Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Brooktondale, NY and Buffalo, NY
If you're looking for a fun-filled road trip adventure within New York State, then Brooktondale and Buffalo provide the perfect starting and end points. The trip is approximately 213 miles and takes just over 3 hours, with several distinct attractions and activities to make the journey memorable. The halfway point is Victor, NY, which is worth stopping for a coffee break and a bit of shopping. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Brooktondale, NY to Buffalo, NY:
Visit Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park is undoubtedly one of the most popular natural areas in New York State. This state park offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, gorges, and sparkling pools, making it the perfect location to stretch your legs on a road trip and reconnect with nature. Its winding stone staircase leads visitors along a mile-and-a-half path, with countless photo opportunities of spectacular waterfalls and rock formations. The park spans 778 acres and is located roughly halfway between Elmira and Ithaca, making it convenient to reach from Brooktondale. It’s a great place to spend the day, hiking and enjoying nature’s beauty.
Interesting Fact: Watkins Glen State Park is the most popular state park in New York, with approximately 1.5 million visitors annually.
Discover Elmwood Village
Located in downtown Buffalo, Elmwood Village is an upbeat and vibrant neighborhood that offers tons of things to do and see. The area is bursting with an array of boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it ideal for foodies and those looking to immerse themselves in Buffalo's culture. The neighborhood also features many historical buildings that pay homage to Buffalo's rich history. Elmwood Village is an excellent spot to spend time with friends, wander the streets and admire the architecture, and indulge in the local cuisine.
Interesting Fact: Elmwood Village was voted as one of the top 10 Great American Neighborhoods by the American Planning Association in 2007.
Explore the Buffalo Zoo
The Buffalo Zoo is a must-visit location in Buffalo, NY, especially if you're traveling with family or are an animal lover. The zoo features over 1,000 animals from around the world, such as giraffes, lions, and monkeys, and offers activities for visitors of all ages. You can take a train ride around the grounds, feed the animals, watch animal shows and attend educational presentations. The Buffalo Zoo is the third-oldest zoo in the United States, having recently celebrated its 150th anniversary.
Interesting Fact: The Buffalo Zoo is home to Luna, the first polar bear born in captivity and bottle-fed by humans.
Canalside
Canalside is a waterfront district in Buffalo that has been recently revitalized to become a hub of activity. It features numerous events, concerts, festivals, and recreational opportunities all year-round. Visitors can enjoy paddle boating, kayaking, waterbikes, and hop on a cruise to explore the city from a different perspective. The district also has a vibrant nightlife with bars, restaurants, museums, and other cultural attractions.
Interesting Fact: Canalside’s location on the Buffalo River makes it one of the few remaining places to see the preserved commercial architecture and significant railroad buildings that helped make Buffalo great.
Visit the Finger Lakes
A short drive from Brooktondale is the Finger Lakes Wine Country, which is home to over 100 wineries, breweries, and distilleries. The beautiful natural scenery, serene lakes, and scenic vineyards make the Finger Lakes an excellent destination for individuals and groups alike. Additionally, visitors can immerse themselves in the history and culture of the region, which dates back over 10,000 years. From boat tours to waterfall trails and scenic drives, the Finger Lakes are a perfect place to unwind and relax on a road trip.
Interesting Fact: The Finger Lakes are home to the first Women’s Rights Convention, which took place in Seneca Falls in 1848.
In conclusion, the road trip from Brooktondale, NY, to Buffalo, NY, offers a set of diverse experiences that will captivate and entertain visitors of all ages. Start with the natural beauty of Watkins Glen State Park, then head to the exciting neighborhood of Elmwood Village, and explore the Buffalo Zoo. While in Buffalo, a visit to Canalside to explore the local history and culture is something you shouldn’t miss. Finally, end the trip by visiting Finger Lakes for scenic drives, wine, and rich history. Overall, the journey is roughly 213 miles and takes just over 3 hours of drive time, making it an ideal destination for a quick getaway or a day trip.