A trip to the Finger Lakes isn’t complete without visiting at least one of the region’s wineries! That’s easy for guests staying near Seneca Lake, home to the largest of the area’s wine trails. In total, it includes 35 wineries, one distillery, two cider producers, two breweries, and a meadery. This region is most well-known for producing some of the best Rieslings in the world, and they have the awards to show for it! If you want to combine stunning views with a day spent on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, head down Route 14S. It’s considered one of the most scenic drives in the Finger Lakes and is also right in the midst of the trial. Plus, it’ll take you to Watkins Glen State Park, another one of our favorite parks near Seneca Lake. Driving down this route is one of our favorite things to do in the Finger Lakes in the fall!
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or want to spend time on the water without the hassle of renting a vessel, a Seneca Lake boat tour is the perfect addition to your itinerary. Schooner Excursions offers small private and public charters, as well as wine tour packages and eco-tours. Captain Bill’s Seneca Lake Cruises is a more refined experience. Their 270-passenger elegant vessel, the Seneca Legacy, offers wonderful dinner cruises during the summer season. They also have the Stroller IV, a more traditional ship, aboard which a traditional sightseeing cruise takes place. A boat tour with your loved one is definitely one of our picks for one of the most romantic things to do in the Finger Lakes.
Racing fans should not miss the chance to visit the Watkins Glen International (or as locals know it, The Glen). It was the host of the Formula One United States Grand Prix for 20 years, so there are two decades of racing history on the grounds! Today, it’s considered Mecca of North American road racing, with races (and even concerts) still frequently held at the arena.
There are three excellent parks on the north, southeast, and south sides of the lake. Seneca Lake State Park is the northernmost park and is ideal for guests traveling with children or those who’d prefer to swim. It’s right on the edge of Seneca Lake, overlooking the crystal-clear blue waters of the largest of the Finger Lakes. Located between Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake is the Finger Lakes National Forest, the only one in the state. Locals tend to visit the forest for hiking, biking, horseback riding, or cross-country skiing in the winter. The most famous the parks in the Finger Lakes is Watkins Glen State Park. It won third place in USA TODAY Readers’ Choice Poll for the Best State Park in the United States thanks to its gorgeous scenic hikes, gorges, and waterfalls. There are a total of 19 falls within the park, as well as natural staircases. The park is most famous for the Gorge Trail, which winds past each of the falls and over 800 stone steps.