Summertime is in full swing, and that means you’re likely hunting for your next family vacation destination. While many Americans flock to Florida beaches or world-famous metropolises, there’s something decidedly charming about heading to an underrated locale with the whole family in tow. Forbes recently released its list of top family-friendly vacation options in the United States, and one New York town snagged an unexpected spot near the top of the list.
TripAdvisor/Larry W. Ithaca, New York is located in the Finger Lakes region of the Empire State and houses a full-time population of just over 30,000 residents. Its mid-sized charm makes it the perfect place to enjoy a summer vacation that will provide plenty of fun for the entire family without breaking the bank or sending travelers into endless crowds of fellow tourists. From natural attractions like Ithaca Falls to art museums and cultural gems, there’s truly something here to delight visitors of all ages.
Google Reviews/Sciencenter Children will have an absolute blast strolling through the Sciencenter, a hands-on museum that prides itself on offering educational exhibits and plenty of sensory experiences for kids of all ages. Tickets are just $8 per person and the museum features two floors that are jam-packed with excitement. Not in the mood for an indoor outing? The Cornell Botanic Gardens are a breathtaking choice for those seeking natural beauty and a chance to stroll through a historic section of Ithaca - in fact, the gardens first opened their doors all the way back in 1875.
Facebook/Ithaca & Tompkins County Tourism
TripAdvisor/Eileen W. Other family-friendly offerings throughout town include the science-centric Museum of the Earth, the bustling Ithaca Farmers Market, beautiful Buttermilk Falls, and all sorts of standard shops and restaurants. Whether you’re eight years old or eighty, there’s so much to discover during a trip to Ithaca. It’s easy to see why this underrated destination has garnered attention from travel publications in recent years, and you’ll certainly want to experience the town’s many delights for yourself.
For additional information about Ithaca and its many unique offerings, click here. Have you made memories in this New York destination? We’d love to hear your suggestions and stories in the comments below.
TripAdvisor/Larry W.
Ithaca, New York is located in the Finger Lakes region of the Empire State and houses a full-time population of just over 30,000 residents. Its mid-sized charm makes it the perfect place to enjoy a summer vacation that will provide plenty of fun for the entire family without breaking the bank or sending travelers into endless crowds of fellow tourists. From natural attractions like Ithaca Falls to art museums and cultural gems, there’s truly something here to delight visitors of all ages.
Google Reviews/Sciencenter
Children will have an absolute blast strolling through the Sciencenter, a hands-on museum that prides itself on offering educational exhibits and plenty of sensory experiences for kids of all ages. Tickets are just $8 per person and the museum features two floors that are jam-packed with excitement. Not in the mood for an indoor outing? The Cornell Botanic Gardens are a breathtaking choice for those seeking natural beauty and a chance to stroll through a historic section of Ithaca - in fact, the gardens first opened their doors all the way back in 1875.
Facebook/Ithaca & Tompkins County Tourism
TripAdvisor/Eileen W.
Other family-friendly offerings throughout town include the science-centric Museum of the Earth, the bustling Ithaca Farmers Market, beautiful Buttermilk Falls, and all sorts of standard shops and restaurants. Whether you’re eight years old or eighty, there’s so much to discover during a trip to Ithaca. It’s easy to see why this underrated destination has garnered attention from travel publications in recent years, and you’ll certainly want to experience the town’s many delights for yourself.
Or, if you’d like to read about another family-friendly travel destination that might have slipped under your radar, click here.
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