RECOMMENDATIONS
The Finger Lakes region is truly a spectacular place to behold, one full of natural beauty and steeped in history and industry. The ancient glaciers that carved the eleven famous lakes left behind dozens of scenic gorge valleys with dramatic waterfalls and multiple hiking trails to explore. A perfect way to spend a morning before the wineries open. Or head to the Women’s Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls and revel in the movement that furthered the fight for gender equality. And on those rare rainy days, plan a trip to the Museum of Glass in Corning or the Glenn H Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport for a deep dive into all aspects of glass and early aviation respectively.
Hikes & Sights
Your Finger Lakes Adventure Awaits
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(~5 min from the Inn)
At 215 feet, Taughannock is one of the highest single-drop waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains. The gorge trail winds through 400-foot cliffs to the base, and the accessible waterfall overlook meets up with the rimtrail above. The surrounding state park has beaches, picnic areas, and a boat launch. A perfect first morning.
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(Watkins Glen)
Walk among nineteen waterfalls tucked into 200-foot gorge walls along the 2-mile, not to be missed gorge trail. One of the most dramatic and beautiful short hikes in New York State. And to help with the crowds during the high summer season, loop back to the base along the northern rim trail (also known as the Indian Trail). It’s less populated, better on your knees, and provides a few stunning glimpses down into the gorge.
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(Ithaca)
A series of cascading waterfalls tumbles down the gorge, culminating in the spectacular Buttermilk Falls that flows into a natural swimming hole at the base. At the top of the gorge trail, continue on to a peaceful lake surrounded by meadows and picnic areas.
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(Ithaca)
A beautiful loop trail takes you through the rugged gorge valley, past twelve waterfalls, including the 115-foot Lucifer Falls, and up a stone staircase carved into the hill with a stunning overlook. Nestled at the top is a historic stone bridge near an old millhouse, and if you’re up for more walking the trail continues through Rieman Woods to the state lands on Connecticut Hill.
Other Activities Near & Far
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Part of the Paleontological Research Institution, this museum explores the 4.5 billion years of Earth’s History through natural history displays, art, and interactive exhibits. Through hands-on, family-friendly learning, the museum encourages critical thinking about life on earth and how our species is affecting the natural world.
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A free museum perched on the Cornell University campus, the distinctive concrete building was designed by I.M. Pei with panoramic views of Cayuga Lake below. It houses a collection of over 40,000 works spanning six millennia and offers rotating exhibits and guided lectures.
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Located in Hammondsport on the south end of Keuka Lake, this museum celebrates the life and work of aviation pioneer Glenn Curtiss. Located in a giant hangar and full of old aircraft, automobiles, motorcycles, and more, you learn about this “Father of Naval Aviation,” as well as other Finger Lakes history.
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Located in Corning NY, the museum boasts the world’s most comprehensive collection of glass, with a historical wing spanning 3,500 years of glass and it’s uses, a technical wing showing its applications in today’s technologies, and modern art pieces made with glass. They also offer glass-blowing demonstrations, and if you plan ahead, you can join in a glass making workshop. Jen takes all her friends and relatives here when they come to visit, it’s truly incredible.
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A living museum of cultivated gardens, an extensive arboretum, and a beautiful place to amble away an afternoon. Covering about one-third of the Cornell University campus, including the gorges and waterways along the western edge, it offers a diverse and specialized collection of plants that visitors can access for free, all year round, from dawn to dusk.
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A 50 acre Victorian estate located in Canandaigua NY, features a Queen Ann mansion built between 1886-1887 by Boston architect Francis Allen. Surrounding the house are nine themed gardens ranging in style from Japanese, Italian, and Rose to a utility garden for use in the kitchens. And enjoy a glass of their private label wines, each crafted and bottled at local wineries throughout the region .
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This historical museum includes extensive exhibits in the welcome center, the Wesleyan Chapel site of the 1848 convention, and the homes of key organizers. There are tours and talks offered seasonally, but you can explore the vast collection on your own too. Also of note nearby is the National Women’s Hall of Fame, a museum dedicated to the achievements of distinguished American Women.
Eat Like a Local
The Farm to Table Experience
One of the things I love about living in the Finger Lakes is how close I am to the source. The eggs are collected daily down the road at Flying Pig Farm, the coffee is roasted in Ithaca at Copperhorse Coffee (and freshly ground each morning), and the goat cheese is made at Lively Run Dairy, a goat farm just north of the Inn. I even gather the frittata veggies and pick the summer flowers each week as part of my Sweet Land Farm share. If you’re searching for farm-fresh and homemade meals on your vacation, your first stop is the Black Walnut communal table.
Restaurants & EATERIES
Farm Fresh on the Road
When hunger strikes again after hiking and wine tasting, it’s easy to continue the locally sourced trend in the Finger Lakes. Many restaurants and small eateries source from the numerous farms in the area. Here are a few wonderful spots near the Inn to try, and a few further afar that are definitely worth the drive.
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(Cayuga Wine Trail)
Perched above and amid the fully organic Good Life Farm with views of Cayuga Lake beyond, the Cider House is one of the best spots in the region for lunch or an afternoon snack. Almost everything is sourced directly from the farm whether it’s the in-house pickled veggies, or the smoked chicken salad, and even the edible flowers garnishing the salads. Jen loves sneaking over for lunch and a glass of cider after her morning Inn duties, it never disappoints.
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(Hector)
This hidden gem on the Seneca Wine Trail is a local favorite. The house-made baked goods and focaccia are a highlight among the many locally sourced dishes, and the smoked meats are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The menu rotates weekly with the available seasonal produce, and their fresh sides can be a meal in and of themselves. This spot is definitely worth the stop as you taste your way along the wine trail.
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(Trumansburg)
Part bowling alley, part great bar, and entirely fun. Keep the energy going on one of the six fully restored lanes (including one candlepin), or relax in the “Back Alley” patio above the creek, all while enjoying their elevated pub food and delicious cocktails. Wednesday is trivia night, Thursdays feature local DJs, and don’t forget the Totchos - tater tot nachos - a savory treat to round out a day of wine tasting.
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(Trumansburg)
A Trumansburg institution. This local favorite offers homemade pastas, pizza, and Italian specialties, along with American staples and a legendary salad bar. They even make their own gluten free pastas and pizza crusts! And if you’re looking for a low-key evening, bring your dinner back to the Inn and enjoy a slice in the sunroom with a glass of wine from your day's adventures.
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(Watkins Glen)
Enjoy local wines, ciders, and beers as you scan the small, but thoughtfully curated menu with a Dominican flare. The shishito peppers will spice up any evening, and you’ll soak up every bit of the mussels and broth with an extra baguette. But it’s the rotating main dishes that really sing, from perfectly cooked salmon to juicy roasted pork chops and mouth-watering steaks.
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(Geneva)
This lively and welcoming cookery whips up delicious food and creative cocktails everyday of the week, including a unique Monday night, three course prix-fixe option. Watch them craft your meal in the open kitchen and mix your drink in the stately central bar, with fresh, seasonal ingredients and a touch of flare. This delicious spot is not to be missed.
Take Home the Local Bounty
Many of my local farms offer their produce directly! Whether it’s a field of u-pick strawberries or flowers, a loaded roadside farmstand, or the many Farmer’s Market booths, the options are endless and often just around the corner no matter where you are in the Finger Lakes.
U-Pick & Seasonal Produce
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(mid-June)
Silver Queen Farm
Finger Lakes Cider House
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(July–August)
Glenhaven Farm
Indian Creek Farm
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(all summer)
South Hill Cider
Finger Lakes Cider House
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(mid-August)
Indian Creek Farm
Flying Pig Farm
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(September–October)
Flying Pig, Farm
Indian Creek Farm
And every farmstand you pass…
Farmers Markets NEARBY
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On Wednesday evenings May-October, join the locals at the Trumansburg Farmers Market. There is live music every week, and the grounds fill with families enjoying the prepared foods and ice cream, as they stock their pantries and fridges.
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Every Saturday and Sunday from April to November, the outdoor pavilion at Steamboat Landing in Ithaca is overflowing with local produce, prepared foods, crafts, coffee, and more! You can also catch a boat tour with Discover Cayuga Lake and enjoy an hour on the water learning about the ecosystem and watersheds.
Cheese & Dairy
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All styles of cheese made from goat’s milk, truffles, and other goodies. Feed the goats or enjoy a cheese tasting!
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Cow’s milk cheese flights in a lively space with weekend music and local wines. A very fun place to enjoy an afternoon.
Wine & More
Sip Through the Finger Lakes With Jen
One of my secrets is that I didn’t move to the Finger Lakes to open a bed and breakfast, I actually came here to learn more about winemaking. After two harvest seasons in the winery and a winter pruning and tying vines in the vineyard, I developed a deep respect for what goes into every bottle made in this cool climate region. And now with my WSET Diploma certification (a level of education similar to becoming an Advanced Sommelier), I’m armed with a vast amount of knowledge, personal relationships with local winemakers, and first-hand experience at many tasting rooms on every lake. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned collector, I am happy to design a wine experience that is fully tailored to you and your tastes.
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Cayuga Wine Trail
Where it all began! This stunning estate winery overlooks the western shores of Cayuga Lake, with vineyards that gently slope toward the water. Their dry reds and whites are exceptional, and the ice wines are award-winning. Take a glass down to the lake or sprawl out on the lawn — there's no rush here.ion text goes here.
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South East Seneca Lake
Sweeping lake views, a wonderfully welcoming vibe, and some of the finest bone-dry Riesling in New York State. Linger in The Salon for a casual pour, or reserve The Summer House for a more intimate tasting. Their cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc are not to be missed.
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West Side of Seneca Lake
One of the founding wineries in the region to grow European Vinifera and is still leading the pack to this day. The Crew at Wiemer is at the forefront of sustainability with Biodynamic farming practices, and you can taste that care in every glass. A visit to their tasting room is an education in the region itself, as well as a delicious exploration of their dry reds and whites and traditional method sparkling wines. Also check out their Open Doors Series of intimate experiences beyond the tasting room!
Jen's Top Winery Picks
Feel free to ask Jen for more recommendations. This is just the tip of the iceberg (or glacial lake, as it were)!
So you aren’t a wine drinker?
Never fear! The Finger Lakes is also home to dozens of craft breweries, cideries, and distilleries who create world-class beverages. These makers grow, forage, or locally source their ingredients, and the dedication to quality really shines through in every pour. Below are a few of my favorites near the Inn.
Go-to Breweries, Cideries & Distilleries
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Seneca Lake
One of the best views along South Seneca Lake, Two Goats has expanded their wrap-around porch to create the perfect spot to chill with a beer flight, listen to a band, and watch the sun sparkle on the water. This is where the Hector locals like to hang on their days off.
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Cayuga Lake
The Cider House is a powerhouse in traditional method sparking ciders from bone-dry to supply sweet. Their orchard and farm are expansive, and they utilize every part of it in your experience from the food to the flowers and cider. Try the Fragaria, a cider infused with their home-grown strawberries, for a true taste of summer.
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Ithaca
South Hill is near the upper park at Buttermilk Falls and is such a sweet spot to visit. Their orchard has grown considerably, but the team also forages heirloom apple varieties from around the region to really encapsulate the local flavors. Try their Pommeau, a port-style cider made from apple brandy and fresh juice that ages and concentrates into a velvety and sweet aperitif.
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Seneca Lake
If you prefer spirits and cocktails, stock your shelves with these locally sourced delights. The Vintner’s Vodka is made from grapes, the Seneca Drums Gin is named for the famed sounds that can echo from the lake below the tasting room, and the McKenzie line of whiskeys are truly delicious whether neat, on the rocks, or mixed. And if you prefer a little sweetness in your booze, try their many Brandys and fruit liqueurs, perfect for a Kir Royale on the porch above the lake.
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Cayuga Lake
This small but mighty stop on the Cayuga Wine Trail makes vodka, gin, and whisky with certified organic grains grown on their historic farm. They infuse and age some of their spirits to create niche flavors you’ll love to sip and mix. Make sure to try the lavender vodka and barrel aged gin, a few of my favorites.
