Things To Do
Skaneateles
This lake town holds a lot of memories for Abby and the whole Fallon crew because her grandparents owned a home on the lake where all the Fallons would spend weekends and holidays. During the weekends leading up to Christmas, the town celebrates with "Dickens Christmas" where Christmas Carol characters roam the streets and horse-drawn carriages give you a tour of the beautiful little town--make sure to check it out! Some favorite places: -Skaneateles Bakery: Abby worked there for many years! Try the blueberry scones, their homemade donuts, and their homemade (special recipe) hot chocolate! -Vermont Green Mountain Coffee: Sophia (Abby's sister) worked there for centuries and she recommends their specialty chocolates. -Lake House Pub: If you need a reprieve from the cold, stop by the pub for a variety of drinks that will warm you up. -Clift Park: If the weather isn't too stormy and cold, the park is a beautiful spot to take a stroll and enjoy a delicious coffee from a local spot.
Auburn
This little town, known as the home of Harriet Tubman (also known for the creation of the electric chair and the New York State Prison), is where Abby grew up, received most of her sacraments, and where she'll be fortunate enough to marry Jacob! Be sure to check out these hidden gems in Auburn: -Auburn Bagel Company: Louisa, Abby's sister, worked there--it's a great spot for a bagel fix! -A.T. Walley: This is a neat little bar/restaurant with live music many nights. -Hoop's Park: If the weather's not too windy, Hoop's Park is the perfect place for a morning stroll. -Seymour Library: Although most people don't travel to Upstate to see libraries, Abby recommends that you check this one out :) -Simple Roast: With a number of different locations, this is easily the best cup of local coffee in Auburn!
Seneca Falls
"Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings"--sound familiar? This cute town is known for the bridge where George Bailey contemplated his life in "It's a Wonderful Life." Things to do in Seneca Falls: -The 78th Anniversary Celebration of "It's a Wonderful Life" is being held December 13-15! Be sure to check out their website to see all the fun things the town is doing: https://www.wonderfullifemuseum.com/2021-festival/ -Women's Rights National Historical Park: Visit the park for a look through the town's history. -Sackett's Table Restaurant and Market: This is a neat and one-of-a-kind restaurant that is committed to using seasonal ingredients. This is a classic Matt and Ann Fallon date restaurant--give it a try and see what they are mixing up for December ingredients (their creme brulee is to die for!!).
Song Mountain Resort
Looking for a classic winter pastime? Check out Song Mountain for some skiing or snowboarding. This is a moderate mountain that sells daily passes and has a cozy lodge with a roaring fire place. This is where the Fallon kids did ski club growing up. Fun fact: each ski slope is named after a song!
Finger Lakes Wine Trails
The Finger Lakes area is known for its white wine--take a look at some of the wineries the Finger Lakes have to offer! There are plenty to choose from but here are some classics: -On Seneca Lake: Ventosa, Three Brothers, Fox Run, and Belhurst Castle Seneca Lake Wine Trail: https://senecalakewine.com/ -On Cayuga Lake: Long Point, Toro Run, and Hosmer Cayuga Lake Wine Trail: https://www.cayugawinetrail.com/ **Review from Sophia (Abby's sister): "winter is like the best time to go because then they're quiet"
Beak & Skiff Apple Hill Campus and 1911 Tasting Room
Beak and Skiff is one of the state's most famous apple orchards and it's on the way to the reception from the Church. Stop by for some home-brewed apple cider!
