Though its primary purpose is as a nature preserve and not a tourist attraction, this site located near the Finger Lakes manages to capture hearts and minds nonetheless. The knowledgeable staff in the visitor’s center will inform you and your children and are more than happy to answer any questions. View live nest-cams and borrow binoculars and activity backpacks for your time here. The observation tower is wheelchair and stroller accessible. There is a 3.5 mile driving tour with a guide available by tuning your car radio to an AM station that offers a chance to see waterfowl, herons, Canada geese, osprey, harriers and other birds of prey in addition to foxes, coyotes deer and minks. The reserve is also home to 6 bald eagles and the luckiest visitors might just catch a photo of one. Set aside the attractions and enjoy the Finger Lakes in their most natural state for a part of your morning.

Step into history with a tour of the majestic home of William Henry Seward; New York State Senator, two time New York State Governor, US Senator, and Secretary of State during the Lincoln and Johnson administrations. His home is lovingly preserved and offers historical insight as well as cultural and artistic exhibits in both the home and adjoining gardens. A guided tour is the only way to visit the museum, luckily they depart every hour on the hour. Arrive 10 minutes early to ensure space. This tour is a history buff’s dream but note that it may be a little dry for the youngest children. Enter the world of the man who orchestrated the purchase of Alaska and was one of Lincoln’s closest confidants. No matter how much you know when you enter, you will leave enamored of the man and the time in which he lived.

A Relaxing Family Trip On Finger Lakes NY

The easternmost of the Finger Lakes is a sleepy and tranquil spot, though popular in the warmer months. Bring your own food or pop into one of the many shops and restaurants along the lake and enjoy a midday meal with an impressive backdrop and a real local’s view of the community. The natural beauty is bookended by historic buildings dating back to the 18th century. A peaceful meal and walk will set you up nicely for a lake tour.

The 50 minute lake sightseeing tour is a great way to take in the history and natural beauty of Skaneateles. With houses from the 18th and 19th century on through the present day, there are majestic homes from every era. This tour features live commentary by a knowledgeable guide and will explain some of the stately homes, the Sherwood Inn which was an old stagecoach building and the Stella Maris on the east side of the village. There will be great opportunities for photography as you pass the wooded hills and gorgeous banks of the lake.

Finally ready to leave the area of the Finger Lakes, there is one stop that needs to be made and that is the Corning Museum of Glass. This museum encopasses the history, art and science of a material we encounter every day of our lives but rarely give a second thought to. Here you will see fantastic works of art and famous pieces like Tiffany Glass. You will have a chance to make your souvenir by coloring and blowing a glass figure of your very own (don’t worry, they ship them if you are coming from a distance). Watch master artisans do their work, tour the many exhibits and ask a staff member any questions you have. Many say one day isn’t enough to see it all, so luckily all admissions are good for two.