Starting to plan the route up to Watkins Glen.  First time up there, anybody have do (or do not) suggestions?  (do go this way, don't go this way)

Any tips as we approach the park?

As far as the route in its pretty straight forward. I assume most will end up on route 81 north. Once into New York  route 81 and routes 17/86 merge together. Go west on 17/86 for about 65 miles. Use Exit 52A route 14 to Watkins Glen. you will go thru Montour Falls and then into Watkins Glen. As you come into town you will pass a Tops market on your right. Your turn onto Old Corning Road (329) will be on your left. Look for the Burger King and just after it is a gas station. The road is just after that, do not cross the bridge to the lower section of the park. You will also see signs for Seneca Lodge it is across from the driveway to the pool and camping area.

If you run out of water falls to explore here are state parks close by with water falls. Your camping pass gets you in for free.

Hidden waterfalls. Unique views. Unexpected beauty. With four pristine State Parks within five miles of Downtown Ithaca, it’s easy to jump to a number of trails for an afternoon of hiking, biking, running, or anything in between and disconnect with reality. With a variety of difficulties, lengths, and locations, everyone in the family – young and old – can enjoy Ithaca’s trails and outdoor recreation.

The lists below are our top recommendations for hiking, biking, and running.
Go to ithacatrails.org to search a comprehensive directory of Ithaca trails by difficulty, activity, or natural features.

Top Hiking Trails in Ithaca

Taughannock Falls State Park

1740 Taughannock Blvd, Trumansburg
607.387.6739

Gorge Trail: 0.75 miles along Taughannock Creek to the base of the falls Easy
South Rim Trail: 1.125 miles Moderate
North Rim Trail: 1.5 miles Moderate

Robert H. Treman State Park

105 Enfield Falls Rd, Ithaca
607.273.3440

Easiest access to Lucifer Falls via the Gorge Trail from the park’s upper entrance. 0.5 miles Strenuous
Gorge Trail: 2.25 miles Strenuous
Rim Trail: 2.25 miles Strenuous
Red Pine Trail: 0.5 miles Moderate, Open Apr-Oct
CCC Memorial Trail: 0.33 miles Moderate
Finger Lakes Trail/North Country Trail: 3 miles Moderate Open Year Round

Buttermilk Falls State Park

106 E Buttermilk Falls Rd, Ithaca
607.273.5761

View falls from the park entrance area or lower Gorge Trail. Easy/Moderate
Gorge Trail: 0.75 miles Strenuous
Rim Trail: 0.75 miles Strenuous
Bear Trail: 0.75 miles Moderate
Lake Treman: 1.5 miles Easy

How about coming up Hwy 15 to NY 414?  I suppose we could take 15 to 86 to 14 but it seems to be a bit out of the way for us.

I missed this  http://www.sciencenter.org  $8.00

just got the trailor back with some new tires, hoping to leave sat and be there sat eve but may be sunday if we can't get our act together.

Home safe! Thank you everyone who came! I hope you call had a great time, I know I did.

great time, good to see everyone, beautiful place