Finger lakes region of new york state

The Finger Lakes region of New York State 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:

  1. Finger Lakes: The region is named after the 11 glacial lakes that stretch across the area, including Cayuga Lake, Seneca Lake, Keuka Lake, and Canandaigua Lake.
  2. Taughannock Falls State Park: Home to the highest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, Taughannock Falls is a must-visit.
  3. Watkins Glen State Park: This park features 19 waterfalls and hiking trails through a scenic gorge.
  4. Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park: A 50-acre park with beautiful gardens, a Victorian-era mansion, and a winery.

Wine Country:

  1. Finger Lakes Wine Country: The region is home to over 100 wineries, breweries, and distilleries, offering wine tastings and tours.
  2. Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery: A pioneer in the Finger Lakes wine industry, this winery is known for its Riesling and other white wines.
  3. Fox Run Vineyards: A family-owned winery with a focus on sustainable farming practices and a variety of wine styles.

Outdoor Recreation:

  1. 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.
  2. Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent equipment and explore the lakes and waterways.
  3. Fishing: The Finger Lakes are renowned for their trout fishing, and there are many fishing guides and charters available.
  4. Skiing and Snowshoeing: The region has several ski resorts, including Bristol Hills and Greek Peak.

Other Attractions:

  1. Corning Museum of Glass: A world-renowned museum showcasing glass art and history.
  2. National Soaring Museum: Learn about the history of gliding and soaring at this museum in Elmira.
  3. Mark Twain Study: Visit the former home of author Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) in Elmira.
  4. Finger Lakes Boating Museum: Explore the region's boating history and enjoy boat rides on the lakes.

Food and Drink:

  1. Local Cuisine: The Finger Lakes region is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, featuring fresh produce, meats, and dairy products.
  2. Artisanal Cheese: Visit local cheese makers and sample their artisanal cheeses.
  3. Craft Beer: The region has a thriving craft beer scene, with many breweries offering tours and tastings.

Events and Festivals:

  1. Finger Lakes Wine Festival: An annual festival celebrating the region's wine industry.
  2. Finger Lakes Jazz Festival: A summer festival featuring jazz music and performances.
  3. Corning GlassFest: A celebration of glass art and music.
  4. Finger Lakes Balloon Festival: A hot air balloon festival with rides and festivities.

The Finger Lakes region is a wonderful destination for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and wine lovers. With its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, there's something for everyone to enjoy.