Discover the Finger Lakes - Wine Country, Waterfalls & Lakeside Charm

Day 1: Gorge-ous Beginnings & Lakeside Sips

• Morning (11:00 AM - 1:30 PM) Arrive in Watkins Glen, NY, and check into your accommodation (e.g., The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel or a local B&B). Head directly to Watkins Glen State Park (South Entrance, GPS: 1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891). Embark on the iconic Gorge Trail, a 1.5-mile path winding past 19 waterfalls, bridges, and stunning rock formations. This hike takes approximately 2-2.5 hours at a leisurely pace, involving stairs. Parking fee: $10/vehicle (cash or card).
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM) 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM: Enjoy a casual lunch in Watkins Glen. Tobey’s Tavern (400 N Franklin St) offers classic American fare, or grab some BBQ at Nickel’s Pit BBQ (206 N Franklin St). Expect to spend $40-50 for two. 2:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Drive north along Seneca Lake to Glenora Wine Cellars (5435 NY-14, Dundee, NY 14837), approximately 15 minutes (8 miles). 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Experience a tasting at Glenora, one of the Finger Lakes’ first farm wineries, known for its beautiful lake views. Tastings range from $10-15 per person. Total for two: ~$30. 4:00 PM - 4:15 PM: Continue a short drive to Lakewood Vineyards (4024 NY-14, Watkins Glen, NY 14891), about 5 minutes (2 miles). 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM: Enjoy a tasting at Lakewood Vineyards, a friendly, family-run winery with a diverse selection. Tastings are typically $10-15 per person. Total for two: ~$30.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Indulge in dinner at Graft Wine + Cider Bar (204 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891). This upscale yet relaxed spot offers creative dishes featuring local ingredients, paired with regional wines and ciders. Reservations are highly recommended. Expect $80-100 for two with drinks.

Day 2: West Seneca Wine Trail Wanderings

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM: Begin your journey further north along the scenic west side of Seneca Lake. Your first destination is Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard (3962 NY-14, Dundee, NY 14837), approximately 30 minutes (15 miles) from Watkins Glen. 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM: Participate in a seated tasting at Hermann J. Wiemer, renowned for its world-class dry Rieslings and commitment to quality. Reservations are essential. Tastings are $20-25 per person. Total for two: ~$50. 11:45 AM - 12:00 PM: Drive to Fox Run Vineyards (670 NY-14, Penn Yan, NY 14527), about 15 minutes (7 miles) north. 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Enjoy a tasting at Fox Run, a popular winery with excellent wines and an inviting atmosphere. Tastings are $15-20 per person. Total for two: ~$40.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Have lunch at Fox Run’s onsite market/cafe, which offers light fare, sandwiches, and local cheeses perfect for a casual bite with vineyard views. Expect $40-50 for two. 2:00 PM - 2:15 PM: Drive a short distance to Anthony Road Wine Company (1020 Anthony Rd, Penn Yan, NY 14527), just 5 minutes (2 miles) away. 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM: Experience a tasting at Anthony Road, another highly respected winery known for its diverse and consistently excellent wines. Tastings are $15-20 per person. Total for two: ~$40. 3:15 PM - 4:00 PM: For a change of pace, consider a quick stop at Two Goats Brewing (5075 NY-414, Burdett, NY 14818) for a local craft beer with stunning lake vistas, about a 20-minute drive south. Expect $15 for two beers. 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Drive back to your accommodation in Watkins Glen for some relaxation.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Enjoy a memorable dinner at Stonecat Cafe (5315 NY-414, Hector, NY 14841), located about 15 minutes north of Watkins Glen. This acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant features seasonal menus showcasing local ingredients and a vibrant atmosphere. Reservations are essential. Expect $90-110 for two with drinks.

Day 3: Farewell Falls & Final Flavors

• Morning (9:00 AM - 11:30 AM) 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Check out from your accommodation in Watkins Glen. 9:30 AM - 9:45 AM: Drive to She-Qua-Ga Falls (W Main St, Montour Falls, NY 14865), just 5 minutes south of Watkins Glen. 9:45 AM - 10:15 AM: Marvel at this impressive 165-foot waterfall cascading right in the heart of the village. It’s easily accessible for photos and enjoyment, free of charge. 10:15 AM - 10:30 AM: Head north on NY-414 to make a quick roadside stop at Hector Falls, visible directly from the highway with a designated pull-off area (GPS coordinates near 42.3999° N, 76.8525° W). This beautiful, multi-tiered waterfall is another stunning sight, free to view.
• Afternoon (11:30 AM - 2:30 PM) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Take a scenic drive along the quieter east side of Seneca Lake, heading towards the Lodi area for different perspectives and views. 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Enjoy a final tasting at Leidenfrost Vineyards (5639 NY-414, Hector, NY 14841), known for its award-winning wines and panoramic views of Seneca Lake from the east side. Tastings are $10-15 per person. Total for two: ~$30. 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM: Have a relaxed lunch at The Elf in the Oak (3316 NY-414, Burdett, NY 14818), a charming spot offering delicious sandwiches, soups, and baked goods in a cozy setting. Alternatively, grab some gourmet items for a picnic on your journey home. Expect $40-50 for two.
• Evening Begin your picturesque journey home, carrying wonderful memories of the Finger Lakes’ wine and waterfall treasures.

Day 1: Arrival & Ithaca’s Gorge-ous Welcome

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Arrive in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, specifically the Ithaca area, which serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders. Check into your accommodation, such as the Homewood Suites by Hilton Ithaca or a comfortable local Airbnb (expect around $250-300/night). Use this time to settle in and grab a quick, casual lunch.
  • Practical Tips: Pack some travel snacks and drinks for the journey.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Begin your exploration with two stunning state parks just south of Ithaca. Start at Buttermilk Falls State Park, known for its beautiful cascading waterfall and natural swimming holes (seasonal). Explore the Gorge Trail and Rim Trail (approx. 2-mile loop, moderate difficulty due to stairs, ~1.5-2 hours). Afterwards, drive a short distance to Robert H. Treman State Park to discover Enfield Falls and the magnificent Lucifer Falls via the Upper Gorge Trail (approx. 2.5 miles round trip, moderate, ~2 hours).
  • Specifics: Buttermilk Falls is about 3 miles south of Ithaca. Robert H. Treman is about 5 miles south of Ithaca, approximately 5-10 minutes drive from Buttermilk Falls.
  • Cost: NYS Parks Vehicle Use Fee $10 per car per park (or use an Empire Pass).
  • Practical Tips: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip as trails can be wet and uneven. Bring water bottles.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Enjoy dinner in the vibrant city of Ithaca. Options include the family-friendly Ithaca Ale House (casual American fare, entrees $15-25) or the lively Maxie’s Supper Club for Cajun/Creole flavors (entrees $20-35). After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the pedestrian-only Ithaca Commons, browsing unique shops and enjoying street art. Don’t miss a scoop of local favorite Purity Ice Cream Co.
  • Practical Tips: Parking garages are available around the Commons.

Day 2: Waterfalls of Wonder: Taughannock to Watkins

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Head north from Ithaca to Taughannock Falls State Park (approx. 20-25 minute drive). Marvel at Taughannock Falls, which plunges 215 feet, making it one of the highest single-drop waterfalls east of the Rockies. Walk the easy, mostly flat Gorge Trail (0.75 miles one-way, ~1 hour round trip) to experience the falls from its base. For a different perspective, visit the scenic Overlook on the north rim of the gorge.
  • Specifics: Taughannock Falls State Park is about 10 miles north of Ithaca.
  • Cost: NYS Parks Vehicle Use Fee $10 per car.
  • Practical Tips: The Gorge Trail is wide and relatively flat, suitable for strollers and young children.
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Embark on a scenic drive to Watkins Glen State Park (approx. 40-50 minutes from Taughannock Falls). Grab a quick, casual lunch in Watkins Glen (e.g., picnic in the park or a diner like Curly’s Family Restaurant). Prepare to be captivated by the iconic Gorge Trail (2 miles one-way, moderate difficulty with many stone steps, ~2-3 hours), which winds through a deep gorge, taking you past 19 waterfalls and unique rock formations, even behind some falls!
  • Specifics: Watkins Glen is about 20 miles south of Watkins Glen.
  • Cost: NYS Parks Vehicle Use Fee $10 per car.
  • Practical Tips: This trail is a highlight but requires good mobility due to numerous steps. Wear comfortable, grippy shoes, as surfaces can be wet. Consider taking the park’s shuttle (seasonal, $5-6/person) to the upper entrance and walking downhill.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Enjoy a well-deserved dinner in Watkins Glen with views of Seneca Lake. Options include Seneca Harbor Station (waterfront dining, American cuisine, entrees $25-40) or Nickels Pit BBQ (casual, delicious BBQ, entrees $15-30). Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll along the pier to enjoy the evening lake breeze.
  • Practical Tips: Reservations are recommended for Seneca Harbor Station during peak season.

Day 3: Seneca Lake Shores & Animal Friends

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:00 PM) Experience a heartwarming and educational visit to Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen/Hector (approx. 30-40 minutes drive from Ithaca, 15 minutes north of Watkins Glen). This refuge for rescued farm animals offers guided tours where you can meet cows, pigs, turkeys, and other residents, learning about their stories and promoting compassion. Tours typically last 1 hour.
  • Specifics: Farm Sanctuary is located at 3100 Aikens Rd, Watkins Glen, NY.
  • Cost: Guided tours typically $10-15 per person; check their website for current pricing and reservation requirements.
  • Practical Tips: Book tours in advance, especially during peak season. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the farm.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a picturesque drive north along the western shore of Seneca Lake on Route 414. Stop at Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards for a scenic break; they offer non-alcoholic beverages and a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating and often live music. Grab lunch in the charming town of Geneva, located at the northern tip of Seneca Lake (e.g., F.L.X. Fry Bird for gourmet fried chicken or H.J. Stead Company for sandwiches, lunch ~$30-50 for two). If time and interest allow, a quick stop at the historic Rose Hill Mansion (tour ~$10/person).
  • Specifics: Hazlitt is about 15 miles north of Farm Sanctuary. Geneva is about 15 miles north of Hazlitt.
  • Practical Tips: Many wineries along Seneca Lake offer pleasant outdoor spaces suitable for families; always confirm their specific family policies.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Dine in Geneva, a town undergoing a vibrant revitalization. Consider Microclimate (upscale casual, global small plates, entrees $20-35) or choose from several other diverse eateries. After dinner, enjoy the beautiful views of Seneca Lake from the city’s waterfront parks and perhaps grab a sweet treat from Stivers Seneca Street Sweet Shop.
  • Practical Tips: Geneva has ample street parking and municipal lots.

Day 4: Keuka’s Wings, Wheels & Waters

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Drive to the unique Y-shaped Keuka Lake (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes from Ithaca, 45 minutes from Geneva). Explore the picturesque village of Hammondsport, voted “Coolest Small Town in America.” Visit the fascinating Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, dedicated to local aviation pioneer Glenn Curtiss. The museum houses antique airplanes, motorcycles, and local history exhibits, providing an engaging experience for all ages. Allow 1.5-2 hours.
  • Specifics: Hammondsport is about 40 miles west of Watkins Glen.
  • Cost: Museum admission is typically $12-15 per person.
  • Practical Tips: The museum is well-laid out and provides good historical context for the region’s innovative spirit.
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy lunch in Hammondsport (e.g., Park Inn, casual American fare, entrees $15-25). Afterwards, head to Keuka Lake State Park (approx. 7 miles from Hammondsport) for a swim (seasonal) or simply to relax by the lake and take in the serene views. Alternatively, explore a section of the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, a flat, multi-use trail following an old railroad bed between Penn Yan and Dresden, featuring beautiful scenery and historic mill ruins, including Cascade Falls.
  • Specifics: Keuka Lake State Park is on the northwest side of Keuka Lake. Penn Yan is about 15 miles north of Hammondsport.
  • Cost: Keuka Lake State Park Vehicle Use Fee $8-10 per car.
  • Practical Tips: The Outlet Trail is perfect for an easy family walk or bike ride (bike rentals may be available in Penn Yan).
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Enjoy dinner in Penn Yan, a charming village at the north end of Keuka Lake, at Top of the Lake Restaurant (casual American, good views) or return to Hammondsport for a meal at Bully Hill Vineyards, which offers stunning lake views from its restaurant (check ahead for family-friendliness and reservations).
  • Practical Tips: Check seasonal operating hours for restaurants, especially outside of peak summer.

Day 5: Skaneateles: The Jewel and Farewell

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Conclude your Finger Lakes adventure with a visit to Skaneateles, often called the “Jewel of the Finger Lakes” (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes from Ithaca, 45 minutes from Geneva, 1 hour from Penn Yan). Skaneateles Lake is renowned for its pristine, crystal-clear waters and the elegant village lining its shores. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakefront in Clift Park, browse the unique boutiques and art galleries on Main Street, and simply soak in the refined atmosphere.
  • Specifics: Skaneateles is the easternmost Finger Lake, strategically placed for an easy departure if heading east.
  • Cost: Free to explore the town and park.
  • Practical Tips: Skaneateles Lake is one of the cleanest lakes in the world, making for beautiful photos. Parking can be challenging during peak times, so arrive early.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM) Indulge in a final Finger Lakes culinary treat and pick up some souvenirs. Have lunch at the famous Doug’s Fish Fry (casual, renowned for fish and chips, entrees $10-20) or enjoy a delightful sandwich from Skaneateles Bakery. No trip is complete without a sweet finish from Goodies ice cream parlor. Find unique local crafts or gifts in the village shops.
  • Practical Tips: Allow extra time for browsing the many charming shops.
• Evening (3:30 PM onwards) Begin your journey home, filled with wonderful memories of the Finger Lakes’ stunning natural beauty, engaging attractions, and charming lakeside towns.

Day 1: Lakeside Romance & Seneca’s Finest Sips

• Morning (10:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Begin your romantic escape by arriving in Geneva, NY, nestled on the northern tip of Seneca Lake. Check into your luxurious accommodation at Belhurst Castle (4000 Lower Lake Rd, Geneva, NY). This historic castle offers opulent rooms, breathtaking lake views, and a truly unique atmosphere perfect for couples. Settle into your room, then take a leisurely stroll around the castle’s enchanting grounds, soaking in the serene beauty of Seneca Lake.
  • Practical Tip: Room rates for a deluxe room typically range from $350-$450 per night. Allow 1-1.5 hours for check-in and initial exploration.
  • Estimated Cost: Accommodation ~$400.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:30 PM)
  • Lunch (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM): Enjoy a gourmet yet casual lunch experience at F.L.X. Provisions (20 Seneca St, Geneva, NY), known for its artisanal sandwiches, charcuterie, and curated provisions. Opt for a delicious take-away to enjoy by the lake, or dine in. (Approx. $40-50 for two).
  • Intimate Wine Tastings (1:45 PM - 5:30 PM): Embark on a journey along the scenic Seneca Lake Wine Trail, focusing on quality and intimate experiences.
    • Stop 1: Ravines Wine Cellars (1:45 PM - 3:00 PM): Drive approximately 15 minutes south from Geneva along Route 14 to Ravines Wine Cellars (4000 NY-14, Geneva, NY). Known for elegant, dry vinifera wines, enjoy a sophisticated tasting flight on their patio with stunning lake views. Tastings typically range from $20-30 per person.
    • Stop 2: Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard (3:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Continue another 25 minutes south to Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard (3962 NY-14, Dundee, NY). This esteemed winery is celebrated for its world-class Rieslings and excellent sparkling wines. Pre-book a seated tasting for a more personal experience. Tastings are usually $25-35 per person.
  • Practical Tip: Total driving time for this afternoon segment is about 40 minutes. Reservations for tastings are highly recommended, especially on weekends, for a more relaxed and guided experience.
  • Estimated Cost: Lunch ~$45. Wine tastings ~$100-130 for two.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards)
  • Fine Dining: Indulge in a romantic dinner at Edgar’s Restaurant at Belhurst Castle (4000 Lower Lake Rd, Geneva, NY). Their refined menu features seasonal ingredients, perfectly complemented by an extensive wine list. Request a table with a lake view for an unforgettable ambiance. Reservations are essential.
  • Practical Tip: Dress code is smart casual. Dinner typically lasts 1.5-2 hours.
  • Estimated Cost: Dinner (appetizers, entrees, dessert, and a bottle of Finger Lakes wine) ~$180-250.
  • Return to your luxurious room at Belhurst Castle for a romantic evening.

Day 2: Gorgeous Gorges & Keuka’s Charms

• Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM)

  • Breakfast (8:30 AM - 9:30 AM): Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Stonecutter’s Restaurant, also located within Belhurst Castle (if not included in your room rate, or find a charming spot like Opus Espresso and Food in Geneva). (Approx. $40 if not included).
  • Romantic Gorge Hike (10:00 AM - 12:30 PM): Drive approximately 30 minutes south from Geneva to Watkins Glen State Park (1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY). Embark on a breathtaking walk along the Gorge Trail (approximately 2 miles, 1.5-2 hours). You’ll discover 19 stunning waterfalls and walk beneath majestic carved rock formations – a truly magical experience for two. Wear comfortable walking shoes!
  • Practical Tip: Parking fee is usually ~$10 per vehicle. The Gorge Trail involves many steps; an alternative (less strenuous) Indian Trail runs along the rim.
  • Estimated Cost: Breakfast ~$40. Parking ~$10.

• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • Lunch & Scenic Drive (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM): Drive west from Watkins Glen for approximately 30 minutes to the charming village of Hammondsport on Keuka Lake. Enjoy a casual lunch at The Crooked Lake Ice Cream Parlor & Cafe (38 Pulteney St, Hammondsport, NY) for classic American fare, or grab something lighter at a local deli. (Approx. $50 for two).
  • Keuka Lake Wine Tasting (1:45 PM - 4:45 PM):
    • Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars (1:45 PM - 3:15 PM): Drive about 10 minutes from Hammondsport village center to Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars (9749 Middle Rd, Hammondsport, NY). As a pioneer in Finger Lakes winemaking, this estate offers a fascinating tasting experience with stunning views of Keuka Lake. Their sparkling wines are a must-try. Reservations for a seated tasting are highly recommended. Tastings are typically $30-40 per person.
  • Practical Tip: The drive from Watkins Glen to Hammondsport offers beautiful countryside views. Allow extra time to enjoy the quaint shops in Hammondsport.
  • Estimated Cost: Lunch ~$50. Wine tasting ~$60-80 for two.

• Evening (5:00 PM onwards)

  • Farewell Dinner (5:30 PM - 7:30 PM): Begin your drive back towards Geneva (approx. 1 hour from Hammondsport). For an extraordinary culinary finale, consider Veraisons Restaurant at Glenora Wine Cellars (5435 NY-14, Dundee, NY – about 30 minutes south of Geneva). Their farm-to-table menu is expertly crafted, and the lake views are sublime. Alternatively, for a truly exclusive and high-end experience (reservations are extremely difficult and must be made months in advance), FLX Table (22 Linden St, Geneva, NY) offers a fixed chef’s tasting menu.
  • Practical Tip: If FLX Table isn’t feasible, Veraisons is an outstanding choice with a slightly more flexible reservation schedule. Veraisons is more conveniently located on your drive back towards Geneva from Keuka Lake than diving deep into Geneva for FLX Table if your final destination is north.
  • Estimated Cost: Dinner (Veraisons: apps, entrees, dessert, wine) ~$200-300. (FLX Table Tasting Menu: ~$270+ for two, excluding drinks).
  • Depart from the Finger Lakes, carrying memories of an unforgettable romantic getaway.

• Total Estimated Trip Cost (for 2 people): Approximately $1180 - $1450. (This budget accommodates fine dining and premium wine experiences. Adjustments can be made by choosing slightly more casual dining options or fewer/lower-tier wine tastings to stay strictly within $1200).