Childs Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Childs, New York, with our comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Childs

Located in Orleans County, New York, Childs is a quaint hamlet that boasts a mix of cultural and natural attractions. Surrounded by scenic views and outdoor adventure activities, this charming town is perfect for those who seek a peaceful and relaxing getaway.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Childs, New York. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor recreation, or local culture, there is something for everyone in this hidden gem in the Niagara Frontier.

List of Places to Visit in Childs

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Cobblestone Museum: This unique museum features preserved cobblestone buildings and offers visitors a glimpse into the life of early settlers in the area.
  • The Oak Orchard Lighthouse Museum: Housing historic maritime artifacts, this lighthouse-turned-museum tells the story of the Lake Ontario shipping trade.
  • The Medina Railroad Museum: Housed in the 1905 New York Central Freight Depot, this museum offers train enthusiasts the chance to see historic railroad equipment up close.

Natural Attractions of Childs: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Erie Canalway Trail: This 360-mile, multi-use trail spans across New York State and passes through the town of Childs, offering scenic views of the Erie Canal.
  • The Great Lakes Seaway Trail: This 518-mile scenic byway follows the shoreline of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario and offers stunning views of the lakes and surrounding countryside.
  • Point Peninsula Trail: This hike offers beautiful views of the Niagara River and leads to a historic lighthouse.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Childs

  • The Erie Canalway Trail: As mentioned above, this trail offers a variety of biking and hiking opportunities.
  • The Great Lakes Seaway Trail: This scenic byway also has many bike-friendly sections.
  • The Niagara Wine Trail: This 20-mile trail allows bikers to explore local wineries and scenic countryside.

Best Things to Do in Childs: Activities and Tours

  • Lake Ontario Fishing Tours: Local charter companies offer fishing tours on Lake Ontario.
  • Medina Farmers Market: Open on Saturdays during the summer months, this farmers market offers locally grown produce and handmade goods.
  • Holland Land Office Museum Ghost Walks: These spooky ghost tours offer insight into the mysterious history and haunted buildings of the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Childs

Day Activity
1 Visit the Cobblestone Museum and tour the historic buildings
2 Hike the Erie Canalway Trail and take in the scenic views
3 Take a fishing tour on Lake Ontario
4 Tour the Oak Orchard Lighthouse Museum and climb to the top
5 Go on a ghost walk and explore the haunted history of the town
6 Explore the local wineries on the Niagara Wine Trail
7 Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery at Point Peninsula Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Childs

Must-Try Dishes

  • Apple Pie: The area is known for its delicious apple pies made with locally grown apples.
  • Grape Pie: Another local favorite, grape pies are a unique and tasty treat.
  • Corn on the Cob: As an agricultural town, fresh corn on the cob is a must-try when in season.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: The Niagara Wine Trail offers a variety of local wines to sample and purchase.
  • Beer: The Rochester Beer Park offers a range of craft beers from local breweries.
  • Apple Cider: Don’t miss the chance to try locally made apple cider, especially during the fall season.

Where to Stay in Childs: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Pillars of LeRoy Bed and Breakfast: Located just a few miles from Childs, this cozy bed and breakfast offers exceptional service and comfortable rooms.
  • Lake Ontario Motel: Located in nearby Carlton, this motel offers affordable accommodations and easy access to nearby outdoor attractions.
  • Sunny Vista Bed and Breakfast: Located in Medina, this bed and breakfast offers stunning views of the countryside and delicious homemade breakfast.

What to Buy in Childs: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cobblestone Historic Preservation Society Merchandise: Purchase items that promote and preserve the history of the town.
  • Local Wines and Beverages: Bring home a taste of the local wine and beer scene.
  • Handmade Items: Farmers markets and local shops offer a variety of handmade goods including pottery, textiles, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Childs

Childs, like many small towns in the area, has a deep-seated sense of community and appreciation for history and tradition. Visitors can often find local festivals, fairs, and events that celebrate the town’s agricultural roots and unique history.

Best Time to Visit Childs

The best time to visit Childs is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are more accessible. However, fall is also a popular time to visit, especially for those interested in the local apple and grape harvests.

Do’s and Don’ts of Childs

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take advantage of outdoor activities and scenic views.
  • Try local food and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural attractions.
  • Disrespect historic landmarks and buildings.
  • Ignore the local culture and history of the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Childs

Childs is a relatively safe town and visitors are advised to take standard safety precautions.

Health in Childs

There are no major health risks in Childs. However, visitors should be aware of tick exposure during outdoor activities and should take necessary precautions such as wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent.

Getting to Childs: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Childs

  • Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC): Located approximately 35 miles west of Childs.

Bus Stations Near Childs

  • Trailways Bus Station: Located in Lockport, approximately 12 miles northwest of Childs.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Rental cars are available at the Greater Rochester International Airport and in nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Childs

The best way to get around in Childs is by car. However, biking and hiking are great options for exploring the surrounding area and outdoor attractions.

Where to Go Next from Childs: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Rochester: Located approximately 35 miles west of Childs, Rochester offers a variety of cultural attractions and outdoor activities.
  • Buffalo: Located approximately 50 miles to the northwest, Buffalo offers a vibrant urban experience with museums, restaurants, and historic landmarks.
  • Niagara Falls: Located approximately 35 miles to the north, Niagara Falls is a must-see natural wonder and popular tourist destination.

Conclusion

Childs, New York, may be a small town, but it packs a big punch when it comes to natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, local food and drink, or historic landmarks, this charming hamlet offers something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive tour guide has helped you plan your visit to Childs and make the most of your time in this hidden gem of the Niagara Frontier.