Finger Lakes Attractions

Finger Lakes Hotel – Fun Things to Do

Travel to the Finger Lakes Region in Upstate New York and you’ll always have plenty of fun things to do. Stay at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Vineyard Inn and Suites and you’ll be within easy recreational reach of many famous tourist attractions like Watkins Glen Raceway and the Corning Museum of Glass. Of course, that’s just the beginning of what our neighborhood has to offer. Here’s a list of our top ten favorite things to do:

Watkins Glen State Park. Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks. It is filled with cascading waterfalls, trails, picnic facilities, and excellent fishing. For more information, visit http://nysparks.state.ny.us/parks/info.asp?parkID=105

Bristol Mountain Ski Resort. Bristol Mountain has the highest vertical (1200 feet) of any ski resort between the Catskills and the Rockies. There are 32 slopes and trails for beginners, intermediate skiers, and future Bode Millers. In addition, there is one 425-foot half pipe with 12-foot-high walls-extremely difficult, to say the least. For more information, visit www.bristolmountain.com.

The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum. On July 4, 1908, Glenn H. Curtiss flew his flying machine (“June Bug”) more than 5000 feet to win the Scientific American Trophy. This was the first pre-announced, public flight in America, which earned him pilot’s license # 1. A full-sized reproduction of the “June Bug” is one of several historic aircraft on display at the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum. For more information, visit www.glennhcurtissmuseum.org.

The Windmill Farm and Craft Market. Beginning with roughly 100 vendors, The Windmill serves as an outlet for local producers and craftsmen. Now in its 25th year, The Windmill now plays host to nearly 200 shops and craftsmen, boasting everything from farm-fresh produce to an on-site Chiropractor. You’re sure to find something for everyone. Many folks start the day at The Windmill with a hearty breakfast, pick up some fresh produce then set out to explore the many shops. Later, they enjoy a horse and buggy ride, take in a free show, finishing off with a relaxing lunch in a mini pine tree forest. Sidewalks are found throughout the market, ensuring easy maneuverability for strollers and wheelchairs. Flower gardens also add a touch of beauty. Visit www.thewindmill.com.

Roseland Waterpark. A 27,000 square-foot ocean simulator with a beach entrance, the Giant Wavepool is Roseland’s most popular attraction. Others include Splash Factory, Mammoth Raft Ride, Speed and Tube Slides and Adventure River. Non-water fun can be had as well. Beach volleyball, horseshoes, and bocce ball are available upon request free of charge. For more information, visit www.roselandwaterpark.com.

Watkins Glen International – a.k.a. “The Glen”. The Glen is an auto race track located in Watkins Glen, NY, at the southern end of Seneca Lake. In the fall, The Glen is the site of the Finger Lakes Wine Festival. For more information, visit www.theglen.com.

Corning Museum of Glass. Enjoy the world’s best collection of art and historical glass at the Corning Museum of Glass. Explore more than 45,000 objects, which trace 3,500 years of glassmaking history. Experience live, narrated glassblowing demonstrations. Purchase glass treasures from around the world at the 18,000 square-foot Glass Market. For more information, visit www.cmog.org.

Sonnenberg Gardens. Discover early Twentieth Century horticultural and architectural styles-along with lifestyles of the rich and famous-at Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion Historic State Park in Canandaigua. Explore the mansion and stroll along the garden-filled grounds of this Victorian estate, which was the summer home of Canandaigua benefactors Frederick Ferris and Mary Clark Thompson. For more information, visit www.sonnenberg.org.

Reservoir Creek Golf Course. This course is located in Naples, NY amidst the cascading hills of wine country. The owner, Diane Kochendorfer, and her team thoughtfully constructed the course as to “lay the course gently on the land.” The natural change in elevation, large undulating greens, and combination links-style course makes this 6,300-yard par 71 layouts enjoyable to all. Make your tee time today. Visit www.rcgolf.com.

Shopping. Finger Lakes Wine Country is a destination rich in unique shopping. shop the boutiques lining Canandaigua’s Main Street or find great name brand bargains at The Waterloo Premium Outlet. Many of the local wineries also house gift shops; perfect for all things wine.

Finger Lakes Premier Properties is the largest lakeside vacation rental company in the Finger Lakes. If you are planning an extended stay, it has a large selection of Finger Lakes vacation rentals, offering a selection of homes from cozy cottages to luxury mansions. Their properties are located on Honeoye, Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Conesus, and Cayuga Lakes, and can be rented by the week, by the month, or just for a few days, depending on the time of year. They also sell lakeside homes.