We did US side of NF in 2019 - just a quick overnight trip. Kids LOVED it. Didnt cross as we didn't have passports - but still loved the trip and totally worth it if you can only do NY side. we did the triple pass for attractions - and would def do again and recommend. both sides have the attractions passes. Absolute favorite was the walk behind the falls - they want to return just to do that again! they even give you sandals to wear - never been so wet! incredible experience. I know the canadian side is usually the recommended, but we could have spent another night on just the NY side and would certainly go back...so don't discount NY side.

Last August we did Corning museum of glass during pandemic. VERY limited amount of people let in, and i didn't preplan so we had to change our day because we couldn't get it when we wanted. BUT - so few people there i felt like we had a museum to ourselves. Must have advanced reservations! Great visit,and could have seen more but kids (preteen and teen) were bored after a few hours. yes - couldn't do all glass activities because you had to pick up next day which was dissappointing for us, and activity we could do wasn't worth it for us (glass sandblasting - basically you just put stickers on a glass and they blasted for you - should have skipped).

I live in PA and recommend Hershey park - but again must MAKE advance reservations. Try to go during the week if your going for the park. My son was there opening day a few weeks ago and barely got on a handful of rides due to wait times (short staffed, rides closed due to weather and long lines at what was open). DEFINATELY stop at Chocolate world (outside the park so its free to get in) - they have a free tour ride and quite a few attractions in chocolate world that i recommend (4d movie, choc making). Many times if we are local we just stop at chocolate world for lunch, free ride and to do some shopping - we love the bakery. Parking was always free up to 2 or 3 hours IF you were only doing choc world. You CAN spend a few hours just doing choc world - but again make advance reservations.