Finger Lakes Fun for the Whole Family

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The Finger Lakes region boasts a diverse assortment of family-friendly activities that appeal to a wide variety of tastes and budgets. From outdoor activities and events to historic tourism and cultural activities, Ontario County abounds with something for everyone.

Let's begin outside. Are you adventurous? Do you love animals? Try horseback riding at Copper Creek Farm,5041 Shortsville Road, in Shortsville. Call proprietors Greg and Dana Atwood year 'round at (585) 289-4441 to schedule guided trail rides, wagon rides, sleigh rides, pony rides and cross country excursions. Reservations are recommended.

Another family favorite for the outdoors experience is Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Road, Naples. Tucked into the Bristol Hills, the center is open on the weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., late December through October. Admission is free for Rochester Museum and Science Center members. A $3 donation is encouraged for non-members ($10 maximum per family). A wildlife viewing area and six miles of walking trails encompass a visitor's center. In winter months, 15 miles of groomed trails are available for cross-country skiing. Maple sugaring, bird watching and hiking round out the possibilities. Visit for more information regarding programs.

If you've never encountered the quirky-sweet Alpaca, a trip to the Golden Oak Alpaca Farm, 8395 State Route 20A, Honeoye is a must. Family owned and operated for 20 years, the animals are raised with utmost care and they are a sight to behold. The farm store is open weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment.

Continuing the outdoor fun, a trek to Ontario County Park in Naples is a trip to one of the most breathtaking views in the region. Hike to the popular "jump off" point and feast your eyes. Camping and recreation areas, along with miles of trails for every ability are available. For information and directions, call (585) 374-6250, extension 13.

Like fishing? Here are two great ideas: Learn how to fish and then grab your gear and head to the City Pier on breathtaking Canandaigua Lake to apply your new found knowledge. Teach your kids to fish at Willow Pond Aqua Farms, Inc., 3581 Swamp Road, Canandaigua. For information, call Jim Kennedy and (585) 394-5890. Then visit Captain Gray's Bait & Lake Shop on the Canandaigua City Pier for everything you need to spend the day fishing at Canandaigua Lake. For more information, call Captain Gray's at (585) 394-5270.

There's no place better for arts and culture - family-style - than the Smith Opera House, 82 Seneca St., Geneva. For over 100 years, people of all ages have enjoyed performing-arts productions at The Smith. Built in 1894 by philanthropist William Smith, the theatre has through the years played a variety of roles from playhouse to performing arts center and community cultural center. Click here for a calendar of events and a peek into a century of history.

Combine a rich Native American history with refreshing outdoor pursuits and you have Ganondagan State Historic Site, Boughton Hill, Victor. See historical reenactments, such as the upcoming Fur-Trade Reenactment on May 12 and 13. A gift shop and authentic replica long house round out the experience. For more information, call (585) 442-2469.

For more history with a fun, floral twist, visit Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Site, 151 Charlotte St., Canandaigua. In 1863, New York City banker Frederick Ferris Thompson and his wife, Canandaigua native Mary Lee Clark Thompson, purchased a summer home atop the highest point in Canandaigua, with views of Canandaigua Lake. After her husband died in 1899, Mary Clark Thompson began an extensive redesign of the gardens at Sonnenberg. Today, visitors are invited to tour the gardens and mansion. A Mother's Day Tea is scheduled for May 12, a Model Train Exhibit is on tap June 2-3. For more information, call (585) 394-4922.