We find ourselves heading north more often than other directions. I'm not sure why this is, except, there are many of our favorite things to do up there! There are great spots, fun food stops and nothing is more than an hour away. So load up the crew and all the things they need to bring and hit the road!
Olcott Beach: This is definitely a fave with shopping for mom, 25 cent rides for the kids, and ice cream for everybody. There are a handful of fun little shops along a boardwalk above the shore and they are all painted with bright and fun colors. I always seem to find some treasure that I must have and the kids like the candy shop. We have a bite at one of the picnic tables near the shops before we head to Olcott Beach Carousel Park to take a spin or 3 on each of the 6 classic rides. The tickets are a quarter a piece so it's a cheap day that the little ones love. We play a round or 2 of skee ball and win some small prizes at the duck pond before we move on to dessert. If the ice cream causes a case of the stickies, head across the way to Krull Park splash park to wash them down (may want to drive over). We always like to fit in a little time learning how to skip rocks by the lighthouse. There are many events in the town over the summer such as a mermaid parade, fishing derbies, duck races, pirate festival, and car shows, so check the schedule for more fun!
Lewiston/Youngstown: I think we have hit Lewiston every summer for, at least, 8 years even if only to eat at the Silo. Tradition dictates that we have one lunch at this old coal silo, turned fast food restaurant and ice cream at their caboose. The views are outstanding, and the menu offers something for everyone, including a vegetarian version of the "haystack", a sandwich made famous on Man vs. Food. They even support the environment with biodegradable cups and utensils made from plants. This stop is usually had on the way to or from Fort Niagara in Youngstown, NY. Fort Niagara is a great place to pick up some history, but for most kids the pools are the better place to be. There is one large swimming pool, a kid's wading pool and a pool with 2 waterslides. The prices are super low and a new bathhouse is promised for sometime in the near future. Their is no concession stand at this park so be sure to pack water and snacks for the kiddles. The drive from Lewiston to Youngstown along River Rd. is no slouch either with beautifully maintained historic homes and views of the Niagara Gorge that delight the senses. Lewiston also holds the local treasure of Artpark and there are great events here all summer long, including free family Saturdays each week in July. These Saturdays offer a different themed workshop each week with live performances and make and take activities that kids will love.
photo credit: longislandweekly.com
Lockport: Cool off in Lockport on a hot day. Start with some mini-golf and when it gets too hot head for the Lockport Cave and Underground Boat Ride. Underground and in the water stays pretty cool while you explore and learn the history behind this man-made tunnel. After your exploration, more coolness can be had at Lake Effect Ice Cream where you are sure to find a flavor you haven't tried before, like Western New York themed flavors Loganberry, Paula's Donut and Sponge Candy. I didn't really love the Bleu Cheese flavor but I did enjoy the Farmstand Corn and Blackberry! The locks that still operate are located in front of the ice cream shop and are worth a look see and if you pier to the left over the canal you will see the upside down railroad bridge-not something you see every day. There is still one last place to take the family for cooling off, Cornerstone Arena where there is ice skating open to the public every Saturday and Sunday from 1-3:00 (subject to change). Between Lockport and Olcott there is also the World famous Bye's Popcorn and the yummy delicious Reid's Hot Dogs.
If you are looking for a staycation or some family daytripping ideas we would be happy to help you plan!!