The Finger Lakes region of New York State is located in the beautiful and scenic central part of the state, north and west of New York City. Stunning aerial views show the Lakes face north to south and are long and slender like fingers, hence the name Finger Lakes. This upstate New York region was originally home to the powerful Iroquois Indian nation that was able to maintain their freedom from European colonization until after the Revolutionary War when they were sent to reservations and the land was sold and settled. Their mark remains today in the numerous names of the town, lakes and rivers.
This delightful area of the country is a fabulous place to visit any time of year. You will find ski slopes in the winter, colorful fall leaves dancing in the wind, flowers in bloom in the spring and summer adventures when the sun turns warm. The Finger Lakes offer visitors a number of annual festivals to enjoy, from art to wine, antiques and Christmas markets, there is a festival to peak everyone’s interest.
The Finger Lakes region is the largest wine producing region in New York State. You will find acres upon acres with more than 100 wineries to pick from. The wine trails will take you on a journey through the perfect mix of wine producing climate and friendly knowledgeable winemakers. Spend your days sipping everything from Pinot Noir to Ice Wine, and when you get tired of drinking, step into the quaint and unique gift shops located in many of the wineries.
If wine is not your thing, there is still plenty to keep you busy in the Finger Lakes. World class restaurants with fresh ingredients straight from the farm, farmers markets, shopping, historic home and garden tours, hiking, trail walking, bird watching, cooking classes at the New York Culinary Center and relaxing on the water. With more than 11 lakes and numerous rivers you can find anything from a speedboat to a kayak and let the water take your cares away. If you are an adventure seeker, you can even keep your eye out for the mythical creature that calls the deep waters that flow below sea level in two of the largest lakes home.
Where to stay:
Inn on the Main (located in Canandaigua)
This beautiful Victorian home was built in 1840 and has a fabulous location in the historic district of Canandaigua. It is close to shops, dining, sites and Canandaigua Lake. The inn serves a delicious full breakfast every morning in their period furnished home.
176 N. Main Street, Canandaigua NY
1-877-659-1643
Where to eat:
Rheinblick German Restaurant
Serving traditional German fare, you won't go home hungry after dining at this local favorite. Start your meal with the homemade Gulasch soup or the creamy onion soup baked with Emmentaler cheese. For your entree... Schnitzel of course! Make sure and save room for one of their delicious desserts!
224 S. Main Street, Canandaigua NY
1-585-905-0950
Rosalie's Cucina
Italian cuisine in the heart of the finger lakes. Again... you will not go home hungry! This large and lively restaurant with its strolling musicians and vibrant feel is NOT the place for a quiet meal. Make sure you ask to be seated downstairs so you can join in all the loud crazy fun.
841 West Genesee Street, Skaneateles NY
Stonecat Cafe
This organic restaurant serves up local fresh ingredients in the heart of New York wine country. With a fabulous view overlooking Seneca Lake it is a great place to unwind after a long day. They also have a jazz brunch on Sundays and live music Saturday nights. They are closed during the winter months so check their website to make sure they are open when you visit.
5315 Rt. 414, Hector NY
1-607-546-5000
What to do:
Tour the wineries
With over 100 wineries you will have plenty of options. There are 3 main wine trails. The Seneca Trail which is the most crowded, Cayuga trail is the oldest wine trail in American and the Keuka trail is the most scenic.
