Destination Page Archives | Finger Lakes Wine Country

Explore world-class wineries along scenic Cayuga Lake Wine Trail.

The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is your gateway to the heart of Finger Lakes wine country. Home to world-class wineries, stunning lake views, and exceptional hospitality, it’s the perfect destination for wine lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re exploring bold reds, crisp whites, or sweet specialties, every visit promises unforgettable flavors and experiences. Come for the wine, stay for the memories!

The first and longest-running wine trail in America, Cayuga Lake Wine Trail offers a remarkable journey through the scenic Cayuga Lake AVA (American Viticultural Area). Established in 1983, this trail invites visitors to explore award-winning wineries, cideries, distilleries, a meadery, and a taproom, all set against stunning landscapes including Cayuga Lake, Taughannock Falls, and rolling vineyards. With over 6,000 national and international medals, the trail promises an unforgettable tasting experience that captures the heart and soul of New York State.

Open year-round and entirely dog-friendly, the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is more than just a destination—it’s a celebration of community, craftsmanship, and the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes. Once you’ve seen, tasted, and experienced all that the trail has to offer, you’re sure to fall in love with this unique and inviting corner of the wine world.

Signature Cayuga Lake Wine Trail Events

Ports of Call

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Bacon on the Lakein

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Wine & Herb

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View a full calendar of all wine trail and member winery events below.

The Keuka Lake Wine Trail invites visitors to explore what makes this destination unique.

Keuka Lake is home to a rich wine heritage, including the establishment of the first bonded winery in 1860 and the planting of the first Vinifera vines, which revitalized winemaking in the Finger Lakes Region.

Celebrating 30 years of history, diversity, and hospitality, the trail offers a diverse selection of wineries, catering to all tastes with a variety of Vinifera, Hybrid, and Native wines. Visitors can enjoy meeting winemakers, tasting acclaimed wines, and experiencing each winery’s unique charm, alongside shops, restaurants, and stunning views. Whether staying for a day, a week, or longer, Keuka Lake promises an unforgettable experience blending history, wine, and warm hospitality.

Signature Keuka Lake Wine Trail Events

Savoring Sweets

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Wine & Cheese Lovers

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Handcrafted Holiday

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View a full calendar of all wine trail and member winery events below.

Discover the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, nestled in the heart of Finger Lakes Wine Country.

Our 28 member wineries, each a gem in the Seneca Lake AVA (American Viticultural Area), craft exceptional cool climate wines that captivate the senses. As you explore, you’ll find more than just wine—each tasting room offers a welcoming atmosphere, breathtaking views, and an invitation to relax and savor the moment.

Look for our signature winery signs and embark on a journey where every sip tells the story of our unique terroir. Here, the wines are “Grown Here. Made Here.” and reflect the passion and dedication of our winemakers. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail offers an unforgettable experience. Come visit us and see why Seneca Lake is not just a destination, but a celebration of the very best in wine and hospitality.

Signature Seneca Lake Wine Trail Events

Spring Wine & Cheese

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Rosé in May Tasting Pass

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Smokin’ Summer Kickoff

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View a full calendar of all wine trail and member winery events below.

Our Wine Trails

Finger Lakes Wine Country covers 5 counties, 3 wine trails, and 3,065 square miles of endless possibility.

Finger Lakes Wine Country is home to three distinct wine trails, each offering exciting wine and food pairing events throughout the year. The events range in theme from chocolate to cheese, herbs to barbeque, harvest to holiday. All are fun, unique and affordable. Some events offer souvenir glasses, herb plants and holiday ornaments. Best of all? When you purchase a wine trail event ticket, unless otherwise specified, it is for use the entire event weekend. Additionally, all three wine trails individually offer passport programs.

Our Lakes

Finger Lakes Wine Country covers 5 counties, 3 wine trails, and 3,065 square miles of endless possibility.

The Finger Lakes: A Glacial Masterpiece Fueling a World-Class Wine Region

Finger Lakes Wine Country is ideal for grape growing, largely due to the crucial role of the lakes themselves, shaped by glaciers during the last Ice Age. These deep, narrow lakes regulate temperatures by absorbing heat during the day and releasing it at night, extending the growing season and protecting vines from frost. The surrounding steep slopes ensure excellent drainage and optimal sun exposure, while the mineral-rich soils left by the glaciers provide ideal conditions for vine growth. This combination of diverse terroir, cool climate, and the lakes’ moderating influence supports a wide range of grape varieties, especially Riesling and other high-acidity, aromatic wines, making the Finger Lakes a premier winemaking region.

Beyond grape growing, our pristine lakes offer endless opportunities for leisure and adventure. The iconic Finger Lakes provide stunning settings for swimming, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.

So, whether it’s sipping a Finger Lakes wine, taking a scenic lakeside drive, or diving into our beautiful waters, unforgettable experiences await you!

Seneca Lake

Seneca Lake is the largest of New York’s Finger Lakes. Measuring 38 miles long and 618 feet deep, its volume is estimated at 3.81 cubic miles—making it home to roughly half of the water in all the Finger Lakes!

Explore More:
Seneca Lake Wine Trail | Explore Watkins Glen | Finger Lakes Countrysides | Seneca Lake Scenic Byway

Keuka Lake

In contrast to the long, narrow shape of the other Finger Lakes, Keuka lake stands out for its unusual Y-shape. In the Seneca language, “keuka” means “canoe landing” … or “lake with an elbow”!

Explore More:
Keuka Lake Wine Trail | Explore Steuben | Finger Lakes Countrysides

Cayuga Lake

Cayuga Lake is the longest of New York’s Finger Lakes, stretching 38.1 miles from end to end. With a depth of up to 435 feet, it holds an estimated volume of 2.5 cubic miles of water, making it the second largest lake in the region.

Explore More:
Cayuga Lake Wine Trail | Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway & Blueway Trail

Our Parks & Trails

Finger Lakes Wine Country covers 5 counties, 3 wine trails, and 3,065 square miles of endless possibility.

Our Communities

Finger Lakes Wine Country covers 5 counties, 3 wine trails, and 3,065 square miles of endless possibility.

Explore Tioga County, where history meets hospitality and unique shopping awaits.

In Tioga County, you’ll find a range of convenient and affordable accommodation options, from historic inns to well-known chain hotels. Whether you’re strolling through charming small towns, trying your luck at Tioga Downs Casino Resort, or simply taking time for yourself and your family, you’ll make lasting memories while enjoying the simple pleasures this rural and historic county has to offer. Throughout the county, you’ll encounter independent shops, restaurants, farm stores, galleries, and scenic natural beauty, along with friendly faces wherever you go.

Shopping in Tioga County is not just about making purchases – it’s a delightful way to spend a day. Whether you are indulging in some retail therapy alone or enjoying quality time with friends and family, you can explore downtown shopping and dining districts or take a short drive through the countryside to visit local farm stores, outdoor stores, and antique shops. No matter where you end up, you’ll discover a variety of shops with unique offerings and friendly individuals ready to assist you.

Yates County is defined by its water, wine, and wilderness trifecta.

Surrounded by Canandaigua, Seneca, and Keuka Lake, it’s known for Keuka’s distinctive “Y” shape, the only lake in the US flowing north and south. Summers here are brimming with activities like fishing, boating, and swimming, thanks to Keuka’s warmer waters.

Home to over 30 wineries and boasting 5,000 acres of vineyards, Yates County is a wine enthusiast’s paradise. Explore the renowned wine trails of Keuka and Seneca to indulge in exquisite flavors amidst stunning scenery. Craft beer aficionados aren’t left out either, with delicious brews on tap.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Yates County offers a bounty of natural beauty to explore. The Keuka Outlet Trail, spanning seven miles, welcomes hikers, bikers, equestrians, and winter sports enthusiasts. Amidst picturesque countryside, discover roadside produce stands, charming markets, and pristine Mennonite farms, perfect for finding handcrafted goods and collectibles.

Welcome to Chemung County, where every corner is alive with history, culture, and natural beauty.

Nestled in the heart of New York State, our county offers a tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. From the vibrant streets of Elmira to the serene landscapes that stretch across the region, there’s something for every traveler to discover.

Explore the rich history of our county at the Chemung Valley History Museum, where exhibits chronicle the stories of our past. Visit the John W. Jones Museum and learn about the courageous journey of John W. Jones and his role in the Underground Railroad. Step into the world of literature at Mark Twain’s octagonal study, or hike the Mark Twain Trail at the Tanglewood Nature Center to immerse yourself in the same landscapes that inspired his timeless tales.

For art enthusiasts, the Arnot Art Museum showcases a stunning collection of works spanning centuries, while the Clemens Center for Performing Arts hosts captivating performances year-round. And for those seeking adventure, Harris Hill Soaring offers the chance to take to the skies in a glider, soaring high above the rolling hills and picturesque valleys that define our county.

In Schuyler County, there is something special at every turn.

Watkins Glen and Schuyler County are located on the southern shore of beautiful Seneca Lake in the heart of Finger Lakes Wine Country. Our area is a premier destination for outdoor adventure, world-class wine and craft beverages, and adrenaline-pumping professional road racing. Unique, one-of-a-kind experiences are our specialty and you will never be disappointed with the beautiful sites, flavors, and people you will meet along the way!

Watkins Glen and Schuyler County can best be described as the place where Mother Nature meets Main Street. With dozens of waterfalls, miles upon miles of hiking trails, and parks and paths around seemingly every corner – there is no shortage of things to see and do in our outdoors.

Steuben County is a destination of innovation, of people leading the way. We’re known for many things, but especially for glass, wine, Keuka Lake, and exceptional outdoor fun.

Steuben is the birthplace of Finger Lakes Wine. The first grapes in the region were planted in Hammondsport in 1829, the first bonded winery in the U.S. and first American winery to win awards in Europe for sparkling wine was founded there in 1860, and the Vinifera Revolution kicked off there nearly a century later. Did you know the same small town was also the Hotspot for early aviation experimentation and advancement in the U.S. and has been called the “cradle of aviation” thanks to the contributions of local aviator and tinkerer Glenn Curtiss.

Keuka Lake, the only Finger Lakes lake not shaped like a finger, stands out for its stunning beauty as well as its role in the wine history of the region. Just down the road you’ll find “America’s Crystal City.” Known today for innovations in glass science and technology that have become an indelible part of everyday life (from Pyrex to fiber optics), the town of Corning and the glass company that bears its name add sparkle to the region with fun annual events and the world’s largest museum dedicated to glass.