Summer is here, and many families may be planning a vacation soon. As you've probably noticed, gas prices have slowly been on the rise. That's why this week, we're giving you some getaway options you can get to with just a tank of gas.

In the Mohawk Valley, the Herkimer Diamond Mines is a great attraction for the entire family. It’s about 45 minutes north of Cooperstown on Route 28.

The Herkimer Diamond Mines have been around for decades but have recently undergone a great deal of improvements. It's a cool destination to enjoy some mining, shopping and unique on-site lodging.

Once you arrive, head to the mines, grab a hammer, and search for the Herkimer diamond quartz crystals hiding in the rocks. Whatever you find is yours to keep.

The kids can try sluice mining, where they're given a jackpot bag they can dip in water to reveal anywhere from five to 10 diamonds. The property contains a museum and a fluorescent room where you can learn about minerals and quartz from all over the world.

Shop for jewelry in the trading post or grab a bite to eat at venues on-site. Then do some camping at the KOA Resort, where overnight options have grown from the basic log cabin.

"We have everything from a one-room cabin with a couple of beds and electricity only, all the way to multi-room [cabins] that have [a] solar roof and electricity and wifi," said Herkimer Diamond Mines Partner Samuel Shevat.

"You can learn and have fun simultaneously. So don't just come for a day. Come for a couple of days, come for a weekend, come for an extended midweek special, and you'll have a lot of new amenities at the park," said Herkimer Diamond Mines Owner Renee Scialdo Shevat.

The mines are now a third-generation family-run business. A beer garden was recently added, and weddings and private parties can be held in multiple venues on the site.

Herkimer diamonds were first discovered in the 1600s. To this day, crews continue to turn over the mines and dig into uncharted grounds, so there are always diamonds to find.

From Syracuse, it's about a 70-mile ride to the diamond mines. It will take about 71 minutes to get there. For a vehicle that gets 25 miles to the gallon, it will take you about 2.8 gallons of gas.

For gas at the statewide average this morning around $3.69, it's going to cost you about $10.42 for a one-way trip and about $20.84 for a round trip.