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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!
There are so many reasons to visit Finger Lakes Wine Country, including the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. We’ve shared tiny houses, glamping, B & B’s, and unique vacation rentals in the area. Now we’re showing you where to camp and hike on Seneca Lake. Including cabins, cottages, campsites, RV sites, and more.
Not only will you get a taste of local vintages on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. You can experience the thrills and excitement of Watkins Glen International raceway at one of the oldest lodging establishments in the area. Or stay at a resort with a waterfall on the property.
Campsites
Havana Glen Park
Havana Glen Park in Montour Falls, NY provides excellent outdoor opportunities including camping facilities, ball fields, playgrounds, and a short scenic hike through Havana Glen.
The park contains Eagle Cliff Falls along with various species of rare native New York State plants and has been classified as an important area for birding with over 100 species documented here making it perfect for hiking and exploring.
Goundry Hill State Forest
Goundry Hill State Forest in Beaver Dams, NY has no developed camping sites, however, at-large primitive camping is allowed in this unit. Except within 150 feet of any road, trail, spring, stream, pond, other body of water, or otherwise prohibited.
From here you can hike the Finger Lakes Trail: South Bradford and Goundry Hill State Forests, a moderately challenging 12.6-miles point-to-point hike. Which takes an average of 5 h 54 min to complete.
Finger Lakes RV Resort
Finger Lakes RV Resort in Hector, NY is an adult-oriented, peaceful RV park located right in the heart of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail with two wineries and a diner adjacent to the property.
Their spacious sites feature full hookups, a gravel patio, and a large yard. Each site also includes a picnic table and a fire ring.
Smith Memorial Park
Just 8 miles north of Watkins Glen is Smith Memorial Park in Hector, NY. Here you’ll find wooded & lakefront campsites, swimming, boat launch, dumping station & hot showers. There are also walking trails on the property.
Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous State Park in the region. Not only will you find tent and trailer campsites, picnic facilities, and an Olympic-size pool. There are 19 waterfalls and 9 great trails. Camping is available from early May to mid-October.
The Gorge Trail winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. This 0.7-mile loop trail is considered moderately challenging and takes an average of 24 minutes to complete. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Dogs aren’t allowed on this trail.
The Watkins Glen South Rim Trail is a 2.6-miles out-and-back trail. It’s considered moderately challenging and takes an average of 1 h 21 min to complete. The best times to visit this trail are April through October. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Southern Seneca Lake Serenity
Southern Seneca Lake Serenity in Watkins Glen, NY is perfect for the camping purist that thrives on pitching their own tent. This half-acre property has nearly 200 feet of gorgeous lake frontage. The site features a level tent site, fire pit, picnic table, porta-potty, small stream, shade, and trees.
The best hiking can be found less than three miles away at Watkins Glen State Park.
Sugar Hill Recreation Area + Sugar Hill State Forest
Sugar Hill Recreation Area in Watkins Glen, NY is the largest designated camping area on Sugar Hill State Forest. This nine-acre open field has a limited number of fire rings and picnic tables. Other facilities there include a picnic area with picnic tables, a pavilion, an accessible horse-mounting platform, and open horse stalls, during summer months a restroom with potable water is available. All facilities are carry in-carry out.
The gate is opened to vehicle traffic, and the water is turned on, from the 3rd Monday in May through the 3rd Monday in October of each year.
Fifteen additional designated campsites are located throughout Sugar Hill State Forest. In addition, at-large primitive camping is allowed in this unit, except within 150 feet of any road, trail, spring, stream, pond, other body of water, or otherwise prohibited. Here you’ll also find five Adirondack-style lean-to’s, at four different locations. Lean-to’s must be shared to their capacity on a first-come, first-use basis, with no exclusive reservation allowed.
Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. No trash pickup is provided. Sugar Hill State Forest is home to the 12-thousand-acre Six Nations Trail System. Here you’ll find the Schyler County: Sugar Hill Trail. This 3.7-mile loop trail is considered easy. It takes an average of 1 h 33 min to complete and is open year-round, but can get muddy during the rainy season. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Clute Memorial Park & Camping
Clute Memorial Park & Camping in Watkins Glen, NY offers tent sites, dock rentals, and full hook-up sites with electric (20, 30, and 50 amp), water, sewer, and cable. Here you’ll find tennis courts, a soccer field, swimming and bathhouses, picnic tables, a children’s playground, a skate park, and more!
Less than a five-minute drive away is Watkins Glen State Park where you can hike the Gorge Trail without your pup, or the Watkins Glen South Rim Trail with your dog on a leash. Additional outdoor activities include a boat launch adjacent to Clute Park along the Seneca / Erie Barge Canal.
Lake Grove Park
Lake Grove Park in Alpine, NY has boat rentals, cabins, and campsites on the shores of Cayuta Lake. In this setting, the park allows campers the opportunity to play and the solitude to rest. We strive to excel in all the services we provide.
The Catharine Valley Trail North is one of the most accessible trails on the list. This 4.5-miles out-and-back trail takes an average of 1 h 20 min to complete. The trailhead is on the Watkins Glen High School grounds. There are 2 designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of 12th Street at the north end of the trail. Both of them are van-accessible with a striped access aisle.
The majority of the trail is estimated to be in the gentle grade category (3% or less). All-terrain tires or motorized equipment may be needed for the mostly unpaved surface type. There are benches and picnic tables along the route for resting.
Cabins
KOA Camping Resort
Most campers are familiar with Kampgrounds of America, the world’s largest system of privately held campgrounds. KOA Camping Resort in Watkins Glen, NY is the top-rated family campground with more than 35 Camping Cabins and Deluxe Cabins, full-featured BIG RIG RV sites, and free wifi. Touring RVers will love luxurious Sunset Acres, the quiet side of the park, where some of the sites have private gazebos. Adventure-seeking families may prefer to be close to Seneca Thrills, a family fun center. With an outdoor pool, indoor pool, spa, and fitness center, gigantic pirate ship playground, giant water slide, Army truck rides, and more.
Less than a five-minute drive away is Watkins Glen State Park where you can hike the Gorge Trail without your pup, or the Watkins Glen South Rim Trail with your dog on a leash.
Rustic Log Cabins
Originally built in the 1920s, Rustic Log Cabins in Hector, NY is one of the oldest lodging establishments in the area. Open May through October the view from the grounds takes in an apple orchard, rolling vineyards, and Seneca Lake.
All four spacious cabins have electricity, hardwood floors, a fireplace, table, chairs, comfortable beds, dressers, stove, and fridge. Two of the cabins will accommodate three people and the other two will accommodate up to six.
The South Slope Trail is an easy 1.1-mile out-and-back trail near Hector, New York. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 27 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking and walking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
The Vineyard Villas
At The Vineyard Villas in Burdett, NY you can wake up to the panoramic view of Seneca lake and the surrounding wineries. Here you’ll find one bedroom two-story villas with a deck and balcony. Fully-equipped kitchens are available if you decide to make your own meals, as well as an outdoor grill.
The best hiking near Burdett is in the Finger Lakes National Forest. Here you’ll find 12 different easy and moderate trails to enjoy. The Interloken Trail is an 11.3 miles point-to-point trail and is considered moderately challenging. It takes an average of 3 h 54 min to complete. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. While the Finger Lakes Gorge Trail is an easy 2.3-mile out-and-back that takes an average of an hour to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and walking. Both trails allow dogs on leashes. The best times to visit these trails are April through September.
Paradise Park Campground
Paradise Park Campground in Reading, NY offers 160 acres of wooded and open space. Along with a well-stocked store, clean facilities, and convenient hook-ups. Kids can enjoy many activities: ping pong, volleyball, the arcade, badminton, the playground, miniature golf, the archery practice range, and even join in on the fun of a hayride! The whole family will enjoy swimming in the Olympic Heated Pool.
Check out the 19 waterfalls and 9 hiking trails at Watkins Glen State Park which is less than a fifteen-minute drive away.
Cool-Lea Campground
Cool-Lea Campground in Odessa, NY is great for family camping. There are cabins, a cottage, and a camper available along with tent and RV sites. Guests can enjoy boating, fishing, or canoeing on Cayuta Lake. This fishing paradise is known to have Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Yellow Perch, Bluegill, Pumpkinseed, Rock Bass, Brown Bullhead, and more flourishing in the crystal clear waters.
The kids will love the playground, game room, pavilion, walking trails, and hayrides. Nearby you can plan a short but moderately challenging hike to Eagle Cliffs Falls in Havana Glen Park. Dogs are welcome on leashes on this 0.3-miles out-and-back trail. The best time to visit is May through October.
Catharine Cottages
Catharine Cottages in Montour Falls, NY offers four private and comfortable cottages on Catharine Creek. The cabin comes with everything you need wifi, AC, a full bathroom, mini fridge, microwave, and firewood on property. At this pet-friendly property, you can listen to the soothing sounds of Catharine Creek from your private porch.
We highly recommend Eagle Cliffs Falls in Havana Glen Park or the Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen State Park for anyone who wants to retreat into nature.
Spring’s Retreat
Escape the hustle and bustle of life at Spring’s Retreat in Montour Falls, NY. This 2-story cabin is surrounded by woods and wildlife and is equipped with a full kitchen, barbeque, fire pit, and water garden.
For an easy hike try Willow Walk Trail at the nearby Catharine Creek Wildlife Management Area. This 2.4-miles out-and-back trail is open year-round and takes an average of 41 min to complete. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Lakeside Resort
Choose from cabins, the motel, and the Lodge at the Lakeside Resort in Watkins Glen, NY. This 30-acre property gives you some space to breathe and a quiet place to relax with walking trails, small waterfalls, and beautiful Seneca lake views.
All of the rooms are clean and comfortable and have a coffee machine, microwave, small refrigerator, private bathroom, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, and more.
Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most well-known parks in the region. Within five miles, the glen’s stream features 19 waterfalls viewable from the 9 hiking trails.
Seneca Heights Cabins
At Seneca Heights Cabins in Watkins Glen, NY you’ll find two charming cabins perfect for a romantic getaway. Here you’ll find the comforts of home including an electric fireplace, ceiling fans, and a small kitchenette area that includes a fridge, microwave, and hot drink facilities. Outside, in the communal area, you’ll find the firepit, barbecues, and full bathroom facilities. This pet-friendly property also has a pond for guests to enjoy.
Located less than three miles south of Watkins Glen State Park this is your best bet for hiking in the area.
Seneca Lodge
The Seneca Lodge in Watkins Glen, NY has been a landmark for vacationers, sportsmen, and racing enthusiasts for more than 50 years. The Log Cabins include a private bath and are available with one bed or two. Each has a large family room, fireplace, kitchen, and a front porch. The four-bedroom Log Cabin fills quickly, so make reservations early. There are also two 2 chalet-style A-frames available with three bedrooms, a family room, a kitchen, and a small front porch. The Motel offers rooms with a single king bed, 2 double beds, or 2 queen beds. All accommodations have cable tv, wifi, and ac/heat.
Located less than a mile south of Watkins Glen State Park this is your best bet for hiking in the area.
Scottish Glen Bed & Breakfast
Scottish Glen Bed & Breakfast in Dundee, NY hosts two bedrooms that overlook Seneca Lake. The Waterfront Cottage/Cabin is a post and beam construction from an 1860s barn, rebuilt on the waterfront. The Cottage sleeps 6 in 2 rustic lofts, has a 50-foot dock for fishing, and swimming, a full kitchen, a wood-burning stone fireplace, and a row boat available.
This is a family-friendly property where guests can enjoy a tennis court, picnicking on the grounds, 30 acres of woods for hiking, and a lakefront area. A delicious country breakfast is served each morning and their extensive patio provides a wonderful lake view to watch an early sunrise.
Back Achers Campsites & Cottages
Back Achers Campsites & Cottages is the only private campground facility located on beautiful Seneca Lake with private lake frontage. They offer cottage rentals, RV sites, and tent camping. Along with rowboat rentals, paddle boat rentals, and boat hoist rentals. Three of their cottages feature a dock and hoist for guest use.
Sugar Hill State Forest is a 30-minute drive away. The Finger Lakes Trail to South Rim Trail is perfect for a more experienced hiker. This 11.3-miles point-to-point trail is considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 50 min to complete. This trail has great views and is perfect for those seeking solitude.
Market Street
Shop, eat, and drink along Market Street in the heart of Corning’s Gaffer District, where you’ll find independently owned local shops, cafés, restaurants, and places to grab your favorite local beverage along this quaint, tree-lined street. Learn more about the Gaffer District’s gorgeous 19th-century buildings through their Buildings Alive self-guided historic architecture tour. For your home away from home, check out the Radisson Hotel Corning, conveniently located at the east end of Market Street, or experience a stay at Hilton Garden Inn Corning, next to the Corning Museum of Glass, and a short walk into the town center.
More Than Just Your Grandmother’s Cookware
Corning Incorporated, a Fortune 500 company and one of the world’s leading innovators in materials science, is headquartered in Corning. Corning Incorporated has a 169-year track record of life-changing inventions, including the cookware your mother and grandmother used growing up, CorningWare (1958), and Pyrex (1915). Corning Incorporated develops products that transform industries and enhance people’s lives, many of which we use in everyday life, including our LCD TVs and computer monitors, automobile windshields, and smartphone screens! Explore the local antique shops for vintage Corningware and other favorite Corning glass items!
Corning Museum of Glass
You can find the world’s most comprehensive glass collection, with over 50,000 objects representing more than 3,500 years of history, from the Pharaohs to modern-day contemporary glass. Experience live demonstrations, research archives, unique retail, and glass at the immersive and interactive Corning Museum of Glass. Explore their newly expanded Glass Studio to make your own glass or take different glass-making classes! Park your car at the Museum lot and take their free, continuous-loop shuttle to downtown and back for shopping, good eats, and a visit to the next museum highlight. The Corning Museum of Glass was involved from concept to reality on Netflix’s Blown Away, a competition series featuring the art of glassmaking (tip: The Studio’s Enhanced Glassblowing experience is the closest you can get to a Blown Away fan experience!)
Rockwell Museum
Housed in the beautifully restored 19th-century historic Old City Hall in Corning, The Rockwell Museum is the only Smithsonian Affiliate museum in Upstate New York. Featuring a unique collection of over 5,000 works of fine art representing the American experience through the work of American artists, the diverse collection includes a mix of nineteenth-century paintings, historic bronzes, Native American objects, twentieth-century modernists, illustration art, and contemporary photography. Tip: Purchase a Combination Ticket to access the Rockwell and the Corning Museum of Glass! Take the free shuttle between the two museums for an easy commute!
Something to do no matter the Season
No matter the season, there is always something happening in Corning! Visitors and locals can enjoy the farmers market every Thursday during the summer and fall. Travelers from around the country and region travel in for June’s Pride celebrations. The popular Wine Glass Marathon in the fall is booked up with runners quickly, bringing everyone together to cheer them along. Sparkle is the highlight of the winter holiday season when the Parade of Lights kicks off on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving every year. Then, there are festivals showcasing artisans, musicians, and so much more!
Spot “Little Joe”
The official symbol for Corning is the gaffer, and you can spot “Little Joe,” the gaffer, on the Little Joe Tower. A gaffer, or hot glass worker, is the fitting symbol for Corning as it pays homage to the glass-making history here and has become an icon of the Crystal City.
Wine Trails
Corning is just a short drive from Finger Lakes Wine Country’s three incredible wine trails. The southern tips of the Keuka Lake Wine Trail and the Seneca Lake Wine Trail are approximately 30 minutes away, and the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is less than an hour away.
The Village
In the summer, the Village of Hammondsport is bustling with lake house residents and vacationers who enjoy the village’s small-town feel and welcoming community. There is live music and art shows in the park, as well as boat shows and other festivities to engage locals and visitors alike. Depot Park is a popular hangout spot for beachgoers and boaters and a beautiful place to take in the sunsets.
In the winter, the village is a bit quieter and still, and reminiscent of those beloved holiday movies, with sweet twinkling lights and cute shops and decor.
This charming downtown also offers independently- and locally-owned shops and restaurants surrounding the picturesque Pulteney Square and gazebo. Just a few steps away are the shores of Keuka Lake at Depot Park. Stop into local favorites like Crooked Lake Ice Cream for more than ice cream; come for a light breakfast, espresso drinks, or lunch sandwiches and salads. Want something a bit more upscale? Make a reservation at The Park Inn restaurant for seasonal farm-to-table dishes and book a stay in any one of the romantic and cozy rooms upstairs. Other great spots to check out in the village is the Irish Maloney’s Pub, a casual community hangout for drinks and meet-ups, and Vern’s Bakery for fresh-baked goods and some of the biggest croissants you will ever see!
Antiquing
Antique lovers will find a lot of cute shops for treasure hunting. Right in the village are Patina and Opera House Antiques. A short drive away, just on the edge of the village, is Crooked Lake Antiques. Further up off West Lake Road are Stone View Barn and Wild Goose Chase Antiques in Pulteney. Kelley’s Korner Antiques and Collectibles is further up NY-54 on the East side of Keuka Lake.
Museums
Learn the history of the pioneer aviator, “Father of Naval Aviation,” and the “Fastest Man on Earth” while exploring the priceless collection of artifacts at the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum. The museum covers early aviation as well as the inventions of Glenn H. Curtiss, including motorcycles, bicycles, boats, and different aircrafts.
Learn about the Finger Lakes region’s boat-building heritage at the unique Finger Lakes Boating Museum. The museum offers a collection of over 200 antique boats, preserving the vintage art and craftsmanship behind boat building.
Wineries and Craft Beverage Producers
Hammondsport is home to wineries that pair delicious wine with amazing views of Keuka Lake; Ravines Wine Cellars, Weis Vineyard, Point of The Bluff, Domaine LeSeurre, Keuka Springs, McGregor Vineyards, Hunt Country, and Heron Hill Winery are just a few.
If you want to kick off your wine experience with a bit of history about the evolution of wine in our region, make sure to visit Dr. Konstantin Frank. This winery, located near Hammondsport, was responsible for revolutionizing winemaking in the United States when Dr. Konstantin Frank, a Ukrainian immigrant, successfully developed a method for growing Vinifera, or European wine grapes, in Upstate New York. After 300 years of failed attempts to introduce Vinifera to colder climates, Dr. Frank revolutionized the winemaking landscape the region is known for today. Still, we highly recommend checking out the list on the Keuka Lake Wine Trail website and exploring the Craft Beverage Trail.
Pleasant Valley Wine Company
Visit the oldest winery in the Finger Lakes, located just outside the Village of Hammondsport. It offers historic tours of its property dating back to 1860. Pleasant Valley Wine Company, known for its Great Western Champagne brand, survived the prohibition years by selling sacramental and medicinal wine while sitting on an inventory of 70,000 cases that couldn’t be sold.
Watkins Glen State Park and Other Hikes
One of the most enchanting places for a leisurely hike in New York State is Watkins Glen State Park. Located steps from Watkins Glen’s main street, the two-mile Gorge Trail boasts 19 cascading waterfalls. Visitors can also hike the rim trails overlooking the 200-ft cliffs from above. The state park is closed during the winter months. However, hikers and outdoor lovers can still explore by visiting the year-round Catherine Valley, which allows visitors to experience the scenic beauty and historic charm of the glacially carved valley south of Seneca Lake. This 12-mile trail extends from the Village of Watkins Glen to Horseheads and follows an abandoned railroad and canal towpath corridors, passing through various wildlife habitats. The easy-to-navigate trail is perfect for walking, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Watkins Glen International & Auto Racing History
Also known as “The Glen,” this road course racetrack hosts NASCAR and IMSA, among other year-round auto racing events. Watkins Glen International is also home to the annual Finger Lakes Wine Festival. Watkins Glen is noted as the Birthplace of American Road Racing. Don’t miss the Grand Prix Festival in September, or visit the International Motor Racing Research Center to learn more about the town’s legacy of auto racing. Watkins Glen International is also one of the best camping experiences for motorsports fans, with “camping weekend” events hosted throughout the year.
Downtown
You can find the scenic Seneca Lake pier on the south end of Seneca Lake, and from here, you can take a sail on the True Love or go on an excursion with Captain Bill. Explore the different locally owned and independent restaurants, cafes, shops, and bars. What could be better than waking up to the beautiful views of Seneca Lake while staying at the exceptional Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, named “Best Waterfront Hotel in the Nation” by USA Today. Be sure to stop in at Lucky Hare Bar and Grill for a bite and some great brew (bonus: on warmer days, there’s plenty of seating on the outdoor deck by the lake)!
Seneca Lake Wine Trail
Watkins Glen is in a prime location for discovering and tasting your way through the Seneca Lake Wine Trail member wineries. Seneca Lake is the deepest of the lakes, moderating the local climate and making for ideal temperatures for growing grapes. When visiting a Seneca Lake Wine Trail member winery, you are guaranteed to enjoy wine made from grapes grown in the Seneca Lake AVA. Must visits include Lakewood Vineyard, Glenora Wine Cellars (also home to Veraisons Restaurant and a 30-room Inn overlooking the vineyards and lake), Wagner Vineyards (also home to Wagner Valley Brewing and The Ginny Lee Café), Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, and J.R. Dill Winery, just to name a few!
Hector Falls
Driving along the east side of Seneca Lake, just a mile and a half north of Watkins Glen on Route 414, you will see one of the region’s most beautiful roadside attractions, Hector Falls. Witness this magical, cascading waterfall right from the comfort of your car. You can see the lower falls that feed into the lake from Seneca Lake. Note: this is a roadside waterfall. Please be cautious of fast-moving vehicles when stopping for views and photos.
Check out J.R. Dill’s Wine Bar on Franklin St. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely environment, some tasty cocktails, and J.R. Dill wine selections. Graft Wine and Cider Bar serves up some hearty meals that are seasonally and locally inspired. Pair with their great selection of local ciders. Looking for some freshly baked bagels for a morning bite? Check out The Blackberry Inn Kitchen – though arrive early as these delicious bagels go fast! And if you are looking for a delicious cup of coffee, there are some really great options to choose from, starting with Seneca Sunrise Coffee, right in Watkins Glen, or North New York in Montour Falls, and also Overlook Coffee Company in Burdett – as a starter list! Lastly, if you want a nice brunch and breakfast spot, we recommend Elf and The Oak, Jonny’s Kitchen, Stonecat Cafe (seasonal – closed in the winter), and Ryan Williams Vineyard for brunch and lunch…and wine! TIP: Always check out the social media platforms or websites (or call) before visiting, as hours change seasonally.