One way to control family vacation costs is with the time-honored road trip. Explore New York State on a leisurely trip from Watkins Glen in the Finger Lakes to the 1000 Islands region, stopping at castles, a zoo and the Rockwell Museum along the way.
To make the journey easier, there are two family-friendly, AAA Four-Diamond properties in waterfront locations, about three hours apart by car, that will bookend your scenic road trip. For added convenience, both properties offer spacious guestrooms with such family-friendly amenities as connecting rooms, cribs, kitchenettes, refrigerators, laundry, on-site dining, an indoor swimming pool and free WiFi.
At the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, for example, located on the shores of Seneca Lake, you and the kids will be within walking distance of the town and Watkins Glen State Park, with its hiking trails and waterfalls. Take your time to swim, fish, take a boat tour on the lake and, for mom and dad, sample the local vintages at a few of the 34 wineries on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.
The 104-room hotel is also situated about a half hour away from the Rockwell Museum, located in the historic former city hall in Corning, and the Corning Museum of Glass, with its eye-popping colorful exhibitions.
At the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, located on seven acres of parkland in the village of Clayton, guestrooms overlook the St. Lawrence River. On property, families can take advantage of an indoor swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, state-of-the-art fitness center and the services of a professional concierge to help you make the most of your stay.
Amenities include The Seaway Grille, the 1000 Islands Bar and, in summer, the Riverside Patio. Other options include alfresco dining by the river and nightly star gazing by on-site fire pits.
The hotel is located within walking distance of Frink Park, the town of Clayton and the Antique Boat Museum, where you can check out some 300 boats and artifacts, and take 45-minute speedboat rides on the river. Families can also take a boat to Boldt Castle, built in 1900 by a wealthy hotelier, and Singer Castle on the river, named for the founders of the Singer Sewing Machine Company.
Between the two hotels, families can stop at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse, the Women’s Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls, and the Waterloo Designer Outlets.
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Apr 18, 2024Where is One of the Most Unique Water Parks in the Country?
Take family travel to one of the most unique water parks in the country this summer. SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland Resort, in Nashville, Tennessee, is home to one of the most impressive water attractions with both indoor and outdoor areas.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Slideshow
Apr 18, 20245 Montpelier, Vermont, Destinations for Family Travel
It’s time to start dreaming of your next family trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Montpelier, Vermont, with us.
Destinations / Central America
Apr 18, 2024Forever Friends Girls Getaway
Friends can be like family, so perhaps consider a girls’ getaway next time you’re thinking of planning family travel. Naia Resort & Spa in Belize offers an excellent option to spring break with your BFFs with its Forever Friends Girls Getaway offer. The getaway includes a little bit of everything: camaraderie, luxury accommodations, spa treatments, delicious food and quiet time.
Sponsored Content
Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
Destinations / North America
Apr 17, 2024Dine on the Ocean Floor in New Brunswick, Canada
The astonishing tides of the Bay of Fundy offer plenty of experiences for family travelers in Maritime Canada. The newest of these is the chance to eat dinner on the floor of the ocean, seated beneath towering cliffs and tide-carved sea stacks. Return the next day to see your former “dining room” under 40 feet of ocean.
ShareThis