Yates County | Finger Lakes Countrysides

There are so many reasons to visit Finger Lakes Wine Country, including the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. We’ve shared tiny houses, glamping, B & B’s, and unique vacation rentals in the area. Now we’re showing you where to camp and hike on Seneca Lake. Including cabins, cottages, campsites, RV sites, and more.

Not only will you get a taste of local vintages on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. You can experience the thrills and excitement of Watkins Glen International raceway at one of the oldest lodging establishments in the area. Or stay at a resort with a waterfall on the property.

Campsites

Havana Glen Park

Havana Glen Park in Montour Falls, NY provides excellent outdoor opportunities including camping facilities, ball fields, playgrounds, and a short scenic hike through Havana Glen.

The park contains Eagle Cliff Falls along with various species of rare native New York State plants and has been classified as an important area for birding with over 100 species documented here making it perfect for hiking and exploring.

Goundry Hill State Forest

Goundry Hill State Forest in Beaver Dams, NY has no developed camping sites, however, at-large primitive camping is allowed in this unit. Except within 150 feet of any road, trail, spring, stream, pond, other body of water, or otherwise prohibited.

From here you can hike the Finger Lakes Trail: South Bradford and Goundry Hill State Forests, a moderately challenging 12.6-miles point-to-point hike. Which takes an average of 5 h 54 min to complete.

Finger Lakes RV Resort

Finger Lakes RV Resort in Hector, NY is an adult-oriented, peaceful RV park located right in the heart of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail with two wineries and a diner adjacent to the property.

Their spacious sites feature full hookups, a gravel patio, and a large yard. Each site also includes a picnic table and a fire ring.

Smith Memorial Park

Just 8 miles north of Watkins Glen is Smith Memorial Park in Hector, NY. Here you’ll find wooded & lakefront campsites, swimming, boat launch, dumping station & hot showers. There are also walking trails on the property.

Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous State Park in the region. Not only will you find tent and trailer campsites, picnic facilities, and an Olympic-size pool. There are 19 waterfalls and 9 great trails. Camping is available from early May to mid-October.

The Gorge Trail winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. This 0.7-mile loop trail is considered moderately challenging and takes an average of 24 minutes to complete. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Dogs aren’t allowed on this trail.

The Watkins Glen South Rim Trail is a 2.6-miles out-and-back trail. It’s considered moderately challenging and takes an average of 1 h 21 min to complete. The best times to visit this trail are April through October. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Southern Seneca Lake Serenity

Southern Seneca Lake Serenity in Watkins Glen, NY is perfect for the camping purist that thrives on pitching their own tent. This half-acre property has nearly 200 feet of gorgeous lake frontage. The site features a level tent site, fire pit, picnic table, porta-potty, small stream, shade, and trees.

The best hiking can be found less than three miles away at Watkins Glen State Park.

Sugar Hill Recreation Area + Sugar Hill State Forest

Sugar Hill Recreation Area in Watkins Glen, NY is the largest designated camping area on Sugar Hill State Forest. This nine-acre open field has a limited number of fire rings and picnic tables. Other facilities there include a picnic area with picnic tables, a pavilion, an accessible horse-mounting platform, and open horse stalls, during summer months a restroom with potable water is available. All facilities are carry in-carry out.

The gate is opened to vehicle traffic, and the water is turned on, from the 3rd Monday in May through the 3rd Monday in October of each year.

Fifteen additional designated campsites are located throughout Sugar Hill State Forest. In addition, at-large primitive camping is allowed in this unit, except within 150 feet of any road, trail, spring, stream, pond, other body of water, or otherwise prohibited. Here you’ll also find five Adirondack-style lean-to’s, at four different locations. Lean-to’s must be shared to their capacity on a first-come, first-use basis, with no exclusive reservation allowed.

Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. No trash pickup is provided. Sugar Hill State Forest is home to the 12-thousand-acre Six Nations Trail System. Here you’ll find the Schyler County: Sugar Hill Trail. This 3.7-mile loop trail is considered easy. It takes an average of 1 h 33 min to complete and is open year-round, but can get muddy during the rainy season. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Clute Memorial Park & Camping

Clute Memorial Park & Camping in Watkins Glen, NY offers tent sites, dock rentals, and full hook-up sites with electric (20, 30, and 50 amp), water, sewer, and cable. Here you’ll find tennis courts, a soccer field, swimming and bathhouses, picnic tables, a children’s playground, a skate park, and more!

Less than a five-minute drive away is Watkins Glen State Park where you can hike the Gorge Trail without your pup, or the Watkins Glen South Rim Trail with your dog on a leash. Additional outdoor activities include a boat launch adjacent to Clute Park along the Seneca / Erie Barge Canal.

Lake Grove Park

Lake Grove Park in Alpine, NY has boat rentals, cabins, and campsites on the shores of Cayuta Lake. In this setting, the park allows campers the opportunity to play and the solitude to rest. We strive to excel in all the services we provide.

The Catharine Valley Trail North is one of the most accessible trails on the list. This 4.5-miles out-and-back trail takes an average of 1 h 20 min to complete. The trailhead is on the Watkins Glen High School grounds. There are 2 designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of 12th Street at the north end of the trail. Both of them are van-accessible with a striped access aisle.

The majority of the trail is estimated to be in the gentle grade category (3% or less). All-terrain tires or motorized equipment may be needed for the mostly unpaved surface type. There are benches and picnic tables along the route for resting.

Cabins

KOA Camping Resort

Most campers are familiar with Kampgrounds of America, the world’s largest system of privately held campgrounds. KOA Camping Resort in Watkins Glen, NY is the top-rated family campground with more than 35 Camping Cabins and Deluxe Cabins, full-featured BIG RIG RV sites, and free wifi. Touring RVers will love luxurious Sunset Acres, the quiet side of the park, where some of the sites have private gazebos. Adventure-seeking families may prefer to be close to Seneca Thrills, a family fun center. With an outdoor pool, indoor pool, spa, and fitness center, gigantic pirate ship playground, giant water slide, Army truck rides, and more.

Less than a five-minute drive away is Watkins Glen State Park where you can hike the Gorge Trail without your pup, or the Watkins Glen South Rim Trail with your dog on a leash.

Rustic Log Cabins

Originally built in the 1920s, Rustic Log Cabins in Hector, NY is one of the oldest lodging establishments in the area. Open May through October the view from the grounds takes in an apple orchard, rolling vineyards, and Seneca Lake.

All four spacious cabins have electricity, hardwood floors, a fireplace, table, chairs, comfortable beds, dressers, stove, and fridge. Two of the cabins will accommodate three people and the other two will accommodate up to six.

The South Slope Trail is an easy 1.1-mile out-and-back trail near Hector, New York. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 27 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking and walking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

The Vineyard Villas

At The Vineyard Villas in Burdett, NY you can wake up to the panoramic view of Seneca lake and the surrounding wineries. Here you’ll find one bedroom two-story villas with a deck and balcony. Fully-equipped kitchens are available if you decide to make your own meals, as well as an outdoor grill.

The best hiking near Burdett is in the Finger Lakes National Forest. Here you’ll find 12 different easy and moderate trails to enjoy. The Interloken Trail is an 11.3 miles point-to-point trail and is considered moderately challenging. It takes an average of 3 h 54 min to complete. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. While the Finger Lakes Gorge Trail is an easy 2.3-mile out-and-back that takes an average of an hour to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and walking. Both trails allow dogs on leashes. The best times to visit these trails are April through September.

Paradise Park Campground

Paradise Park Campground in Reading, NY offers 160 acres of wooded and open space. Along with a well-stocked store, clean facilities, and convenient hook-ups. Kids can enjoy many activities: ping pong, volleyball, the arcade, badminton, the playground, miniature golf, the archery practice range, and even join in on the fun of a hayride! The whole family will enjoy swimming in the Olympic Heated Pool.

Check out the 19 waterfalls and 9 hiking trails at Watkins Glen State Park which is less than a fifteen-minute drive away.

Cool-Lea Campground

Cool-Lea Campground in Odessa, NY is great for family camping. There are cabins, a cottage, and a camper available along with tent and RV sites. Guests can enjoy boating, fishing, or canoeing on Cayuta Lake. This fishing paradise is known to have Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Yellow Perch, Bluegill, Pumpkinseed, Rock Bass, Brown Bullhead, and more flourishing in the crystal clear waters.

The kids will love the playground, game room, pavilion, walking trails, and hayrides. Nearby you can plan a short but moderately challenging hike to Eagle Cliffs Falls in Havana Glen Park. Dogs are welcome on leashes on this 0.3-miles out-and-back trail. The best time to visit is May through October.

Catharine Cottages

Catharine Cottages in Montour Falls, NY offers four private and comfortable cottages on Catharine Creek. The cabin comes with everything you need wifi, AC, a full bathroom, mini fridge, microwave, and firewood on property. At this pet-friendly property, you can listen to the soothing sounds of Catharine Creek from your private porch.

We highly recommend Eagle Cliffs Falls in Havana Glen Park or the Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen State Park for anyone who wants to retreat into nature.

Spring’s Retreat

Escape the hustle and bustle of life at Spring’s Retreat in Montour Falls, NY. This 2-story cabin is surrounded by woods and wildlife and is equipped with a full kitchen, barbeque, fire pit, and water garden.

For an easy hike try Willow Walk Trail at the nearby Catharine Creek Wildlife Management Area. This 2.4-miles out-and-back trail is open year-round and takes an average of 41 min to complete. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Lakeside Resort

Choose from cabins, the motel, and the Lodge at the Lakeside Resort in Watkins Glen, NY. This 30-acre property gives you some space to breathe and a quiet place to relax with walking trails, small waterfalls, and beautiful Seneca lake views.

All of the rooms are clean and comfortable and have a coffee machine, microwave, small refrigerator, private bathroom, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, and more.

Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most well-known parks in the region. Within five miles, the glen’s stream features 19 waterfalls viewable from the 9 hiking trails.

Seneca Heights Cabins

At Seneca Heights Cabins in Watkins Glen, NY you’ll find two charming cabins perfect for a romantic getaway. Here you’ll find the comforts of home including an electric fireplace, ceiling fans, and a small kitchenette area that includes a fridge, microwave, and hot drink facilities. Outside, in the communal area, you’ll find the firepit, barbecues, and full bathroom facilities. This pet-friendly property also has a pond for guests to enjoy.

Located less than three miles south of Watkins Glen State Park this is your best bet for hiking in the area.

Seneca Lodge

The Seneca Lodge in Watkins Glen, NY has been a landmark for vacationers, sportsmen, and racing enthusiasts for more than 50 years. The Log Cabins include a private bath and are available with one bed or two. Each has a large family room, fireplace, kitchen, and a front porch. The four-bedroom Log Cabin fills quickly, so make reservations early. There are also two 2 chalet-style A-frames available with three bedrooms, a family room, a kitchen, and a small front porch. The Motel offers rooms with a single king bed, 2 double beds, or 2 queen beds. All accommodations have cable tv, wifi, and ac/heat.

Located less than a mile south of Watkins Glen State Park this is your best bet for hiking in the area.

Scottish Glen Bed & Breakfast

Scottish Glen Bed & Breakfast in Dundee, NY hosts two bedrooms that overlook Seneca Lake. The Waterfront Cottage/Cabin is a post and beam construction from an 1860s barn, rebuilt on the waterfront. The Cottage sleeps 6 in 2 rustic lofts, has a 50-foot dock for fishing, and swimming, a full kitchen, a wood-burning stone fireplace, and a row boat available.

This is a family-friendly property where guests can enjoy a tennis court, picnicking on the grounds, 30 acres of woods for hiking, and a lakefront area. A delicious country breakfast is served each morning and their extensive patio provides a wonderful lake view to watch an early sunrise.

Back Achers Campsites & Cottages

Back Achers Campsites & Cottages is the only private campground facility located on beautiful Seneca Lake with private lake frontage. They offer cottage rentals, RV sites, and tent camping. Along with rowboat rentals, paddle boat rentals, and boat hoist rentals. Three of their cottages feature a dock and hoist for guest use.

Sugar Hill State Forest is a 30-minute drive away. The Finger Lakes Trail to South Rim Trail is perfect for a more experienced hiker. This 11.3-miles point-to-point trail is considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 50 min to complete. This trail has great views and is perfect for those seeking solitude.

Calling all cheese lovers! In Finger Lakes Wine Country, you can sip your way around our wine trails and taste your way through our dairy farms for a cheese lover’s experience. Farm-to-table is a way of life here, so we’re highlighting the best creameries and dairy farms in the region. You can also visit Finger Lakes Farm Country, a local organization promoting agri-tourism within the region.

Agri-tourism is a travel trend that focuses on visiting farms, dairies, and ranches, to get a behind-the-scenes look at how they operate. Happy cows make the best cheese and on this trail, you’ll discover a delicious variety of locally-sourced artisan cheeses. From cuddling cows to learning about the cheese-making process, there’s an assortment of activities for all ages at these working farms. We encourage you to call ahead before visiting any of the locations listed to check opening times and availability.

Sunset View Creamery

Sunset View Creamery in Odessa, New York offers a selection of artisan cheeses made using fresh milk from their century-old family-owned and operated dairy farm. You can go on a self-guided tour of the cheesemaking facility, meet the dairy cows, then visit the shop for a tasting of cheese curds, fresh mozzarella, and more. Shop other locally-produced food items in their farm store or schedule a cow cuddling session!

Shtayburne Farm

On the western shore of Seneca Lake in Rock Stream, NY you’ll find Shtayburne Farm. A fourth-generation dairy farm offering small-batch cheeses made with locally-grown crops and milk. Visit their tasting room and sample some of their unique combinations including; Tomato Basil Jack, Smoked Bacon Cheddar, and Dill Cheese Curds.

Engelbert Farms

Engelbert Farms in Nichols, New York is the first certified organic dairy farm in the United States since 1984 and offers certified organic products in their farm store and kitchen. Browse their selection of organic cheddars, Colby, gouda, swiss, jacks, and mozzarella. You can also find farm-raised organic meats and produce as well as items from nearby farms including eggs, raw honey, maple syrup, and fruit bitters. Engelbert Farms is open year-round, Thursday through Saturday.

Side Hill Acres Goat Farm

Side Hill Acres Goat Farm in Candor, NY are producers of gold medal award-winning goat milk cheese. This family-operated goat dairy on the southeast of Cayuga Lake is home to 157 dairy goats that provide the milk for goat cheeses, feta, cream cheese, and mozzarella. Visitors can tour the farm, tour the cheese plant, learn how the cheese is made, and learn how to milk a goat by hand! Their gift shop also includes other items made from goat milk such as ice cream, soaps, and other beauty aides.

Stewart’s Family Farm and Creamery

Stewart’s Family Farm and Creamery in Hornell, New York sells dairy products like milk, goat cheese, and ice cream. Along with seasonal vegetables, fresh fruits, maple syrup, and more 4 days a week year-round. You can find milk, eggs, cheese, and ice cream in the refrigerator on their porch and during the summer you can buy their products from the Corning Farmers Market.

Honorable Mentions

Mooney’s Sports Bar & Restaurant

Mooney’s, an eight-location chain across upstate New York, is the self-described “Home of the Mac and Cheese.” Dairy and carbs are serious business here. The selection is astounding with well more than a dozen variations on the classic. There’s taco, lobster, Philly cheesesteak, Buffalo chicken, stuffed banana peppers, BLT and many more varieties of mac and cheese.

Seneca Farms

If you’re craving mac and cheese and other comfort foods like fried chicken and corn fritters be sure to plan a stop for lunch at Seneca Farms. This retro spot on the northern tip of Keuka Lake is an affordable and family-friendly dining option.

Golden Age Cheese Company

At Golden Age Cheese Company in Woodhull, NY you’ll find fresh cheese every day from fresh mozzarella, mild to aged cheddars, cheddar cheese curds, specialty cheddars, a variety of smoked cheeses, and more! This wholesale and retail cheese manufacturer has been producing quality cheeses since 1983. If you can’t make it to the region you can order these delicious cheeses online!

The collection of creameries and dairy farms making artisan cheeses on the Finger Lakes Cheese Trail is sure to please any cheese enthusiast. If you’re looking for the best local cheeses to pair with our award-winning wines or you’re a foodie with a nose for cheese. You can spend days tasting the best fresh cheddar, jacks, blues, and chèvres on the Finger Lakes Cheese Trail.

Finger Lakes Wine Country offers fun for the whole family including our four legged friends. From our wineries to outdoor adventures, attractions, and accommodation there are plenty of opportunities for pet-friendly adventures in wine country.

This pet friendly guide to the region introduces just a sample of the varying businesses and activities that are available for well-behaved pets. We advise that you call before your visit to ensure all the activities you’re hoping to enjoy are pet friendly in addition to the businesses mentioned here.

It’s important to plan ahead with accommodations, dining options, wineries, breweries, museums, and other attractions for the most positive experience and to best adhere to each individual establishment’s rules or protocols for bringing your pets. Most of our pet friendly activities and visits require that your pets be leashed at all times and that you pick up after your dog.

Also, keep in mind that these pet friendly fun options are outdoors.

Outdoor Dining with Pets

From our small towns to our restaurants and dining establishments, throughout our wine trails and scenic drives, wine country has a food scene worth bragging about along with plenty of pet friendly outdoor dining where you can wine, dine, and hang out with your pooch.

Some great dog friendly restaurants include Nickel’s Pit BBQ in downtown Watkins Glen on their spacious outdoor patio on North Franklin Street, Silverbird Woodfired and Gastropub in Penn Yan has a relaxed setting with an outdoor seating area, Ginny Lee Cafe at Wagner Vineyards has a gorgeous elevated outdoor deck patio seating area overlooking the vineyards and Seneca Lake in Lodi which is a great stop along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail along with Elf in the Oak who has a nice back deck and outdoor dining section, and Oak Leaf Cafe at Oak Hill Bulk Foods has a lovely outdoor seating area where you can dine with your dog to name a few options.

If you’re looking for a nice sweet treat that is pet friendly, Spotted Duck Creamery serves up homemade custard in Penn Yan with a dog friendly outdoor seating area surrounded by their duck farm and Seneca Farms in Penn Yan is a classic counter-serve with locally sourced comfort food and an ice cream parlor that offers a puppy cone for barking buddies.

Pet Friendly Wineries

You’ll find a majority of the wineries in Finger Lakes Wine Country offer beautiful outdoor seating areas that are pet friendly, many of which offer sweeping views of our region’s scenic landscape from the rolling vineyards to our pristine lakes and sprawling farmland across our three different wine trails.

Most tasting rooms are requesting that you make reservations and have group size limitations, so if there is a stop you don’t want to miss, give the wineries a call ahead to plan your visit and make sure that they are also pet friendly if not listed here.

Some of our wineries that have a pet friendly outdoor setup include Wagner Vineyards and Lamoreaux Landing in Lodi, Three Brothers Winery & Estates in Geneva, Ravines Wine Cellars, Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, Heron Hill Winery, and Keuka Lake Vineyards in Hammondsport, McGregor Vineyards, Fulkerson Winery, and Glenora Wine Cellars in Dundee, Point of the Bluff Vineyards in South Pulteney, Prejean Winery in Penn Yan, Damiani Wine Cellars in Burdett, Hosmer Winery in Ovid, and Buttonwood Grove in Romulus to name a few.

Pet Friendly Breweries

Much like the wineriesin our region, you’ll find that the breweries also offer great outdoor seating areas to enjoy a freshly drafted craft brew that welcomes pets! Try Steuben Brewing Company and Keuka Brewing Company in Hammondsport, Grist Iron Brewing and Two Goats Brewing in Burdett, Lucky Hare Brewing Company in Hector, and Climbing Bines Hop Farm & Brewery in Penn Yan to name a few.

Hiking & Outdoors

Take advantage of all the gorgeous scenic hiking trails and natural areas that are dog friendly! All of these trails, state parks, and National Forest require your dog to be leashed at all times and you will need to clean up after your furry friend.

The Keuka Outlet Trail is a 7-mile trail that connects the town of Penn Yan to Dresden passing through a beautiful wooded area on a neatly maintained trail along with waterfalls gorgeous any season.

The famous Watkins Glen State Park allows dogs on the North Rim and South Rim Trails, please keep in mind that the Gorge Trail does not allow pets.

Sampson State Park in Romulus has a dog-friendly park plus a play area for the family, beach, and waterfront marina. This is also where the annual Wine Country Circuit Dog Show is hosted as well. Keep in mind that dogs are asked not to be in the bathing area here.

Catharine Valley Trail is a beautiful wooded trail running along an abandoned railroad and canal towpath corridors from Montour Falls to Horseheads that also welcomes two dogs per visitor/group.

Kanakadea Park in Hornell offers recreational sports facilities, picnic pavilions, grilling areas, camping sites, and hiking trails that are all pet friendly as long as they are kept on a leash and cleaned up after.

Finger Lakes National Forest is the only National Forest in the state of New York and offers over 16,000 acres of wooded trails passing ravines, pastures, wildlife habitats and scenic roadways between Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake that also welcomes dogs to join their owners on a refreshing hike.

Keuka Lake State Park at Bluff Point offers a swimming beach, picnic areas, boat launch, fishing, and hiking trails and is open to the public year round. Camping is also available from May through October.

Fruit Picking with Fido

Celebrate the seasonal harvests by enjoying vegetable and fruit picking with Fido our U-Pick farms in wine country.

Apple Barrel Orchards in Penn Yan offers a variety of different fruits from mid-September through May including a variety of apples, grapes, and sweet cherries.

Fulkerson Winery also offers a variety of fruits and vegetables that you can pick from their farm with your dog throughout the seasons including asparagus, peaches, apples, grapes, and blueberries.

Dog-Friendly Attractions

Finger Lakes Wine Country has a rich connection to arts, culture, and history and have incredible institutions, museums, and attractions to add to your trip with your dog!

The Windmill Farm and Craft Market in Penn Yan offers shopping for local crafts, produce, products, and food from over 200 vendors every Saturday from the end of April through the end of November and dogs are welcome to join all the fun.

The Finger Lakes Museum in Branchport offers a dog friendly campus celebrating the local culture, heritage and natural history. Dogs and their owners can enjoy swimming or hiking around the trails as long as you pick up after your pet.

The Finger Lakes Boating Museum in Hammondsport has a collection of over 150 boats paying homage to the history and heritage of boat building in the region and is pet friendly!

Captain Bill’s Seneca Lake Cruises allows guests to bring their dogs on their scenic sightseeing cruises on Seneca Lake from mid-May through the end of October. Before or after your cruise, enjoy a meal with your dog at Seneca Harbor Station, a former train station that’s now a restaurant with an outdoor patio at the same location.

The Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes in Corning allows pets at their open-air interactive historical museum that allows visitors to experience 19th-century Finger Lakes life with their furry friend!

It is recommended that you contact these museums in advance to plan your visit as some require advance booking or visits by appointment only.

Pet Friendly Accommodation

There are a myriad of options when it comes to pet friendly accommodation in Finger Lakes Wine Country, from camping sites at our parks to vacation home rentals, bed and breakfast stays, and hotels to choose from. Each accommodation option will vary and you will want to contact each one in advance to find out each individual property’s policies when it comes to pets and extra fees incurred for bringing your four legged friends.

Captain Jack’s II is a private home rental on the northern tip of the western branch of Keuka Lake with an elevated deck right on the lake and offers options for up to two dogs to stay during your visit.

Idlewild Inn is a full-service bed and breakfast in the village of Watkins Glen that offers two dog friendly rooms for guests traveling with pets.

Hotels that allow pets for an added fee in wine country include Microtel Inn & Suites Penn Yan, Radisson Hotel Corning, Staybridge Suites Corning, and Best Western Plus Vineyard Inn & Suites in Penn Yan.

While Finger Lakes Wine Country is renowned for its award-winning wines there are many breweries, cideries, and distilleries in the region worth bragging about. This is why we created the Finger Lakes Wine Country Breweries, Cideries, and Distilleries Guide.

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. Some of our breweries even offer lodging. One of them even has a pet-friendly suite. In this guide you will visit town to town to take a sip at the best breweries, cideries, and distilleries in each area.

Penn Yan

The quaint and beautiful Village of Penn Yan, NY was named after its early Pennsylvania and Yankee settlers. This is where you can find independently- and locally- owned cafés, shops, restaurants, and taverns along Main Street’s historic early 19th century buildings.

The Laurentide Inn is the result of transforming a 200-year-old private residence and carriage house barn into five guest suites. In the back of the house, you’ll find their brewery and the pub.

Two other Penn Yan breweries to visit are Abandon Brewing Co. and Climbing Bines Hop Farm & Craft Ale Company. Abandon Brewing Co. is a geothermal-powered craft brewery located in a reused farmhouse overlooking Keuka Lake. You can enjoy tastings in the taproom, a pint in the beer hall, or out on the deck overlooking the grapes, apples, and hops of Abandon Acres. Climbing Bines Craft Ale Company is one of New York State’s first farm breweries. They specialize in small-batch, hand-crafted ales brewed on-site with the freshest estate-grown hops and locally-harvested barley.

If you’d rather sip cider head to WortHog Cidery in Penn Yan. Where they use a special blend of New York Apples to make their ciders and lightly carbonate them for a finishing touch and unique taste.

A few miles away in Keuka Park, NY you’ll find LyonSmith Brewing Co. This brewery has a mission “to make beer that is worth drinking, a company that is worth working for, and a community that is worth living in.”

Dundee

Enjoy a soft pretzel or a meat and cheese board at Keg & Barrel Brewing Co.

while sipping on one of the 20 craft beers, ciders, and sours on-tap. Relax in the newly remodeled tasting room or unwind on the deck for live performances weekly.

If you’re looking for a classic whiskey look no further than Dundee’s O’Begley Distillery. Which produces Traditional Irish Style Whiskey, using a small-batch pot still process.

There is a new brewery that just opened (in the building that used to be Starkey’s Lookout) called Tin Barn Brewing. It’s a brewery based in the Hudson Valley that just opened their first Finger Lakes Wine Country location.

Hammondsport

The picturesque village of Hammondsport, NY is home to Pleasant Valley Wine Company the oldest winery in Finger Lakes Wine Country. They survived the prohibition years by selling sacramental and medicinal wine while sitting on an inventory of 70,000 cases that couldn’t be sold.

At The Brewery of Broken Dreams, their ales are traditionally inspired and uniquely rendered from a combination of resources provided by the naturally abundant farmland, and the desire, knowledge, and skill of local farmers and our brewers.

Finger Lakes Beer Company is a New York State Farm Brewery offering tasting flights, half-pints, pints, and pitchers of a dozen styles of ales all brewed on-site. Be sure to try their Vanilla Porter which won the 2015 Best Craft Beer in New York State at the TAP New York.

The family-run Keuka Brewing Company was the first microbrewery on Keuka Lake. They pride themselves on producing unique small artisan batches of great beer by experimenting in different styles and tastes.

Steuben Brewing Company is a farm brewery that produces New York State-labeled beer. They strive to make great beer that supports local farmers by utilizing ingredients that are grown and produced in New York State.

Krooked Tusker Distillery is a small batch, farm distillery on Keuka Lake that produces handcrafted libations made from locally-sourced materials.

Watkins Glen

From the 19 waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park to “The Glen”, Grand Prix Festival, and International Motor Racing Research Center there are so many reasons to visit Watkins Glen, NY. Beer is also a big deal in this area. Offering two unique lodging options and more breweries, cideries, and distilleries than any other area.

Watkins Brewery Vacation Rentals is located in a historic building that once housed several businesses including a couple of different breweries. The refurbished building now houses seven vacation rental homes. Pontoon boats, jet skis, kayaks, and bikes are also available for rent on-site for fun Seneca Lake water activities!

Head six minutes north to travel back in time and across the pond to a traditional British Pub. Seneca Lake Brewing Company & The Beerocracy in Rock Stream, NY is the states only dedicated Cask Ale brewery. Adding to the authenticity of the turn of the century British Pub, the Beerocracy Pub offers a cell phone-free bar environment enabling people to truly enjoy the atmosphere and environment. Secure Cubbie’s are available behind the bar to store mobile devices whilst in the bar area and there is a $10 fine if you are caught with your mobile device. All fines are donated to a local charity quarterly.

You can find both Rock Stream Brewery and Rock Stream Distilling on Rock Stream Vineyards which is Seneca Lake’s only licensed Grappa and Grape Brandy distillery. Owner and operator Dr. Mark Karasz Spent three years in Italy learning wine and Grappa production. After returning from Italy, he founded Rock Stream Vineyards and began growing his own grapes, making and bottling wine, brandy, Grappa, and ports.

Head 15-minutes north to Miles Craft Ales at Miles Wine Cellars in Himrod, NY where they are pouring: Calisto Pale Ale, Scottish Lure Ale, Bonfire Brew Ale, and Io Milk Stout.

If you like a historic stay with a theme look no further than the Seneca Lodge Craft Brewing in Watkins Glen. The main lodge was built for the first Grand Prix in The Glen, in 1948. This racing theme can be seen throughout the venue. Suspended from the ceiling in the Tavern Room are Tires from NASCAR champions. Behind the bar, laurel wreaths from the Formula 1 races of the 1970s.

Not only are there cabins, a-frames, and motel rooms on the property there is also a restaurant.

Nearby you’ll find Rooster Fish Brewing Pub, one of New York’s first official farm breweries offering passionately brewed, uniquely world-class craft ale from locally-sourced ingredients. There are at least five craft-style small batch beers and up to four seasonal and special brews. Sample, order a pint, and even take some home with you.

Launched in 1997 on-site at Wagner Vineyards in Lodi, NY, Wagner Valley Brewing Company provides beer-lovers with a variety of award-winning craft-brewed beers. Wagner Valley Brewing Company currently has 9 draft lines with styles rotating often and ranging from light to dark, bitter to sweet. They also produce an all-natural, non-alcoholic, real Draft Root Beer.

Nearby in Hector, NY is Scale House Brewery where you’ll find quality craft beer and delicious gourmet pizza. Along with Lucky Hare Brewing Company which creates handcrafted beer that reflects their passion for great beer and the Finger Lakes and its community. Choose from two locations, their taproom in Hector and Lucky Hare Brewing Bar & Grill located in the Watkins Glen Village Marina, right next to beautiful Seneca Lake.

The Inn at Grist Iron in Burdett, NY is the only lodging in the region to feature an onsite craft brewery (Grist Iron Brewing Company) with house-brewed beer, BBQ, live music, as well as easy access to local wineries, breweries, restaurants, and hiking/nature trails. Choose from 4 rooms in their traditional-style 1860s Farmhouse or stay in one of 10 spacious suites in The Lodge, which offers rustic, yet modern accommodations including their Dog-Friendly King Room.

You’ll also find Two Goats Brewing and Finger Lakes Distilling in Burdett, NY. Two Goats Brewing is an easy-going gathering place to drink stellar beer, listen to live original music, and enjoy time with friends. It was also built in a renovated 19th-century barn with a sweeping view of Seneca Lake and is powered by solar. Finger Lakes Distilling is the premier New York craft distillery, creating high-quality whiskey, gin, brandy, grappa, and liqueurs. They hand-craft their products using local grains, farm-fresh fruits, and time-honored techniques to produce artisan spirits.

Corning

Corning, New York is a small town with a big reputation. Known for its glass, it is home to 169-year-old Corning Incorporated which has been creating glass cookware since CorningWare (1958), and Pyrex (1915) and is now a center of innovation developing everything from the glass on your cell phone to the glass used in vaccine vials. The town is now known for the Corning Museum of Glass which has been featured on Netflix’s Blown Away, a competition series featuring the art of glassmaking.

Carey’s Brew House is a two-story Brewery Restaurant with a wide range of local and international beers on tap, including in-house brewing of our own recipes, occasional guest brewers, and featured local breweries.

Iron Flamingo Brewery is Corning’s first brewery to bottle beer for distribution. They support local businesses by allowing food to be ordered in and hosting local food vendors regularly. Iron Flamingo Brewery uses local farmers for their hops and malt, helping to sustain the rich agriculture of the region. They are proud to utilize solar power for the brewing process.

Liquid Shoes Brewing is a small batch brewery located in the heart of Corning’s Gaffer District.

Paying homage to the industry that defined Hornell, New York is RailHead Brewing Company. Located where hundreds of rail cars once stood eager for far-off places visit this brewery to be transported to another time.

Cider Creek Hard Cider is made on a family farm nestled in the hills of Canisteo, NY. The company was created in 2013 and turned a family recipe and home brewing passion into a mission to produce high-quality, craft cider. Every batch is handmade with the finest blend of 100% New York State apples.

Elmira

Also known as Mark Twain Country, the American author spent his summers in Elmira, New York for more than 20 years. You can even visit the Mark Twain Study and Exhibit on the beautiful campus of Elmira College. Where he penned some of his most famous pieces of literature including The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Life on the Mississippi, and more.

Upstate Brewing Company in Elmira, NY is a production micro-brewery that produces fresh, local, and unique beers. Which are currently on tap and in cans at restaurants, bars, and stores in the majority of the counties in New York state.

Eight minutes away in Horseheads, NY is Horseheads Brewing. This family-owned local brewery has the goal to hand-craft the highest quality beer with the finest ingredients, then deliver it at affordable prices. Check out their satellite location located on the marina in Watkins Glen this summer.

Head south to Diversion Brewing Co. a small 3-barrel craft brewery in Chemung, NY with a wide variety of beers available to please any palate.

The second cidery on our list is Eve’s Cidery in Van Etten, NY. Eve’s is an orchard-based cidery producing Traditional Method ciders. With two orchard sites perched on either side of the geological divide between the Southern Finger Lakes and the Northern Appalachian Plateau. The primary impulse behind their cider making is to find an answer to the question: Can you taste a place?

Owego

In Owego, New York you’ll find stately Victorian homes and 19th-century architecture, impressive bookstores, and some of the best antique shops in the region.

10 minutes away in Apalachin, NY is Waterman’s Distillery, an innovative producer of all-natural grain-neutral spirits and whiskeys. This distillery is part of America’s original moonshine trail established by bootleggers traveling east and west during the prohibition era.

Finger Lakes Wine Country has a long list of creameries that will delight ice cream and cheese lovers. A hot summer’s day and ice cream are best friends and what would a cheese-lover love more than learning how to milk a goat by hand?

We’ve got the scoop on the best places to get your frozen fix. Along with where to shop for artisan cheeses. From cow cuddling to cheese and ice cream flights this guide will give you a sweet look at wine-and-cheese country. We’ve also included locations with vegan and non-dairy ice cream options. Remember it’s always best to bring cash as some of these places are cash-only.

Penn Yan, New York

Sweet

At Spotted Duck Creamery in Penn Yan, you’ll find award-winning organic frozen custard made from organic milk and cream, house-made vanilla, and duck eggs. Open Thursday through Tuesday from 12 PM to 8:30 PM during the summer. Some of the unique seasonal flavors include Fleur Blue made with (organic, local) blueberries, hints of French lavender, and their classic vanilla cream base. Java Junction, Caramelt, are other popular flavors along with their dairy-free Blueberry Streusel.

Savory

Northeast branch of Keuka Lake….After you dine on the famous Beer Battered Fried Chicken prepared daily at Seneca Farms in Penn Yan. You can walk over to the ice cream shop which has over 50 flavors of homemade ice cream! Seneca Farms is open seasonally from the first Friday in March through the end of October.

Nearby You’ll Find..

The Bieber Normande Dairy – The Cheese Shop is a family-owned and operated dairy farm in Prattsburgh, NY. Located on the historic Pratt Farm they specialize in the distribution of the area’s finest handmade cheeses from independent cheesemakers. They also raise beef, chicken, turkeys and produce maple syrup.

Crooked Lake Ice Cream Company is the coolest ice cream shop in America’s coolest small town, Hammondsport, NY. For more than 30 years this family-friendly classic 50s diner has been a local and tourist favorite. The best part is you’ll want to take your ice cream to go- Keuka Lake is only a 2-minute walk from the shop.

Shtayburne Farm Creamery in Rock Stream, NY is a family-owned dairy farm with farm-fresh cheese, handcrafted ice cream, and over three generations of experience. They control every aspect of their rich cheese creations. They grow the crops, milk the cows, and process and package the cheese. Their cheese and ice cream flights are a must-try!

Parulski Farms in Bath is a 400+ acre family-run farm that produces 6 flavors of cheddar cheese, 6 flavors of jack cheese, and 5 flavors of cheese curd as well as their 2 yr old cheddar. Their farm store is open daily from 10 am- 5 pm year round. Check out these great cheeses as well as the meats that they raise on their farm and all the other local products they offer in their store including honey, maple syrup, jams, teas, etc. Call to schedule a farm tour. Order online or give them a call to double-check the inventory and schedule a farm pick-up.

Stewart’s Family Farm and Creamery in Hornell offers a farm store that is open 4 days a week year-round, selling their own 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.

After a short tour and cheese sampling at Sunset View Creamery in Odessa, you’ll have a chance for some cow cuddling. Then head to the farm store and bring home your choice of cheese, cheese curd, raw milk, and more.