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New York's Falls to the Finger Lakes
New York's Falls to the Finger Lakes

Natural Wonders and Engineering Marvels: 2-Day Trip

Escape on an extraordinary journey through the natural wonders and engineering marvels of our area! Prepare to be captivated by the magnificent blend of human ingenuity and the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. Our carefully curated trip will take you on an unforgettable adventure, showcasing remarkable architecture, delicious fare, and the natural beauty of the 'Fresh Air' region!

Day 1

10:30 to 12:00

Cobblestone Museum Complex

The greatest concentration of surviving cobblestone buildings in the United States is located here at The Cobblestone Museum. The Museum is an open-air, National Historic Landmark rooted in the history of cobblestone masonry during the time that the man-made wonder, The Erie Canal, was being constructed. A guided walking tour offers a fascinating glimpse of three celebrated architectural marvels plus other period buildings.

 

12:30 to 2:00 

Historic Tillman’s Village Inn          

Newly reopened after extensive renovations, this historic Erie Canal Inn has served throngs of travelers for decades! Their lunch fare features local, fresh produce with a culinary flare.

 

2:30 to 4:00      

 

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge

Often described as “one of the best-kept secrets in Western New York”, the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge has a state-of-the-art visitor center and over 10,000 acres of natural wonder to explore.  Begin your visit at the Visitor Center before taking a guided motorcoach tour around the refuge.  You’ll hear stories and view dramatic wildlife in all its glory.

 

4:30 to 6:15

Check-In: Batavia Area Hotel

Check into your room and freshen up for dinner.

 

6:30

Sit back and enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of the following restaurants: 

Eli Fish Brewing Company

The first brewery in Genesee County in over 100 years is an up-and-coming local hot spot. Enjoy delightful and casual fare complemented with a pint of one of their award-winning brews! The evening can be topped off with a tour of the 10,000-square-foot brewery.

 

OR

 

Fortune's Restaurant at Batavia Downs

Delectable pasta, steak, and seafood dishes are offered with a flare at Fortune's. Complete the evening with some ‘wagering time’ on the casino floor.

 

OR

 

Farmer’s Creekside Tavern and Inn

At nearly 200 years old, Farmer's Creekside Tavern & Inn sits on the banks of the beautiful Oatka Creek. After a fire nearly ended its historic lifespan, the Inn was painstakingly restored and now highlights fine cuisine in stunning ambiance.

 

Day 2

6:00 to 8:45

Breakfast at the Hotel

 

9:00

Depart Hotel

 

9:30 to 11:00

East Hill Creamery

East Hill Creamery milks 1,300 of their own cows on over 1000 acres so this fantastic, grass-fed milk makes a superior Alpine-style cheese. Tasting is believing...which you will, along with a tour of the creamery and a chance to purchase some of this remarkable cheese…either in their store or via their unique “Cheese Vending Machine."

 

11:30 to 1:00

Letchworth State Park

A knowledgeable step-on Guide will board your motorcoach at the Portageville entrance to the park, known as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” Hear the story of how William Pryor Letchworth gave his one-thousand-acre home to the state of New York and how it has become an over 14-Thousand-acre award-winning state park. Stop at scenic vistas, visit the Humphrey Nature Center, and hear all about the Autism Nature Trail.  Known affectionately as the ‘ANT,’ this new trail is the only one of its kind in the country and is a remarkable addition to this stellar park. Exit the park via the southernmost exit and view, up close the engineering marvel, Genesee Arch Bridge which traverses the mighty Genesee River.

 

1:00 to 2:30

Glen Iris Inn                        

Enjoy a delightful lunch at the Glen Iris Inn, located within Letchworth State Park. The Inn was once Mr. Letchworth’s home and now serves as a fine-dining restaurant and Inn. Located directly in front of the Middle Falls, the largest of the three main waterfalls that grace the park you're sure to have a magnificent view. Spend some free time roaming this area and enjoying the sheer beauty of this gem.

 

3:15 to 4:30 

Hidden Valley Animal Adventure                           

Begin the adventure at the Trailside Grill for a casual, sit-down lunch before heading out for a truly fascinating experience.  Step onto a Safari Bus and view exotic animals such as elk, bison, ostriches, zebras, camels, and much more! Be sure to leave time to visit the petting zoo too.

Request The FREE travel packet

Discover all the adventurous things you can see and do in the Fresh Air Adventures region. Then bring your travel packet with you to use while you're visiting destinations in the area.

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