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A fun, cheap, scenic alternative to more mainstream road trips - tour western New York state's Jello Museum, farms, minor league games, theme parks and so much more.

This summer, when travelers are staying closer to home and spending less on leisure activities, we've discovered that the regions surrounding the really famous tourist attractions are usually a better value. The Greater Niagara region's Routes 5 and 20 run east to west across New York State; these two historic routes will take you anywhere you want to go, from the JELLO-Museum in LeRoy, New York to the Finger Lakes and on to Niagara Falls. So pack up the kids for a summer roadtrip to western New York.

Here is a list of great places to visit along these routes that offer cheap, and often times free, family fun for everyone in the surrounding areas of Niagara Falls. We suggest starting your journey in Wyoming County, then heading north to Genesee and Orleans Counties before you make the final leg of your trip west to Niagara Falls. You should give yourself at least five days to cover the entire area, but if you're just looking for a quick day trip or overnight then 2-3 days should give you plenty of time to explore Niagara Falls and make a few stops along the way at one of our featured attractions, as they are all within about an hour of Niagara Falls.

Wyoming County, New York

Come to Wyoming County, where there are more cows than people. What is there to see other than cows? First there's the Gates House, where visitors can learn about the major role the town of Warsaw played in the Underground Railroad movement. Then there's Gaslight Village, a quaint village that is still lit by the original gas lights and has over 70 homes listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There's also Attica State Prison, which is surrounded by a farm the prisoners used to work on as farm hands. Just 62 miles southeast of Niagara Falls, Wyoming County is a great place to start your adventure to one of the most beautiful natural landmarks in the world.

Letchworth State Park
1 Letchwork State Park
Castile, NY 14427
585/493-3600
Begin your trip in Castile, New York at Letchworth State Park, a 17-mile-long park, where the deep ravines and bountiful waterfalls throughout the park will captivate the whole family. Often times called the Grand Canyon of the East, the park is complete with accommodations including cabins and the Glen Iris Inn, where you can dine on fine cuisine, and they have rooms available for guests to stay in as well. There are 270 electric sites and 50 camp sites, with prices ranging from $21/N-$27/N. If you plan on bringing pets, call ahead to check which sites are pet-friendly, since pets are allowed only at specific sites. Be careful if you’re driving through the park as deer run rampant. There's also Pinewood Lodge and Caroline's Cottage for those who aren't that into the natural surroundings of camping. While visiting the park take part in some of the activities offered, ranging from rafting and hiking to biking and guided nature walks. There is no swimming allowed in the Genesee River, but there is one pool at the North end of the park, which has a small usage fee. Also check out the hot air balloon ride options the park offers, an exciting activity for all.

Hidden Valley Animal Adventures
2614 Royce Road
Varysburg, NY 14167
Although not open to the public yet, the Hidden Valley Animal Adventures park will be an exciting adventure. They already have many animals there including cows, llamas, ostriches, goats, and bison. The park is set on a gorgeous piece of land, with a duck pond, and a lodge which will feature a sit down restaurant and a snack bar. Guests will be driven through the park aboard old Army jeeps to see the animals and take pictures making this a real adventure. Little kids will love the thrill of being so close to the animals, and the park will also offer the option to feed the animals. The park is expected to open in fall 2009.