Celebrating July 4th in the Finger Lakes
Most of the annual July 4th celebrations including large events and parades have been canceled in the Finger Lakes region due to the COVID-19 restrictions. But that doesn’t mean we can’t still celebrate our pride for the USA.
For those seeking greater experiences, we’ve provided our recommendations for creating new patriotic traditions for celebrating July 4th in the Finger Lakes.
Booking the Hotel
The dates surrounding the July 4th weekend are the most popular of the year for booking a lakefront vacation rental. With family travel plans being diverted this year because of COVID-19, you may still have a chance to secure the perfect suite to enjoy a Finger Lakes Independence Day, but book soon!
It’s all about the amenities
Get more out of your vacation by taking advantages of the additional amenities that come with staying at the Vineyard Inn and Suites. Many of our suites come with perks such as kayaks (non-motorized watercraft) and hot tubs. These amenities can be found on the amenities section of our website.
More ways to get on the lake
Local marinas can help you get out on the lake with rentals of boats, kayaks, and any accessory you need to enjoy the water during your stay. Like our rooms and suites, these will also be reserved well in advance for the busy holiday weekend so please plan accordingly.
Click Here for Marinas and Boat Rentals
For expert help on creating the perfect Independence Day getaway, contact our local front desk agents who are familiar with the are and whats happening.
Plan Ahead for Easy, Delicious, and Festive Meals
In today’s digital world it is easier than ever to see which restaurants are open. Check their website, Facebook or give them a call. Some restaurants have OPENED for take out, delivery, and outside dining. Please check with the venue before arriving for their new policies. Click here for restaurant resources.
Creative Ways for a Memorable Holiday
There is no doubt this will be one of the most memorable Independence Day’s in our Nation’s history. Make the most of social distancing by celebrating with a small group of your closest family and friends. Here are some of our guest’s favorite ways to celebrate in the Finger Lakes:
- Rent a boat or kayak from a local marina and spend your day on the lake
- Decorate your car in red, white, and blue and drive around Keuka Lake taking in the scenery
- Walk around the Windmill Farm & Craft Market
- Order your picnic from a local restaurant and take it to one of the many lakeside parks to swim and celebrate with no hassle
- Pick up your favorite craft beverages
- Watch the fireworks from Branchport on July 4th at 10 pm from your car
- Enjoy dinner and a sunset from one of the many lakeside restaurants on Keuka Lake
- roast s’mores around the campfire at the hotel, purchase sparklers for an extra fun flare for the kids
Explore the Finger Lakes Responsibly
Parks, Trails and Waterfalls
Be aware that without the annual festivals and events, our popular parks will likely be busier than usual with locals and travelers all seeking a memorable holiday weekend. If you are staying through the week, planning on visiting these locations during a week day may be an option for less traffic. And although most parks have reopened, there are restrictions and new guidelines. Always research the venue prior to getting into the car to avoid closures.
For resources on finding trails and parks, visit:
Beverage Experience Seekers
Our region is hoping to be in Phase 3 of New York State’s reopening plan by June 12th, which includes tasting rooms across our wine trails and craft brew trail. However, each day is different and we cannot guarantee the availability of visiting tasting rooms. One thing is certain, tasting room policies, procedures and experiences will be much different this year with new protocols in place to keep staff and patrons safe.
As of right now, most tasting rooms are offering pick up, delivery, and outdoor sipping options of your favorite craft drinks. While we understand it isn’t the same experience, perhaps picking up bottles of fresh vintages and enjoying them at a lakeside park may not be the worst way to celebrating July 4th in the Finger Lakes. Or depending on the winery/brewery you may be able to enjoy a glass or share a bottle with your travel buddy with a lake view from the vineyard.
Below are links to the beverage trails for you to get the most current information on what will be available during your visit to the Finger Lakes.
Plan a Lakeside Celebration for Another Time
Without the organized events and parades this year, who says you can’t create your own festive vacation on a different weekend of the summer. This will also provide you with more flexible dates with possible lower rates to get more out of your next vacation.
Don’t forget to take a peak at our packages page for enhancing your holiday vacation.
If your reason for visiting the Finger Lakes includes must-have experiences such as wine tasting, museum touring, or sitting down at your favorite restaurant, stay up to date on the New York State’s Phases for reopening by visiting our COVID page and Local Resource Page.