Our idea of a vacation was taking a day trip on the train from Rochester to Niagara Falls. My Dad worked on the NY Central, and had a rail pass for himself and his family. We didn't own a car, so either walked or took the bus when we wanted to go anywhere.
Real vacations were non-existent to us back then. In fact, I don't think I ever went on a vacation until after my kids were older, and I was divorced. One time we drove to Washington D.C. for a week. Another time we took the train to NY City for a few days.
The wax museum, the museum with mummies and wolves, a shrine, Fort Niagara, Grand Island...and of course, the roar of the falls. Great place...