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If you’re hoping to get away for an afternoon or even the whole weekend, upstate New York is chock-full of amazing attractions and things to do for kids and parents alike. Don’t believe us? Take a peek at this list!

Adirondack State Park

Lake Placid, NY
Prices vary by activity
This park contains 2.6 million acres of public land, which is plenty of space for your family to explore! Park activities include hiking (trails have varying levels of difficulty), kayaking, scenic drives, fishing and biking.

Ausable Chasm

Ausable Chasm, NY
518-834-7454
Price varies by activity
Dubbed the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks, this spot is a must-see. Hike or float via raft or tube to the Ausable River. In addition, the area offers rock climbing and rappelling for adventure-seekers.

Boldt Castle

Alexandria Bay, NY
315-482-9724
$10/adult, $7/12 and under
George C. Boldt began building this beautiful castle in 1900 for his wife, but when she passed unexpectedly, the project was abandoned for more than 70 years. Now, it’s restored and a popular tourist attraction. Explore the castle and yacht club, easily accessible by ferry, private boat or tour boat.

Corning Museum of Glass

Corning, NY
607-937-5371
$20/adult, 17 and under free
Kids are encouraged to have a hands-on experience here while learning about the innovation and technology behind glass. There are live glassmaking demonstrations, make your own glass classes and gallery activities. The museum has a collection of over 50,000 pieces, so you’ll want to spend the day.

Eleanor Roosevelt and Franklin D. Roosevelt Homes

Hyde Park, NY
845-229-9422
Free
Val-Kill, Eleanor Roosevelt’s former home, is the only National Historic Site dedicated to a first lady. Tours of the cottage are available, and the grounds are stunning. Also in Hyde Park is Springwood, Franklin D. Roosevelt’s home. The grounds include the house, museum and presidential library.

Fort Ticonderoga

Ticonderoga, NY
518-585-2821
$24/adult, $12/children 5–15
This old French fort, formerly named Carillon, is perfect for little history buffs. The fort was used during two wars and five battles, and the restoration in the 19th century provided inspiration for artists and travelers. Daily programs include tours of the garden and museum, as well as cannon and musket demonstrations. Kids can participate in hands-on activities and exhibitions in the fort and garden.

Minnewaska State Park Preserve

Kerhonkson, NY
845-255-0752
$10/car
Located on the Shawangunk Mountain ridge, this park features dense forests, rocky terrain and multiple waterfalls. Activities include hiking, biking, scuba diving, rock climbing and boating. We recommend stopping by Lake Awosting for a cool dip in the glacial lake.

National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

Cooperstown, NY
607-547-7200
$25/adult, $15/children 7–12
Historic Cooperstown is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. All visits are self-guided, so spend as much time as you’d like exploring the three-story museum. The museum recommends you start on the second floor, which offers a history of the sport. The third floor examines ballparks past and present. The learning center on the first floor is the perfect place to end your visit. Don’t forget the Hall of Fame, featuring more than 300 plaques of baseball’s best players.

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves

Pottersville, NY
518-494-2283
$16/adult, $8.50/children 5-12
These hiking trails featuring waterfalls and caves claim to be the finest attraction of its kind in the Adirondacks! Guided tours are available, and other activities are perfect for families: gemstone mining, multiple bouldering walls, a playground and more.

Seabreeze Amusement Park

Rochester, NY
585-323-1900
$28.99-35.99/person
Home to more than 70 attractions, this amusement and water park promises the “ultimate family fun experience.” Enjoys views of Lake Ontario as you explore the rides and classic fair food. There are rides and attractions for everyone—kids and adults alike.

The Strong National Museum of Play

Rochester, NY
585-263-2700
$16/person
The Strong is home to the National Toy Hall of Fame, the World Video Game Hall of Fame and the International Center for the History of Electronic Games. The museum’s mission is to examine and educate about why play is important to human development. Collections are related to video and electronic games, toys, dolls and more. Exhibits include kid-favorite characters from the Berenstain Bears and Sesame Street.

The Wild Center

Tupper Lake, NY
518-359-7800
$20/adult, $13/17 and under
If your family loves the High Line in NYC, add the Wild Walk to your list. Take a stroll through the treetops on this above-ground trail. The Wild Center is also home to a museum, as well as other indoor and outdoor attractions.