09 Jan 2026
Welcome to the Finger Lakes, a New York region made up of 11 pristine lakes that were formed by glaciers.This unique region is known for its incredible winemaking, home to more than 130 wineries specializing in Rieslings and Cabernet Francs, but producing all types! Additionally, the area burgeons incredible outdoor experiences with more than 200 waterfalls to explore in natural wonders. History exudes itself in the Finger Lakes as the birthplace of the Women's Suffrage Movement, along with the chosen hometown of Harriet Tubman. The Finger Lakes are filled with incredible picturesque views, moving history, charming towns and unique culinary delights. The region is accessible by car, Amtrak, bus or a quick flight to your next unforgettable vacation.
SIP YOUR WAY THROUGH THE FINGER LAKES
Decant this unique wine region that sommeliers are calling a must-visit. While winemaking has run continuously in the region since the 1800s,
today's vinifera movement is thanks to Dr. Konstantin Frank. The area is the country's largest wine-producing region east of the Mississippi and was named '2025 American Wine Region of the Year' by Wine Enthusiast. The region is also known for its ice wine harvests and is home to five specific wine trails for visitors to explore. Craft beer lovers will find over 70 local breweries around the region, along with innovative distilleries and cideries - Wayne County is New York's largest apple-producer!
HISTORICAL STOPS
Step back in time through the Finger Lakes where visitors can take in the locations that have cultivated who we are as a country today. Start in Auburn, Harriet Tubman's chosen hometown and her resting site, to explore the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park. In Elmira, visit where Mark Twain penned his most famous literary works and his resting site. Hammondsport is home to Glenn H. Curtiss Aviation Museum which outlines the life and accomplishments of the man who had the first publicly observed flight in America. Learn about the work of Susan B. Anthony at the National Susan B. Anthony Museum and Home in Rochester, where she was arrested in 1872. While in Rochester, explore the work of abolitionist Fredrick Douglass, as the city was his longest home and resting site. Other major museums include The Women's Rights National Historical Park, The Strong National Museum of Play, Matilda Joslyn Gage Center, Corning Museum of Glass, The Rockwell Museum and the National Soaring Museum.
EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS
There is no shortage of stunning views across the Finger Lakes. Thanks to glacier formations, the area is home to more than 200 waterfalls and gorges, along with the signature lakes, perfect for fishing. Take off on a hot air balloon over the 'Grand Canyon of the East', Letchworth State Park, or experience Taughannock Falls - three stories taller than Niagara Falls. Walkable gorges like Watkins Glen State Park or Stony Brook offer a unique up-close look at these natural wonders. Take in the Finger Lakes from the sky with a glider ride in Elmira, America's Soaring Capital. There is year-round fun to be had with world-class skiing and tubing at places like Greek Peak Resort or Bristol Mountain Adventures. Explore lesser-known outdoor activities and resources here.
WHAT'S NEW IN 2026
Opened in October 2025 is the Skaneateles Fields Resort & Spa, an 89-room resort located on almost 100 acres located right outside of Syracuse. Skaneateles Fields is situated next to Tap Root Fields, a sustainable produce/flower/herb farm used to supply the hotel's Field Restaurant, the resort's several bars and store items. The on-site spa features an infrared hot studio, Peloton bikes, outdoor saunas and a Himalayan salt room. The hotel also has pickleball and bocce ball courts, and both an indoor and outdoor (all-season) pool. Shuttle services will be provided to the nearby quaint village of Skaneateles as well! In other hotel news, The Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa was the recent recipient of a Michelin Key, the Finger Lakes region's first hotel to earn this distinction. Tanglewood Nature Center is adding a canopy walkway in 2026 - 70 feet above the forest floor and ADA accessible. The $4.5 million dollar project is being consulted by Meg Lowman, a world-famous canopy expert from Elmira, NY. Saunders Finger Lakes Museum will be opening a new building in 2027. With an exterior designed to mimic the shape of the hills, the new building interior will feature interpretive exhibits about the nature, culture and experiences of the Finger Lakes Region.