The Finger Lakes is a region located in the central northern end of New York that is known primarily for its wine production. Seneca Lake is the largest lake in the area, and every year, the area attracts families booking Seneca Lake vacation rentals for a quiet getaway. From hiking along the Finger Lakes Cheese Trail to fishing at the Sampson State Park, there is something to do for all ages. This guide will help you find Seneca Lake family activities to suit your family.
1. Strong National Museum of Play
The Strong National Museum of Play is a museum children It is the largest National History Museum in the United States, and it is devoted entirely to children and playtime. Many of the exhibits are interactive, so they offer hands-on learning opportunities, and the museum also houses the National Toy Hall of Fame, so even adults can take a trip down memory lane to see some items from childhood. Children under the age of 2 get in free, and the museum is open seven days a week.
2. Take a Hike
If you want to escape your vacation rental to stretch your legs a bit, take the family on a hiking adventure. The Watkins Glen State Park is home to the George Trail. Along this trail are 19 different waterfalls to explore, and there are several different routes you can take, depending on your familyÂ’s skill level. There are also shuttles that go back and forth to and from the trailheads if you get tired.
3. Pet the Animals at Watkins Glen Farm Sanctuary
If your family loves animals, take a tour of the Watkins Glen Farm Sanctuary. Open to the public from May to October, the sanctuary is home to more than 500 rescued farm animals. Spend the day volunteering, or take a guided tour to learn what goes on at the farm. There is a gift shop where proceeds benefit the animals and a deck overlooking the pastures where you can take a break and enjoy a snack. The park is located just to the west of Watkins Glen near the Sugar Hill State Forest.
4. Go Fishing
Anglers from all over the area love fishing at Seneca Lake. The lake houses trout, Atlantic salmon, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and a variety of other fish species. Catherine’s Creek – along the southernmost part of the lake- is one of the most popular spots for trout. If you didn’t bring equipment with you, stop by one of the marinas to rent rods and lures for all ages and skill levels. You can even stop at one of the boat retailers to rent a fishing boat or a pontoon large enough to hold your family.
5. Seneca Museum of Waterways and Industry
Use your trip to your vacation rental as a learning opportunity by exploring the Seneca Museum of Waterways and Industry. This museum offers hands-on activities and interactive displays that show how important the Cayuga-Seneca Canal is to the region. Learn how the canal was built and how long it took.
6. Taughannock Falls State Park
Taughannock Falls is a beautiful park nestled in Trumansburg located near the southwestern border of Seneca Lake. Pack a picnic lunch, and head out from your vacation rental early in the morning to explore this natural attraction. There is a beach with a grassy shore for swimming and sunbathing and a playground. In the wintertime, put on your skis and do some cross-country skiing, or explore the snowshoeing trails. The park allows pets, though there is a two pet minimum per family.
7. Ride the Rides at the Seabreeze Amusement Park
If your family is looking for an exciting day trip from your vacation rental, visit the Seabreeze Amusement Park less than an hour away from Seneca Falls. The park has four roller coasters, a carousel, a wave pool, and plenty of kiddie rides. You can eat inside the park or pack a picnic and sit at one of the pavilions. Enjoy just the amusement park or grab a package deal and visit the water park as well. Ideal for individuals of all ages, this park is open mid-May through mid-September every year.
8. Rent a Boat
There are plenty of opportunities to explore Seneca Lake while floating. RoyÂ’s Marina and Stivers Seneca Marine are located on the north end of the Lake, while the Glen Harbor Marina is on the south end. Both parts of the lake are ideal for skiing or simply cruising the waters with a boat. Younger kids enjoy tubing or simply seeing the area from a different vantage point.
9. Slide on the Waterslide at Roseland Waterpark
Roseland Park is a 56 acre outdoor waterpark ideal for all ages. Older kids enjoy taking a ride down the speed slides, while moms and dads may prefer to float down the lazy river. There is a giant wave pool and a kiddy play area for younger children. The park offers an excellent way to cool off away from your vacation rental in the summer. It is open from mid-June through early September.
10. Play in the Waterfall at Robert Treman State Park
This beautiful state park is close to many vacation rentals in the Finger Lakes region. There are 9 miles of hiking trails and 12 different waterfalls, and you can swim in a pool beneath a waterfall. Rock steps lead down to the water, so you can sit and watch while your children splash around. There is also a lifeguard on duty for safety.