It's holiday break, the house is in chaos and the kids are bored. Now what? Have no fear, we've compiled a list of what to do and where to go, to get your kids out of the house and out of your hair. Come play in Cortland County, we've got just what you're looking for.
CASCADES INDOOR WATER PARK
2177 Clute Rd., Cortland
(607) 835-6300
At a balmy 84 degrees, this waterpark is a little slice of paradise during the cold days of winter. Cascades is home to a wave pool, two body slides, two tube slides, an interactive play structure, and a kiddie pool with swings and a slide. All of this is sure to keep kids, of all ages, entertained for hours. Don't worry parents, Cascades includes an indoor/outdoor hot tub, conveniently positioned where you can watch your children play. If that wasn't enough, they also boast at the attached arcade, where you can demonstrate your mad ski-ball skills and collect winning tickets all afternoon long.
383 McLean Rd., Cortland
(607) 662-4623
Walk through a winter wonderland, where totem poles, tree art, and incredible larger-than-life art installations can be found lurking amongst the beautiful protected nature at Lime Hollow. Just a short walk from the Visitor Center on McLean Road, the Eric Kroot Art Trail has been set aside for nature-inspired outdoor art exhibits created by local artists. At just a half-mile long, it's the perfect length for all ages. Be sure to stop in the Lime Hollow Nature Center for a hot cup of cocoa when you're done.
(315) 696-5711
Build your child's love for winter sports! Give them life-long memories, in a fun and safe environment, with other children their at their ability level and age. Watch their confidence grow as they learn new techniques from instructors trained specifically to work with children. Song Mountain Resort and Labrador Mountain each offer their own respective children's programs. Kid's Town and Song Birds, are open to children, ages 3 - 12. No prior experience is necessary. Equipment rentals are available.
2000 State Route 392, Cortland
866-376-3907
If the conveyer belt to the top weren't enough to entice you to buy tickets, the disco on the mountain should. Wiz along 900' foot lanes of downhill exhilaration, lined with color-changing LED lights, and blasting rock and roll- this is a winter experience the family won't soon forget. While reservations are not required, they are strongly recommended.
17 S. Main St., Homer
(607) 543-4568
An old-fashioned candy and bake shop, Sinfully Sweet Café is the perfect place to indulge. Watch as your children's eyes light up, as they take in shelf after shelf of; glittering candies, hand-made chocolates, and perfectly baked sweets. No sweets before lunch? Not to worry, Sinfully Sweet Café boast a full menu with soups, salads, and sandwiches, sure to satisfy the pickiest of pallets.
32 Court St., Cortland
(607) 753-1042
It's never too early to instill the love of a good book. Cortland Free Library has a brimming children's section and a variety of programs, perfect for a cloudy day. Monday evenings, beginning at 7 p.m., they host "Books Before Bed", a pajama party teamed storytime. Dress your littles in their coziest pajamas, don't forget a blanket and favorite bear, and snuggle in for a good, old-fashioned storybook reading. Cortland Free Library also offers Tot Time, for the tiniest of readers, Crafty Kids and Math Club. Sign-up is required, so head on over to their website for details.
27 Groton Ave., Cortland
(607) 753-3242
Tired of stale holiday cookies and leftovers? Head over to Hollywood Restaurant, for a dazzling, retro-teamed display. A Cortland tradition since the 1940s, Hollywood offers casual dining, with a healthy dose of kitsch, perfect for families looking for a change of scenery. Bosting a fantastic children's menu and classic Italian fare, it's a hit with young and old alike.
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