Head to Ellicotville, NY for a fun day trip with a TON of exciting things to do! Since I am not a skier, I would have never even considered going to Holiday Valley for ... well ... anything. As it turns out, I've been missing out on quite a bit of fun things to do.
Check out Holiday Valley's website for fun summer and fall activities! https://www.holidayvalley.com/
Fun things to do:
Sky High Aerial Adventure Park -- Here, you'll find 13 courses, each with a series of platforms mounted in trees, with rope "bridges" and zip lines to connect the platforms. There are ladders and obstacles, too, for the more advanced visitors. Rates are a little pricey, but you have to keep in mind that it includes all the equipment and people to help you. For more info: https://www.holidayvalley.com/summer/sky-high-adventure-park/aerial-adventure-zip-line-park-ny/
Climbing Forest -- This is like a rock climbing wall, but in 3D. This means that there are trees with climbing holds, with climbs that vary by level of difficulty. Kiddos need to be at least 5 years old to climb the bigger trees, but there's a younger climber area with climbs only 6 feet high. Rates are $18 per person and they even have birthday packages. For more info https://www.holidayvalley.com/summer/sky-high-adventure-park/climbing-forest-kids-activities-new-york/
Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster -- This is basically a roller coaster that goes down the side of the mountain. A parent must ride with little ones, because he/she will need to control the brakes. It's about $10 per ride, with packages to reduce the per ride cost (if you want to ride more than one time) https://www.holidayvalley.com/summer/sky-high-adventure-park/sky-flyer-mountain-coaster/
Fall Chairlift Rides -- This is a great chance to see the beautiful fall foliage! It's $10 per rider, but kiddos 6 and under are free. https://www.holidayvalley.com/summer/sky-high-adventure-park/summer-and-fall-chairlift-rides/
Mountain Biking Trails -- The cross country skiing trails make for great biking trails in the warmer months! The grade is only 6%, which means that it's not too steep for younger riders.
Pools - They have a nice pool area, too, to get refreshed from all that climbing and biking. Rates are a little higher on the weekend vs. weekdays, though. It's even cheaper after 5pm. For more info https://www.holidayvalley.com/summer/pools/ The pool area also has its own fun things to do (aside from swimming). Check out the Cabana Bar, ping pong table, corn hole, "golf" shuffleboard, king sized Jenga, and the amazing views!
Spruce Lake -- Enjoy stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, SUP Yoga/fitness, or fly fishing with Adventure Bound. Weather permitting, kayaks and SUP rentals are available through September 3rd. Weekend chairlift rides to Spruce Lake are available through October 14th. https://www.holidayvalley.com/summer/spruce-lake-activities/