Tom Brickhouse Photography

The Allegany State Park is the largest of New York's state parks as it contains an impressive 65,000 acres of public lands and offers a wide range of recreational activities throughout the year. You can enjoy a guided walk along the Bear Cave Trail, check out the stunning rock formations at the Allegany Plateau, go swimming and sunbathe on either of two beaches, and even go boating or fishing. There's cross-country skiing available, too. So in addition to enjoying some outdoor beauty, you won't be at a loss for any fun activities to enjoy!

Transport yourself back in time to an area where classic homes and perfectly planted gardens were the order of the day. The Parkside Garden Tour is a self-guided tour of the impressive Parkside neighborhood that features over 50 gorgeous gardens. Parkside is an area of Buffalo that was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and has the distinction of being listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to the stunning gardens, you'll also get to view various 19th century homes along the tour route.

Buffalo's economic growth owes much to the Niagara River and Lake Erie. Historically, this body of water has been pivotal in the area's water trafficking economy and is also an attractive natural spectacle. Hear about the commercial growth while enjoying the aquatic visual appeal when you take the Buffalo Harbor Cruises. The cruises feature highly informed guides who tell the stories that have occurred between these shores. They will be happy to answer your questions, as well. Take your camera to snap lots of great views of the harbor and the city. The tour's vessel, "Miss Buffalo II," regularly departs from the dock at 79 Marine Drive.

Discover Buffalo's natural beauty when you visit the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. You will be transported to a world where nature is the focal point in an 1890s tri-domed Victorian glass conservatory on the grounds of South Park. See some of the world's most exotic flowers and plants that are housed in over 13 greenhouses that are located on South Park's 150 beautiful acres. The staff members are knowledgeable and helpful, and the kids will enjoy seeing all the different types of plant life and flowers, too. In all, the garden offers an excellent day of family fun through its floral attractions.