For the first time, Thanksgiving Break is a weeklong.  The extra days offer a perfect opportunity to rev up the engine, grab some friends and explore beyond the Hill. Whether you’re heading home or just looking for a fun day trip, there’s a wealth of places to hit between ‘Cuse and New York City. Here are a few to take the exit for when you head out. Enjoy the ride.

Cortland, N.Y.

Stop at the Cascades Indoor Waterpark on your way through Cortland for some splashing fun with friends or family. The park gives visitors a chance to be adventurous and experience the Whitewater Wave Pool, Big Bear Falls, Hot Springs hot tubs and more. Fly down water slides, organize a friendly race in the pool or relax in the hot tubs. Staying indoors and swimming in the wintertime has never been so much fun. Note that the water park is only open to the public Sundays and Thursdays from noon to 7 p.m.

Cooperstown, N.Y.

Attracting visitors with its small-town charm, Cooperstown offers a great cultural experience. While the farmers’ market offers the chance to stroll through the stands and indulge in some locally made food, several museums satisfy travelers hungry for education. The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum chronicles the historical development of baseball by exhibiting its collections and honoring significant players of the sport. Fenimore Art Museum and The Farmers’ Museum bring America’s folklore and history to life. Perhaps its biggest attraction, Cooperstown displays the Cardiff Giant, a 10-foot-tall stone man that became ‘America’s Greatest Hoax.’

Binghamton, N.Y.

Recreation Park Carousel, one of 170 antique carousels left in the United States and Canada, features 60 jumping horses and the original two-roll frame Wurlitzer Military Band Organ with bells. For any fans of the ‘The Twilight Zone,’ this is the spot where Martin Sloane fell and injured his leg during an episode. Near the carousel, a Rod Serling memorial plaque can be seen, honoring both Serling’s work with ‘The Twilight Zone’ and his roots in Binghamton, where he frequented the park. Check out his bronze star on the Walk of Fame, a spoof of the Hollywood version that honors famous natives.

Scranton, Pa.  

If you think you’ve got what it takes to be a Dunder Mifflin employee, swing down south to the Pennsylvania state line on the way to the city. The Scranton Times Tribune offers a map of landmarks made famous by NBC’s hit show ‘The Office.’ Attractions include Dee Jay’s Hoagies from the show’s third season and Poor Richard’s Pub from the second. Scranton also offers the Harry Houdini Museum for fans of the mysterious illusionist. Go on a tour of various locales where Houdini performed and even take in a magic show.

Scranton is worth a stop on for an aficionado of comedy or the magical arts.

Central Valley, N.Y.

A trip without something to remember it by is no trip at all. But no one wants another kitschy keychain, especially when you can stop by Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets and pick up a souvenir at Gucci, Prada or Fendi. This outdoor shopping attraction is home to 220 of the biggest designers and brand name stores, all made affordable with discounts ranging from 25 to 65 percent off. Nothing there for you? Get a head start on holiday shopping. But if you’re not looking to spend, Woodbury Commons provides a quaint atmosphere and extensive options for window shopping and wish list making.

 

Published on November 16, 2011 at 12:00 pm