Weekend Itinerary: Family Fun in the St. Lawrence Seaway

Family Fun

A Weekend Away:
ST. LAWRENCE SEAWAY

Calling all families with history buffs and/or outdoor enthusiasts! The Seaway Region promises to please with its historic sites, marvelous museums and wonderful water activities like boating and fishing. Glorious views along the St. Lawrence River enhance all kinds of outings.

St. Lawrence Seaway Family Fun: Day One

MAPLE CITY TRAIL:

Get the adrenaline flowing with a brisk walk or bike ride on Maple City Trail. One of the Great 8 Trails--the 2.4-mile paved path follows the Oswegatchie River offering opportunities for all kinds of wildlife encounters including heron, deer, beaver, mink, jumping fish, bunnies and more! Start at the Dobisky Visitor Center conveniently outfitted with public restrooms and a summer concession stand.

Location: 100 Riverside Ave, Ogdensburg, NY

WIMPY'S INN:

Time to recharge! Just minutes away, you’ll find the original Wimpy’s. Treat yourself to lunch choosing from a menu of burgers, hotdogs, fries and more. Don’t forget the Wimpy Sauce!

Location: 807 Ford St, Ogdensburg, NY

HOSMER'S MARINA:

Next up, kayaking! Make your way to Hosmer’s Marina where you can rent kayaks and paddle the St. Lawrence River. From the water, discover excellent views of ships passing through the channel, the Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge and Fort de La Présentation at Lighthouse Point nearby.

Location: 54 E River St, Ogdensburg, NY

SMUGGLER'S CAFE:

After paddling, enjoy dinner and live music out on the patio at Hosmer’s Marina. Heaping homemade Fries covered in Butter Garlic, Cheese & Gravy or Beer Cheese await. Lighter options like Strawberry Chicken Salad or Garlic Shrimp Flatbread Pizza promise to satisfy, as well.

Location: 54 E River St, Ogdensburg, NY

BEST WESTERN UNIVERSITY INN:

About 30 minutes away in Canton, NY—travel to your destination for the night. Laid-back rooms come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minifridges. Amenities include an indoor pool and a 24-hour gym, but you’ll probably be ready for simply a good night’s rest.

Location: 90 E Main St, Canton, NY

St. Lawrence Seaway Family Fun: Day Two

NICANDRI NATURE CENTER:

Nicandri Nature Center: About 45 minutes away, you’ll find this free nature center with lots of trails! Open Wednesday through Sunday from 9am-5pm, the center offers hands-on, fun exhibits (including fish and turtles!) for all ages. A 6-mile trail system also connects to the center.

Location: 19 Robinson Bay Rd., Massena, NY

AN ITALIAN AFFAIR:

About 10 minutes away, grab a bite for lunch. Fresh ingredients, homemade dough and sauce made from scratch add up to yummy Italian dishes and vegetarian options. Dine al fresco on the new patio!

Location: 339 East Orvis Street, Massena, NY

SEAWAY VISITOR CENTER AT EISENHOWER LOCK:

Less than 10 minutes away, you’ll find this brand-new attraction! Check out massive ships in transit or explore cool interactive navigation simulators. Learn about the Seaway’s past, present and future.

Location: 76 Barnhart Island Road, Massena, NY

GRISTMILL BREWERY:

Not far away, you’ll find the Gristmill Brewery. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite with river views and room for kids to roam. Open for dinner on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and lunch on Friday and Saturday.

Location: 38 Water Street, Massena NY

ROBERT MOSES STATE PARK CAMPING:

If you’re up for camping, Robert Moses State Park on the St. Lawrence River is considered a flagship facility. Make a reservation and enjoy!

Location: 32 Beach Marina Rd, Massena, NY

St. Lawrence Seaway Family Fun: Day Three

HAWKINS POINT VISITOR CENTER:

On a nearby island, you’ll want to check out this hands-on visitor center that offers free energy-related interactive exhibits and an observation deck with scenic views. Get ready to hop on a bicycle generator and have a hair-raising experience with static electricity! Call ahead to confirm hours 315-764-6679.

Location: 21 Hawkins Point Road, Massena, NY