Rising gas prices are making it more difficult for individuals and families to take their usual summer trips, which is why this summer would be a great time to discover or re-discover all that our area has to offer. There are so many wonderful places right here in Upstate New York that make great day trips.

We are very fortunate that we have so many beautiful parks in Central New York, including Green Lakes, Clark Reservation, Battle Island and Chittenango Falls State Park. Chittenango Falls offers a scenic hiking trail and the chance to peer over a 167 foot waterfall. The park is also great for fishing and picnicking.

There are also many places you can go in our area to satisfy your taste buds. Grab a group of friends and head to the Finger Lakes to taste our New York State wines. The Seneca Lake Wine Trail, the Keuka Lake Wine Trail and the Cayuga Wine Trail all feature some delicious wines. Another great place is the New York Wine & Culinary Center in Canandaigua, which allows people of all cooking abilities to learn and create new culinary dishes.

For sports lovers the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown is a must. As a former college baseball player, this is one of my personal favorites. We also have the Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota and the Soccer Hall of Fame in Oneonta.

If your teenagers are itching to get out of the house there are several amusement parks and water parks within reach. Enchanted Forest Water Safari, Darien Lake and Seabreeze Amusement Park will all satisfy the thrill seekers in your family.

The Corning Museum of Glass in Rochester is a wonderful place to go with the family for the day. It is the world’s largest glass museum and features 35 centuries of glass artistry. You can also view live glassblowing demonstrations.

If you have never had the opportunity to journey inside a cave, Howe Caverns would make a great day-time adventure. This natural wonder is truly an amazing site to see. Trained tour guides lead you through the winding caverns and teach you about stalagmites and stalactites.

There are so many interesting and exciting places to visit right here in Upstate New York. These day trips will give you the break that you are looking for without breaking your bank.