If you’re looking for a road trip with epic waterfalls, amazing wineries, and small towns that feel straight out of a postcard, the Finger Lakes is the place to go.
This region in upstate New York is packed with scenic drives, lakeside views, and some of the best food and drinks you’ll find in the state.
You can hike through a gorge, sip wine at a historic estate, and snack on homemade ice cream—all on the same day.
Whether you’re here for the outdoor adventures, the laid-back lake life, or just an excuse to hit the road and explore, this itinerary will take you to all the best stops.
1. Ithaca
Ithaca is a cool little college town in upstate New York, right at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, and it’s packed with hiking trails and a fun, artsy vibe.
Cornell University sits up on a hill overlooking the town, and its campus has amazing views, historic buildings, and even its own suspension bridge over a deep gorge.
If you’re up for some outdoor adventure, Buttermilk Falls State Park is just a few minutes away, with a steep but gorgeous hiking trail that takes you past a bunch of waterfalls and natural pools.
Ithaca is also known for its farmers’ market, funky downtown shops, and the famous slogan “Ithaca is Gorges,” because, well… it literally is!
2. Taughannock Falls State Park
Just a short drive from Ithaca, Taughannock Falls State Park is home to one of the most jaw-dropping waterfalls in the Finger Lakes.
Taughannock Falls drops an incredible 215 feet—making it taller than Niagara Falls—straight down a massive rock cliff.
You can take the easy, mostly flat Gorge Trail to the base of the falls for an up-close view, or hike the Rim Trail for stunning vistas.
Whether you’re here for a quick photo stop or an entire afternoon of trekking and picnicking, this park will make you stop and say, “Wow.”
3. Finger Lakes Cider House
After all that hiking, you’ve definitely earned a cider break, and Finger Lakes Cider House is the perfect spot to kick back and relax.
Located on a beautiful farm overlooking Cayuga Lake, this place serves up small-batch, craft ciders made from apples grown right on-site.
You can grab a tasting flight to try everything from dry ciders to wild-fermented ones, all while hanging out on their patio with a view of rolling hills and orchards.
If you’re hungry, they also have farm-fresh snacks like cheese boards and sandwiches, making it an ideal place to slow down.
4. Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery
If you’re more of a wine person, head over to Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery, one of the oldest and most well-loved wineries in the Finger Lakes.
Situated on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake, this family-run spot has been making wine for over 40 years and offers everything from crisp Rieslings to bold reds.
You can sip a few drinks on their deck with a lovely lake view or check out their brewery next door if you’re in the mood for craft beer instead.
With live music nights, a laid-back atmosphere, and some of the best wine in the region, Wagner is the kind of place where you’ll want to stick around for a while.
5. Geneva
Heading north along Seneca Lake, you’ll find Geneva, a charming small city with historic architecture and a lively food scene.
One of the most unique spots here is Belhurst Castle and Winery, a gorgeous 19th-century castle that’s been turned into a winery, hotel, and restaurant.
You can do a wine tasting inside the castle, stroll the lakefront grounds, or even book a room if you’re feeling fancy and want to hear a few ghost stories.
Between the lake views, the local restaurants, and the history, Geneva is the perfect mix for both upscale and casual experiences.
6. Canandaigua
Keep heading west, and you’ll hit Canandaigua, a beautiful lakefront town that’s known for its friendly community, local art, and plenty of ways to enjoy nature.
The Canandaigua Lake waterfront is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or just chilling on the pier with an ice cream.
If you’re into history, check out Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion, a stunning estate with sprawling flower gardens and a grand old mansion to explore.
And if you time it right, you can catch a show at CMAC, an outdoor concert venue that brings in big-name artists with an incredible sunset backdrop over the lake.
7. Penn Yan
From Canandaigua, take a scenic drive to Penn Yan, a laid-back town at the northern tip of Keuka Lake that combines farm country and lake life.
One stop you can’t skip is Seneca Farms (closes over the winter, re-opens in March), a roadside spot that serves up crispy fried chicken and homemade ice cream that locals swear by.
Grab a cone (the peanut butter chip is a fan favorite), then take a walk down the Keuka Outlet Trail, a peaceful path that follows an old canal and leads to hidden waterfalls.
Penn Yan has a slower, small-town feel, making it the perfect place to take a breather before heading to your next Finger Lakes adventure.
8. Garrett Memorial Chapel
Tucked away on a quiet hill above Keuka Lake, Garrett Memorial Chapel is a hidden gem that takes you into another world.
This stone chapel was built in the 1930s and has incredible stained glass windows, gardens, and one of the best panoramic views of the lake.
It’s a bit off the beaten path, but the drive-up is totally worth it, especially if you’re looking for a quiet spot to snap a few photos.
This little chapel offers history, architecture, and a good scenic overlook, making it a peaceful stop on your Finger Lakes road trip.
9. Hammondsport
Heading down to the southern tip of Keuka Lake, you’ll find Hammondsport, a tiny town with a big reputation for wine and aviation history.
One of the famous stops here is Pleasant Valley Wine Co., the oldest winery in the Finger Lakes.
Here you can tour underground stone cellars and taste wines that have been made here since the 1860s.
After that, wander through the town square, which is packed with local shops and cafés, or check out the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, dedicated to the local aviation pioneer who helped invent modern flight.
With its rich past, local flavors, and small-town appeal, Hammondsport is where you’ll show up for a quick visit and end up staying for the whole afternoon.
10. Watkins Glen State Park
Just when you think the Finger Lakes can’t get any more scenic, Watkins Glen State Park comes along and completely blows you away.
This place looks like something out of a fantasy movie, with a winding stone path that takes you past 19 waterfalls, including one you can actually walk behind.
The Gorge Trail is the main attraction, with stone bridges, moss-covered cliffs, and misty cascades that make every turn feel like a new discovery.
Whether you hike the whole trail or just stop by for a quick waterfall view, Watkins Glen is a must-see spot that makes you fall in love with the Finger Lakes.
11. Montour Falls
Just a few minutes down the road from Watkins Glen, Montour Falls is a small village with big waterfall energy—literally.
Right in the middle of town, you’ll find the 156-foot Shequaga Falls that cascades down a rock face behind a little park, making it one of the easiest waterfalls to see without hiking.
The village itself has a historic charm, with old brick buildings, tree-lined streets, and a peaceful, tucked-away feel that makes it a nice contrast to the busier spots nearby.
If you have time, take a drive up to Havana Glen Park to check out Eagle Cliff Falls, a smaller but equally beautiful waterfall hidden in a rocky gorge.
12. Corning
Heading southwest, Corning is a cool little city best known for one thing—glass, and lots of it.
The Corning Museum of Glass is the star attraction, with mind-blowing glass art, ancient glass artifacts, and live glassblowing demos where you can watch molten glass get shaped into something amazing.
If you’re feeling creative, you can even sign up for a workshop and make your own souvenir, whether it’s an ornament, a flower, or a paperweight.
After the museum, take a stroll down Market Street, where you’ll find historic buildings, cute cafés, and some of the best shopping in the Finger Lakes.
Related Posts
