How to Visit Seneca Lake in New York

Summer is always spectacular in Seneca Lake. Scenic and packed with great wining and dining options, this gorgeous Finger Lakes region of New York State, often called “One of America’s Great Hideaways,” is a dreamy destination whether you’re enjoying a family vacation or a romantic escape. With a mix of charming towns, historic sites, water sports, beautiful vineyards and picturesque wineries, there is a bundle of delights for everyone.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Casual clothing
• Jacket for evening
• Comfortable shoes
• Camera
• Film

1. Take a winery tour. There are more than 20 wineries in the Seneca Lake region, home to such wineries as Glenora, Woodbury, Prejean, Chateau Lafayette-Reneau, Anthony Road and New Land. You can either sample the wines or just take in the scenery.

2. Have some fun celebrating the Seneca Lake Whale Watch. It’s one of the most anticipated festivals of the year filled with plenty of family activities, entertainment and great food. In the summer, strawberries, cherries and peaches are among some of the most popular fruits in the region.

3. Discover a blend of pleasures old and new in the wine country town of Geneva, located at the northern end of Seneca Lake. It is a popular vacation spot with a number of attractions, excellent restaurants and shops. Get a feel for the town’s past along South Main Street where you will see historic federal-style homes and gorgeous old trees that make the neighborhood pretty as a picture.

4. Rent a bike and pedal past wine country or take the family for a scenic boat ride. The 35-mile Seneca Lake connects to the New York State Erie Canal System and Cayuga Lakes, offering plenty of waterways to explore. Or, do some fishing. This region provides some of the best fishing in the northeast. In fact, some of the largest lake trout in the world can be found in Seneca Lake.

5. Explore some area attractions. The Smith Opera House hosts many famous musicians, and also houses several theater and dance productions. Plan a visit the Rose Hill Mansion, a national historic landmark overlooking Seneca Lake. Other options include the Finger Lakes Regional Arts Council, a historic theater since 1894; Belhurst Castle, a Richardsonian Romanesque building, now an inn and restaurant; and just about 10 miles away in Seneca Falls, you'll find the Women's Rights National Historic Park, the famous site of the first Women's Rights Convention in 1848, led by Susan B. Anthony.

Resources

• Seneca Lake Wine website

[danielinwny]

on 9/30/2009 the best wineries in New York State!