Winter Retreat in Finger Lakes Wine Country

The region transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland in the early months of the year. If you enjoy quieter settings and fewer crowds or want to escape the chaos of everyday life, you’ll enjoy a winter retreat in Finger Lakes Wine Country. 

Beat the winter blues with a breathtaking getaway to Finger Lakes Wine Country. There are many ways to escape, relax, and rejuvenate in this cozy winter wonderland. From indoor oases to outdoor escapes, we’ve rounded up some unforgettable activities and events you can enjoy this season in the region. 

Indoor Oases 

Spas

It’s not a retreat if self-care isn’t a priority. Winter is a great time to recoup, revitalize, and re-energize. Is there a better way to relax than to enjoy a pampering service or two at a spa? Your stress and anxieties will melt away after a relaxing treatment.

The Isabella Spa Salon at Belhurst in Geneva, New York, offers various services, including massages, manicures, pedicures, and facials. 

Namaste Spa, in Horseheads, NY, will help you find your zen. They offer massage services, cupping, body treatments, and spa day packages, including up to four hours of pampering. 

Saphala Medical, in Corning, NY offers bespoke care for weight management and nutrition, microneedling, fillers, massages, and more. They also offer a menu of services specific to men’s care.

K. Rae Salon in Corning, NY, offers a full list of services, from hairstyling to waxing, facials, and more!

Treat yourself to a massage, facial, or laser service at Ageless Spa in Corning, New York. Their extensive menu of services has something for anyone looking to indulge in some self-care and cosmetic treatments.  

Floatation Therapy is a relaxation treatment that allows you to tune into your heartbeat and breathing, resulting in deep calm and various other benefits. Inner Peace Floats in Watkins Glen offers this unique experience and massage.

Wine Tasting

A winter vineyard visit to the Finger Lakes is breathtaking. Have you ever seen a snow-covered vineyard? Winter is a great time to visit these award-winning wineries if you enjoy a slower, more relaxed pace. The tasting rooms, restaurants, and lodging on all three of our Wine Trails are open year-round. 

Check out the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and Keuka Lake Wine Trail for our winery and restaurant suggestions.

Wondering what to do as a non-drinker in Finger Lakes Wine Country? If you’re searching for wine-free activities in the area, check out our The Non-Drinkers Guide to Finger Lakes Wine Country. This guide will help you create an unforgettable day amongst the vines sans vino.

Local Breweries

Although the Finger Lakes is famous for its wines, take advantage of “hoppy” hour at a local brewery. Most wineries, breweries, and distilleries stay open all year, including Finger Lakes Distilling, Seneca Lake Brewing Company, and The Grist Iron Brewing Company. 

Craft brewing has exploded so much in the region in the last decade that there are a variety of breweries offering an array of experiences. Our FLX Breweries, Cideries, and Distilleries Guide breaks down each area’s best breweries, cideries, and distilleries.

Museums

Learn something new with a visit to some of the Finger Lakes’ most fascinating museums, like The Rockwell Museum in Corning, New York. Peruse various intricate art pieces from different American artists or stroll through engaging exhibits.  

The Corning Museum of Glass is another must-see attraction. If you’ve ever wondered how glass is made, you can see the process before your own eyes. You can even try a glass-blowing class to make your glass creations. The Corning Museum of Glass is also home to Netflix’s Blown Away, a competition series featuring the art of glassmaking.

Arnot Art Museum, New York, in Elmira, is housed in a historic Greek-Revival building from 1833, founded by local banker Matthias Hallenback Arnot, who gifted the museum to the city. It has a permanent collection of 17th through 19th-century European paintings, 20th-century American art, and contemporary art from the 21st century. In addition to the permanent and original art collection, you can also experience their temporary exhibitions featuring artwork from all over the world.

Outdoor Escapes 

Ice Fishing 

Winter is one of the best seasons for fishing in the Finger Lakes. When the lakes freeze over, the region becomes a hotspot for trout, smallmouth bass, bluegills, and numerous pickerel.

The north end of Cayuga Lake is a good place to try for northern pike, pickerel, and panfish. The northern tip of Keuka Lake is a popular area for ice-fishing enthusiasts. Here, you can easily find rentals along the lake to enjoy ice fishing every day of your winter getaway.   

Snow Sports

Strap on the cross-country skis or snowshoes and explore our many state parks and trails this winter. The crisp air, picturesque snowscapes, and serene silence are pure magic. On a cold or rainy day, head to an Elmira Mammoth hockey game in Elmira, New York, for fun indoor entertainment. 

Tanglewood Nature Center’s trails in Elmira, New York, are open to the public all year long. In the winter, they make for a wonderful snowshoeing experience. Tanglewood has two separate trail systems, Gleason Meadows and Personius Woods. The trail systems are not connected, but they are a very short distance by car drive from each other. See their trail maps here. 

The Keuka Outlet Trail offers seven miles stretching between Keuka and Seneca Lakes from Penn Yan to Dresden, NY. Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are very popular here in the winter. 

The Finger Lakes National Forest in Hector, New York, is another great location for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. 

Ice Skating

Clute Park’s Ice Skating Rink in Watkins Glen, New York, and Corning’s Civic Center Ice Rink in Corning, New York, are great places to enjoy one of winter’s most iconic activities. Don’t own a pair of ice skates? No worries! You can rent them on-site.

Winter Waterfalls

Most assume that waterfall viewing is best done in warmer months, but waterfalls truly come to life during winter. The combined ice and waterfall are truly spectacular. A major bonus is significantly less foot traffic on the trails in the winter. So you can enjoy sparkling snowy scenes when you visit these Five Magical Waterfalls this winter.

No matter the season, Finger Lakes Wine Country is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway, whether for the weekend or more. Here are some ideas to help you plan a Lover’s Escape to wine country. For more information about our wine trails and all the events they host year-round to add to this experience, click here.

In Corning, NY

Start with our list of lodging, whether you’re looking for a cozy boutique stay or want a more resort-like feel.

The Hilton Garden Inn is steps from all the happenings in Corning, NY. Book one of their spacious rooms, relax in the hotel’s heated pool, or grab a drink and food at the hotel’s in-house restaurant and bar. Take a sunset stroll across the walking bridge into Centerway Square and explore the local shops, bars, and restaurants along Market St.

Reserve a table next to the window or a cozy corner booth at The Cellar for a romantic farm-to-table dinner, cocktails, or wine. Don’t miss out on dessert—it’s always a delightful treat!

Looking for an upscale brunch experience? We highly recommend reserving a Sunday experience at The Quincy Exchange from April through Spring. Beautifully mixed brunch cocktails paired with delicious brunch favorites in a stunning dining room that once was home to an old bank.

For a casual, year-round brunch experience, visit Ella’s Acres Homestead, a popular breakfast spot with its locally sourced menu and espresso drinks. Note: There is often a longer wait time during weekend brunch.

A stroll up and down Market St. will introduce you to many more options for a complete day and night out.

Purchase a combination museum ticket at The Rockwell Museum, and take the free shuttle to the Corning Museum of Glass, just steps from your hotel. Reserve a make-your-own-glass experience for a personalized souvenir of your visit.

Pamper yourself at Safala Medical with a facial and massages. Take an easy hike through Spencer Crest Nature Center (2.3 miles) or Houghton Land Preserve (1.6 miles) for a leisurely outdoor experience for bonding in nature.

For more on what to do in Corning, NY, check out our small-town guide here.

IN ELMIRA, NY

Stay in a cozy vacation rental at Rye Bar and Restaurant. With three different room styles, you will surely find one that fits your vibe. Perk with a stay here is the restaurant and the bar right downstairs, offering big-city style Sunday brunch, jazz night on Thursdays, and Happy Hour every night, Wednesday through Sunday, from 4-6 PM. The Garage, a favorite coffee shop in town, is located right next door and is open every day, Monday through Sunday, to get you started with a perfect cup of jo and freshly baked pastries and breakfast sandwiches.

For a more private and “regal” stay experience, book a stay at the Castle by The Glen. Tucked in a hillside neighborhood in Elmira, NY, it offers all the comfort and aesthetics of a weekend of pampering.

Speaking of pampering, book a Couples Massage at Namaste Spa for a 60- or 90-minute relaxation experience.

Another romantic dining option is Hill Top Inn (opened March through December), which, on warmer days, offers outdoor seating reservations overlooking the Elmira cityscape and Jerusalem Hill’s natural landscape.

Spend an afternoon exploring the Arnot Museum and hiking the trails of the Tanglewood Nature Center.

For more on what to do in Elmira, NY, check out our small-town guide here.

In Owego, NY

The Village of Owego makes for the perfect laidback romantic getaway, starting with a stay at the historic Belva Lockwood Inn. This beautiful bed and breakfast has several beautifully decorated rooms and a delicious continental breakfast, and it is within walking distance of all the main sights in town.

The Cellar Restaurant and Lounge (not affiliated with the above-mentioned Cellar in Corning) is an excellent spot for a romantic dinner and drinks. The dark wood and leather decor create a warm and intimate dining experience, and their globally influenced menu makes for a perfect date night.

Other favorite local spots are Owego Beer and Donuts for the sweet tooth, Riverrow Bookshop for the curious bookworm, or Spellbound for those who prefer a fairytale, fantasy, and folk tale bookstore – that also serves coffee! Carol’s Coffee and Art Bar will surround you with local artists’ paintings (for sale). Try your luck at the nearby Tioga Downs Casino, and then treat yourself to a massage at their Serenity Spa.

For a romantic time outdoors, stroll along the Owego Riverwalk or a more committed hike along the Oakley Corners State Forest trails.

For more on what to do in Owego, NY, check out our small-town guide here.

In Penn Yan, NY

This lake town has so much to offer, from the long drives along scenic plains to afternoons spent on the Keuka Lake shores. It’s no wonder it is a popular spot for vacation travelers. But it also offers many cute, intimate experiences for a little love-fest getaway.

Stay at The Laurentide Inn right in the heart of the Village of Penn Yan. This bed and breakfast has stunning, comfortable rooms and little nooks in the public sitting areas for reading or enjoying a glass of wine after a day of exploring. The food served is top-notch, and the adjacent Laurentide Beer Co. is a great place to enjoy some brews and live music during the warmer months.

Walk along Penn Yan’s Main St. to explore antique stores, cafes like Amity, and cute shops and craft stores. Make a reservation for cocktails and dinner at 18th Amendment, or stop in for wine tasting and bites at Burnt Rose Wine Bar. For dining and drinks with lake views, head over to Main Deck, and for a more casual affair with views of the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, stop into Outlet 111.

Rent a bike or hike along the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail (7 miles), or take a dip into the lake and set up a romantic picnic at the Keuka Lake State Park. Want to make sure the picnic experience is unique and catered for your visit? Check out Finger Lakes Picnic Co. and FLX Picnic Pop-Up.

For more on what to do in Penn Yan, NY, check out our small-town guide here.

In Hammondsport, NY

Designated the Coolest Small Town in America, Hammondsport is a postcard-perfect destination. With its sweet little gazebo in the park, where bands play live in the summer, and its pedestrian-friendly streets, it is the spot for lake-life lovers in the summer and quiet escape seekers in the colder months.

Stay at the Park Inn, which has snug rooms and a cozy ambiance. Make a reservation for the downstairs restaurant. Have breakfast (or ice cream!) at Crooked Lake Ice Cream, pastries at Vern’s Bakery, and coffee at newly opened (in April of 2025!) Service Station cafe.

Plan leisurely strolls to Depot Park for quiet conversations by the lake. Set up a picnic, swim, or rent a boat to enjoy all Keuka Lake has to offer. Visit the historic and quaint public library, or go antiquing at the many antique shops in town.

For more on what to do in Hammondsport, NY, check out our small-town guide here.

In Watkins Glen, NY

Along the shores of Seneca Lake is the town of Watkins Glen. For many, this is where one comes for high-speed fun and water adventures, but it is also a spot to rest your head before venturing along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail or while taking in the views from Seneca Harbor during sunset hour. During the colder months, the town is especially calm and makes for a wonderful romantic retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Stay at the luxurious Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, and if you can book a room with a lake view, that would be even better. The hotel offers services from an in-house bar, restaurant, and a newly installed workout facility and often hosts events for the community and visitors.

Or reserve a room at the newly opened Benjamin Hotel for a more intimate stay.

Start your romantic evening with a stroll along Franklin St., with a stop for cocktails at J.R. Dill Wine Bar, downstairs from The Benjamin.

Then, walk further down the street for a romantic dinner at Graft Wine and Cider Bar. Walk-ins are only greeted by a friendly team of servers and a beautiful selection of local ciders and wines. The primarily farm-to-table menu is delightful, often complemented by the spices and flavors of the chef and owner’s Dominican heritage.

While the lower trails in Watkins Glen State Park are closed, the upper trails still provide access to the park and the waterfall views. For more winter fun for two, visit the ice skating rink at Clute Park during the winter months.

For more on what to do in Watkins Glen, NY, check out our small-town guide here.

In Dundee, NY

Dundee, NY, is not far from Watkins Glen but more centered between Seneca Lake and Keuka Lake Wine Trails. It is the perfect spot for those who want to spend their time traveling to the wineries and their surrounding restaurants.

Stay at the historic Victorian Manor that is 1897 Beekman House Bed and Breakfast for a truly intimate and romantic stay. This B&B offers five elegant guest rooms, each with a private bath, to choose from, and your stay comes with a gourmet, three-course breakfast served daily.

If you’d like to do more than explore the nearby wine trails and wineries, check out the Dundee and Himrod, NY Small Town Gude here.

Finger Lakes Wine Country is an all-season getaway, we even like to say that there are five seasons of fun here. Winter is easily one of the most underrated seasons to visit the region and one of the quietest, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Here are just a few of the incredible outdoor activities to enjoy in Finger Lakes Wine Country in the winter.

Snowshoe Rentals

A fun adventurous activity fit for the whole family in winter is snowshoeing on the trails at Tanglewood Nature Center and Museum in Elmira. The trails are open to the public from dawn to dusk, however if you don’t have your own snowshoes or crampons you can rent snowshoes for both children and adults from Tanglewood Nature Center during their hours of operation.

Visitors typically spend anywhere from one to three hours exploring the trails and there are trail options for beginners to advanced snowshoe enthusiasts. Please call ahead of your visit as their seasonal hours are different and the facilities are closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Snowmobile & Cross Country Ski Trails

Two favorite wintertime sports to enjoy after a fresh dumping of snow is snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. The Keuka Outlet Trail offers seven miles bordering the Keuka Outlet stretching between Keuka and Seneca Lakes from Penn Yan to Dresden, NY. 

Along the trail, for both winter activities you will be rewarded with the serene nature surroundings as well as gorgeous views of Seneca Mills Falls.

Be sure to visit our small town guide to Penn Yan for before or after your winter adventures where you can grab a bite to eat, shop, or grab a cup of hot coffee to warm you up.

Maple Syrup

Another end of winter time favorite to enjoy in the region is tasting a bit of nature’s candy during maple syrup season! Many of our region’s farms and orchards produce pure maple syrup and you can not only sample this season’s tasty syrup, but also bring it back home to your kitchen.

Be sure to call ahead any of the farms or markets in advance to ensure they are open during your visit, many have special seasonal hours.

Check out some of our farmer’s markets that are open year-round like Parluski’s Farms in Bath, Engelbert Farms in Nichols, Stewart’s Family Farm in Hornell, Chamberlain Acres Farmer’s Market in Elmira, Painted Post Farmers Market in Painted Post, Oak Hill Bulk Foods in Penn Yan, Apple Barrel Orchards in Penn Yan, Thyme Stands Still Farm Stand in Burdett, and Oak & Osage Farm in Hammondsport to name a few.

Winter Wines

Winter in Wine Country is one of the most exciting times to enjoy some of our award winning wines from our region. While enjoying a tasting at one of our wineries requires a little planning ahead as some tasting rooms are only open seasonally and those that do have wine tasting available often have a different schedule for the slower, winter months.

We advise to call ahead to any wineries you plan on visiting before your visit to ensure they are open during that time/day.

You can still enjoy some of our wines without visiting our cellars and wineries by picking up bottles at the winery retail shops or any of our local wine retailers who are open year round.

During the winter months, you may want to enjoy some of our specialty wines from the colder months including ice wines which are a type of dessert wine which are known for being sweeter produced from grapes that have been frozen still on the vine. 

Another wintertime favorite for drinking are fortified wines like Sherry or Ports known for their higher alcohol content. Winemakers add a neutral grape spirit, like brandy, to the wine which is where you get the elevated alcohol content from and is often consumed in the colder months.

There’s also something so nice about a good red wine on a cold winter day or night which our region has a great selection of red wines.

Winter Horseback Riding

Just outside one of Watkins Glen you can enjoy winter horseback riding at Painted Bar Stables who offers horseback riding experiences year round by appointment only.

Bundle up and saddle up for a wintery horseback riding adventure.

Visit our small town guide for Watkins Glen for more ideas nearby before or after your winter horseback riding adventure.

Winter Camping

Not for the faint of heart, but another adventurous winter activity in the region for those who love the chilly wilderness is primitive backcountry camping in Italy Hill State Forest in Branchport off of Keuka Lake.

This style of camping offers no amenities and are for the serious outdoor enthusiasts who like to camp with everything on your back and the winter backdrop and crisp cool air make for an unforgettable experience. Anyone participating in primitive camping in the area must follow these guidelines from New York State’s Department of Environmental Conservation.

There’s an excitement in the air this time of year in wine country. In part, it’s because of the buzzing energy around harvest, and the busy weekends full of travelers coming to admire the changing foliage and enjoy the seasonal fruit picking at local farms. But for visitors and locals alike, this time of year kicks off Spooky Season and all the festivities it brings. We’ve compiled a little list of some of the best events to look out for when in the region during this fun time of year

Small Town Fun

Days of Incandescence in Corning, NY, was just recently named one of the best Halloween festivals in the U.S. and offers a bit of historical lore and family-friendly fun during the three days of festivities. Bonus: Mingle with the community at their annual Trick or Treat along Market Street on Halloween Day!

Trick or Treat at The Windmill in Penn Yan is a great way to engage with over 150 vendors, shop, and enjoy the season’s festivities. 

Owego, NY’s Halloween Fest takes place in the Central Historic District and features a series of events like pumpkin painting, a “Not So Scary Haunted House,” and a costume parade. 

The annual Elmira Ghost Walk is a mix of live theater performances and local lore, featuring evening walks through the historic Woodlawn Cemetery. 

The Village of Hammondsport hosts its annual Halloween Happenings with a fun, family-friendly “Witches of the Southern Tier” dance followed by Trick or Treating. Bonus: The Witches of the Southern Tier also host a dance at Montour Falls every year!

For Some Extra-Spooky Fun  

While this time of year is perfect for apple and pumpkin picking, hayrides, and corn mazes, many of our farms also elevate the spookiness to a whole new level! Just some of the highlights include:

The Coldbrook Curse at Bradley Farms, a popular haunted attraction in Elmira, New York, is open on Friday and Saturday nights in October. It features a walk-through haunted village, zombie paintball, and other scare attractions based on the legend of a cursed village that vanished centuries ago.

Tagsylvania in Big Flats, NY, at the Tags concert venue, features multiple haunted houses as well as carnival games and shows. The attraction operates on select weekends each fall, generally from late September through October. 

For more seasonal fun, check out Thrills & Chills, a roundup of all things spooky, cozy, and quintessentially fall in Chemung County.

Don’t Miss The Festivities Along The Wine Trails

For a complete list of all the events happening at the different wineries, it’s best to follow the Seneca, Keuka, and Cayuga Lake Wine Trails. Look for annual celebrations that welcome the whole family, including your four-legged companions, live music, wine tasting, and pairings.

There is no shortage of scenic views in Finger Lakes Wine Country and the best way to cover the most ground and enjoy many of our sweeping and stunning landscapes is by enjoying any of these 5 scenic drives through the region.

These scenic drives will take you past some of our region’s charming towns, antique shops, museums, our lakes, wine trails, breweries, cideries, distilleries and more.

Along the way pay attention to farm stops in the countryside, many of which offer U-Pick experiences, and roadside farm stands to pick up some of the best local ingredients to take home with you. 

Seneca Lake Scenic Byway

One of the most well-known scenic drives in Finger Lakes Wine Country is the Seneca Lake Scenic Byway running along the east side of Seneca Lake. This is the perfect drive to get a taste of the Finger Lakes as you’ll be passing wineries, cideries, distilleries, breweries, restaurants, and farms. This makes for great stops along the way as well as many great places to catch one of our beautiful Finger Lakes sunsets overlooking Seneca Lake.

We recommend seeing our small town guide to Watkins Glen for ideas of what to see and explore here before starting off on your scenic adventure up the east side of Seneca Lake up to Lodi Marine State Park where you can picnic, watch a gorgeous sunset, and swim and enjoy the pebble beach in the warmer months. (Just note that you will have to pay an $8 per car parking fee at Lodi Marine State Park.)

You’ll be driving along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail which is dotted with wineries that offer more incredible views and passing by one of the best roadside attractions in New York State, Hector Falls, which cascades right along a bridge you’ll be driving on Route 414.

The wineries close at around 5:00 pm, so for a great sunset view we recommend stopping at Two Goats Brewing or Grist Iron Brewing for views and a drink. 

Penn Yan to Dresden

A hidden gem and one of the most scenic drives in the Finger Lakes is the road that follows the Keuka Outlet Trail. This  trail follows an outlet that connects Keuka Lake into Seneca Lake.

The Keuka Outlet Trail is a 7-mile path that is easily walkable and bike-friendly. You can drive along the Outlet Road for several different access points. But the drive itself is also pretty, especially during the fall foliage and spring months.

Starting in Penn Yan on East Elm Street which turns into Outlet Road, you will be leaving town and pass through a wooded road that has a few different stops where you can get out and enjoy a section of the Keuka Outlet Trail. 

If you’re looking to stretch your legs, be sure to park and walk towards Seneca Mills Falls or Cascade Falls. There is a parking area that gives you access to the trail with signs that point you in the direction for both waterfalls. Seneca Mills is the quickest to access with a 5-7 minute walk.

Continuing the scenic drive towards Dresden you will pass beautiful farmscapes on Hopeton Road.

For more ideas on what to do while you’re in Penn Yan, be sure to read our small town guide to this charming Finger Lakes town. 

Owego to Corning 

Driving between the charming towns of Owego to Corning offers some picturesque countryside views. Be sure to read our small town guides to both Owego and Corning for ideas of what to do in each of these beautiful destinations. Not only are these great places to stop and stay a bit longer, there are also great opportunities to check out the shops, restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions.

Leaving Owego on Route 96 you will pass through the rural rolling hills driving along the Catatonk Creek passing some of the region’s most beautiful farmland.

Continuing on Route 96 through Spencer you will continue to pass more scenic farms on Route 223 before getting on the Interstate 86-West with breathtaking views of the Chemung River before arriving in Corning.

Elmira to Jerusalem Hill

One of the shorter scenic drives to enjoy starts in the city of Elmira and wanders up Jerusalem Hill Road where you will be rewarded with views of Elmira’s historic landscape along the Chemung River, continuing into more countryside farmscapes and wooded scenery headed towards Maple Hill State Forest.

For a breathtaking sunset experience with dinner, be sure to make a reservation at the Hill Top Inn which opens for dinner and has a large outdoor seating area and patio overlooking the valley and the town of Elmira and the Chemung River below.

The restaurant at Hill Top Inn doesn’t open until 5:00 pm, so this is only an evening experience. We recommend calling ahead and making a reservation to enjoy the breathtaking views from their prime location.

For more ideas for what to do in Elmira, be sure to read our small town guide for information and activities you can enjoy here. 

Along Keuka Lake

Drive around the Crooked Lake for some of the most majestic scenery Finger Lakes Wine Country has to offer. We recommend seeing our small town guides to the villages of Hammondsport and Penn Yan for ideas of what to see and explore here before starting off on your scenic adventure.

Exploring the West side of Keuka Lake you have three different route options to choose from, The Lower Road (West Lake Road/ Route 54A) along the shores of the lake, Middle Road which connects to Route 76 and offers views of the lake and vineyards from a higher point, and The Upper Road (Greyton H. Taylor Memorial Drive).

Along the drive you can stop at many of the region’s spectacular wineries including Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, Heron Hill Winery, and Ravines Wine Cellars. For beer fans there are stops like Keuka Brewing and Steuben Brewing Company.

Exploring the East Side of Keuka Lake you are rewarded with incredible panoramic views from more of the wineries along the Keuka Lake Wine Trail including Keuka Spring Vineyards, McGregor Vineyards, and Hunt Country Vineyards.

For a bite to eat, try stopping at Seneca Farms (open seasonally from the first Friday in March through the end of October) in Penn Yan to take to Keuka Lake State Park where you can picnic with waterfront views.

Did you know that our region boasts some of the best farmland in the state? This means that food and handicraft products are direct from the farmer or artisan to the customer, easily accessible at our various farm stores and stands. 

This also means finding the freshest produce of the season, local ingredients, and pantry items like meats, cheeses, honey, maple syrup, and seasonings is easy to do in Finger Lakes Wine Country.

When planning a trip to our region, don’t miss out on the opportunity to try some of our best local, quality ingredients and maybe even bring some of your food finds back home to use in your kitchen.

Note: It’s always best to double-check hours of operation during the specific dates of your visit by calling ahead or visiting each of these farm stores and farmers’ markets’ websites to help you plan your visit.

FARM STORES

Many farm stores in Finger Lakes Wine Country are open throughout the year, making bringing home farm fresh ingredients convenient–even if you miss out on the farmers’ markets season. Here are some of our favorites:

Apple Barrel Orchards in Penn Yan is a family-owned fruit farm that offers U-pick apples and grapes, as well as their small farm store that sells local produce like pears, apples, and grapes. They have a cidery on-site, and often host live music to enjoy while enjoying the cider from their orchard and other fresh fruits from the farm. They are open seasonally from September through February. 

The Burdett Exchange, located in the sweet town of Burdett, is a fairly new market to open in the area. They have local produce, crafts, meats, dairy goods, and some home goods. Our favorite is the salted bread and other bakeries!

Indian Pines Farm Market is a roadside market in Penn Yan that sells locally grown produce and products like baked pies, bread, cookies, and other seasonal goodies. As the seasons change, so does the selection. This seasonal stand is open from spring through mid-December, ending its season with Christmas trees, greenery, and poinsettias.

Yesterday’s Roots is a farm market offering a great selection of local produce, meats, dairy products, pantry items, baked goods, gifts, and more. They also have a coffee bar and cafe!!!!

Tomion’s Farm Market in Penn Yan is a family-owned and operated farm market that has been growing strawberries for over 60 years. When in season, it offers U-Pick berries, rhubarb, and tomatoes. The market has a rustic atmosphere and sells home-grown fresh produce, baked goodies, and even gifts. It is open seasonally and will kick off its season in mid-May.

Dave’s Produce Greenhouse and Farmstand in Bath, NY, offers seasonal produce, locally grown meats, and other products. It’s a fun stop for holiday photos and fall goodies. Bonus: they are located next to Emmie’s Ice Cream & Grill!

Stewart’s Family Farm and Creamery in Hornell offers a farm store that is open 4 days a week year-round, selling their dairy products like milk, goat cheese, and ice cream in addition to bulk food and pantry items, including baking ingredients and seasoning, to fresh baked goods and soft serve ice cream. If you’re not able to make it to their farm store on your visit, you have an opportunity to try or buy their products from the Corning Farmers Market in the summer season.

Oak Hill Bulk Foods in Penn Yan offers a store filled with local products, ingredients, staple bulk food items, and a deli that is open year-round. Additionally, they serve freshly made breakfast and lunch items at Oak Leaf Cafe & Bakery. Everything from hearty soups to sandwiches and wraps is served here, as well as fruit smoothies made from their fresh ingredients. And take home a pie!

Photo credit: Oak Hill Bulk Food

Stoney Acres Country Market in Bath is a farm store open year-round offering everything from in-season produce and products like eggs, honey, and maple syrup from local farmers, kitchen ingredients like spices, jams, and pickled products, to crafts and plants, including hanging baskets to Christmas trees around the holidays.

Bradley Farms in Elmira is a seasonal farm and flower store that opens each spring in May, kicking off the season with spring flowers, hanging baskets, and bedding plants. You can also find fresh, in-season produce from their commercial vegetable farm to bring back home to your kitchen, as well as family-friendly activities in the fall, including a corn maze, haunted attractions, and Twinkle Town during the winter holiday season.

Engelbert Farms in Nichols is the first certified organic dairy farm in the United States since 1984 and offers certified organic products in their farm store and kitchen located in a historic creamery building. Here you can find farm-raised organic meats, cheese, and produce, including eggs, raw honey, maple syrup, and fruit bitters, open year-round, Thursday through Saturday.

Sunset View Creamery in Odessa offers a selection of artisan cheeses made using fresh milk from their family-owned and operated dairy farm, fresh raw milk, and other locally-produced food items in their farm store open year-round, five days a week. They also offer tours, and now they allow visitors to cuddle cows!

The Keuka Trail Farm Market in Branchport offers freshly made baked goods and other locally made products like honey, essential oils, and spices.

FARMERS MARKETS

Photo credit: Elmira Downtown Development

When visiting our small towns, make sure to take part in the fun around our seasonal farmers’ markets. Local vendors sell produce, farm products, baked goods, artisan crafts, gifts, and more, providing visitors and the community with wholesome food and goods to bring home.

It’s best to check each farmer’s market’s social media or website for up-to-date information during your visit, including their hours, as these sometimes change. Most of these markets are seasonal and are held throughout the week; however, the markets that have both summer and winter farmers’ markets usually have different hours once the season changes.

Corning Farmers Market is located at the Riverfront Centennial Park every Thursday from June through October, offering a variety of vendors selling fresh local produce, flowers, baked goodies, handmade gifts, local wine, and a changing selection of goods each week.

Wisner Market in Elmira, NY takes place every Wednesday with more vendors every year. With everything from produce to flowers, popcorn, and goodies from local food trucks, it makes for a lovely afternoon surrounded by local community residents.

Painted Post Farmers Market, located outside the Painted Post-Erwin Museum, is a weekly Saturday market featuring local vendors who sell farm-fresh produce, naturally raised meats, eggs, homemade maple syrup, raw honey, and baked goods. In November through March, you can enjoy their winter market at the Ramada Inn in Painted Post on the first and third Saturdays of every month.

Bath Farmers Market at Pulteney Square Park in Bath during July through October on Wednesdays and Saturdays, offering a variety of local meats and cheeses, produce, handicrafts, and artisanal items by local crafters and businesses, and even food trucks.

Point of The Bluff Farmers Market, in Hammondsport, brings together wine-tasting, live music, and farm fresh produce from Glenn Scott Farm every Thursday from 5 pm to 7 pm, from June through the end of September. 

The Windmill Farm & Craft Market is the largest of the farmers markets in Finger Lakes Wine Country, with over 200 vendors in Penn Yan, offering a wide range of products, including local produce, fresh baked goods, wine and spirits, artisan crafts and goods, plus an array of dining options at their indoor and outdoor set up. You can visit on Saturdays only from late April through the end of November.

Penn Yan Farmers Market runs from late May through mid-October, offering in-season and rotating produce directly from local farmers on Saturdays from 8 to 1:30 pm, on the sidewalk along central Main Street in the village of Penn Yan, rain or shine!

Chamberlain Acres Farmers Market in Elmira is a garden center open year-round to the public for their flowers, seeds, and planting needs for home gardens. Every Sunday, they host a weekly farmers market with fresh produce, local meats, baked goods, and other locally made food products like honey, artisanal cheeses, maple syrup, and more.

Owego Farmers Market is held on Tuesdays and Fridays from June through October at the Walgreens parking lot in Owego, selling in-season fruits and vegetables directly from local farmers.

During your visit to Finger Lakes Wine Country, we want to ensure you take in everything our wine trails, small towns, and lakes have to offer. We would be remiss if we didn’t also suggest a unique farm experience to complement your visit. Here are some of our favorites:

Every fall, Apple Barrel Orchard in Penn Yan opens its rows and rows of orchards to residents and visitors looking for a day of apple picking. From Gala to Northern Spy and so many other favorites, you are sure to find the perfect fruit. But apple-picking is not the only reason to visit. They also have their very own cidery where they produce cider from apples that are grown, harvested, and fermented here on the farm! Enjoy a glass in their tasting room, where you can select from 11 different ciders on tap. Other u-pick experiences include cherries and grapes. Visit their website for a full list of events.

Sunset View Farms in Odessa, NY, is an artisan cheese farmstead and production facility. Their on-site creamery doesn’t just serve up some of the most delicious ice cream in the region; they also have 12 varieties of raw and pasteurized milk cheese, thirteen varieties of cheese curd, Cream on Top milk, raw milk, locally sourced beef, pork, and chicken, free-range eggs, and so much more! And if that isn’t special enough, how about cow-cuddling? Hug, rest against, and hang out with the ladies – and in the process, learn something new! Visit their website for more information on this and other farm experiences. 

If you are interested in learning more about the conservation efforts happening across the region, an experience at Sweet Farm, a non-profit animal sanctuary in Himrod, NY, gives visitors insight into how they are working towards those efforts. You can book a tour to meet the different animals they have rescued and learn more about their educational programs, which cover topics such as plant-based living and sustainable regenerative agriculture. Want to rest after walking through the farm? Be sure to visit Vineyard View Winery right next door! Tip: You can purchase a wine tasting ticket with your farm tour. Also, for more farm animal rescue goodness, visit the Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen, NY. 

For a winter farm experience that you won’t forget, visit the Highland Tree Farm in Branchport, NY! If you are celebrating a holiday stay in wine country, this sweet little farm has gorgeous Christmas trees to choose from. But, if you are simply looking to envelop yourself in holiday joy and visit a Christmas market, with some views of Highland cows for extra cuteness, this is the place to be! They are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Saturday starting November 29 to December 21. Visit their website for more information. 

Thinking about a trip to Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York? Good news — it’s super easy to get here! Whether you’re coming from a big city like New York or a smaller one like Harrisburg, there are major highways and interstates that lead straight to beautiful Finger Lakes Wine Country.

Here’s how you can get here:

From Boston (Approx. 6 hours)

From New York City (Approx. 4 hours)

From Philadelphia (Approx. 4.5 hours)

From Washington, D.C. (Approx. 6 hours)

From Harrisburg (Approx. 3 hours)

From Pittsburgh (Approx 4.5 hours)

From Cleveland (Approx. 4.5 hours)

From Buffalo (Approx. 2 hours)

No matter where you’re coming from, it’s mostly major highways and easy drives. Once you’re here, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views, charming small towns, and, of course, amazing wineries!

Pack a bag, cue up your favorite road trip playlist, and come enjoy Finger Lakes Wine Country!

As a farming community, we appreciate rainy days, but we understand rain may dampen your plans. Here is a little inspo for days better suited for indoor activities. We’ve shared the Finger Lakes museums to visit on a rainy day. Here are even more fun ideas that help you stay warm, dry, and entertained when raindrops fall over Finger Lakes Wine Country.

Attend a Workshop Series or Class

There is no better way to connect with locals and have fun than by joining a class at one of the region’s maker spaces. Here are some fun ways to get creative and even learn something new.

Rabbit Row Yarns & Haberdashery in Corning, NY, is the region’s only sustainably sourced needle and fiber craft product shop. It is tailored for knitters, crocheters, weavers, dyers, spinners, felters, and stitchers. They offer one-on-one and small group lessons for knitting, crocheting, embroidery, mending, darning, and felting.

FLX Studio and Maker’s Space in Montour Falls, NY, offers a variety of classes and workshops throughout the year for all ages and skill sets. Their courses, from fiber arts, drawing, and painting to jewelry and mixed media, are designed to help you express your unique creative voice.

Pixie Moss Meadows in Corning, NY, offers a variety of workshops featuring a new set of classes monthly designed to inspire creativity and community. They also host a unique DIY garden bar with beautiful succulents, decorative pots, dirt, moss, gravel, and sand. 

Tioga Arts Council in Owego, NY, presents various artist series throughout the year and workshops on multiple skills, from writing to metalsmithing. They also often showcase artists’ exhibitions and sales. Equally, the Arts Center of Yates County hosts exhibitions, workshops, and a series of classes for those looking to do something creative on a rainy day.

Attend a Winery Event

Rainy days are a perfect backdrop for winery events and gatherings. Follow the Seneca, Keuka, and Cayuga Lake Wine Trails for all the happenings, from holiday-focused events and markets to wine pairing events, private dinners, and live music. Winery events are an excellent opportunity to meet the region’s winemakers and tastemakers and explore the wines that continue to elevate the Finger Lakes as a premier wine destination.

Enjoy a Concert or Theatrical Production

You don’t have to be in a big city to enjoy the performing arts. The Clemens Center in Elmira, NY, hosts a Broadway Series featuring many blockbuster theater productions, concerts, and other family entertainment. A visit to Powers Theater, one of two theater performance spaces, is an experience. The architecturally stunning space has been restored to its vaudevillian-era grandeur, displaying magnificent murals, gold-leaf details, and reconstructed opera boxes, reviving its 1925 glory.

The Civic Music Association has hosted performances in the Corning Museum of Glass (CMoG) Auditorium since 1951. Visit their website for information on concerts in jazz, choral, and other popular music genres.

A Little Something For the History Lovers

On warmer, sunnier days, the Schuyler County Historical Society hosts free walking tours around Watkins Glen’s prominent landmarks. But for days when it’s best to stay inside, definitely check out their open houses hosted at various locations, including the Brick Tavern Museum, Wickham Rural Life Center, and the Lawrence Chapel. The Chemung County Historical Society not only hosts a series of exhibits to walk through, but they also host a variety of programs for adults throughout the year, including book talks, art workshops, and other events. 

Visit a Local Library

The Southern Tier Library System is comprised of 48 member libraries, each with its own unique feel and look. Some are large, contemporary buildings, while others are in historic buildings with refined details—such as Tiffany stained glass windows! You can find the complete list of libraries here and check out what family-friendly events they are hosting throughout the year.