Binghamton

Confluence Park
N Shore Drive
free
any time
at the east end of Riverside Dr bridge

A fairly new public park, this provides an scenic location to enjoy the meeting of the Susquehanna and Chenango Rivers as well as enjoy the historic Washington Street bridge. Nearby cafes and bars are found at the south end of the bridge. It is easily accessible by canoe or kayak from the river, and kayakers are often seen surfing a standing wave on the Susquehanna nearby.

Otsiningo Park
1 Otsiningo Park
(607) 778-6541
free
dawn to dusk
take exit 5 off Interstate 81 and go S, park is left very shortly after

Extending for about three miles along the west bank of the Chenango River, Otsiningo Park offers many recreational opportunities, including several miles of paved pedestrian/bicycle trails. There are several good locations for birdwatching. Restrooms and water fountains are available in several areas as well as soccer and baseball fields.

Recreation Park and Carousel
vicinity of Beethoven St and Seminary Ave
free
dawn to dusk
turn N on Beethoven St from Riverside Dr

A neighborhood park built as part of local shoemaker George F. Johnson's "square deal" for his workers, "Rec Park" is a popular place year-round. It features public pools, playgrounds, and the second-largest of the six Herschell Carousels Mr. Johnson donated to the community on the condition that they be maintained with free admission in perpetuity. When it works, the Wurlitzer music machine makes the ride around particularly fun.

Cutler Botanic Garden
840 Front St
free
daytime
Use exit 5 from Interstate 81

A teaching and research garden of 3.5 acres maintained by the Cornell Cooperative Extension.

Greenwood Park
607.778.2193
Rt.17 to Exit 71 N (Airport Road). Go approximately 6 miles north on Airport Road. Turn left onto Commercial Drive. At end of Commercial Drive take right onto East Maine Road. Go 3 miles on East Maine Road to stop sign. Go straight onto a.m.es Road to stop sign. Turn right on Nanticoke Road- travel 7 miles. Turn left onto Greenwood Road.

This county park offers good recreational opportunities in all seasons. In winter, it offers affordable cross-country ski rentals and 5.5 miles of groomed trails with good options for beginners.

Temple Concord/Kilmer Mansion
9 Riverside Drive
(607)723-7355

Built at a cost of $1 million in 1901, the Kilmer Mansion is easily the most elaborate single family home ever constructed in Binghamton history. The Kilmers played a prominent role in Binghamton history, and the estate formerly covered much of the town's West Side. The home has been owned and maintained for more than 50 years by Temple Concord, a Reform Jewish congregation which opens it up for a seasonal "Hanukkah House" exhibition during the winter holiday season. Even if you're not around when the exhibit is open, the building itself is something to behold from the outside.