Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Niagara Falls to Moravia
Driving from Niagara Falls, New York to Moravia, New York is a beautiful journey through rolling hills, winding roads, and picturesque towns. The route is approximately 150 miles and takes around 2 and a half hours, but it's well worth taking your time to discover the hidden gems along the way. Here are five unexpected places to stop on your journey:
1. The Corning Museum of Glass
The first stop on the drive is the Corning Museum of Glass, located in the town of Corning, NY. This impressive museum houses more than 45,000 glass objects from all over the world, dating back 3,500 years. The collection includes stunning works of art, antique glass, and scientific glassware. Visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations and even try their hand at creating their own glass masterpiece. Don't miss the Contemporary Art + Design Wing, where you can explore innovative and experimental works that push the boundaries of what's possible with glass. For lunch, head to the museum's café for fresh salads, sandwiches, and wood-fired pizzas.
2. Watkins Glen State Park
Next up is Watkins Glen State Park, located in the Finger Lakes region. The park is known for its stunning gorge, where visitors can walk alongside cascading waterfalls on a scenic trail. The stone steps and winding pathway lead to a suspension bridge that spans over the gorge, giving breathtaking views of the landscape below. The park is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and swimming in the summer months. If you're feeling hungry, stop by the Village Marina Bar and Grill in nearby Watkins Glen for some classic American fare.
3. Taughannock Falls State Park
A bit further down the road, you'll find Taughannock Falls State Park, located in Trumansburg, NY. The park's main attraction is the stunning waterfall that measures 215 feet high, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States. Visitors can hike to the base of the falls or enjoy the view from one of the park's many lookout points. The park also features campsites, picnic areas, and a beach for swimming. For a unique dining experience, stop by the nearby Hazelnut Kitchen for farm-to-table cuisine and a rotating menu based on the season's offerings.
4. Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge is a bit off the beaten path but well worth the detour for nature enthusiasts. The refuge covers over 10,000 acres and is home to a wide variety of migratory birds and other wildlife. Visitors can explore the trails and boardwalks that wind through the wetlands, marshes, and grasslands. Be sure to bring your binoculars to spot bald eagles, ospreys, and sandhill cranes. For a quick snack, stop at Mac's Drive-In in nearby Waterloo for classic burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
5. Seward House Museum
The final stop on the drive is the Seward House Museum, located in Auburn, NY. The museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of William Henry Seward, a prominent politician who served as Secretary of State under Presidents Lincoln and Johnson. The museum features exhibits on Seward's life, as well as the history of the Underground Railroad and the Civil War. Visitors can tour the Seward family's 19th-century mansion and take in the elegant furnishings and decor. If you're in the mood for a sweet treat, stop by the Finger Lakes Pasty House in nearby Union Springs for traditional Cornish pasties.
Conclusion
Taking a road trip from Niagara Falls to Moravia is an opportunity to explore some of upstate New York's most beautiful and fascinating destinations. From the Corning Museum of Glass to the Seward House Museum, there are plenty of surprises along the way. Be sure to sample some of the area's delicious cuisine, from wood-fired pizzas to Cornish pasties, and take some time to appreciate the breathtaking natural scenery. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, this road trip has something for everyone. So why not hit the road and start exploring?