Gas prices continue to rise, which means you may be looking for a quick trip not too far from home to get the family out of the house for a day, but also save some money.
As of April 29, USA TODAY reported the average price of gas across the United States had risen to $4.32 per gallon. With no indication of the prices decreasing anytime soon, you may be looking to shorten a long road trip to a quick family day trip.
Luckily, there are many places and activities in and around the Binghamton area that could make for the ideal, affordable day trip.
Here’s a list of seven spots that allow for a family-friendly, fun-filled day without breaking the bank.
Animal Adventure Park
Animal Adventure Park is just outside of Binghamton and offers a variety of fun animal-related activities and encounters. For those with young kids, children 3 and under get in free, making it even more affordable.
If you’re interested in experiencing both the walk-thru zoo and the drive-thru safari, Animal Adventure Park offers discounted combo park rates.
Rumble Ponies Game
For families who love sports, a night out at a Rumble Ponies game could be perfect, and not too pricey.
With various promotions and special events throughout the season, coupled with the fact that children from 3-12 and seniors over 60 get a $2 discount on tickets, the Rumble Ponies offer great nights for families.
Corning Museum of Glass
Though the Corning Museum of Glass is about an hour from Binghamton, it offers a variety of activities, exhibits and demonstrations that ensure fun for the whole family, and kids under 17 get in for free, so the hour trip is well worth it.
Destiny USA
Destiny USA in Syracuse has an abundance of activities and entertainment options if you’re looking for a little bit of a longer trip and a fun-filled day. From laser tag and glow-in-the-dark golf to a climbing gym and trampoline park, there is surely something for everyone.
While a day like this can get a bit expensive, there are ways some families can cut back on the cost. For example, children under 3 get into WonderWorks Syracuse for free.
Chenango Valley State Park
For a sunny, warm day this summer, a family trip to Chenango Valley State Park may be the perfect, affordable day out. Just outside of Binghamton and free to enter, Chenango Valley State Park offers a day filled with swimming, hiking, biking, fishing, and beautiful views.
Robert H. Treman State Park
If you’re looking to get out of the Binghamton area for a day, but still looking for a cheap outing with gorgeous views, Robert H. Treman State Park may be a great option. Offering hiking, fishing, swimming and beautiful waterfalls just an hour outside of Binghamton, Robert H. Treman Park is affordable and ideal.
Sciencenter in Ithaca
For hands-on fun for everyone, the Sciencenter in Ithaca would make for a great day. With plenty of exhibits and interactions for all ages, and the fact that kids under 2 get in free, the Sciencenter is fun and affordable for families with small children.
This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Gas is expensive. These day trips near Binghamton won’t break the bank
Reporting by Sunshyne Lynch, Binghamton Press & Sun Bulletin / Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
