Sometimes there is nothing better than escaping into nature to get away from the hectic schedule of everyday life. That’s the approach our family recently took during a vacation into the Finger Lakes region of New York. We spent a few days hiking along trails to see waterfalls and then rewarding ourselves with stops at some fantastic local ice cream shops.
Read on for some of our favorite places that your family may want to visit.
Watkins Glen State Park
One of the most well-known state parks in New York, you don’t have to travel far along the walking path to catch glimpses of the gorge and some amazing waterfalls. Their website says it’s a two-mile stretch featuring 19 waterfalls. You can even walk underneath one within the first 10 minutes of the walk. There are stone and dirt paths, so the early part is not a difficult hike and can easily be done with kids if you have limited time or aren’t up for an all-day adventure. Note that parking is limited, so you may need to park a few blocks away and walk to the state park entrance. Visiting during the week would be a good idea. Learn more on their website.
Ice Cream in Downtown Watkins Glen
If you visit the park, there are three different ice cream shops that you can choose from to cool off on a warm day. An easy walk from the park, the Colonial Pottery & Creamery features homemade ice cream, including vegan choices. Sit inside the shop or in one of their rockers outside to enjoy your treat. Also within walking distance is a Ben & Jerry’s store.
Just a short drive down the road you’ll find the Great Escape Ice Cream Parlor, which sells its own homemade ice cream and Hershey’s ice cream flavors. They also have some delicious and creative ice cream dessert creations you can choose from! I recommend their party cake flavor!
Buttermilk Falls in Ithaca
Less than an hour away from Watkins Glen, you’ll find Buttermilk State Park, which is another great spot for families. You can see one of the main falls in the lower part of the park without doing any hiking at all! There are picnic tables and a natural pool in this area which would make a great spot for lunch. If you want to hike further into the park (note, there are A LOT of steps!), you’ll be rewarded with more waterfalls and tidal pools. The upper portion of the park also has a lake, playing fields, and meadow with nature trail.
Purity Ice Cream
While an Ithaca, a stop at Purity Ice Cream is a MUST! Amazing ice cream (milkshakes just as good as those at the farm show!) and delicious, fresh-baked desserts.
There are numerous other waterfalls to see in the Finger Lakes area. Visit the New York State Parks website for all the details.
More ice cream spots abound, too! In fact, there is even a Sweet Treats Trail that winds around some of the Finger Lakes from May into early December. Get the scoop here.
Find more great day trip or vacation ideas in our Reviews from the Road Guide!
