When people think of New York State, they automatically think of the bright lights of New York City. However, the Empire State, as the name implies, is the size of a small empire. With almost 20 million residents, nearly 55 square miles, and hugged by a Great Lake and the Atlantic, New York is a pretty big place! In the heart of this great state, you can find the Finger Lakes. A weekend in the Finger Lakes is all that it takes to fall in love with this region. Here are my tips:
Getting There
If coming from Washington, DC, you can come by car in six hours. Once you leave the beltway, it’s smooth sailing. Depending on which lake you decide to go to, you can also fly into Rochester, NY, Syracuse, NY, or Binghamton, NY. Remember you want to bring some wine home, so I highly suggest you travel by car!
Pick a Lake
The Finger Lakes, as the name implies, has eleven narrow lakes which resemble fingers. If you’re spending only a weekend in the Finger Lakes, I recommend you focus on one to two lakes as there is so much to see and do in this vast area. I lived in Rochester, NY my high school years and my family still lives in the area. We make it a point to visit regularly and enjoy all the beautiful things this region has to offer. We find ourselves in Seneca and Canandaigua Lakes often because of their proximity to Rochester.
Things to Do
Wineries
If you’re spending a weekend in the Finger Lakes, I highly recommend you add a little wine tasting to your itinerary. I enjoy that they’re a variety of wineries in the region to cater to every taste. If you’re a serious oenophile, Hermann J Wiemer winery at Seneca Lake is one of my favorites. They continue to produce stellar wines. Another favorite is Dr. Konstantin Frank which offers an elevated wine tour with a pairing of gourmet German Food.
If you’re looking for a more informal winery, head to Lucas Vineyards with a stunning view of Cayuga Lake. They are one of the few wineries in the Finger Lakes producing one of my favorite grapes, Gewürztraminer.
Nature
The nature of the region is truly breathtaking. Whether you’re taking in the fall foliage or the frigid winter’s, the outdoors of the region are pure magic. While spending a weekend in the Finger Lakes, save room for a little outdoor time. Head to Taughannock Falls State Park for a short and sweet hike and some stunning views. I also love that the park is great for any season-the beauty of a frozen waterfall is worth bundling up for!
Each lake has its charm. In the fall, I love the sight of the colorful fall foliage against Seneca Lake. In the summers, the lakes are perfect for taking a boat out and going for a swim.
Food
Given the vast, rich soil, the region is booming with local ingredients. I love driving along the country roads and stopping by the quaint farmer stands. During the fall, I love seeing the little mason jars with homemade preserves and corn along the road.
Another thing to add to your “weekend in Finger Lakes” itinerary: a trip to The Windmill Farm & Craft Market. This sprawling country market sells a variety of local-made items such as maple syrup, spirits, vegetables, raw honey, among other items. The market also has stalls with local-made arts and crafts. I highly recommend grabbing a soft serve of maple vanilla ice cream. I still think about it!
Another recommended stop is FLX Wienery. I first discovered this place as a recommendation from the winemaker at Hermann J Weimer. A bite into their succulent white hots and I was hooked. We now make a point to stop there every time we’re in the area. Most of their sausages are housemade and they also offer the yummy Zweigles hots. If you’re from Western NY, you know what I am talking about!
Where to Stay
Since “my mother’s house” is not a good answer for this post, I decided to defer this section to my friend Carol Cain from Girl Gone Travel who spends an extensive amount of time in the region with her family. Here are her recommendations on where to stay for your weekend in Finger Lakes getaway:
The Harbor Hotel at Watkins Glenn: a luxury lakefront hotel recently awarded the “Hall of Fame by Trip Advisor”
Radisson Hotel Corning: a modern property in the town of Corning
The Farm at Fulkerson: a cozy Bed and Breakfast along the Seneca Wine Trail
The Grist Iron: beer lovers will enjoy staying at this craft brewery
The Black Sheep Inn and Spa: a farm to table spa close to the Keuka Lake
Museums and Other Attractions
You may be tempted to drink wine all weekend and I would not judge you. However, there are other fun activities. Feeling lucky? Head to Tioga Downs for their racetrack and casino. One of my favorite museums in the region is the Corning Museum of Glass. Not only do you get to see these impressive art installations and historical pieces, but you can also make your own hand-blown glass designs. For the aviation lovers, head to the Glenn H. Curtis Aviation Museum for a comprehensive collection of the golden age of aviation.
Weekend in the Finger Lakes: The Verdict
You need more than a weekend in the Finger Lakes to take in all its beauty but if all you got is a weekend or a long weekend, it’s the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle from cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC.
