Family-Friendly Adventures in Greater Niagara, New York!

Buffalo Niagara Region

Why Visit?

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Buffalo

Start your adventure in the heart of Buffalo at Canalside, where the city’s rich history meets modern entertainment. Enjoy a relaxing boat tour along the Erie Canal - easily accessible via the Metro Rail to Erie Canal Harbor Station. Explore the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, where kids can climb aboard real WWII-era ships and submarines.

Lunch: Grab a bite at the nearby Liberty Hound, offering delightful views and kid-friendly meals.

Afternoon: Head to the Buffalo Zoo, one of the oldest in the USA, established in 1875. It’s a short drive from downtown and offers a chance to see exotic animals in habitats like Rainforest Falls and Arctic Edge.

Day 2: Niagara Falls Adventure

Morning: Drive or take a direct bus (NFTA Metro Bus 40) to Niagara Falls State Park, America’s oldest state park. Start at the Visitor Center to pick up a Discovery Pass which offers access to key attractions like Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds. The Maid of the Mist boat ride, a thrilling journey to the base of the Falls, is a must-do.

Lunch: Enjoy a picnic with a view at Terrapin Point.

Afternoon: Experience the Cave of the Winds, giving you a close-up view of the falls from the Hurricane Deck. Next, explore the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center to learn about the natural history of the area.

Evening: Before heading back, stop at the Observation Tower for a spectacular panoramic view of all three falls - a perfect end to your Niagara adventure.

Day 3: Buffalo’s Cultural Touches

Morning: Visit the Buffalo Museum of Science, accessible by Metro Rail. Engage with hands-on exhibits that cater to curious minds of all ages.

Afternoon: End your trip at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, featuring pieces that intrigue both adults and kids. It’s a short drive from the museum and a great place to inspire creativity in your family’s young artists.

Enjoy your family trip filled with fun, education, and unforgettable memories in the Buffalo Niagara Region!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum

Why Visit?

Welcome to a delightful family adventure at the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum located in the heart of Jamestown, New York, the birthplace of the iconic Lucille Ball. This interactive museum offers a unique glimpse into the lives and careers of one of America’s most beloved showbiz couples.

Getting There

Jamestown is accessible by car or bus. If you’re driving, it’s about a 1.5-hour trip from Buffalo, NY. The museum is centrally located at 2 West 3rd Street, making it easy to find. Parking is available nearby.

Start Your Visit

Begin at the main exhibit, which showcases a vast collection of memorabilia from "I Love Lucy," including original scripts, costumes, and rare personal photographs. Here, children can learn about the pioneering work of Lucy and Desi in television and their enduring impact on American entertainment.

Interactive Fun

Next, head to the Desilu Playhouse area. It"s designed to look like the original studio where "I Love Lucy" was filmed. Kids will love the interactive sets where they can reenact famous scenes and even try their hand at Vitameatavegamin commercial!

Lunch Break

Take a break and grab lunch at a local diner downtown, perhaps choosing a spot with a 1950s theme to keep the nostalgic vibe going.

Wrap up at Lucy’s Childhood Home

After lunch, consider a short drive to 59 Lucy Lane, where you’ll find Lucille Ball’s childhood home. It’s not officially part of the museum, but a photo op here is a must for true fans.

Interesting Fact

Did you know that Lucille Ball was the first woman to run a major television studio, Desilu Productions, which produced many popular television series including "Star Trek"?

End your day back at the museum store to pick up some unique souvenirs, ensuring that the laughs and memories of this special day will last a lifetime.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Visiting Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

Morning: Arrival and Introduction

Start your day at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, located at 641 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, New York. If you’re driving, there’s convenient street parking available nearby. Begin at the visitor center to pick up a Junior Ranger booklet for the kids, which provides engaging activities and challenges to complete during your visit.

Mid-Morning: Explore the Museum

Tour the exhibits that recreate the events of President Roosevelt"s inauguration following President McKinley’s assassination in 1901. Don"t miss the interactive multimedia presentations that bring the historic moments to life. Kids will enjoy engaging with the exhibits designed to be both informative and interactive, perfect for sparking young imaginations.

Noon: Pan-American Exposition

Learn about the 1901 Pan-American Exposition, a pivotal event during Roosevelt"s ascendency. Explore the site"s digital resources before your visit or use your smartphone to access dynamic content that illustrates the fair’s innovations and cultural significance. This is a great opportunity to discuss with children how this event shaped the future of America.

Afternoon: A Walk Through History

Take a guided tour of the Ansley Wilcox House, where Roosevelt took the oath of office. The restored rooms, including the library where the actual inauguration took place, provide a tangible connection to this historic moment.

Late Afternoon: Reflection and Relaxation

Conclude your visit in the beautiful Victorian garden, a quiet spot perfect for a family picnic. Reflect on Roosevelt’s enduring legacy of conservation and leadership.

Tip Before You Go

Check the site’s calendar for special family-friendly events and reenactments that might coincide with your visit. Participation in these programs can enhance your experience and provide additional insight into Roosevelt"s era and achievements.

Enjoy your journey back in time at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Chautauqua – Allegheny

Why Visit?

Welcome to the Chautauqua-Allegheny region, a perfect blend of natural beauty and family fun! Here"s a delightful itinerary for your family visit:

Day 1: Chautauqua Institution

- Morning: Start your adventure at the Chautauqua Institution, a historic lakeside community offering educational programs, arts performances, and recreational activities. Arrive early to enjoy a leisurely walk around the picturesque grounds and marvel at the Victorian architecture.

- Afternoon: Participate in one of the family workshops or attend a live concert if the timing aligns with your visit. These events are often interactive and suitable for all ages.

- How to Get There: Situated in Chautauqua, NY, you can easily reach the Institution by car. Parking is available on the grounds with a daily or seasonal pass.

Day 2: Allegany State Park

- Morning: Pack a picnic and head to Allegany State Park, New York"s largest state park. Start with an easy hike on the trails at Red House Area, where you can explore old-growth forests and spot diverse wildlife.

- Afternoon: After lunch, rent a paddle boat or kayak to enjoy time on Red House Lake. Don"t miss the park"s museum, which showcases the area"s natural history and indigenous culture.

- How to Get There: Located in Salamanca, NY, the park is about an hour"s drive from Chautauqua. Drive via I-86 E for the fastest route.

Day 3: National Comedy Center in Jamestown

- Morning to Afternoon: Dedicate your final day to laughter at the National Comedy Center in nearby Jamestown. The interactive exhibits are fun and engaging for both kids and adults, offering a personalized experience with comedy.

- How to Get There: Jamestown is just a 30-minute drive from Chautauqua via NY-394 E. There"s parking nearby the center.

Each of these locations offers a unique taste of the Chautauqua-Allegheny region, promising a memorable trip filled with learning, recreation, and lots of laughs!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Visit to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House

Morning Arrival

Begin your educational adventure at the stunning Martin House, located at 125 Jewett Parkway, Buffalo, NY. If you’re driving, free parking is available on site. For those using public transport, the Metro Bus has convenient stops nearby.

Start with a Guided Tour

Kick off the experience at 10:00 AM with a guided tour tailored for families. These engaging tours are designed to captivate the curiosity of both parents and children, explaining Wright"s architectural genius in an accessible manner. You’ll explore the main house, pergola, conservatory, and carriage house. The tour beautifully highlights Wright’s design principles and the harmonious relationship between architecture and nature.

Interactive Activities

Post-tour, participate in the “Junior Architect Workshop” at 11:30 AM, perfect for sparking children’s creativity. The workshop allows kids to design their own small model home, learning about geometric shapes and natural materials, mirroring Wright’s style.

Lunch Break

Around 12:30 PM, enjoy a picnic in the beautifully landscaped gardens. You can bring your own lunch or grab a bite from nearby eateries.

Self-Guided Exploration

After lunch, take a self-guided walk around the estate. Be sure to visit the Barton House next door, also designed by Wright for Martin’s sister and her family. This provides a nice contrast to the main house and offers a glimpse into a slightly different residential design by Wright.

Reflection and Sketching

Conclude your visit around 2:00 PM by sketching some elements of the house or gardens. This not only is a relaxing activity but also helps children and adults alike reflect on and appreciate the beauty of Wright’s work.

Departure

Head back home by 3:00 PM, allowing the family to discuss their favorite parts of the visit or the interesting facts about Wright"s life and his architectural philosophies.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.