New York State is home to more than just Manhattan. From rolling hills and farmland to mountain ranges and waterfalls, there is so much to explore. One of the best examples of this would be the Finger Lakes region. Here you’ll find a series of lakes created many moons ago by glaciers scraping across the land, much like fingers drawing in the sand. The Finger Lakes are also where you can find hundreds of wineries, breweries, and distilleries; majestic waterfalls; great shopping; and beautiful parks.

The hardest decision you’ll have when visiting the Finger Lakes region is choosing which lake to visit first! They all have different perks, so read on to see what strikes your fancy the most.

By far the largest of all the lakes and probably the most famous. Seneca Lake is home to over 100 wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Definitely the place where you can spend multiple days and still not see it all!

One of the most famous natural landmarks in New York State resides at the southern shore of Seneca Lake. Known for stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, camping, and even NASCAR, Watkins Glen is a place that you have to visit if you are in the Finger Lakes. (Please note that if you’ve brought your furry friend with you, he/she is not allowed into the gorge.)

Home to the United States’ first wine trail, Cayuga Lake can’t be missed. The northern end of the lake is home to Seneca Falls, the inspiration for the town in “It’s A Wonderful Life”. And, yes, every year around Christmas they celebrate it. Seneca Falls is also the historic site of the women’s suffrage movement. Women won the right to vote here! Take some time to wander through the town and check out the memorials along the river.

At the southern end of Cayuga Lake, you’ll be in Ithaca, the ‘hippie’ village of New York. Besides being home to Ivy League Cornell University, Ithaca is known for its gorges and waterfalls. Several state parks are within a short drive from each other, and each offers amazing trails and scenic views.

Keuka Lake is set a little further south than the rest, and is home to more breweries than wineries. But, at the southern end of the lake you’ll find  Bully Hill Vineyards. Known for its sassy names and artwork, the winery produces a range of mid-to-sweet wines. It also has a restaurant attached with some incredible barbecue – definitely worth the trip.

The town of Skaneateles is known as one of the more ‘posh’ areas in Central New York, and home to a slew cute shops, scrumptious bakeries, and great spots for dinner. As far as Finger Lakes wineries? Skaneateles is only home to one: Anyela’s Vineyards.

Sad to say that Owasco isn’t known for any wineries. It’s claim to fame is the town of Auburn that sits at the northern point of the lake. Why should you know about Auburn? Well, it was the home of Harriet Tubman and an important stop on the Underground Railroad. Auburn recently opened a heritage center for visitors to learn about its unique history.

Seneca, Cayuga, and Keuka Lakes have organized wine trails and events that happen year-round. Most of the events require tickets to be purchased in advance, and the more popular ones really do sell out quickly!!

• Cayuga Lake Wine Trail
• Keuka Lake Wine Trail
• Seneca Lake Wine Trail

Every wine has a story, and it’s so much more than what’s in the bottle. Meet the makers of your favorite wines in the Finger Lakes, those shaping and creating today’s wine regions. And, get their tips on what to see and do on your next wine getaway.

There are more than 130 wineries nestled among the 11 lakes of the Finger Lakes.  This cool-climate wine region specializes in white wines, with Riesling being the star. In fact, according to the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance, the area is home to over 200 Riesling brands!

While New York’s climate is typically too cold for red wine grapes to fully ripen, some seem to manage it just fine. Specifically, you will find quality Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and hybrid Baco Noir wines coming out of the Finger Lakes.

Read on to find Carpe Travel’s first-hand travel tips and recommendations to help make your stay in Finger Lakes Wine Country a memorable one.

With more than 130 wineries to visit in the Finger Lakes wine country, narrowing it down can be a challenge. No need to stress, we’re here to help.

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