Trifter

Seven great places to take your family if you are bored or if it is nice out.

Niagara Falls

• Known throughout the United States, these falls are on the USA and Canadian border. They consist of three falls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. These falls are especially great to see during the summer when they create their own rainbows. Also, during the winter, although freezing, many photo opportunities present themselves. Not only can you watch the falls, but you can go and visit Goat Island and see a little bit of the surrounding area.

Old Fort Niagara

• The Fort is not too far from the Falls and is located on Ontario Lake. It has stood against the test of time and battle since around the 1720’s-1730’s. It is believed to be haunted and kids love this fort. On site one can view the original weaponry and design of the fort and it also offers tours throughout the place.

The Buffalo Zoo

• Every child’s favorite area. The Buffalo Zoo has many different houses available such as the Gorilla and Reptile houses. You also get your giraffes, bears, lions, tigers, kangaroos, and practically any animal you could want to see. I advise going on a warm day, not a sweltering day, only because if it is too hot out then the animals will not be active at all. 

Buffalo Science Museum

• Have an itch to learn more about Egyptians? The Solar system? Gems and other rocks? The Buffalo Science Museum is a great place to learn. Many different exhibits exist and, for the first time in New York, “Body World” will be visiting it this summer. For those who are unsure of this exhibit, it shows what humans really look like…under the skin. That starts July 9, 2009. Purchase tickets soon or else you may be too late.

Darien Lake Theme Park

• Vendors, games, kiddie rides, Ferris Wheel, and… Roller coasters. If you like thrills, then Darien Lake is the place to go. It has great roller coasters including the Viper, Mind Eraser, the Boomerang…and of course the Ride of Steel. Also, they have Hook’s Lagoon (a water park) and thrill rides such as the Skycoaster. Make sure to bring extra money when going, food can be a little pricey and so can riding rides such as the Skycoaster.

Corning Glass Museum

• One of my personal favorites. They show you how to make glass by using kilns and furnaces and show what kind of things have been made out of glass. Believe it or not, spears have even been made out of glass. The place is really cool and if you find yourself hesitant to go, go anyway. It’s fun and something will catch your eye.

The Butterfly Conservatory

• Okay, so I cheated. The Butterfly Conservatory is technically in Canada, but still close enough to get to. All you need now are your passports or enhanced licenses. A great place to take little kids, you walk along a bath in a building where there are over 2,000 different kinds of butterflies flying around. Some blend in really well and others stand out. The best part is, some will land on your clothes. They definitely are not people-shy.  Another fun destination in (or around) Western New York.