These Are the Best Finger Lakes Activities for Kids
The Finger Lakes region of New York is one of the best destinations for your family vacation. Lakes full of adventure, museums to pique curiosity, and family memories to last a lifetime. There is an abundance of fun activities for a Finger Lakes family vacation that are sure to bring a smile to everyone?s faces!
For more things to do in the Finger Lakes with kids, make sure to access our free Vacation Guide! This useful guide contains the best kid-friendly things to do in the area so that you know where to eat, sightsee, hike, and shop! If you?re ready to plan the family vacation of a lifetime, unlock your own Vacation Guide!
Finger Lakes Family Vacation Planner
Activities for Kids in the Finger Lakes
Strong National Museum of Play
Let your curiosity guide you through the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester. Your kids will want to stay at this fun and interactive museum all day long, especially since there are so many activities to squeeze in! Your child will love riding the historic carousel and passenger train or taking part in the hands-on exhibits.
Then, explore nature in the butterfly garden or enjoy quiet time in the designated quiet area with a book nook and calming aquariums. The Museum of Play is a must during your FLX vacay!
Sciencenter
The Sciencenter, (formerly Children?s Museum of Ithaca) is an amazing place for kids to learn more about the world they live in and how they connect to it. Meet local scientists and experts, play with live animals and fun exhibits, and of course learn about science in a fun environment for young kids.
Corning Museum of Glass
Looking at glass might not seem exciting for a child ? but what about making glass? The Corning Museum of Glass makes it possible with glassmaking demonstrations and interactive glassblowing sessions!
The best part? It?s fascinating and fun for kids and adults of all ages! Besides creating your own tumbler cups, ornaments, pendants, beads, and sculptures, you can also visit exhibitions that are sure to have you thinking about glass in a whole new light.
Finger Lakes Ice Creameries
When the weather warms up in the Finger Lakes, I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! That?s why there are so many options for ice cream shops around the lakes.
Have you ever tried custard made from duck eggs? You can try this unique, frozen treat at Spotted Duck Creamery between Keuka Lake and Seneca Lake. We think it?s a lot richer and creamier than your typical custard, but you be the judge!
For an adults-only sweet treat, make your way over to Montezuma Winery and Hidden Marsh Distillery in Seneca Falls. They make wine-infused ice cream that you just need at the end of a long day!
Family Friendly Outdoor Activities in the Finger Lakes
Places to Release Energy Outdoors
- Gorge Trail at Taughannock Falls State Park
- Watkins Glen State Park
- White Water Rafting at Letchworth State Park
- Fishing in the Lakes
Visit a Farmers Market
Great restaurants mean that there are some fantastic local farms supplying them with ingredients. Enjoy the produce for yourself by visiting a farmers market! The Canandaigua Farmers Market is smaller, only hosting around 30 vendors who live near town. It is the only farmer-run market in Ontario County and features fruit, vegetables, flowers, meats, and eggs.
The Ithaca Farmers Market has been around since 1973, with over 160 members. This market has everything from prepared meals to artisanal gifts. You can shop for dinner and for a souvenir in one handy spot! The Windmill is another great option, with around 100 vendors selling produce and crafts. You?ll often get to hear live music or see performances during your visit.
Bristol Mountain Aerial Park
Take the family outside and ?experience the thrill? of Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures. At Bristol Mountain you can:
- Fly down the Zipline Canopy Tour
- Conquer the Aerial Adventure Park
- Let the kids run around in the Kids Adventure Park
- Push 3.8Gs in The Launch
Water Parks in the Finger Lakes
When it is hot outside and the kids want something fun to do, explore a local water park in the Finger Lakes! Here are a few indoor and outdoor options that we like!
Spend Quality Family Time in the Best Finger Lakes Vacation Rentals
Whether you?re planning a family vacation or a group getaway, we offer luxury rentals of all sizes! Escape the stresses of daily life and relax by a lake from the comfort of your Finger Lakes Premier Properties vacation home!
Seneca Winds is fantastic for your next family vacation or couples retreat. These two cottages sit on Seneca Lake, and you can rent both Sailwinds and Fairwinds cottages together. Plus, Fairwinds is pet-friendly! The kids will have a great time in these cottages because they include an outdoor foosball table, a fenced-in yard, a Pack ?N? Play, a BOSE surround sound stereo, kayaks, and a canoe!Check our availability and start planning your summer vacation on the lakes today!
