FAMILY FUN: Family fun comes in many fascinating forms and surprising spots in Buffalo Niaga ra.

Whether it s watching river otters romp in their way cool pool at the Buffalo Zoo, getting soaked yourself on a summertime excursion on a Whirlpool Jet Boat T our or exploring the amazing collection of exotic plants at the Botanical Garden s, fun is easily found for you and your family. The Buffalo Museum of Science is the place to be for families to take a journey through the world of natural and physical sciences. Its extensive collections o f over 700,000 specimens and artifacts represent all facets of the natural world with an emphasis on Western New York as well as man-made objects spanning the g lobe. The Buffalo Zoo has seen some exciting additions to its lions and tigers and bea rs in recent years, including M&T Bank Rainforest Falls, an enclosed, year-round exhibit that brings visitors up close to vampire bats, anacondas, anteaters, pi ranhas and much more. A mid-19th century farm was added to the grounds of the Zo o as well. This homestead will feature a petting area with heritage breeds of do mestic animals and include a replica of an Erie Canal lock and canalway. At the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park visitors are invited to tou r the decks and hulls of a guided missile cruiser, destroyer and WWII submarine. It s a hands-on experience like no other! Spark your kids creativity, curiosity and imagination at Western New York s only mu seum designed just for kids, Explore & More Children s Museum, or take them to the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum where they can ride an old-fashioned carrou sel in the world's only carrousel museum. For an exhilarating ride into the Niagara River gorge try a Whirlpool Jet Boat t our. It s a 45-minute ride on the wild side for the whole family from May through October. Dive into an ocean of discovery at Niagara's other water wonder, the Aquarium of Niagara, where over 40 aquatic exhibits include California sea lion demonstrati ons, harbor seals, and a colony of Peruvian penguins. If water sports are your thing, take your family for a cruise around Canalside w ith a rental from Buffalo Harbor Kayaks. If you're looking to learn how to sail yourself, be sure to check out Sail Buffalo Sailing School. Glide past the 1833 Buffalo Lighthouse, the historic grain elevators and the General Mills plant whe re most of the world's Cheerios are produced. That delicious aroma is the smell of the "O" shaped cereal being made.