Kid-Friendly Attractions in Upstate New York

Upstate New York has a lot of great attractions for people of all ages, but what are some of the best attractions that are kid friendly for families? In general, any amusement park is kid friendly; most state parks, town parks and public parks are considered to be kid friendly. But what are the best places to go that are kid friendly? We'll explore my top picks for kid friendly activities in Upstate New York.

Darien Lake (http://www.godarienlake.com/) has to be the first place you think of when you think kid friendly in Upstate New York. Located in Darien, New York, Darien Lake is the biggest amusement park in New York, boasting one of the tallest roller coasters in the Northeast. They also have new rides and attractions each year, including the new Orange County Choppers Motocoaster and new artists for their concert series. Along with their standard amusement park, they also have a water park for you to enjoy as well for the same entrance fee.

Howe Caverns (http://www.howecaverns.com/) is another great, kid friendly attraction in Upstate New York as well. Located in Howes Cave, New York, Howe Caverns is a series of interconnected caverns that have been in existence for 150 years. You can take tours and learn about how the caverns were formed, how they were discovered and the sciences behind the caverns. If you're into nature and learning then Howe Caverns is a great learning experience for your kids, give them a head start into learning about geology and the history of Upstate New York.

Tanglewood Nature Center (http://www.tanglewoodnaturecenter.com/) is one of my favorite kid friendly recommendations in Upstate New York. Located in Elmira, New York, Tanglewood has nine miles of scenic trails in the Finger Lakes area all starting from the Nature Center. Each one allows you to a different view and perspective of the area. Not only that, but you can hike year round and they have cross country skiing, among other activities in the Winter, so it's not just a summer attraction for those who want something to do in Upstate New York.

Corning Museum of Glass (http://www.cmog.org/) is also another favorite of mine for a kid friendly attractions in Upstate New York. Located in Corning, New York, the Corning Museum of Glass has several different exhibits, including a glass blowing show. You can watch glass being made, learn about the science and technology behind glass-making. One of their exhibits is a hands-on glass-making program as well, so you not only get to watch, you can try your hand at it as well. Corning is the largest glass museum in the world with over 35 centuries of glass artistry and all their demonstrations and hands on activities.

These are just a few of the diverse things you can do in Upstate New York when you have children. There are other great sites to visit, including the Ross Park Zoo in Binghamton, New York, the National Soaring Museum in Elmira, New York and even Mark Twain's Grave, also located in Elmira New York. Upstate New York has many historical ties and is a great place to bring your children, especially if you're looking for educational attractions that they might enjoy.

Hopefully you'll find your visit to Upstate New York as enjoyable as I have found my life here.