Forum Discussion

southernsky's avatar
southernsky
Explorer
Mar 03, 2015

HWY 104 out of Niagara Falls

Planning out this years trip and was wondering how was HWY 104 out of Niagara Falls east to I-81. I know we can take I-90 east but we kind of like the byways and small town America. Also any ideas of campground/rv parks and this to do along the way.
  • Be careful if pulling trailer on the Ontario Lake State Parkway. There are numerous low bridges.
  • As others have said, 104 is OK, however a bit stop & go through Rochester. I usually take it rather than I90 when going to Niagara Falls.

    If you have the time, follow the "Seaway Trail" signs. You will drive along the lake West of Rochester on NY 18, and follow a convoluted series of roads to Oswego, NY where you will take 104 to I81. Lots of small towns along the way. Almost all small 2 lane country roads. Lots of interesting things to see along the way.

    Check the Wikipedia page for what is along the way.
  • In terms of things to do, there are a bunch around Rochester (as with any decent-sized city). Among others, the George Eastman house/museum is very good, Highland park with its conservatory is quite nice, and Seabreeze is a neat, traditional little family-owned amusement park.

    If you have a strong stomach, you may wish to stop at Nick Tahou's and get a garbage plate. It's...ummm, highly traditional.
  • It's really bumpy, I mean I never drove on a paved road like that! I literally drove in the right shoulder to get out of the road, for about 5 or 6 miles near Hamlin beach.
  • There are two NY state parks just north of 104 on Lake Ontario. The first is Lakeside State Park. Just outside of Rochester is Hamlin Beach State Park which was one of our favorites when the boys were growing up. It has a great beaches, lot of biking, and a nature trail.

    104 is easy driving, but as mentioned, there are a lot of stops and lights as you go through Rochester.