Old Forge NY

What it’s like visiting Old Forge in Summer

There’s no better time to visit Old Forge than in the summer!

There are so many things you can do to enjoy the sun in Old Forge.

A place that the kids will be dying to go to over summer is Calypso’s Cove!

There are so many things for the whole family to do together! You can enjoy go-karting and rock wall climbing! Or try the thrilling zipline! It reaches speeds up to 21 mph and it’s 300 ft long! Ziplining is an experience that you and your kid will never forget!

Calypso’s Cove also has an arcade with over 40 games! They have the most up-to-date arcade in Old Forge. With games like Skee-Ball and Race Car games, you’ll collect tickets and turn them in for a prize at the Redemption Center. If you want a day full of fun activities, rain or shine, this is defiantly the place to be!

If you are in Old Forge on a nice summer night, then you have to camp at the Old Forge Camping Resort! Our pro tip? Book early, they fill up quickly!

Whether you want to camp in a tent, cabin, or a cottage, camping in the Old Forge Camping Resort is an experience for the whole family. If camping in a tent isn’t your family’s thing, they have beautiful one-room cabins.

If cottages are more your style, they have 60 attractive Adirondack log cottages that comfortably sleep six people! They truly offer something for everyone, so everyone can enjoy their camping experience!

Another great thing to do when in Old Forge is to shop on Main Street!

When in Old Forge, see all the specialty shops! A must-see is Souvenir Village. It’s family own and operated and has been open since 1971! They have a ton of great souvenirs that your family can take home, so you can always remember your wonderful vacation in Old Forge, NY.

Another great shop is Old Forge Hardware. They sell everything from cookware and kitchen gadgets, baking tools, to textiles, books, and more! There are many different kinds of shops and they all have so many different things to offer!

If your family enjoys art then you have to go to View Arts Center!

View Arts has many beautiful art exhibits, many highlight the beauty of the Adirondacks. They also hold performances there as well! Performances consist of concerts and theater plays. Your family and you can also take classes doing anything from pottery or narrative writing, to yoga! So many fun things for the whole family to enjoy!

One thing is for sure; when you come to Old Forge this summer, you will be making great memories with your family that will last a lifetime!

Posted by Mackenzi@canddadvertising.com in Calypso's Cove Blog

How to Capture the Perfect Adirondack Nature Photo

Are you an aspiring photographer trying to get your start in nature? The scenic Adirondack parks are the perfect backdrop to practice! Whether you’re shooting a picture of your best friend climbing a tree, a gracefully flying bird, or a simple flower, here are some professional tips for beginners.

Don’t Be Afraid to Use Your Phone

Phone cameras do a great job of capturing images! You can use burst mode to catch an object in motion, portrait mode to have a more clear- cut and focused image, or a built-in zoom lens to photograph dangerous subjects. And after you’ve taken hundreds of pictures, you don’t have to worry about storing them because they go straight to your camera roll. Once you pick the perfect photo, you can then edit it on a free app such as Snapseed or VSCO.

Plan Ahead

Always plan what time of day your shooting, pack all the equipment you may need, know the weather conditions you’re looking for in your photos, and the potential subject of your photos. Being prepared helps you make the most of your time and get the best quality pictures. You should know ahead of time if there’s an abnormal weather condition, so you can plan accordingly. Although a picture of a lightning bolt may be extraordinary, it may not be safe.

 

Compose A Scene

Each image is a work of art that has its own story to tell, which is why the photographer’s vision is so important. If a picture doesn’t speak to you, don’t use it. If you don’t understand what’s going on in the picture, don’t use it. Try to convey a certain feeling in the photo, whether that be ominous on a dark and gloomy day, or radiantly positive on a bright and sunny day.

Utilize Golden Hours

Golden hour is typically the first hour of light in the morning after the sun rises and the last hour of light in the evening before the sunsets. This is the time of the most appealing light for young photographers and tends to add excellent warmth to pictures. If you’re looking for beautiful, warm pictures of the sky, try capturing a sunrise or sunset on a summers’ day!

Utilize Camera Placement in Lighting

Try to take photos in a spot with even light shining on the subject. To achieve this, a photographer can shoot on a more overcast day or in a shady spot while adjusting the exposure. Exposure refers to the amount of light the camera captures, with regards to aperture, shutter speed, and luminosity. Exposure is brighter when in the natural sunlight outdoors, so it’s important to adjust your camera’s settings accordingly. If photographing a person with a natural background, the exposure can be used to brighten the face or distinguish any dark spots.

Rule of Thirds

This rule states that while using a grid, an image can be divided into equal thirds. Rather than placing the subject of the image in the dead center of the three middle boxes, the photographer should instead keep the subject at one intersection of a horizontal and vertical line. This maintains the intrigue by adding angles that include a sense of perspective and depth to the image.

Include Leading Lines

Leading lines are a very important element of photography in that they make the image visually appealing to the audience, take hold or focus attention on the subject, and provide symmetrical paths for the viewer to easily follow. You can utilize leading lines in your pictures by featuring lines such as railroad tracks, streams, rivers, or bridges.

Pick the Right Background

The background of a photo could make or break the viewers’ connection, feeling, or perception of the subject image. For an eye-catching backdrop, consider using the sky, grass, or a body of water. If you’re trying to catch the perfect image of a squirrel sitting on a tree branch, don’t be afraid to use the leaves as a background! Just stay clear of any distracting objects such as telephone wires, garbage, or animals that sneak their way into the frame.

Know When to Get Up Close and Personal

Depending on the image you’re photographing, you may want to skip the zoom lens and walk right up to the subject. However, if you are capturing a picture of an animal or an otherwise dangerous situation, then use caution. Most animals may be skittish and try to flee when they see you approach. Others can be dangerous to be near, such as bears, mountain lions or wolves. Always understand the type of environment that you are shooting in and don’t bait the animals! If something cannot happen in the animal’s natural environment, then make it happen with Photoshop, rather than in real life.

Take Multiples

Capture lots of pictures to ensure that you have at least five good ones to choose from. Your favorite photo may be one that has an object that wasn’t originally your intended subject. Have patience, take your time, and don’t be discouraged if something happens that wasn’t a part of the plan. Many of the best images have occurred with improvisational thought rather than a solid plan.

If you’re hoping to find an outdoor environment to shoot some nature photos, the Adirondacks are a perfect place to do so! Between hiking trails, lakes, mountains, and campgrounds, Old Forge has got you covered. We hope to see beautiful images from our parks and wish you the best luck!

Posted by Mackenzi@canddadvertising.com in Calypso's Cove Blog

5 Ways to Save on your Adirondack Vacation

Want a cheap vacation that everyone in your family will enjoy? Then take your vacation in the Adirondacks! With so many different things to do, everyone in the family is sure to find something they’ll enjoy. Taking your whole family on vacation can be pricey so here are some ways to be smart with your money when vacationing in the Adirondacks!

1. Upgrade to a package!

Stay where you are going. One great way to save is by combining the place you’re staying and the activity your family wants to do! Your children will love spending time at both Enchanted Forest Water Safari and Calypso’s Cove. You’ll receive discounted tickets to both when you stay at Water’s Edge Inn or Old Forge Camping Resort. Water’s Edge Inn is a premier lodging destination and the Old Camping Resort provides you with the ultimate camping experience with cabins, tents & RV sites. Getting discounted tickets is only a stay away with Stay ‘N Play packages.

2. Enjoy the Outdoors!

The Adirondacks offer so many beautiful hikes and trails! Take advantage of the backdrop nature has to offer [let’s celebrate FREE!]. There are trails and hikes for everyone and it’s a great way to keep the kids busy and get out all that energy. To name a few kid-friendly trails and mountains: Bald Mountain, McCauley Mountain, Death, and Brook Falls.

3. Strand Theatre

Another thing you will want to do is go to The Strand Movie Theater. The prices are unbeatable and who doesn’t like to watch a good movie! The four-screen cinema holds a lot of history inside, it’s something you will definitely want to see!

4. Kayaking and Canoeing

Another fun activity that you can do with your family that’s in your budget is renting kayaks or canoes! Renting canoes and kayaks are available in Old Forge, check out these excellent businesses: Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company, Rivett’s Marine Recreation & Service, Inc. and Tickner’s Canoes. Save your money and have an unforgettable vacation with your family in the Adirondacks!

5. Camp Outside!

Want to save money? Instead of paying for a hotel why not camp in a tent! The Old Forge Camping Resort is a wonderful place to bring the family to go REAL camping. They always have fun adventures for the kids like nature walks, tie-dye, and so much more! Everyone should experience camping in a tent, why not do it in the beautiful nature Old Forge has to offer!

Posted by Mackenzi@canddadvertising.com in Calypso's Cove Blog

Vacationing with Kids

Vacationing with kids, especially when they are young is not always the easiest thing in the world. However, when you see their faces light up with excitement at the adventures ahead of them, you know that you’re making memories that will last a lifetime. At Calypso’s Cove, we have an assortment of rides and activities for all ages so that everyone in your family can have fun while spending time together!

Guests enjoying a Go-Kart ride on the track at Calypso's.

Go-Karts

The tracks of Calypso’s Cove are competitive and exciting as friends and family race to become the ultimate driving champion. For the younger members of the family who want to drive themselves, but are too young for the big track, we offer kiddie go-karts where kids ages 5 to 11 can get behind the wheel of their own race car!

Bumper Boats

Compete with your family to see who can get the others the wettest! This is a great ride for the whole family, and if your little one is too young to drive themselves, then they can hop into a two-passenger bumper boat with someone else in the family! The Bumper Boat fun experience is enhanced by the water cannons to soak other boaters.

Mini Golf

Mini golf is a classic way to have fun and a great activity for your entire family! In fact, our 18-hole golf course is a scaled-down version of a championship course. Also, our course is open to all ages with parents’ supervision so that your entire family can take part in some relaxing fun on your vacation.

Adults and children enjoying a game of skeet-ball in the arcade at Calypso's.

Arcade & Games

At Calypso’s Cove, we have over 40 arcade games in our state-of-the-art arcade, which is the largest in the Adirondack State Park. From ski ball to race car games, we have something to entertain all your kids! Plus, you have the chance to win tickets as you play, which can be redeemed for great prizes!

Zip-Line

Our zip-line is an exhilarating ride for any of the thrill-seekers in your family! As you propel 300 ft down our side by side zip-lines, you can reach up to 21 miles per hour creating an exhilarating experience that will have you wanting to go again. The best part is that if you do want to go again, it is no hassle because we are able to ensure up to 90 guests can ride per hour so that there is little to no wait time for you!

Rock-Climbing Wall

Reach new heights of fun on our rock-climbing wall! Our wall has multiple skill levels so that everyone who wants to can enjoy the climb. Plus, if you are up to a challenge then you can keep climbing until you’ve conquered all the levels!

Batting Cages

Batter Up! Step up to the plate and try your hand in our batting cages! Our automatic pitches range from softball speeds right up to major league fastballs, so no matter your skill level, anyone from beginners to pros can enjoy our batting cages.

At Calypso’s Cove we know that family is important, that’s why we have fun for all ages. We strive to give you the fun, relaxing vacation along with great memories of time spent with your family.

Posted by Mackenzi@canddadvertising.com in Calypso's Cove Blog
Enchanted Forest Water Safari Ranked in Top 5 Water Parks in the US

Enchanted Forest Water Safari Ranked in Top 5 Water Parks in the US

OLD FORGE, NY — Enchanted Forest Water Safari (EFWS) part of Water Safari Resort has been named as a winner in the 2019 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice® Attractions awards as one of the top 25 water parks in the United States for the sixth year in a row. Based on an algorithm that takes into account both the quantity and quality of reviews and ratings of amusement and water parks over a 12-month period, Enchanted Forest Water Safari in Old Forge was named No. 4 on the list compiled for 2019.

EFWS is New York’s largest water theme park with more than 50 rides and attractions, including 32 water rides. The park also features classic amusement rides for all ages, fun food, exciting games, storybook characters, a family circus show and more.

“We are thrilled to receive this award for the sixth year in a row! Thank you to everyone for putting us at the top! It takes a great team to make this award possible, including our hard-working team members and our guests.” said Katie Wojdyla, Vice President and Director of Marketing for EFWS. “We strive to provide safe, clean, family fun with unprecedented value and service as our main goals. Especially gratifying is that the top three parks on the list are in Florida, making Water Safari number one outside of Florida!”

The Water Park is part of Water Safari Resort, which includes Water’s Edge Inn, Old Forge Camping Resort and Calypso’s Cove Family Fun Park. Past visitors to the park have expressed their experience with reviews on TripAdvisor, “Another wonderful family adventure” “Best waterpark in the area” “Always a fun experience!” “Best day with grandkids” “A family tradition”.

The Travelers’ Choice Attractions awards honor the top 1% of attractions worldwide based on millions of valuable reviews and opinions from TripAdvisor travelers. TripAdvisor has highlighted the world’s top attractions using an algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of reviews and ratings for amusement parks and water parks worldwide, gathered over a 12-month period. To qualify, a business must maintain an overall TripAdvisor bubble rating of at least four out of five, have a minimum number of reviews and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months.

About TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel site, enables travelers to unleash the full potential of every trip. With over 630 million reviews and opinions covering the world’s largest selection of travel listings worldwide – covering approximately 7.5 million accommodations, airlines, experiences, and restaurants — TripAdvisor provides travelers with the wisdom of the crowds to help them decide where to stay, how to fly, what to do and where to eat. TripAdvisor also compares prices from more than 200 hotel booking sites so travelers can find the lowest price on the hotel that’s right for them. TripAdvisor-branded sites are available in 49 markets and are home to the world’s largest travel community of 455 million average monthly unique visitors, all looking to get the most out of every trip. Travelers can also follow the conversation on Twitter at #travelerschoice.

Posted by Carrie Klepadlo in Calypso's Cove Blog, Press Release
Enchanted Forest Water Safari is more than Rides!

Enchanted Forest Water Safari is more than Rides!

Once upon a time in the magical kingdom of Enchanted Forest Water Safari, there was a Pirate Princess.

Every day she would visit Storybook Lane, a magical realm where her favorite fairy tales lived. From Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty to Ali Baba’s Cave and Humpty Dumpty on his wall, the Pirate Princess spent each day visiting over twenty of her favorite storybook characters who came to life in this unique land. The princess would hear stories of the exciting adventures all of the characters had been on. Amazed by these tales of exploration the Pirate Princess decided to have an adventure of her own.

Venturing out of Storybook Lane the Pirate Princess happened upon Timber Bear’s Barnyard. Timber Bear eagerly welcomed her into his barnyard and showed her some of his friendly sheep, goats, and birds. The Pirate Princess quickly became friends with all of the animals as she pet and fed them. As much as she wanted to stay, there was still so much of her kingdom that she had not explored, so the Pirate Princess said goodbye to all of her new barnyard friends and continued on her adventure.

The Pirate Princess wandered down the road wondering what she would see next when out of the corner of her eye she caught something moving high in the sky. As she got closer the Pirate Princess realized that she had found a circus. The princess watched in wonder as the performers juggled, walked the trapeze, hula hooped, and rode a motorcycle in a giant steel globe. They put in the best performance she had ever seen (and the princess had been to a lot of circuses). But, the festivities were winding down, so the princess went to see what other fun she could find.

The Pirate Princess decided to visit Dawson City next and didn’t have to wander far before she caught the unmistakable sound of Rocky & the Ramblin’ Rascals. She ran the rest of the way to Klondike Kate’s Saloon and danced to her favorite band. She danced till her stomach started to rumble and the decided to go on a quest for lunch. On her quest for lunch, the princess spotted the Candy Store.

However, the Pirate Princess knew the Queen would not be happy if the princess had candy for lunch, so she went next door for some pizza, wings, and salad before stopping into the Candy Store, where she bought as much candy as she could carry.

Outside of the Candy Store, the princess happened upon Johnny Rio, the best shooter in the Kingdom. So, the Pirate Princess set her candy aside and tried her hand against Johnny at the Rootin’ Tootin’ Shootin’ Gallery. It took her a few tries, but finally, the Princess beat Johnny Rio at target shooting.

Excited and tired from her busy day the Pirate Princess gathered up all of her candy and headed back to her castle to tell the King and Queen all about her day and how much fun she had on her adventures. The Pirate Princess couldn’t wait to go on another adventure and continue to explore the wonderful kingdom of Enchanted Forest Water Safari.

Posted by Carrie Klepadlo in Calypso's Cove Blog
Ways To Save at Water Safari & Calypso’s Cove

Ways To Save at Water Safari & Calypso’s Cove

Who doesn’t love fun and savings? At Water Safari Resort we have it all and here are just a few of the ways that you can save on your next visit.

Stay ‘N Play Packages

Stay at Water’s Edge Inn or Old Forge Camping Resort, both named Top 10 Adirondack Vacations by Resorts and Lodges. When you stay with us you can get discounted tickets to Enchanted Forest Water Safari and Calypso’s Cove, so that you can make the most out of your Adirondack Vacation.

Buy Tickets Online

By using our websites and buying your tickets online you can save a dollar on all your tickets! That means that you can use the money you save on something like ice cream, which will make your day of fun even better.

Contests

All summer long we have contests on all our Facebook pages where you can win various prizes including free tickets to Water Safari! Our contests are fun, easy, and sometimes daily! So play for your chance to save!

Good Any Day Discount Tickets

This is another fun and easy way to save. When shopping on your vacation stop in a participating CNY business and purchase discounted tickets. By buying tickets this way, you can approximately save over $7.50 on a regular adult admission ticket!

Siesta Savings

Now, this is a deal! Enter Enchanted Forest Water Safari Any Day after 3:00 pm with any type of ticket and the next day is FREE! Yes, you read that right, admission the next day is free. (Siesta Savings is valid at 2:00 pm on days when the park closes before 6:00 pm. Offer not valid when redeeming a Siesta Pass)

Paul Bunyan Club Card

The savings continue! With the Paul Bunyan Club Card, you can return to the park as many times as you like for the remainder of the season at HALF PRICE! Joining is easy. After your initial visit to the park, you can become a member for just a nominal fee.

Season Passes

Our Season Pass is a classic way to save! For one low rate, you can come as many times as you like ALL season long! The pass pays for itself in just 3 visits! And has additional perks like coupons on food or attractions – now that’s savings!

Discounted Group Rates

Enchanted Forest Water Safari is a great place for a vacation! Share the experience by visiting with all your friends and family – using discounted group rates for everyone, school groups, youth groups, scouts, churches, summer camps, birthday parties, family groups, and more. Discounted group rates are a great way to save. Plus add some tasty foods to the mix with great discounts on an array of options.

Two boys riding the go-karts at Calypso's Cove.

Two boys riding the go-karts at Calypso’s Cove.

Calypso’s Cove

From go-karts, batting cages, and mini golf to the arcade, zip lining, and more there is so much fun to be had at Calypso’s Cove! You can save on all this family fun – we encourage you to take advantage of our discounted family fun deal or our bulk ticket pricing!

Year ‘Round Discounted Events, Offers & Packages with our Lodging Facilities:

When summer comes to an end, the savings and fun continue at the Old Forge Camping Resort and Water’s Edge Inn! All year-round we offer savings and fun with special events, offers, and packages on exciting local activities.

At Water Safari Resort we have something for everyone all year-round. So, if you’re looking for a fun and affordable getaway stay with us at Water’s Edge Inn or Old Forge Camping Resort!

Posted by Carrie Klepadlo in Calypso's Cove Blog