Whether you’re looking for a solo getaway or planning a family trip, upstate New York is full of fun and affordable places to visit. If you’re ready to hit the road, we’ve got you covered. We put together a list of our favorite family and budget-friendly activities for your next big adventure.
The Cobble Lookout Trail
Constructed
in 2014, the Cobble Lookout Trail is a 1.3 mile hike located in Wilmington,
near Lake Placid, NY. This trail offers a spectacular view at an easy intensity, so it
is perfect for families with all ages and abilities. What’s even better is that
you and your family can enjoy the beautiful scenery of this outdoor expedition
free of charge!
The Northeast Classic Car Museum
With
over 200 vehicles on display in an 89,000 square foot exhibit, you are not
going to want to miss the Northeast Classic Car Museum. Located in Norwich,
New York, this museum is known for having one of the largest Franklin
collections in the world, as well as for offering post- and pre-World War II
exhibits. Tickets for adults are $12.00, ages 6 to 18 are $5.00, and children
under 6 enter for free. Pro-tip:
reach out ahead of time as there are discounts available for group tours!
Parkside Whispering Pines Miniature Golf
If
you’re a fan of mini golf, we have the perfect place for you! Established in
the early 1930’s, Parkside Whispering Pines Miniature Golf is listed on the National Register of
Historic Places as the oldest miniature golf course in the United States. This
18-hole course is located in
Irondequoit, NY, just next door to their 50’s themed eatery, the Parkside
Diner. The cost of entry for one round of mini golf is $9.00 per person and if
you would like to complete a second round, the price then drops to $3 per
person.
The Jell-O Gallery Museum
If
you have a sweet tooth, you’re not going to want to miss this! Take a trip over
to the birthplace of Jell-O itself, LeRoy, New York, and learn all about
“America’s most famous dessert!” The Jell-O Gallery Museum exhibits are fun for
all ages, offering viewings of original advertising art, collectibles, and
more! With admission prices for the museum being only $4.50 for adults and
$1.50 for children, it’s easy to pop in for a visit!
The USS Slater Tour
Take
a glimpse into history while touring the last remaining Destroyer Escort from
World War II, the USS Slater. Since World War II, the ship has gone through extensive
renovations to restore its original look. The ship is currently moored on the
Hudson River in Albany, NY where you can tour it's museum. On this guided tour
you can expect to walk the deck while learning about the history of the ship, hearing stories, and
looking at the machinery on board. Admission for entry is $9 for adults, $8 for
seniors, $7 for children ages 6 to 18, leaving children 5 and under to enter
for free.
Mark Twain Country
It
may interest you to know that the famous author of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry
Finn, Mark Twain, actually spent a lot of time in Elmira, NY. At Elmira College, you can visit the small
gazebo where Twain liked to spend his time writing. You might also consider
taking a trolley around town for a tour of Victorian era homes and other
historical sites. A trolley ride is just $8.00 for adults and $4 for children.
Looking
for more family-friendly and affordable activities in upstate New York? Check
out the link below for our 6 favorite places to kick back and watch the sun.
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