10+ Winter activities in Western New York

Do you live or are traveling to the Western New York area? Winter can really put a damper on activities when we get hit with snow. I thought this year I would recommend specific establishments to get you out of the house. I sometimes forget all of the wonderful things in this area we can do. Before I dig in, I will say Ice Skating & snowmobiling are also wonderful ideas. I have mentioned both in the past because New York has some amazing trails and well…snow! Enjoy 10+ Winter activities in Western New York.

I also included adult ONLY activities for the winter season. If you have other suggestions/locations comment!!!

1. Support the local Hockey teams in your area! These young athletes deserve a nice hometown fan base. The games are usually reasonably priced and full of action for all ages! In the past we have enjoyed watching the Southern Tier Xpress , Jamestown Rebels play!! If youth hockey is not your forte you can always enjoy a Buffalo Sabres game as well!!

2. I recently discovered the Corning Museum of Glass when I was invited for a Press Trip. Nestled in the heart of Finger Lakes , The Corning Museum of Glass offers a unique opportunity to explore glass from all angles geared to all ages. Plus, the second day admission is FREE!! You could also visit the Rockwell Museum or Wings of Eagles Discovery Center while in town!

3. Strong Museum of Play. They offer a HUGE indoor area for children to learn, explore and PLAY! They have their very own Sesame Street reproduction, Wegmans store (children’s size), Dr. Seuss, Bernstein Bears reproduction play area, Comic book character recreations and Dancing with Wings exhibit. I could go on and on about this place. It is wonderful and fairly inexpensive. It is in Rochester, NY

4. Did you know Buffalo, NY has TONS of museums to enjoy?? We have made a point to try and enjoy some when we visit that area. The Buffalo Museum of Science, Albright Knox Museum and Buffalo History Museum are great locations to visit!! They are all family friendly and reasonably priced. They also offer great exhibits that get you out of the cold weather.

   5. Go skiing, snow tubing or just ride the fun Ski lift. We have enjoyed the Chili and Chicken Wing Cookoff at Peek’n Peak (located in the foothills of Clymer, NY) for years now.

6. Enjoy a indoor play area. We have been to a few and it’s great fun for everyone. They have plenty of space for your little one’s to run, jump, explore and play together. Many locations serve food, snacks and drinks. I would recommend a day trip to Bounce Magic Amherst, NY, Billy Beezus in Walden Galeria, NY or The Skyzone trampoline park in Buffalo, NY.

7. Bowling! From bumpers, lightweight balls for the kids to competitive oil patterns for the pros. Test your luck by reliving your favorite past time or start a new tradition. many areas have local bowling alleys so a few to many to mention!

8. Any I LOVE Lucy fans?? The Lucile Wright Air Museum, Lucy Desi Museum and the Fenton History Center can get busy during the warmer months with tourists (especially around Lucy festival). Don’t forget a wonderful stay at the Chautauqua Harbor hotel!! We also enjoy the National Comedy Museum. Taking a trip during the winter is perfect way to skip the crowd and enjoy memorabilia with your whole family!

9. Take a trip to National Soaring Museum, and Harris Hill park. The ASK-21 is a two-seat (one passenger, one pilot) glider with a close resemblance to a paper air plane. The unique design has been carefully crafted through the years. Enjoy the museum showcasing the modern changes while learning some history of the different air crafts.

10. Take a scenic drive.. just be mindful of snow, icy and road condition. Western New York has some incredible sights to enjoy during the winter months. Hector Falls (pictured above) or Shequaga Falls in Watkins Glen, NY. Another great area Waterfalls to see are Wiscoy Falls-located in Portageville, NY.

Some of you may not have a family and want some adult activities. While I wish I could say we get out for date nights that would be a lie. The snow prevents us from really traveling to far in New York during the winter time. Add that to our son having been really ill this year and last during these cold months.

I am always searching for more ideas to avoid cabin fever…

 10. Need to take a break? Just shut off your phone, close your laptop and relax! Enjoy a stress-free stay at 1837 Cobblestone bed & breakfast. Located at the north end of Canandaigua Lake in New York. Visit wineries, attend a cooking class or just sit and relax with a book. In the morning be pampered by a full course meal prepared by your talented culinary hosts.

11. The Finger Lakes have over 200 wineries, breweries and distilling companies to experience! I truly think visiting local locations help you learn more about the area. While visiting some of the wineries we have learned the history behind how they get the vine to create tasty wines. Enjoy a day and explore some of the North East Wine trails!!

12. Visit a Casino! We frequent the one in Salamanca, NY  and the one in Niagara. They offer free game play when you sign up, concert tickets or meals. I personally am an avid fan of playing bingo (old school). Great way to get out enjoy some adult fun eat and possibly win some money!

13. Visit the Falls. The New York side of the Falls have always had a place in my heart. You can get so close to this powerful natural wonder and every Season has something different to enjoy. Whether you just hike to see the Falls or enjoy some of the area restaurants/attractions it is a prefect day trip! I would recommend bundling up because it does get WINDY!!

14. The Grist Iron Lodge has a wonderful view overlook the Seneca Lake and vineyards. If you decide to visit the Watkins Glen area this is a great place to rest your feet. They also have a brewery on their location within walking distance from your room.

I hope you enjoy this “10+ Winter activities in Western New York” post. Have more Winter suggestions I missed??

Does anyone else get cabin fever??