Spring Break Adventure Guide

A Finger Lakes Wine Country Travel Guide

Party: Family

Spring Break is a great reason to escape to Finger Lakes Wine Country. The region is abuzz as the gardens bloom and the vineyards are groomed and pruned. This Finger Lakes Spring Break Adventure Guide has great suggestions for group gatherings and family trips, including maple tastings, waterfall chasing, hot air balloon rides, bird watching, and more. 

Finger Lakes Wine Country has much to offer groups of all sizes and people of all ages. Including three distinct Wine Trails that are open year-round but begin to sparkle in the spring. Just don’t forget to pack your rain boots and a few warm layers. April showers bring May flowers and the vegetation in our local farms and vineyards. 

Finger Lakes Wine Country has many charming small towns to visit during your trip. Spend your mornings in our local coffee shops and bakeries, visit our museums and galleries, and enjoy the flavors of our region at local restaurants. Find more suggestions in the Spring Travel Guide to Finger Lakes Wine Country. 

Activities 

Waterfalls 

In the spring, ice and snowmelt bring our waterfalls to life! It’s a great time to witness one of the region’s greatest attractions, waterfalls. Driving along the east side of Seneca Lake on Route 414 you’ll see a magical, cascading waterfall called Hector Falls. Hiking the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park, your group will witness 19 majestic waterfalls along the trail. Use the Finger Lakes Wine Country Waterfall Guide to help you plan your waterfall visits.

Maple Tastings

Maple Syrup

If you’re visiting in early Spring, you can taste some of nature’s candy during maple syrup season. Many of our region’s farms and orchards produce pure maple syrup, and you get to sample this season’s tasty syrup and bring it back home. Find maple syrup and more local ingredients to take home at some of our Farmer’s Markets and Farm Stores, like Parluski’s Farms in Bath, Chamberlain Acres Farmer’s Market in Elmira, Oak Hill Bulk Foods, and Apple Barrel Orchards in Penn Yan and be sure to visit Tioga County and explore their Maple Trail too!

Museums 

Finger Lakes Wine Country has a rich connection to arts, culture, and history. We are proud to have some incredible cultural institutions and museums. Find the world’s most comprehensive collection of glass and glass-blowing demonstrations at the immersive and interactive Corning Museum of Glass, which might look familiar if you watch Netflix’s competition series Blown Away. Your group can observe over 50,000 glass objects representing more than 3,500 years of history or participate in a class or workshop. 

group of friends at corning museum of glass
Corning Museum of Glass

The Rockwell Museum in Corning is the only Smithsonian Affiliate museum in upstate New York. Visitors to The Rockwell explore the people, land, and ideas that shape the nation through the eyes of American artists. Visit the KIDS ROCKWELL Art Lab, just around the corner from the Museum on Market Street, for fun, unplugged play if you’re traveling with little ones.

There are even more art galleries and museums that showcase the beauty of our growing community of artists. These are a great rainy day option, but we’re sure they will complement your trip, regardless of the weather.

Tioga Gardens

Stop and take in the spring blooms at one of our local gardens. Stroll through 11 greenhouses at  Tioga Gardens in Owego. The Nursery is fully stocked with fruiting trees and shrubs. The “Glasshouse” is home to houseplants from Venus fly traps to 10-foot tall palms, orchids, bonsai, succulents, and more. Spring is a great time to bring home fresh-cut flowers or a new houseplant. 

Horseback Riding

One of the most unique ways for your group to see the region is on horseback. Your family can do a small group ride at Painted Bar Stables in Burdett, New York. Children 10 years or older are allowed to do trail rides, while children ages 8 and 9 are required to ride in a Trail Experience Lesson before trail riding. 

Painted Bar Stables also offers the only horseback-mounted vineyard tour in the Finger Lakes. The Vineyard Ride takes you on a scenic tour of the orchards and forest peaking with a breathtaking view of Seneca Lake. Upon dismount, enjoy wine tasting and local bites, and walk away with a bottle of wine to drink later. Visit our small-town guide for Watkins Glen for more ideas nearby before or after your horseback riding adventure.

Bird Watching

Young boy bird watching

Finger Lakes Wine Country is a haven for great blue herons, sandhill cranes, osprey, snow geese, wild turkeys, many species of songbirds, and even bald eagles. Some great places to visit for bird watching include Cold Brook Wildlife Management Area in Hammondsport, Urbana State Forest and Italy Hill State Forest off of Keuka Lake, Tanglewood Nature Center in Elmira, Brick Pond wetlands in Owego, Spencer Crest Nature Center in Corning, and the Finger Lakes National Forest between Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake.

Hot Air Balloon

Create a core memory for your group with a hot air balloon ride! Southern Tier Balloon Tours offers a year-round Owego experience that gives you an aerial view of the region. This adventure is safe for little ones five and above. Prices start at $280 for kids and $340 for adults, and private flights are available. 

*Passenger weight limit: 235 pounds each. For individuals over 235 pounds, call for more details. 

Looking for more reasons to bring your family? Start with these fun, Kid-Friendly Wineries + Activities in Finger Lakes Wine Country. Then check out this list of Free Things To Do In Finger Lakes Wine Country.

Wineries + Breweries 

Spring in Finger Lakes

Finger Lakes Wine Country is the largest wine-producing region on the East Coast, with three wine trails. Spring is a great time to visit our region’s celebrated wineries and tasting rooms offering award-winning aromatic white varietals, like Riesling and Gewürztraminer, and cooler-climate reds, including Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc.

Two Goats Brewing

Our scenic region offers many craft beverage options, including incredible breweries like Wagner Valley Brewing, Two Goats Brewing, Steuben Brewing, and Horseheads Brewing, distilleries like Finger Lakes Distilling and Krooked Tusker Distillery, and even cideries like Eve’s Cidery and Silvan Farm and Cidery – to name a few!

Restaurants 

In Corning, you’ll find the bright and modern Quincy Exchange (open seasonal from April to January), an American Bistro bringing fresh and locally sourced fare to the historic Gaffer District. Make a reservation for dinner Wednesday – Sunday, 5 – 8 PM. Or reserve a spot for Weekend Brunch, where you can enjoy delicious brunch bites like Crab Benedict and Bread Pudding French Toast.

The Cellar, nearby, is a local favorite with an everchanging seasonal menu and a beautiful selection of cocktails to choose from. Come for a drink or a fabulous dinner and mingle with visitors and locals in this warm, welcoming spot.

If you’re traveling with a small group, GRAFT Wine + Cider Bar in Watkins Glen has a private room upstairs that’s perfect for you. Chef and owner Orlando Rodriguez highlights local producers and offers a rotating, seasonally focused bar and kitchen menu. GRAFT Wine + Cider Bar is the only wine and cider bar in the area exclusively serving a variety of New York State hand-crafted wines, ciders, and beer.

Graft Wine and Cider Bar

The people, the food, and the renovated location make Rye Bar and Restaurant in Elmira, New York, the perfect place for friends & family to come together and have a great time. The bar and restaurant have been designed with individual touches unique to the region. The menu has items for all ages to enjoy. The Garage at Rye, a coffee shop next door, is a fun morning and early afternoon hangout (and work-from-home) spot. They offer delicious espresso drinks, freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a bar on-site for an afternoon drink with friends after a fun day in the area.

Penn Yan, New York’s hidden gem, is located under the charming bridge on Liberty Street, Outlet 111. Named after its unique spot on the outlet trail connecting Keuka Lake and Seneca Lake, this restaurant takes pride in curating a wine list showcasing the Finger Lakes region and highlighting women producers’ talent. Currently serving an upscale pub fare-style menu, Outlet 111 prides itself on serving only the freshest ingredients for a culinary journey that promises to deliver. 

Accommodations 

Family Friendly 

The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel in Watkins Glen, New York, was named America’s Most Beautiful Waterfront Hotel by USA Today readers. As the area’s only AAA Four Diamond property, some amenities include spacious guest rooms and suites, an indoor swimming pool and hot tub, and a fully-equipped fitness center. Your family can also enjoy a meal on-site at the Blue Pointe Grille restaurant. 

Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

This is the area’s only AAA Four Diamond property and is within walking distance of Watkins Glen State Park, the most famous State Park in the region. It’s home to 19 waterfalls and nine great walking trails.

Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen, New York, is a bed, breakfast, and shelter where you can bond with the rescued animals and enjoy a home-cooked vegan breakfast every morning. The 275-acre Watkins Glen farm is home to more than 600 rescued cows, pigs, turkeys, and other farm animals. The accommodations include three tiny houses and cozy cabins with shared bathrooms within walking distance. 

Happy dog on hotel bed

There’s no need to leave your fur baby home. Finger Lakes Wine Country is extremely pet-friendly in terms of accommodations and activities. Two pet-friendly properties near the Keuka Lake Wine Trail include the Best Western Plus Vineyard Inn & Suites and the four-bedroom, two-bathroom House of Vines in Penn Yan. The House of Vines is located across the street from the Keuka Outlet Trail, which has a paved path for walking or running with your pup. 

Group Stays 

If you prefer to rent a family-friendly vacation property, look at the charming Seneca Lake Effect on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake. This more than 4,000 square foot ranch-style house offers six bedrooms, 6.5 bathrooms, and full lake views throughout the common area. The recently renovated basement rec room offers a pool table, ping pong, foosball, and a movie projection theater featuring a 122” screen and Dolby surround sound. 

Blue Heron Shores Estate is just minutes from award-winning wineries and lakefront restaurants on the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. This beautiful 6-bedroom estate features a main house and a boat house. Here, your group will enjoy a hot tub, a pool table, an outdoor stone fireplace, and spectacular views. 

Stay + Play

The thirty-room Inn at Glenora offers stunning views and an atmosphere of simple elegance that make your stay a perfect soothing getaway. Beyond wine, you can enjoy regional cuisine featuring seasonal, locally sourced menus at Veraisons Restaurant, located at the Inn.

The Inn at Grist Iron in Burdett, New York, is the only lodging in the region to feature an onsite craft brewery, Grist Iron Brewing Company. Choose from 4 rooms in their traditional-style 1860s Farmhouse or stay in one of 10 spacious suites in The Lodge, which offers rustic yet modern accommodations, including their dog-friendly rooms. 

As a reminder, well-behaved and well-supervised children are the norm in most places. The suggested places are family-friendly, but kids can’t explore on their own. Feel free to explore these locations with your child and highlight fun new things, but please don’t let them roam alone.

The region transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland in the early months of the year. If you enjoy quieter settings and fewer crowds or want to escape the chaos of everyday life, you’ll enjoy a winter retreat in Finger Lakes Wine Country. 

Beat the winter blues with a breathtaking getaway to Finger Lakes Wine Country. There are many ways to escape, relax, and rejuvenate in this cozy winter wonderland. From indoor oases to outdoor escapes, we’ve rounded up some unforgettable activities and events you can enjoy this season in the region. 

Indoor Oases 

Spas

It’s not a retreat if self-care isn’t a priority. Winter is a great time to recoup, revitalize, and re-energize. Is there a better way to relax than to enjoy a pampering service or two at a spa? Your stress and anxieties will melt away after a relaxing treatment.

The Isabella Spa Salon at Belhurst in Geneva, New York, offers various services, including massages, manicures, pedicures, and facials. 

Namaste Spa, in Horseheads, NY, will help you find your zen. They offer massage services, cupping, body treatments, and spa day packages, including up to four hours of pampering. 

Saphala Medical, in Corning, NY offers bespoke care for weight management and nutrition, microneedling, fillers, massages, and more. They also offer a menu of services specific to men’s care.

K. Rae Salon in Corning, NY, offers a full list of services, from hairstyling to waxing, facials, and more!

Couple massage, hands or spa therapist for relax, luxury or wellness treatment for health, lifestyle or zen at resort. Healthcare, beauty salon or black woman and man for body, skincare or therapy

Treat yourself to a massage, facial, or laser service at Ageless Spa in Corning, New York. Their extensive menu of services has something for anyone looking to indulge in some self-care and cosmetic treatments.  

Floatation Therapy is a relaxation treatment that allows you to tune into your heartbeat and breathing, resulting in deep calm and various other benefits. Inner Peace Floats in Watkins Glen offers this unique experience and massage.

Wine Tasting

A winter vineyard visit to the Finger Lakes is breathtaking. Have you ever seen a snow-covered vineyard? Winter is a great time to visit these award-winning wineries if you enjoy a slower, more relaxed pace. The tasting rooms, restaurants, and lodging on all three of our Wine Trails are open year-round. 

Check out the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and Keuka Lake Wine Trail for our winery and restaurant suggestions.

Wondering what to do as a non-drinker in Finger Lakes Wine Country? If you’re searching for wine-free activities in the area, check out our The Non-Drinkers Guide to Finger Lakes Wine Country. This guide will help you create an unforgettable day amongst the vines sans vino.

Local Breweries

Although the Finger Lakes is famous for its wines, take advantage of “hoppy” hour at a local brewery. Most wineries, breweries, and distilleries stay open all year, including Finger Lakes Distilling, Seneca Lake Brewing Company, and The Grist Iron Brewing Company. 

Craft brewing has exploded so much in the region in the last decade that there are a variety of breweries offering an array of experiences. Our FLX Breweries, Cideries, and Distilleries Guide breaks down each area’s best breweries, cideries, and distilleries.

Museums

Learn something new with a visit to some of the Finger Lakes’ most fascinating museums, like The Rockwell Museum in Corning, New York. Peruse various intricate art pieces from different American artists or stroll through engaging exhibits.  

The Corning Museum of Glass is another must-see attraction. If you’ve ever wondered how glass is made, you can see the process before your own eyes. You can even try a glass-blowing class to make your glass creations. The Corning Museum of Glass is also home to Netflix’s Blown Away, a competition series featuring the art of glassmaking.

Arnot Art Museum, New York, in Elmira, is housed in a historic Greek-Revival building from 1833, founded by local banker Matthias Hallenback Arnot, who gifted the museum to the city. It has a permanent collection of 17th through 19th-century European paintings, 20th-century American art, and contemporary art from the 21st century. In addition to the permanent and original art collection, you can also experience their temporary exhibitions featuring artwork from all over the world.

Outdoor Escapes 

Ice Fishing 

Winter is one of the best seasons for fishing in the Finger Lakes. When the lakes freeze over, the region becomes a hotspot for trout, smallmouth bass, bluegills, and numerous pickerel.

The north end of Cayuga Lake is a good place to try for northern pike, pickerel, and panfish. The northern tip of Keuka Lake is a popular area for ice-fishing enthusiasts. Here, you can easily find rentals along the lake to enjoy ice fishing every day of your winter getaway.   

Snow Sports

Strap on the cross-country skis or snowshoes and explore our many state parks and trails this winter. The crisp air, picturesque snowscapes, and serene silence are pure magic. On a cold or rainy day, head to an Elmira Mammoth hockey game in Elmira, New York, for fun indoor entertainment. 

Tanglewood Nature Center’s trails in Elmira, New York, are open to the public all year long. In the winter, they make for a wonderful snowshoeing experience. Tanglewood has two separate trail systems, Gleason Meadows and Personius Woods. The trail systems are not connected, but they are a very short distance by car drive from each other. See their trail maps here. 

The Keuka Outlet Trail offers seven miles stretching between Keuka and Seneca Lakes from Penn Yan to Dresden, NY. Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are very popular here in the winter. 

The Finger Lakes National Forest in Hector, New York, is another great location for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. 

Ice Skating

Clute Park’s Ice Skating Rink in Watkins Glen, New York, and Corning’s Civic Center Ice Rink in Corning, New York, are great places to enjoy one of winter’s most iconic activities. Don’t own a pair of ice skates? No worries! You can rent them on-site.

Winter Waterfalls

Most assume that waterfall viewing is best done in warmer months, but waterfalls truly come to life during winter. The combined ice and waterfall are truly spectacular. A major bonus is significantly less foot traffic on the trails in the winter. So you can enjoy sparkling snowy scenes when you visit these Five Magical Waterfalls this winter.

Hey….Where’s all the snow I keep hearing about?

Our weather is less snowy than in Buffalo, Rochester, or northern Pennsylvania. This is due to several key geographic and climatic factors, including the region’s distance from the Great Lakes, its terrain, and the local weather patterns that influence snowfall.

 1. Distance from the Great Lakes

Buffalo and Rochester, located along the eastern shores of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, are directly impacted by a weather phenomenon called lake-effect snow. This occurs when cold air moves over the relatively warmer waters of the lakes, causing moisture to evaporate, and when this moist air cools, it releases the moisture in the form of snow. This process produces heavy, localized snowfalls, particularly on the east sides of the lakes. Buffalo and Rochester are both in the direct path of these snow bands, which is why they often experience substantial snowfall in the winter.

In contrast, Finger Lakes Wine Country is located further inland, about 50 to 100 miles from the Great Lakes. While the region is still influenced by the lakes, it is far enough away that it does not experience the same intensity of lake-effect snow. The Finger Lakes still have a moderating effect on the climate, helping to keep temperatures milder, but they do not produce the heavy, persistent snowfalls that occur in cities like Buffalo and Rochester.

 2. Topography of the Finger Lakes Region

The terrain of Finger Lakes Wine Country plays a role in reducing snowfall. The region is characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and deep lakes that create a more sheltered environment compared to the open flat areas near the Great Lakes. These hills can block or weaken the lake-effect snow bands before they reach the Finger Lakes, preventing the area from experiencing the heavy snowfalls seen in nearby cities.

 Additionally, the mountain ranges and higher elevations of northern Pennsylvania also contribute to more snow. In these regions, the wind patterns are more conducive to lifting moist air, which results in heavier snow. The Finger Lakes, on the other hand, are not as prone to these elevated snow-producing processes.

 3. Wind Patterns and Lake Effect

The winds that bring lake-effect snow are generally westerly or northwesterly, blowing across the Great Lakes and onto the land. While Buffalo and Rochester are directly in the path of these winds, the Finger Lakes region is positioned more to the south and east, meaning it is shielded from the most intense lake-effect snow. The terrain of the Finger Lakes, with its valleys and the protection offered by the surrounding hills, means that many of the snow bands lose strength before reaching the area.

 4. Influence of Northern Pennsylvania

Northern Pennsylvania, particularly areas like Erie and the Appalachian Mountains, is more likely to experience significant snowfall due to both lake-effect snow from Lake Erie and the upslope snow effect. The higher elevation and proximity to the Great Lakes in this region allow for more consistent snowfall throughout the winter. As the wind pushes moisture-laden air from the lakes, the air is forced upwards by the mountains, causing more precipitation in the form of snow.

The Finger Lakes region, by comparison, is lower in elevation and more shielded from these upslope effects, resulting in less frequent and less intense snowfall. The Finger Lakes’ climate is more moderate, and although snow can still fall, it is generally less persistent or heavy than in northern Pennsylvania or along the lakeshores of Buffalo and Rochester.

 All this meteorology means….

Finger Lakes Wine Country gets less snow than Buffalo, Rochester, or northern Pennsylvania because of its inland location, further from the direct influence of lake-effect snow caused by the Great Lakes. The region’s rolling hills and valleys shield it from the worst of the lake-effect snow, and the milder temperatures due to the distance from the lakes further reduce snowfall. Additionally, northern Pennsylvania’s higher elevations and proximity to the Great Lakes make it more prone to consistent snowfall, while the Finger Lakes region experiences a more moderate winter climate overall.

So, even though our lakes—Cayuga, Seneca, and Keuka—are “great,” they are not large enough to make a significant impact on snowfall amounts.  So, if you hear about blizzards in upstate New York, they’re likely NOT referring to Finger Lakes Wine Country, so don’t let a few snow flurries keep you from visiting!

Your tour continues on land with a short walk from our lake dock takes you to our exclusive natural shale patio that meets the waterfall’s edge. Enjoy a complimentary Finger Lakes beverage while viewing the beauty of the majestic 165 ft. lower Hector Falls from our patio or explore the waterfall just steps away.

Bring your water shoes and get up close walking the flat shale at the base of the falls as the refreshing water rolls over your feet. You can fully experience the tumbling water as it flows over the towering cliff. There is nothing more exhilarating! 

Don’t want to get in the water? You can admire the falls from the patio just 40ft away or sit on the side of the falls while admiring its pure beauty and energy. There is nothing more relaxing than watching and listening to the falling water. Daydreaming, you might ask: “Is this heaven?”

What are you waiting for? Bring your camera! The views and experiences here make for a one-of-a-kind excursion you will always remember.

Grown Here, Made Here

The Seneca Lake Wine Trail consists of a collection of member wineries producing award-winning wines made entirely from grapes grown in the Seneca Lake AVA (American Viticultural Area). From grape-growing to production, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is one of the largest cohesive wine trails in North America where you’re guaranteed to be sipping wine from the Seneca Lake terroir, or the natural environment from which a wine is produced, involving factors such as the soil, topography, and climate.  

Meads, Ciders, and Brews – Oh my!

Besides being a haven for some unforgettable wineries, you can also find breweries, cideries, and even a meadery alongside the stunning scenery of lush vineyard landscapes and Seneca Lake. Earle Estates Meadery, Cider Tree at Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, Wagner Valley Brewing at Wagner Vineyards, and War Horse Brewing and Red Apple Bombshell Hard Ciders at Three Brothers Winery & Estates are a few not to miss. 

The Deepest Lake

Seneca Lake is not only the largest of the glacially-formed Finger Lakes, but is also the deepest lake within New York State. At 630 feet in depth, Seneca makes up 50% of the water in the Finger Lakes region. The depth of the lake helps moderate temperatures and contributes to the relatively mild climate every season. Seneca Lake’s southeastern shores are known as the “banana belt” because the afternoon sun lingers through the summer on its high, steep, shaley, west-facing slopes, making this small microclimate within the region unusually warm.

These conditions contribute to the favorable terroir which makes it ideal for grape growing and provides the perfect conditions for the cultivation of delicate Vinifera grapes used in wines like Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and other award-winning hybrids and varietals familiar to the region.

The Towns of Seneca Lake

In addition to scenic views, wineries, waterfalls, and parks, there are charming towns along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail that are great stopping points. 

At the northern tip of Seneca Lake you’ll find the town of Geneva, and at the southern tip is Watkins Glen, home of Watkins Glen International, the birthplace of American Road Racing, and of the waterfalls and trails in Watkins Glen State Park. Explore the town for lake views from Seneca Harbor, or take in the eateries and shops downtown. There are plenty of lodging options with easy access to all the Seneca Lake Wine Trail has to offer. Try the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, recently named America’s Most Beautiful Waterfront Hotel by USA Today readers, for lake luxury at its finest.

Fun Activities on Seneca Lake 

From kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, boating, or riding aboard the historic ‘True Love’ Schooner at sunset, there are tons of fun activities to enjoy on and around Seneca Lake.

Explore the hiking trails along 19 cascading waterfalls in under 2 miles in Watkins Glen State Park. 

Drive along Route 414 in Burdett and come upon the gorgeous roadside attraction of Hector Falls. You can safely pull over and get a close-up view, and you can catch a glimpse of the lower cascading falls from the lake.

Year-Round Getaway

The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is not just a summer destination. Tasting rooms, restaurants, and lodging are open year-round. Fall harvest time is an event within itself and different year-round holiday activities keep the region festive and fun. Outdoor lovers will always find plenty to do in the region, no matter the season.

Eateries Galore

There are lots of eateries to choose from as you explore the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Driving up from Watkins Glen, on the west side on Route 14, you’ll find Veraisons Restaurant at the Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars, offering a new local menu each season along with a gorgeous view of Seneca Lake that’s perfect any time of year. Just up the road, don’t miss the FLX Wienery, a favorite for its eclectic choice of “upscale fair food” options and always friendly service.

On the east side of Seneca, traveling north on Route 414, at the Ginny Lee Café at Wagner Vineyards, you’ll find their beautiful view pairs perfectly with a menu of lunchtime favorites. Down the road, Elf in the Oak offers a great selection of salads and sandwiches to keep you energized, and Stonecat Café is a beloved farm-to-table experience with a Sunday Jazz Brunch you won’t want to miss. Grist Iron Brewing Company offers cold beer, local music, and great food (the wings are a must!). Many of the wineries on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail offer locally-made cheeses and other snacks to keep you satiated. Fox Run Vineyards, Three Brothers Winery & Estates, Belhurst Estate Winery, and Ventosa Vineyards all have restaurants on site. Be sure to check their listings for seasonal hours. 

More Amazing Attractions

If wineries, breweries, distilleries, meaderies, lake activities, waterfalls, auto racing, and a state park weren’t enough reasons to make this a remarkable destination to explore, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is just a short drive from some incredible small towns. Cities and villages throughout Finger Lakes Wine Country, such as Hammondsport, Corning, Penn Yan, Owego, and Elmira, offer outdoor activities, performance venues, museums, shops, dining, and much more.

A Year-Round Destination

Finger Lakes Wine Country offers a distinctive climate that changes beautifully through each season, providing unique experiences year-round. Whether you are drawn to the bud break of spring, serene lakes and rivers in summer, the snowy charm of winter, or the vibrant foliage of autumn, you’ll find plenty to explore in this breathtaking corner of New York. Here’s what to expect from the weather and how to dress during each season.

 Spring

(April – May)

Spring in the Finger Lakes is a time of renewal, where nature comes alive after the cold winter months. Average daytime temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F, but evenings can be quite chilly, often dipping into the 30s or 40s. It’s a time when the grapevines begin to bud, and the local flora—tulips, daffodils, and lilacs—brighten the landscape with color.

What to Wear: Light layers are key. A light sweater or long-sleeved shirt under a jacket will keep you comfortable during the day, but don’t forget a heavier jacket or a warm sweater for the evening chill. Comfortable shoes for walking or exploring wineries are also recommended, as the terrain can be uneven, especially around the lake.

 Summer

(June – August)

Summer in the Finger Lakes is a true highlight, with warm, pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities. Daytime highs typically range from 70°F to 80°F, with occasional hot spells pushing into the 90s. The area enjoys long, sunny days with cool, breezy evenings, especially near the water. The lakes sparkle under the summer sun, and outdoor festivals, boat tours, and wine tastings are in full swing.

 What to Wear: During the day, lightweight clothing, such as shorts, breathable shirts, and a hat, is perfect for staying cool. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen, as the sun can be strong, especially during midday. A light jacket or sweater might come in handy for cooler evenings by the lakes and rivers, and comfortable sandals or shoes are ideal for walking around festivals or the small towns, but don’t forget your hiking shoes and swimsuits for outdoor adventures!

 Fall

(September – November)

Fall is an incredibly popular time to visit Finger Lakes Wine Country!  The weather is crisp and cool, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 60s°F, and evenings can drop to the 30s or 40s. The region’s famous fall foliage reaches its peak, painting the hillsides with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. The harvest season brings an aroma of freshly picked grapes and the chance to explore apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and U-pick farms.

 What to Wear: As temperatures fluctuate, dressing in layers is essential. A warm jacket, a scarf, and a pair of gloves will be useful, especially on chilly mornings or evenings. A sturdy pair of boots is also recommended, as you’ll likely want to explore the vineyards or hike the picturesque trails near the lake. A cozy sweater or fleece can help keep you warm as you enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery.

 Winter

(December – March)

Winter in the Finger Lakes brings a tranquil beauty to Finger Lakes Wine Country, with snow-covered landscapes and a quiet ambiance. Temperatures can vary significantly, ranging from sub-zero conditions to highs near 40°F. The area sees plenty of snowfall, which creates perfect conditions for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and other winter activities. While many of the area’s attractions slow down, it’s an ideal time for a peaceful retreat with fewer crowds. You can enjoy cozy firesides at local inns or indulge in winter wine tastings, including the special Ice Wine produced from frozen grapes.

What to Wear: Winter weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to pack heavy-duty cold-weather clothing. A thick, insulated coat, gloves, a scarf, and a warm hat are essential for staying comfortable outside. Thermal layers and waterproof boots will help you stay warm and dry during outdoor activities, especially if you plan to hike or snowshoe around the lake. A pair of wool socks and a cozy sweater will also keep you comfortable when you head indoors to enjoy a glass of wine by the fire.

No matter when you choose to visit Finger Lakes Wine Country, each season offers its own charm and opportunities to experience the region’s natural beauty and unique culture. From spring’s fresh blooms to winter’s snowy peace, the climate in this region makes it a year-round destination for those looking to enjoy outdoor adventures, local products, and breathtaking landscapes. Be sure to pack accordingly and get ready to explore New York’s most stunning region! 

During your stay, visit our Tasting Room and Retail Shop up the hill to sample award-winning Finger Lakes wines or take a cellar tour. Afterward, enjoy a delicious meal at Veraisons Restaurant, offering locally sourced regional cuisine, along with a selection of local wines, beers, and spirits. Don’t forget to save room for dessert!