10 Highly Accessible Finger Lakes Destinations
The Finger Lakes region of New York is a destination the draws millions of visitors each year. A growing recognition of the need for handicapped accessible tourist sites and attractions has opened a world of possibilities for visitors of varying ability. While accessibility features may differ from site to site, here are some popular destinations that have accommodations for visitors with disabilities:
Taughannock Falls State Park: This beautiful state park near Ithaca has a wheelchair-accessible overlook with stunning views of Taughannock Falls. At 215 ft., it's one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. The park also offers accessible restrooms, parking and low grade areas of trail along Cayuga Lake.
Watkins Glen State Park: Known for its stunning gorge trail, Watkins Glen State Park has made efforts to improve accessibility, especially near the welcome center. Some portions of the Gorge Trail are wheelchair-accessible, and there are accessible restrooms and parking areas.
Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park: Located in Canandaigua, this historic estate features beautiful gardens and a mansion. Many of the gardens are wheelchair-accessible, and the mansion offers ramps and elevators for accessibility.
The Corning Museum of Glass: This popular museum in Corning provides accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms. Visitors with mobility challenges can explore the museum's exhibits and demonstrations.
Seneca Lake Wine Trail: Several wineries along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail have accessible facilities and tasting rooms. It's a good idea to check with individual wineries for their specific accessibility features.
The Strong National Museum of Play: Located in Rochester, this museum offers a range of interactive exhibits and is generally accessible to visitors with disabilities. There are ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Museum of the Earth: Part of the Paleontological Research Institution in Ithaca, this museum focuses on the history of the Earth and its life forms. It offers accessible entrances and facilities.
Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack: If you're interested in gaming and horse racing, this facility in Farmington has accessible features, including ramps and designated parking spaces.
Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway: Take a scenic drive along Cayuga Lake and stop at various points of interest. Many of the viewpoints and parks along the byway offer accessible facilities.
Finger Lakes National Forest: While not a tourist site in the traditional sense, this national forest offers accessible trails, picnic areas, and restroom facilities. It's a great place for outdoor enthusiasts with disabilities.
When planning your visit to these sites, it's a good idea to contact them in advance or visit their websites for the most up-to-date information on accessibility features and any special accommodations they may offer. Additionally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires many public places to provide accessibility features, so you can generally expect a level of accessibility at most popular tourist destinations in the Finger Lakes region.
