with your family in the Rochester area? Click here!
Need a few tips on saving money while you're there? Read our tips here.
Want more? View our Rochester, NY Facebook Album here to see more highlights of our trip. I promise that your biggest obstacle when planning a trip to the area will likely be how to fit it all in. Not to worry, you can return which is what I look forward to doing with my children. The biggest question will be where will we stop first?
Visit Rochester hosted Macaroni Kid for a 4-day press trip. Accommodations and most meals and activities were complimentary. No other compensation was received in consideration of this article and all opinions are that of the writer.
