Must See Sites in the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes Region is a land of long slender lakes, sparkling waterfalls, rocky gorges, and breathtaking vistas... a land where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy Mother Nature, or indulge your fascination with the sites where historic events took place... visit the homes of politicians, suffragists, and industrialists who were responsible for making this great country what it is today.

You'll find amusement parks, art galleries, auto racing, balloon rides, glider rides, skydiving, biking, hiking, boat cruises & tours, canoeing & kayaking, farm markets & u-picks, farm tours & agritourism sites, casinos, golf courses, horse racing, horseback riding, museums & historical sites, nature centers, railroad excursions, family recreation, indoor recreation, outdoor recreation, scuba diving, ski centers, spectator sports & activities, State Parks, a National Forest, theatres & performing arts centers, wineries, zoos. . . and even more!

Top Attractions

Cayuga County - Set on a picturesque farm overlooking Cayuga Lake in Aurora, visitors can tour the restored Victorian Farmhouse and see the beautiful hand-decorated ceramics and home furnishings produced by MacKenzie-Childs, Ltd. Watch a video of the production process at the Visitor Center, and then browse the high-end retail shop. Both are open daily from 10AM – 5PM.

Chemung County

At the National Soaring Museum, try a flight simulator and see the world's largest collection of gliders and sailplanes.

Cortland County

Located in the southeast corner of the region, where the snow comes early and stays late, Greek Peak Mountain Resort has been creating family memories for over 50 years. In 2009, look for the opening of the new Hope Lake Lodge Resort & Water Park, making Greek Peak an exciting year-round visitor destination.

Livingston County

Letchworth State Park, known as the “Grand Canyon of the East," is one of our region's crown jewels. The park spans 14,000 acres along the majestic Genesee River. Its stunning scenery, waterfalls, gorges, miles of trails, swimming pools and camping and cottage facilities make it a perfect visitor destination. Photographers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts enjoy this year-round vacation spot.

Monroe County

The Strong National Museum of Play® is the only museum in the world devoted to the importance of… PLAY! Children love the interactive displays including Adventureland, Sesame Street, Field of Play, Time Lab, the kid-sized supermarket, plus an indoor butterfly garden, the National Toy Hall of Fame™, and the world's largest collection of dolls and toys.

Onondaga County

Experience the excitement of Destiny USA featuring 170 specialty shops and six department stores that include Lord & Taylor and Macy’s. Visit the international food court, catch a movie at the 19-screen cinema complex, or take a ride on the beautiful antique carousel. Sneak a peek at the mall’s expansion project, soon to be one of the largest, most innovative shopping complexes in North America.

Ontario County

Imagine a place where world-renowned chefs and winemakers come together to share their secrets and latest creations. This is Canandaigua’s New York Kitchen, a Wine & Culinary Center, providing unique ways to experience the bounty of NYS wines, culinary delights, and agricultural products. The center features a wine tasting room, hands-on kitchen, demonstration theater, exhibit hall, gift shop, martini bar and restaurant.

Schuyler County

Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous park in the region, with a reputation for leaving visitors spellbound. Within two miles, the glen's stream descends 400’ past 200’ cliffs, generating 19 waterfalls along its course. In 2005, the park was named one of Reserve America's top outdoor locations and one of the top 100 campgrounds nationwide.

Seneca County

Located in the heart of the region, nestled between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, Seneca County offers visitors over 27 wineries, with the western side of the Cayuga Wine Trail and part of the eastern side of the Seneca Wine Trail in its midst. Highlights include Knapp Winery & Restaurant and Wagner Vineyards, Microbrewery, and the Ginny Lee Restaurant.

Steuben County

The world-renowned Corning Museum of Glass offers a unique opportunity to explore glass from all angles through hot glassmaking demonstrations, make your own glass experiences, hands-on glass technology exhibits, and the world's largest collection of contemporary and historical glass. The Museum is open daily 9AM – 5PM, closed major holidays, and youth 17 and under free.

Tioga County

Tioga Downs Harness Racetrack & Video Lottery Gaming is a new state-of-the-art facility that brings a unique brand of fun and excitement to the region’s southern tier. With fast paced harness racing, the thrills of video gaming, simulcast racing, a sports bar, lounge, and a great buffet restaurant; this destination is rivaled by none in the area. Open daily 10AM - 2AM.

Tompkins County

Robert H. Treman State Park is an area of wild beauty, with the rugged gorge called Enfield Glen as its scenic highlight. Winding trails follow the gorge past 12 waterfalls, including the 115-foot Lucifer Falls, to where visitors can see a mile-and-a-half down the wooded gorge as it winds its way to the lower park. Campers can choose from tent or RV sites or cabins. Enjoy nine miles of hiking trails, or swim in a stream-fed pool where you can sit beneath a waterfall. Come dive right in!

Wayne County

Situated on a bluff overlooking the majestic waters of Lake Ontario is the Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum and gift shop. Interesting displays sweep you to a different era where coal and lumber were king, and commercial fishing and shipbuilding were a way of life. Climb the spiral staircase that leads to the Lens Room at the top of the lighthouse tower. From this vantage point 70' above the lake, the view is spectacular!

Yates County

The Windmill Farm & Craft Market has been a huge draw for over 20 years with over 200 vendors and craftsmen housed in multiple buildings, a street of shops, and an open-air market surrounded by flower gardens and picnic areas. In addition to fresh produce, shoppers will find crafts, antiques, collectibles, leather goods, quilts, clothing, shoes, jewelry, furniture, Amish and Mennonite goods, international cuisine, wine and even chiropractic care!