Finger lakes region new york
The Finger Lakes region of New York is a beautiful and popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and wine country. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in the Finger Lakes region:
Natural Attractions:
- Finger Lakes: The region is named after the 11 glacial lakes that run through it, including Cayuga Lake, Seneca Lake, and Keuka Lake.
- Taughannock Falls State Park: Home to the highest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, Taughannock Falls is a must-visit.
- Watkins Glen State Park: This park features 19 waterfalls and hiking trails through a scenic gorge.
- Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park: A 50-acre park with beautiful gardens, a Victorian-era mansion, and a winery.
Wine Country:
- Finger Lakes Wine Country: The region is home to over 100 wineries, breweries, and distilleries, offering wine tastings and tours.
- Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery: A pioneer in the Finger Lakes wine industry, this winery is known for its Riesling and other white wines.
- Fox Run Vineyards: A family-owned winery with a focus on sustainable farming practices and a variety of wine styles.
Outdoor Recreation:
- Hiking and Biking: The Finger Lakes region has numerous trails for hiking and biking, including the Finger Lakes Trail and the Cayuga Scenic Railroad Trail.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent equipment and explore the lakes and waterways of the region.
- Fishing: The Finger Lakes are renowned for their trout fishing, and there are many fishing guides and charters available.
- Skiing and Snowshoeing: The region has several ski resorts, including Greek Peak Mountain Resort and Bristol Hills.
Other Attractions:
- Corning Museum of Glass: A world-renowned museum showcasing glass art and history.
- National Soaring Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of gliding and soaring.
- Finger Lakes Boating Museum: A museum showcasing the region's boating history and offering boat tours.
- Mark Twain Study: A museum dedicated to the life and works of author Samuel Clemens, aka Mark Twain.
Food and Drink:
- Local Cuisine: The Finger Lakes region is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, with a focus on local produce, meats, and dairy products.
- Craft Beer: The region has a thriving craft beer scene, with many breweries offering tours and tastings.
- Wine and Cheese: The Finger Lakes region is famous for its wine and cheese pairings, with many wineries and cheese shops offering tastings and tours.
Events and Festivals:
- Finger Lakes Wine Festival: An annual festival celebrating the region's wine industry.
- Finger Lakes Jazz Festival: A festival featuring jazz music and performances.
- Corning GlassFest: A festival celebrating glass art and history.
- Finger Lakes Balloon Festival: A festival featuring hot air balloons and other aerial performances.
Overall, the Finger Lakes region of New York is a beautiful and vibrant destination that offers something for everyone, from outdoor recreation and wine country to cultural attractions and delicious local cuisine.