|
Do you have a high energy child that loves to jump? Here are some fantastic fall options to get the wiggles out and enjoy the sunshine. Pick N Patch and Corn Maze2205 NY-5, Stanley, NY 14561 Jumping pad is included in Wristband purchase. Wristbands are $12 per person, 2 & under are free. They offer two different jump pillows - One is more of a flat inflatable and easier for little kids.
Long Acre Farms1342 Eddy Rd, Macedon, NY 14502 These jumping pads are so much fun! Price to enjoy the back 40 festivities is $13.00 for everyone ages 3+, ages 2 & under are free. $10.00 for Grandparent with paying Grandchild.
Wickham Farms1315 Sweets Corners Rd, Penfield, NY 14526 There is lots to do at WIckham Farms, one of the many activities is a jumping pillow. It is $10.30 per person to enjoy all attractions on site on the weekdays and $15.45 per person on weekends.  Stokoe Farms656 S Rd, Scottsville, NY 14546 Included with wristband admissions. Two jumping pillows to separate younger kids from older kids. No adults allowed on jumping pillow.
Cobble Creek Farm5161 W Ridge Rd, Spencerport, NY 14559 Cost: $8 Per Person for the whole day of fun, $3 walk-around pass only Weekends Only! Does your little gravitate right to the digger equipment when you go to the playground? Here is a list of our ten places for your kids to learn to be a machine operator in the fresh air. Have we left out any? Please let us know! Ginegaw ParkLorraine Dr, Walworth, NY 1456 The combination of the mommy and me swing, sandbox with digger and fairy trail make this a park that we would visit repeatedly!  Jack's Place, WebsterHolt Rd and Lake Rd intersection Webster, NY 14580 This new playground within Webster Park is well loved by many. There is a sand box with blue mulch as well as a digger on the playground. The playground itself is a wood Bears Structure and great for older kids!  Partyka Farms1420 County Line Road (Route 272) Kendall, New York 14476 It is free to enter the grounds of Partyka Farm where you will find a variety of activities including a digger amongst old tires. Kids can have fun moving sand from one tire to the next, climbing on the old tractor, visiting the goat and more.  Farmington Town Park1000 Co Rd 8, Farmington, NY 14425 Farmington Town Park is a well maintained park and handicap friendly with an adapted swing and sandbox. There is a second sandbox, ground level, with digger! There is also a balance beam , bath house and pavilion with electricity.  Freeman Park845 State St, Mumford, NY 14511 The park is located right off the main drag. The park is set back from the road and has lots to offer. The playground has a larger and a smaller play set, zip line and gravel digger! Besides that they have a baseball field and volleyball nets set up for play. Next to the play area there is an open air pavilion, grills and a place to play checkers.
Havenwood Park47 Havenwood Dr, Brockport, NY 14420 This is a small playground within a Brockport neighborhood. It is mostly fenced in and although not far from the road, there is little traffic. There is a walking trail in the back along with regular and baby swings. There isn't a sandbox here but there is a digger for the older kids!  John Brown Memorial ParkSpring Street, Clifton Springs, NY 14432 This is an adorable park with much to offer! The playground is actually two in one. There is a play area with diggers, swings and lots of room to run around. There also is another playground next to it for older children which has slides, swings and a basketball hoop. There is also a large covered pavilion for large gatherings. When you go over the bridge there are baseball fields and plenty of space for your dog to run around.  The Apple Shed 3391 Fairville Maple Ridge Rd, Newark, NY 14513 There is a lot to do at the quaint Apple Shed including goats to pet, a small playground, gravel digger, apple cider donuts, fudge and hard cider tasting from Old Goat Cidery.  Long Acre Farms1342 Eddy Rd, Macedon, NY 14502 There is so much to do if you are visiting for the first time! The digger and large sandbox with toys can be found in the Back 40 area where admission is required. If visiting on a Fall weekend $13.00 for anyone ages 3+ will get your family into the back area plus the Amazing Maize Maze ($10.00 for Grandparent with paying Grandchild) On Weekdays, pay $6.00 for Children 2+, and $2.00 for Adults for access to just the Back 40 area.  Avon Driving Park350 Spring St, Avon, NY 14414 Avon Driving Park is worth the drive with the Bears Style Playground structures, natural playground, large amount of green space, swings, hiking trails and digger! Expect to spend a couple hours here!  Hiding in your local playground are some fun play structures along with Halloween's spookiest creature the spider! Here are some of our favorite places to stretch our legs, gain confidence and get some fresh air. Check out our spider climbers and spiderwebs from in and around Rochester, NY. Can you climb to the top of the spider and make your way to all the legs? Watch out don't get caught in the spider's web! Is your favorite climbing structure here? Let us know! Gates Memorial Park160 Spencerport Rd, Rochester, NY 14606 This unique spider climber is probably the highlight of this small playground in Gates. After wrangling the spider, consider a hike through the woods to enjoy the fall foliage!  Fellows Road Park499 Fellows Rd, Fairport, NY 14450 Fellows Road Park is the perfect park for a damp fall morning. The play surface is turf so there is little mud to worry about. Along with captivating play structures, pretend to be a spider and try climbing this larger-than-life spider web!  Ballantyne Park14 Ballantyne Rd, Rochester, NY 14623 These unique spiders seem to inhibit the smaller and less frequented playgrounds! This spider at Ballantyne park is one of the three play structures found on the playground. The playground is partially fenced in, however, so they can run away from the gigantic spider without getting lost.  First Responders Park1250 Chiyoda Dr, Webster, NY 14580 Don't ditch First Responders Park when the splash pad closes - there is still so much fun to be had here! Along with the firetruck themed playground, there is an inverted web perfect for climbing.  Letchworth State Park1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427 Set the scene for your little spider with the faux spider web complete with a river image! This one is a drive, but definitely worth it in the fall to enjoy the playground and fall foliage. There is a $10 vehicle fee to enter the park. The spiderweb can be found at the Lower Falls Recreation Center off Lower Falls Road (Take a right after entering the Castile Entrance).  Kids Canyon Playground3 Vince Tofany Blvd, Rochester, NY 14612 There's a ginormous spider in Greece... along with larger than life fish and other animals wandering about the turf surface and faux stream. This playground is fully fenced in and loaded with imaginative play structures so your child can run wild with the rest of the animals!  Long Acre FarmsOne of the biggest webs of all is waiting for you at Long Acres Farm! This web can be found in the "Back 40" area along with a tube slide, sandbox, jumping pillow and more. If visiting on a Fall weekend $13.00 for anyone ages 3+ will get your family into the back area plus the Amazing Maize Maze ($10.00 for Grandparent with paying Grandchild) On Weekdays, pay $6.00 for Children 2+, and $2.00 for Adults for access to just the Back 40 area  Stokoe Farms656 S Rd, Scottsville, NY 14546 This web at Stokoe Farms is included with the general admission wristband and can be found right near the Barnyard Barrel Train and Little Farmerville Activities. There is so much to do at Stokoe making this web fairly accessible for the spider enthusiasts, even on the busy days!  Getting out in the crisp air is a family favorite and spending time enjoying animals is a great cost effective past time. If you are looking to feed some animals, we have the list for you! Some places are more traditional than others and some have different Covid-19 modifications than others. Regardless, there are several options around Rochester! LaMora Farms5905 Ontario Center Rd, Ontario, NY 14519 If you like a good pun, run to the Lamora Farms Chicken Coop! Once there you can happily drop some chicken feed onto the chicknic table for "Amelia Egghart" and "Princess Lay-ya." Along with the coop to feed the chickens and the oversized checkers and tic tac toe board, they now have a new wooden play structure and a great backdrop for fall photos. There is also u-pick apples & pumpkins along with a huge selection of produce, baked goods, apples and pumpkins at the roadside gazebos. Cost: Free to see the animals and play! Bring quarters for chicken feed.  Burnap Farms7277 Maple Ave Exd, Sodus, NY 14551 Burnap's Farm Market & Garden Cafe in Sodus has so much to offer this fall season - Feeding the goats is just one of the many attractions. Currently, Burnap's is open Friday-Sunday and goat food is available in the market. However, you can pack some food and come any day of the week to visit the goats; They love company and sunflower seeds! Aside from the goats, Burnap's has a variety of fun play structures and a free corn maze for kids! Head inside the market for fresh baked goods, produce and much more Cost: Free to see the animals and play (Goat food can be purchased in the market or bring your own!)
Cracker Box Palace6450 Shaker Rd, Alton, NY 14413 While in Sodus, consider checking our Cracker Box Palace. This is a non-profit, no kill farm haven in Alton, NY. You will likely find a wide variety of animals here who have come to recover from illness, neglect or abuse. It is free to enter the farm to feed the animals (donations encouraged) and is open year round! It is a very laid back and authentic farm without the frills. Consider a hike on the property and pack some veggies to feed to the animals. Crackerbox is 10 minutes from Burnap's Farm Market so make the day of it! Cost: Free to enter! Donations Encouraged
Pick N Patch2205 NY-5, Stanley, NY 14561 This fantastic gem of a farm is a bit of a drive but so worth it! Feeding the animals is a little different this year due to COVID. There is no contact with the animals. You can purchase food at the dispensers (.25 for a little handful) and then you put it down the tubes. They have a few goats, sheep, chickens and a calf. Bring your quarters the goats will be happy to see you! COST: Free to see the animals! Fun Seeker Band - $12 Adventure Band- $10. Corn Maze Entry ONLY - $7. 12 Apple Blaster Shots - $5 (check website for details)
Powers Farm Market161 Marsh Rd, Pittsford, NY 14534 Powers is a well loved Farm Market with sheep, goats, deer, ponies, alpacas, and chickens. They offer food dispensers throughout if you would like to feed the animals. While there be sure to check out the famous Powers teepees! These are free to enter and such a fun spooktacular place to explore! Cost: Free to see the animals! Be sure to bring quarters for the food! 
Powder Mills Fish Hatchery115 Park Rd, Pittsford, NY 14534 Powder Mills Fish Hatchery is fun for everyone. You are able to view a variety of fish and different stages of life. Bring along a cup and some quarters because these fish are hungry! Be careful not to throw in too much of the feed or you will be splashed (okay, that’s the best part!). The park offers a few different coin operated feed machines right near the holding areas. Cost: Free to enter! Bring Quarters!  Schoen PlaceSchoen Pl, Pittsford, NY 14534 We love going to Schoen Place in Pittsford to feed the ducks. This is one of the best spots to go as the ducks seem to always be there and it is allowed (many places do not permit the feeding of wild ducks so be mindful wherever you go). Please refrain from bringing bread for the ducks. Bread products are in fact not good for waterfowl or even the waterways! You can purchase cracked corn at the canal for $1 or pack frozen peas or corn kernels. We park by the Coal Tower Restaurant and head directly across the street towards the canal. That's where the ducks are! Duck Food can be purchased inside Artisan Gelato. Cost: Free to park and stroll the canal! Duck food can be purchased for $1 during Artisan Gelato business hours  Wickham Farms1315 Sweets Corners Rd, Penfield, NY You've probably seen pictures of the beloved Wickham Farms going around but did you know by paying the barnyard admission OR to go Apple picking you have access to feed the animals?! Goat food can be purchased in the barn. If you plan to go to the barnyard attractions buy your tickets online to ensure you can get it! Cost: Barnyard Admission: $15 (Friday - Sunday) $10 (Monday - Thursday) Apple Picking Only: $10  Bridsong Fairy Trail27 Pond Rd, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472 Get away from the crowds and feed the birds at the Birdsong Fairy Trail at Mendon Ponds Park. The birds tend to be most active just beyond the last fairy house on the trail (near the owl shed of the loop back to the parking lot). Getting a bird to eat from your hand is more likely in the winter months and with children that can stay still for a couple of minutes! Good luck! COST: Free! Sunflower seeds to feed the chickadees can be purchased within Wild Wings during business hours.  Rochester is a wonderful place for the waterfall enthusiast. Many can be seen from the roadside while others require a hike. These waterfall trails have all been tested with kids in tow! (That is not to say there aren't safety precautions to take.) Be sure to check news reports before heading out to ensure the park is open and to learn of any possible hazards. Falling rock can be a concern at some of these locations are well as steep cliffs and of course moving water. Some of these parks are right within city limits while others are an hour drive, and these aren't even all of them! Share with us your favorites to have them featured in part II! Zoo Falls and Cascade at Seneca ParkThis is a great walk for a toddler! There was no “carry me” on this hike. There are cool bridges, waterfalls, streams, and the Genesee River. We parked at Wegmans Lodge at Seneca Park and followed the Red Trail. You take the stairs down to the base of the falls and the river. There is a littler dock too. You can climb a bit in the falls for a bit of a stream walk or you can play in the stream above. Caution! There was some iron rebar sticking up around the stairs and some steel sign posts sticking up. Just be aware of your footing. Some parts are a little more challenging but our almost 3 year old completed all of the hike.
Letchworth State ParkThere is so much to see and do at Letchworth State Park. If coming from Rochester, you can choose to enter at the Mount Morris entrance and drive the length of Letchworth as it is one long strip. However, we decided to cut to the chase and drive to the Castile Entrance to visit the playgrounds and hike the lower falls area (which is a little over an hour from Rochester). After entering, turn right and drive until you see a sign for Lower Falls Rd. Take this down the hill and you will see the new playground behind the rec center! This playground is unique but my kids had more interest in the traditional playgrounds, one of which is right nearby! After playing on both playgrounds we hiked the beautiful path to the lower falls. If you head toward the river and the bathroom shelter at the corner of the parking lot, you will find the trail that takes you to the scenic views. There are lots of stairs but overall it's a quick and simple hike. Along the way you will find the octagon playground which is shaded and great for climbers! Continue on the hike and eventually you will get to a set of descending stairs and soon a sharp left turn. Take that for the wide open views, bridges and lower falls view. You can continue on from there but we choose to turn around to make this a quick 1 mile hike.
Holley Falls Canal ParkJust outside of Brockport is the quaint town of Holley and within this town is the beautiful Holley Canal Falls. We had a lovely time exploring the park. The wide gravel trail is wheel friendly and does a one mile loop to the top of the falls, follows along the canal and passes by a playground. There are shortcuts throughout that are not wheel friendly but get you closer to the falls and a more direct route back. You can stand at the top of the falls without a barricade between so tread cautiously. The gravel path starts near the pavilion and goes up a fairly steep hill at the start. The falls however can be seen from the parking lot so a hike isn't necessary if you rather stay put to enjoy the view. It is free to enter Holley Falls Park but there is a sign stating they are closed for the season and to enter at your own risk. There is poison ivy in the woods so stay on the trails!
Wolcott Falls ParkKnown for its easily accessible 50ft waterfall, this park is a little gem located in the heart of Wolcott. The trail is roughly 0.1 mile long and has low traffic. Along with a short trail, there is also playground equipment (some in need of repair). Located back in the eastern corner of the park, you will find an older metal and wooden slide and hanging bars. There is also a large Little Tykes playground and sandbox/water table in this section. The Little Tykes playground is best suited for kids under 5. The park also offers a pavilion with multiple picnic tables. This park is completely shaded and tucked away from the road. Dogs are allowed, but must be leashed.  Corbett's GlenHiking from old Penfield road you follow the trail it’s about 3/4 of a mile, some hills but a good kid hike! You will end at the falls and the bridge tunnel. You can also park off of 441 and that is less of a hike to the falls. Also you can walk past the falls along the trail to extend your hike but entering the water at any point is not permitted.  Fallbrook FallsThis hidden waterfall is not far from the road in Geneseo. Though the hike is short it is fairly tedious and requires the use of a rope to scale down to the falls. Being the hidden gem that it is, there is very little roadside parking along route 63. Entering "Fall Brook Falls, Geneseo, NY 14510" into your GPS should take you to where you need to go. Just a couple steps into the woods you will find the rope to descend down to the bottom of the falls. Proper footwear is a must! Explore at your own risk!
Pal Mac Aqueduct ParkThe Pal-Mac Park is a lovely place to take a stroll. The area is approximately three acres to explore with kids and family. There are paths to follow around the aqueduct itself as well as down the sides of the canal. If you are taking the trail down the canal it's stroller friendly and flat to enjoy the water. There is also fitness equipment along your walk as you enjoy the scenery. If you are an avid fisherman or looking to try your hand at it, there is plenty of shaded area along the water to relax and catch some fish.  Channing Philbrick ParkThis park features an open air pavilion, grills, seasonal public restrooms, green space, handicapped fishing access, a map kiosk and hiking trails along Irondequoit Creek. Picnic tables overlook the creek where kids can play (This is the Red Fishing Trail). The first trail on the left as you pull into the parking lot is stroller friendly; Others within the park are not. The best place to check out for creek exploration is off to the right behind the pavilion. To find the hidden gem of the waterfall follow the Philbrick Park Trail (white) and it will be set back on the trail on the left side. If you hit the wooden bridge you have gone too far!
Ontario PathwaysOntario Pathways is a 23 mile long trail for walking, hiking, and biking with so much to explore. These pictures below are of the access point in Phelps, NY (1990 NY-96). Make sure to bring bug spray! While the trails are well maintained if you travel off the main trail it becomes buggy quickly. The best way to find the waterfalls is walk into the trail and continue for about 10 minutes. You will see some large boulders on the right side of the trail and a worn path- it will lead you right to them!
Ganondagan State Historic SiteThis is a great trail tucked away from the main road. We parked in the Cultural Center Parking lot and followed the blue trail (The Earth is our Mother Trail) which brought us to a fantastic little set of waterfalls with creek access. There are also benches along the trails to admire foliage and animals. I was pleasantly surprised how they have really added lots of information to read on the trail! The trail takes about 40 minutes to get to the area and the terrain may be a bit challenging for younger children. While you are there you can also check out the Seneca Arts and Cultural Center. Their website has some good information to see the map for hiking options and visit the center while you are there.
Historic High Falls WalkEveryone knows of the iconic High Falls! We like to park at the WXXI parking garage when we go, it’s usually free on weekends and we drive all the way to the top for the view! You can see the falls closer if you walk towards the right first, you will see the stairs and ramp to see the falls and usually there is a rainbow. After that we walk over to the bridge to cross towards the Genesee Brewery. When waking over there is a canal stream by La Luna and the Center at High Falls. The High Falls Visitor Center is open M-F 9-5, admission is $2 for adult and $1 per child. It's definitely worth a visit as there are some fun interactive exhibits! The Historical Tour of the falls can be found HERE. This would be a great field trip for all ages!  Covid-19 has proved challenging for all - especially small business owners. Many have made major adjustments and found creative ways to grow their business. Others, however, took this approach from the very beginning when they decided to open their doors despite the pandemic. Here are some of those businesses that opened their doors while we were hiding behind ours. Challenge AthleticsAt The Cannery, 25 Parce Ave Suite 175, Fairport, NY 14450 Challenge Athletics opened in early August. They offer dance, tumbling and martial arts classes as well as private lessons, camps and birthday parties. We tried out a tumbling class with my 1.5 and 4 year old. The class was very much like a "sampler" involving the kids in martial arts and dance activities but with a primary focus on the basic tumbling skills. The kids had so much fun and the staff is so kind and patient. It was a great opportunity to see my kids' abilities and interests in a more formal setting.  Pittsford Farms Dairy733 Park Ave, Rochester, NY 14607 Pittsford Dairy has opened a second location and amidst a pandemic nonetheless! This location is much smaller than their Pittsford location but they still have plenty of delicious handmade ice cream and other locally made products to go around! During our visit in August there was not indoor seating or tables but this makes for a great place to stop and grab a treat while strolling Park Avenue.  Chai Guy 729 Park Ave, Rochester, NY 14607 Conveniently located right next door to Pittsford Dairy, Chai Guy serves a variety of specialty drinks along with Amazing Grain Breads and Kiss Me Cookies. There is indoor seating but we had a great time grabbing some chai tea, then heading over to Pittsford Dairy for some ice cream with the kids.  Goldfish Swim School3349 Monroe Ave, Rochester, NY 14618 We had an amazing experience partnering with Goldfish Swim to check out their new facility in Pittsford. When we started lessons, my 1.5 year old hated bath time and my 4 year old was very sensitive and skittish when it came to any water above the knees. I am happy to now be able to say my daughter squeals with joy when she sees her bathing suit or hears its bath time. She absolutely loves the water thanks to this swim school! Aside from the joy and confidence Goldfish gave my kids when it comes to lessons, they have learned the essential safety skills and even glimpses of independent swim skills in just 3 short months. The facility has been very good with sanitizing and making sure the environment is safe for the members.  Juniper Gift Shop620 Titus Ave, Rochester, NY 14617 I stopped by Juniper Gift Shop before heading over to my cousin's bridal shower. This is an adorable local shop with several locally made items available to purchase. The outside is deceiving as there is much more inside than meets the eye. There is a room full of children's products and others with kitchen goods, gifts and home decor. Give yourself plenty of time to browse, you are sure to find something great!  Unleashed Nutrition650 Whitney Rd, Fairport, NY 14450 Nestled perfectly between Pizza Chef and Ladybugs Play in Fairport, you will find Unleashed Nutrition. This tea & protein shake bar opened late August and is the perfect stop to refuel while on the go. The staff was so great with kids and will customize any drink to make it fun and exciting for them - they can even have the colors of their tea match their favorite superhero. Even the protein shakes can be made kid friendly! All the options are so customizable and the staff are there to help you find what you are looking for. Gluten-free, caffeinated, or covered in sprinkles - they have something for everyone. Be sure to share your beverage on social media to receive $1.00 off!  Around Rochester there are so many enjoyable trails. Here are our top 10 Easy Hikes around Rochester! Each of these trails are stroller/wheelchair accessible and are easy to maneuver. Birdsong Fairy Trail27 Pond Rd, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472 This is a favorite with children and adults. Explore nature, visit the fairy houses, and play on a natural play area near the parking lot and halfway through the loop trail. Have more time? Visit Wild Wings Inc. just a short walk away. If you want to keep the trail short and simple, either turn left once the fairy houses end to loop back to the parking lot or turn around and enjoy the houses one more time!  Butterfly Nature TrailCanal Park, Macedon, NY 14502 The Butterfly Nature Trail is a community project started in 2012. The upkeep of this trail is maintained by a local group of devoted citizens. This is an adorable trail to bring children to explore and check in on the fairies! This is a 1/4 mile linear trail designed for all abilities in mind - wheelchair and stroller friendly!  Turning Point Park260 Boxart St, Rochester, NY 14612 Turning Point Park has a well loved stroller friendly trail - however, if starting out on Boxart Street, there is a steep hill to manage before getting down to the boardwalk. This also means a steep climb back to the car! The boardwalk trail from there is fairly level and very beautiful. It is a linear path however so you can make the walk as long as you would like. It is a 2.8 mile walk to the Ontario Beach Park from Boxart Street (one-way).  Channing Philbrick Park (Linear Park)1 Linear Park Dr, Penfield, NY 14526 This park features a pavilion, grills, seasonal public restrooms, green areas, handicapped fishing access, kiosk and hiking trail along Irondequoit Creek. Picnic tables overlook the creek where kids can play. Can you find the waterfall? It's hidden in plain view! Keep your eyes peeled!  Huckleberry Swamp9190 Catchpole Rd, North Rose, NY 14516 Here’s a fun place to go and it’s off the beaten path. This hidden gem is located in North Rose and you can easily pass by it if you aren’t on the lookout. The path itself is an elevated bridge so it is easy to navigate with a stroller. Bring your camera there’s a lot of wildlife for you to observe. There are also fairies that live in these woods as well!  Lollypop Farm 99 Victor Rd, Fairport, NY 14450 This path makes for a lovely stroll through Lollypop Farm that the whole family will enjoy. The paths are wide and flat and there are several farm animals to be viewed along the walk. You can also go inside Lollipop Farm to see more animals and read educational resources.  Ontario Pathways, Phelps NY1990 NY-96, Phelps, NY 14532 Ontario Pathways is a 23 mile long trail for walking, hiking, and biking with so much to explore. Please check out the official website map for different entry points to different trails. The entry way in Phelps has fantastic kid friendly waterfalls and creek access to explore for tadpoles and fish.  Pal-Mac Aqueduct County Park555 W Main St, Palmyra, NY 14522 The Pal-Mac Park is a lovely place to take a stroll. The area is approximately three acres to explore with kids and family. There are paths to follow around the aqueduct itself as well as down the sides of the canal.  Thomas Creek Wetland Walk 43 Liftbridge Ln E, Fairport, NY 14450 The Wetland Walk is a short loop along a boardwalk, parallel to the canal path and right within the village of Fairport! The path is beautiful, easy and stroller friendly. If you finish the short wetland walk, you can follow the canal trail into the village and beyond.  When those little ones take big steps to riding a bike or scooter, it is often best for everyone involved to find an area that is away from the road and not heavily populated with pedestrians and other cyclists. Many playgrounds have a short track perfect for racing or taking the bike for a spin. Here's a list of the tracks and trails we love! Rothfuss Park1648 Five Mile Line Rd, Penfield, NY 14526 Rothfuss Park is a great spot to go for the experienced Balance Bike rider or any kid looking to go up and down small hills. This is a wide and paved path with several different loops giving you options on how far you want to run beside your little cyclist. There is a small 1/6 mile loop near Jack's Place Playground and a larger 1/4 mile loop if you follow the path to the bathroom shelter and beyond. You could combine these two paths to make the trip longer or choose to do the 1+ mile loop around the entire park!  Union Station Park25 Rock Island Rd, North Chili, NY 14514 Many go to Union Station Park for the splash pad and playground but there is also a paved 3/4 mile loop adjacent to the playground. If you get tired, there is a shortcut to make it a 1/2 mile loop. The path is narrow but not often used. There are no roads or parking lots near the trail so take off those training wheels and practice away!  Levi Corser Memorial Park6702 County Road 32, Canandaigua, NY 14424 At Levi Corser Memorial Park, there is a track around the entire park and playground that is just under 1/2 mile. The path is a little rocky so it is probably better for a jog or kids that aren't just starting off on the bike or scooter. Be sure to stop by the playground after!  Wegman Road Park 510 Wegman Rd, Rochester, NY 14624 There is a perfect child-sized track at Wegman Road Park. The track is a 1/8 mile loop located behind the playground. Currently, there is a story trail on display along the track so be sure to stop and read as the kids scoot, peddle or run around the trail.  Mark Tubbs Park7384 Ziegler Dr, Lima, NY 14485 Mark Tubbs Park is a beautiful and secluded area with a playground and about a 1/2 mile loop that is roughly paved. This is a narrow path that isn't heavily used. It is far from the parking lot and road so perfectly safe for those crazy drivers and wild runners.  Joshua ParkTitus Ave, Irondequoit, NY 14617 This 1/2 mile track is almost entirely fenced in and loops around the playground at Joshua Park. It is near the parking lot so no need to lug the kids, bikes and scooters too far to get to the track! The playground is in the center of the track and is suitable for babies and Grandmas alike!  Veteran's Memorial Park3100 Atlantic Ave, Penfield, NY 14526 Veteran's Memorial Park is expansive with options to walk, jog or bike anywhere from 1/8 mile to over 2 miles! There's many options that loop back to your starting point so be sure to look at a map to pick your preferred path and distance. We like to start off at the Tot Trail right off of the playground off of Veterans Park Way.  You don't always need a gym to work out! Have the kids join in on the workout or put the baby in the stroller. Jog or walk the trails and stop at the various exercise equipment as you breath in the fresh air. All are free and all are stroller friendly! Tinker Park1525 Calkins Rd, Pittsford, NY 14534 Tinker Park is popular for its Nature Center and hikes through the woods. However, there is also a fitness trail just beyond the bridge to the pond. The trail is 1.2 miles and does a loop around the park. The workout equipment is simple (unlike the machines at some other parks) but it gets the job done! There are signs at each station describing the exercise.  Fellows Road Park499 Fellows Rd, Fairport, NY 14450 Fellows Road Park is one of our favorites to use for the fitness trail! There is a great playground near the parking lot but if you continue on further you will see the start of the Fitness Trail. The trail loop is just under 1 mile and the equipment was in great working condition when we visited.  Greece Town Hall Campus3 Vince Tofany Blvd, Rochester, NY 14612 A handful of exercise equipment can be found at the Greece Town Hall campus by the pond. If you follow the trail around the pound, tennis court and playground, it is just under half a mile. There is also a story trail along the path! The trail is paved making it great for strollers and bikes as well. With the nearby playground and Rec Center, this is a great place to entertain the kids while you get a couple steps in!  Webster Recreation1350 Chiyoda Dr, Webster, NY 14580 One of the more unique fitness areas can be found behind the Webster Recreation Center. The walk to this area in itself can be a workout for some! If you follow the Chiyoda Trail from the Rec Center parking lot to this area behind the baseball fields, it's just under 1/3 mile. You can also take a shortcut through the baseball fields. Once there, you will find a parkour style fitness area! This area can be entertaining and challenging for kids and adults! There is a climbing wall, tunnels, tire course, balance beams and more. If you have any energy left, First Responders Playground is also just a short walk away!  Manchester Getaway Trail55 North Ave, Manchester, NY 14504 The Manchester Getaway trail is 1.5 miles and runs from NY Route 96 to Clifton Street in the main Village. The trail was opened and maintained in mid 2012 and continues to be a popular walking destination for many people on a daily basis. On this trail you will find creek access to the Canandaigua Outlet and seats to enjoy the view as well as a few exercise fitness stops to have a bit of fun on your trek along the river. The trail is flat and stroller friendly you will also see some fun sculptures on your walk as well!  Penfield's Veterans Memorial ParkVeterans Park Way, Penfield, NY Unlike the fitness trails listed above, this trail at Penfield's Veterans Memorial Park is for kids only! Labeled the "Tot Trail" this path is near the playground and very short. The equipment is small and simple - fit for any kid or toddler!  Fitness StationsAside from the above mentioned trails, you will also find fitness stations often next to or apart of a playground! Some of our favorites are pictured below!  Cobbs Hill Park  Victor Municipal Park  Troup St Park  Richard P. Outhouse Park If you are looking for a way to cool off this summer in a spot that is a little more tranquil and less frequented than a public pool or beach, head to the creekside! There are many spots in and around Rochester. Grab those water shoes and a net-and remember to always practice water safety skills. There are many more great spots beyond this list. Send your recommendations our way and we will put together another list for next summer! Powder Mills Park, Fish Hatchery 115 Park Rd, Pittsford, NY 14534 Why it's great for wading: Powder Mills is an excellent spot to spend a summer's day. With the fish hatchery, hiking trail and creek all within close proximity, it makes for a great way to fly through a hot day. We like to start off feeding the fish at the hatchery then head to the trail for a short hike in the woods right behind the building. After finishing the hike, the kids can cool down in the creek! During our visit the creek was shallow all the way through. Pack some quarters and plastic cups for fish food at the Fish Hatchery.  Channing H. Philbrick Park1 Linear Park Dr, Penfield, NY 14526 Why it's great for wading: Swimming is not permitted at Channing H. Philbrick park but there are offshoots from the larger creek that makes for a great spot to stop and splash in the water before continuing on the walk. We even saw some tadpoles on our visit! The water access pictured below is quick and easy to get to by entering the hiking trail nearest the main parking area. Head down the trail just a couple of yards and you will see the small creek on your right. Venture further and you will likely see the larger creek with deep waters, strong rapids and even some small waterfalls!  Grimes Glen4703 Vine St, Naples, NY 14512 Why it's great for wading: Grimes Glen is a gully. There is a trail you can walk for most of it but there is a good chunk that is a creek walk. We only made it to the first big waterfall- it wasn’t slippery and was fun to climb. Its beautiful all the way through with plenty of creek to share with all the visitors. Wear water shoes and expect to get wet! There have been reports of falling rock and the park was closed temporarily because of this. Proceed with caution!  Bay Park WestS Glen Rd, Irondequoit, NY 14609 Why it's great for wading: Located in Irondequoit right by the Bay. This is a great park for hiking and lots of people bike here. It is a shared trail. The creek is shallow with lots of open space great for walking (and stomping) through. This trail has easier paths and harder paths and it’s pretty easy to find your way out. Bring Bug Spray!  Sawyer Park 732 Long Pond Rd, Rochester, NY 14612 Why it's great for wading: Not only does Sawyer Park have two playgrounds, but also hiking trails with creek access. We love the creek for its gradual slope into the water and the still and shallow water. The terrain of the nearby trai is flat but some trails can get narrow. To get to the creek, take road all the way back to the pavillions.  Harry Allen Park23 N Main St, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472 Why it's great for wading: First of all, its beautiful! The steep stone walls and surrounding woods makes for a peaceful visit on a hot day. The creek access is just a short walk down the Zebulon Norton trail behind the Harry Allen Park Playground. There's a rocky "shore line" for those that like to toss stones into the water.  Ontario Pathways1990 NY-96, Phelps, NY 14532 (Vet Clinic directly across the street from the entrance) Why it's great for wading: Ontario Pathways is a 23 mile long trail for walking, hiking, and biking with so much to explore. There are natural dams in place for some deeper exploration of tadpoles and other water bugs. The path itself is long but about a 10 minute walk into the trail on the right hand side you will see a set of boulders. Walk down to the water and explore the waterfalls!  Durand Eastman Park, Leastman Trail 1200 Kings Hwy N, Rochester, NY 14617 Why it's great for wading: This is a quiet trail tucked in a cute neighborhood in Irondequoit. There is an awesome little stream to play in on hot days. It has some hills but it’s a pretty easy trail. Quick hike to the creek area if you are just looking for some water fun.  Mertensia Park1390-1394 Mertensia Rd, Farmington, NY 14425 Why it's great for wading: Mertensia Park is a lovely park that has many amenities on site. One of the fantastic perks of this park is you can play at the playground or enjoy a turn at tennis and when you are through it is a short walk to the creek to relax and cool off. This is a easy flat trail where you can bring the children and they can explore the water and look for fairy houses at the same time. Take note there is some Poison Ivy on the trail.  Shortsville Budd Park37 Water St, Shortsville, NY 14548 Why it's great for wading: There is plenty of sites to take in and fun for kids to explore. This is a popular fishing area for locals who like to admire nature. There are bridges, flowers and stumps to walk on- so there is a little bit for everyone. Looking for a place just to sit and listen to water? There are plenty of swinging seats to enjoy the scenery.  Webster County Park1078 Lake Rd, Webster, NY 14580 Why it's great for wading: This is one of the few spots where kids can see the creek meet the lake. At this particular spot near the pier at Webster County Park, there is a small landing area with easy access right near the creek. To the left is the lake but to the right is the expansive creek. During our visit, there were not steep drops in the water and it was easy to keep the kids away from the lake. They loved walking in the open waters of the creek and tossing rocks.  Four Mile Creek PreservePhillips Rd & Lake Rd. Webster, NY 14580 Why it's great for wading: It takes a short 5-10 minute walk on flat terrain to get to the creek (though there are several tricky roots for the little ones to maneuver). Once there, there are bridges and benches and beauty abounding! If you venture further onto the red trails, it is said you can find old cars scattered in the woods. Unfortunately, the creek was too fun and distracting that we didn't make it that far but let us know if you do!  |
Archives
January 2021
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed
© COPYRIGHT 2018. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.