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.

3 Day Itinerary

St. Lawrence Seaway Family Fun: Day One

Maple City Trail in Ogdensburg, New York

Wander the Maple City Trail

WALK, BIKE, OR ROLLERSKATE ON THE OSWEGATCHIE

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. Pass Sweet Emilie's and grab a smoothie or an ice cream along your way!

Location: 100 Riverside Ave, Ogdensburg, NY

Lunch at JJ's on the River

After your walk/bike/skate, enjoy lunch out on the patio at JJ's on the River next door to Hosmer's Marina where your next activity takes place. 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

Kayak the St. Lawrence River

RENTALS AVAILABLE

Next up, kayaking! Walk just a few steps from your lunch over 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

Dinner at Gran View Restaurant

After a long day, head to your hotel where you can conveniently rest and recharge all in one locaiton. At the on-site restaurant, indulge in a culinary journey more than 80 years in the making at Gran View restaurant, savoring dishes crafted with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, before venturing out to explore the town’s other dining options. Choose from a variety of culinary delights, from hearty comfort food to elegant gourmet dishes, all served in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Location: 6765 NY-37, Ogdensburg, NY 13669

Kayaking in St. Lawrence County, New York

Where to Stay

The Inn at Gran View in Ogdensburg

Check into The Inn at Gran View, a charming hotel that offers the convenience of an attached restaurant to make dinner plans easy at the end of a fun-filled day.

Location: 6765 NY-37, Ogdensburg, NY 13669

St. Lawrence Seaway Family Fun: Day Two

Breakfast at Artworks Creperie

QUICK STOP FOR LIGHT BREAKFAST

Grab a sweet & tasty breakfast bite at Artworks Creperie in Waddington. Savor delectable crepes, filled with sweet or savory ingredients, and sip on aromatic coffee. The kids can stay busy admiring the unique pieces on display.

Location: 2 Main St., Waddington, NY, 12694

Visit the Nicandri Nature Center

FREE EXHIBITS & WALKING TRAILS

About 45 minutes away from Ogdensburg, you’ll Nicandri Nature Center with free exhibits and all kinds of walking trails! Usually 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

Nicandri Nature Center in Massena, NY

Seaway Visitor Center at Eisenhower Lock in Massena, NY

Lunch at An Italian Affair

Fresh & Yummy Pizza & More

About 10 minutes away from the Nature Trails, grab a bite for lunch at An Italian Affair. 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

Hands-On Exploring at Seaway Visitor Center at Eisenhower Lock

FREE EXHIBITS & BIG SHIPS

Less than 10 minutes away from lunch, you’ll find the brand new Seaway Visitor Center at Eisenhower Lock. 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

Where to Stay

Robert Moses State Park in Massena

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

Visit the Hawkins Point Visitor Center

HANDS-ON, INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS

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

Dinner at Gristmill Brewery

ROOM TO STRETCH OUT

Just a few minutes drive away from the lock, 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

Hawkins Point Visitor Center in Massena, NY

Hawkins Point Visitor Center in Massena, New York

Where to Stay

St. Lawrence Hotel + Eyland’s Restaurant

The inviting St. Lawrence Hotel also offers a convenient dining solution for hungry travelers. The on-site restaurant, Eyland's, serves up a variety of flavorful dishes, ensuring a satisfying meal without the need to venture far.

Location: 10 West Orvis St, Massena, NY, 13662