Finger Lakes Blog

Since 2021 we've been celebrating Juneteenth in the Finger Lakes and this year was filled with incredible moments. From music performances and poetry to art and dance the Juneteenth celebration in Elmira, New York was a celebration of culture. The annual event is organized by the Elmira Economic Opportunity Program and was held on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at Ernie Davis Park.

Although it's been celebrated for years in African American communities, Juneteenth is a new federal holiday

Spring in Finger Lakes Wine Country is one of the seasons most underrated by travelers looking for an escape. But this spring, like its autumn counterpart, is abuzz with movement. The vineyards are busily being groomed and pruned, gardens are spruced up and prepped for new growth, and visitors and wine-lovers start to get a sense of what newly released wines will be available to taste and take home. Off the vineyard, as the snow melts and we welcome warmer weather, there are many great

Spring Break is a great reason to escape to Finger Lakes Wine Country. The region is abuzz as the gardens begin to bloom and the vineyards are groomed and pruned. This Finger Lakes Spring Break Adventure Guide has great suggestions for your group gatherings and family trips. Including maple tastings, waterfall chasing, hot air balloon rides, bird watching, and more.

Finger Lakes Wine Country has so much to offer groups of all sizes and people of all ages. Including three distinct Wine Trails

Tis’ the season for holiday movie binging! And if you are fans of holiday movies like we are, you might have noticed those Hallmark movies giving us the warm and fuzzy feels are set in charming small towns. These quaint villages are full of friendly faces and small town holiday cheer -- inevitably making your heart yearn for a white Christmas in a small town upstate.

Well, you are in luck! You can live out your holiday fantasies by visiting one of these Finger Lakes Wine Country picture-perfect

The holiday season is one of the most festive and exciting times to visit Finger Lakes Wine Country. As the weather cools and the days become shorter, the holiday spirit fills the air and the region transforms into the set of a Hallmark holiday movie.

From where to cut your Christmas tree to Santa sightings and holiday performances, we’ve created this guide to help you enjoy the most wonderful time of the year in Finger Lakes Wine Country. We’ve included family-friendly festivities, adult-only

Exploring Finger Lakes Wine Country is an ideal getaway destination no matter what time of year and these properties are the best places to stay during your visit. We’ve shared where to go camping and glamping, now we’re sharing some of the best hotels, castles, tiny homes, and vacation properties available in the region. From pet-friendly options to high-end, exclusive properties these are the best places to stay in Finger Lakes Wine Country.

Historic Stays

If you’re a history lover, staying

As one of the best wine regions in the nation, there’s an unlimited amount of fun activities to enjoy in Finger Lakes Wine Country. That’s why we’re focusing on the ones that won’t break the bank. This list of free things to do in Finger Lakes Wine Country includes activities for the entire family and is a great starting point for visitors and residents building an itinerary.

Go For a Hike

The Tanglewood Nature Center and Museum in Elmira, New York offers free access to over 10 miles of hiking

Keuka Lake is much more than just a summer destination. It’s an ideal getaway no matter what time of year. The Keuka Lake Wine Trail highlights family-owned and operated wineries that have been a part of the Finger Lakes Wine Country community for generations. Driving around Keuka Lake takes about an hour, not including stops, making it easy to plan a perfect day of exploring the breathtaking views along the way. We’ve created the perfect Keuka Lake Wine Trail itinerary with stops at the best

Spring in the Finger Lakes is one of the seasons most underrated by travelers looking for an escape. But this spring, the region is abuzz with exciting events for wine lovers and fun family-friendly activities! Here are some of the Spring Happenings in Finger Lakes Wine Country that you should add to your social calendar.

Chemung Restaurant Week

When: Friday, March 24, 2023 - Sunday, April 2, 2023

Time: Varies by restaurant.

Where: Participating restaurants in Chemung County. See list here.

Courtesy of Wikipedia

John W. Jones is an essential part of Elmira’s abolitionist history and the definition of Black Excellence. As an agent on the Underground Railroad, he assisted over 800 freedom seekers make their way to freedom. As a sexton, he buried Confederate soldiers during the Civil War and treated each one with the utmost respect. His determination and work ethic made him the wealthiest black man in upstate New York.

I hadn’t heard of John Jones before I visited Elmira, New York