Go Beyond for Families

Day One

Your adventure starts in the village of Moravia with a gentle hike along Owasco Flats. This is a great spot to stretch your legs while observing plants and animals that are unique to the area. Be sure to pack waterproof footwear that you won’t mind getting dirty – the area can be muddy!

Owasco Flats is also great for water activities such as fishing, canoeing and kayaking – just be sure to reference the Cayuga County Parks and Trails Department for information on any required permits or next steps. While you’re in the area, venture over to Fillmore Glen State Park for waterfall watching. Enjoy the relaxing sounds and incredible sights of five waterfalls, which are surrounded by unique geological formations and a botanically rich glen. It’s a great opportunity for a family photo op, or to slow down and take in the natural environment around you.

By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite and are up for a meal. How does mouthwatering barbecue sound? Pop on over to 10-10 BBQ, where they’re serving up delicious appetizers, specials, sandwiches and salads, which you can top with your choice of their succulently smoked meats. And what goes better with BBQ than tasty sides? Enjoy baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, corn on the cob and more!

Whether you’ve chosen to dine in or take your meal to go, you’ll be making your way to Auburn to settle in for the evening.

After your first day of adventure and eats in the region, you’re probably ready to call it a night. Lucky for you, Cayuga County offers various lodging options that are great for families – from campgrounds and RV parks if you’re looking to sleep among nature or right under the stars, to hotels, B&Bs and inns that are cozy and convenient, to rental properties that offer more privacy and feel like home.

Day Two

Your second day of adventure starts with breakfast at New Hope Mills Café – a historic grist mill that has been family owned and operated for three generations. They’re serving up breakfast favorites including omelets, scrambles, French toast and waffles. And did you know? Their pancake mixes (which can also be purchased from their store) are touted as the number one in Central New York – so you know you’re in for a flavorful meal that will fuel your day ahead.

Today’s adventures will take you to the waters of Lake Ontario, starting with a visit to the Sterling Nature Center. Take in the scenery and peaceful wildlife around you on the 1400-acre site. Hiking, snowmobiling and cross-country ski trails are available, making it a perfect place to visit any time of year – just make sure you bring the proper gear!

Are you ready for an exhilarating ride that’ll have you zipping across the open waters of Little Sodus Bay? Prepare to go water biking in Fair Haven! This activity is great for riders of all ages and experience levels, and you can rest assured that you’ll be kept safe and dry atop these state-of-the-art water bikes. You won’t want the fun to end!

When your adrenaline has settled and it’s time to fill your bellies, make your way to Potters Farm to Fork for a lip-smacking, feel-good meal! The food is always fresh, prepared with passion and bursting with flavor that will delight your taste buds. Their range of options makes it easy to find something you’ll enjoy – from salads and sandwich boards, to burgers and pasta, to loaded potatoes and their take on Rochester’s Garbage Plate.

And when you’re ready for something sweet, pop next door to Potters Dairy Bar – a participating location along Cayuga County’s Sweet Treat Trail.

Reward your family with some downtime (and maybe even catch a nap) when you return to your lodging accommodations.

You’ll finish up the day’s adventures with a self-guided exploration of one of Cayuga County’s walking trails. Options include:

• Harriet Tubman’s Lantern Trail – Did you know that Cayuga County was Harriet Tubman’s chosen hometown? Walk in her footsteps and explore her legacy along this interactive trail.
• South Street Walking Trail – This walking tour takes you to see the homes of Auburn’s most famous citizens.
• Auburn Public Art Trail – View signature community mosaics, murals and sculptures as you walk through Downtown Auburn.

Your last stop for the day is Moro’s Table for dinner. Settle in and enjoy the ambiance of the restaurant while savoring delicious selections of surf, turf or fowl. Indulge with tasty hors d’oeuvres or choice cuts of grilled or pan-seared meat, or keep it casual with salads or small bites, like hand-rolled sushi.

Day Three