Auburn (New York) Travel Guide

Discover the best of Auburn, New York – from historical landmarks to natural wonders – and experience its vibrant cultural scene and delectable local cuisine.


Auburn (New York) is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Eastern Finger Lakes region of New York. It is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you are a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, there is something for everyone in this charming city. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a tour of Auburn (New York) and show you all the top places to visit, things to do, and where to eat, stay, and play.

Introduction to Auburn (New York)

Auburn (New York) is a small but thriving city located in the Finger Lakes region of New York state, about an hour’s drive from Syracuse. It boasts a rich history, having served as the birthplace of notable figures such as William H. Seward and Harriet Tubman. The city is also known for its scenic natural beauty, including rolling hills, serene lakes, and acres of verdant forests. Auburn (New York) is the perfect destination for those looking to explore the great outdoors while also immersing themselves in cultural experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Auburn (New York)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • (1) Harriet Tubman Home (2) Seward House Museum (3) Cayuga Museum of History and Art (4) Schweinfurth Art Center (5) Ward W. O’Hara Agricultural & Country Living Museum (6) Willard Memorial Chapel (7) Auburn Public Theater (8) Fort Hill Cemetery

Auburn (New York) is steeped in history, and there are several museums, historical sites, and landmarks that you can visit. One of the most notable is the Harriet Tubman Home, the residence of the renowned abolitionist and civil rights activist. You can take a guided tour of the property and learn about Tubman’s life, mission, and legacy. Another notable attraction is the Seward House Museum, which was the former home of William H. Seward, Lincoln’s secretary of state. The museum features original furnishings, artifacts, and documents that offer a glimpse into the life of this prominent political figure.

Natural Attractions of Auburn (New York): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • (1) Owasco Lake (2) Emerson Park (3) Hoopes Park (4) Auburn-Fleming Trail (hiking and biking trail) (5) Falcon Park (baseball stadium) (6) Montezuma Wildlife Refuge (7) Skaneateles Lake

Auburn (New York) is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, boating, and fishing. Owasco Lake and Skaneateles Lake offer breathtaking scenery and ample opportunities for water sports and relaxation. You can also visit Emerson Park, which features a beach, a tennis court, and a playground. If you prefer hiking and biking, the Auburn-Fleming Trail is a great option that offers scenic views of the city and countryside. For wildlife lovers, the Montezuma Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination, with over 10,000 acres of wetlands and forested habitats that are home to a diverse array of species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Auburn (New York)

  • (1) Auburn-Fleming Trail (2) Hoopes Park Trail (3) Merry-Go-Round Playhouse Trail

Auburn (New York) is a hub for hiking and biking enthusiasts, and there are several trails and routes that you can explore. The Auburn-Fleming Trail is a popular option, offering a scenic route along the Owasco River and through small towns and rural landscapes. The Hoopes Park Trail is a shorter trail that winds through the park and offers picturesque views of the lake. If you are interested in exploring the city’s cultural scene, the Merry-Go-Round Playhouse Trail combines biking with a visit to the renowned theater.

Best Things to Do in Auburn (New York): Activities and Tours

  • (1) Go on a Wine Tour (2) Visit a Farm (3) Attend a Festival (4) Take a Ghost Tour (5) Go on a Brewery Tour (6) Attend a Music Concert or Theater Performance (7) Take a Scenic Drive

Auburn (New York) is not just rich in history and natural beauty but also offers several activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Wine tours are a popular option, with various wineries and vineyards located in and around the city. You can also visit a farm and pick your own produce, attend a festival, or take a ghost tour to learn about the city’s haunted history. For beer lovers, brewery tours are available, showcasing local craft beers and their brewing process. If you enjoy the arts, you can attend a music concert or theater performance at the Auburn Public Theater. And if you prefer a more leisurely experience, take a scenic drive through the countryside to admire the fall foliage or spring blooms.

Week-Long Itinerary for Auburn (New York)

  • (1) Day 1 – Visit the Harriet Tubman Home, Seward House Museum, and Auburn Public Theater (2) Day 2 – Hike or bike the Auburn-Fleming Trail, visit Emerson Park, and take a scenic drive (3) Day 3 – Attend a music concert or theater performance at the Auburn Public Theater, followed by a local food crawl (4) Day 4 – Visit the Cayuga Museum of History and Art and the Schweinfurth Art Center (5) Day 5 – Take a wine tour and visit a local farm (6) Day 6 – Explore the Montezuma Wildlife Refuge and nearby Skaneateles Lake (7) Day 7 – Take a ghost tour and visit Fort Hill Cemetery

If you are planning to stay in Auburn (New York) for a week, there is plenty to see and do. You can start your trip by visiting the Harriet Tubman Home, Seward House Museum, and Auburn Public Theater before embarking on a scenic hike or bike ride along the Auburn-Fleming Trail or a visit to Emerson Park. On Day Three, attend a music concert or theater performance at the Auburn Public Theater and then embark on a local food crawl to discover the city’s diverse cuisine. On Day Four, visit the Cayuga Museum of History and Art and the Schweinfurth Art Center to appreciate Auburn’s cultural scene. Day Five is all about discovering the local wine and farm scene, while Day Six is dedicated to exploring nature through the Montezuma Wildlife Refuge and Skaneateles Lake. Round out your trip with a ghost tour and visit to Fort Hill Cemetery for a chilling but intriguing final day.

Food and Drink Scene of Auburn (New York)

Must-Try Dishes

  • (1) Chicken Riggies (2) Salt Potatoes (3) Garbage Plate (4) Grape Pie (5) Finger Lakes Wine

Auburn (New York) is a hub for gastronomic delights, combining local and international cuisine in exciting ways. One of the most popular dishes in the area is Chicken Riggies, a pasta dish made with spicy tomato cream sauce and chicken. Salt Potatoes are another local favorite, boiled potatoes served with melted butter and salt. If you are feeling adventurous, try the Garbage Plate, a dish with several components such as meat, potatoes, macaroni salad, and hot sauce. For dessert, try the delicious Grape Pie, made from locally grown grapes. Don’t forget to sample Finger Lakes Wine, with several vineyards and wineries located in and around the city.

Local Beverages

  • (1) Finger Lakes Wine (2) Apple Cider (3) Craft Beer

Auburn (New York) has several local beverages that you should try during your visit. Finger Lakes Wine is a must-try, with several vineyards and wineries producing delicious varieties of reds, whites, and rosés. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, try the local apple cider, perfect for fall weather. Craft Beer is also emerging as a popular drink choice for locals and visitors alike, with several breweries producing unique and tasty brews.

Where to Stay in Auburn (New York): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • (1) Hilton Garden Inn Auburn (2) Days Inn by Wyndham Auburn/Finger Lakes Region (3) 10 Fitch Inn (4) Auburn Inn (5) Springside Inn (6) Skaneateles Suites Boutique Hotel

Auburn (New York) has several accommodation options to fit your budget and preferences. If you are looking for a luxury stay, 10 Fitch Inn and Auburn Inn are excellent choices, with elegant rooms and exceptional service. For a more budget-friendly option, days Inn By Wyndham Auburn/Finger Lakes Region offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. If you prefer a quaint bed and breakfast-style stay, Springside Inn and Skaneateles Suites Boutique Hotel offer charming rooms and personalized service.

What to Buy in Auburn (New York): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • (1) Finger Lakes Wine (2) Maple Syrup (3) Local Artwork (4) Finger Lakes Cheese (5) Harriet Tubman Memorabilia

Auburn (New York) offers several souvenirs and local products to bring home to your loved ones. Finger Lakes Wine is a great gift, with several vineyards and wineries producing tasty and unique varieties of wine. Local maple syrup is another popular product, made from locally sourced sap and perfect for pancakes and waffles. If you are looking for local artwork, stop by the Schweinfurth Art Center or Cayuga Museum of History and Art to browse the work of talented local artists. Finger Lakes Cheese is another treat that you can bring home, with several varieties of cheese available at local markets. Lastly, for a more historically significant souvenir, Harriet Tubman memorabilia can be found at the Harriet Tubman Home.

Local Culture and Customs of Auburn (New York)

Auburn (New York) is a welcoming and friendly city, where cultural diversity is celebrated. The city is proud of its history and heritage, and visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions. The city’s community spirit is reflected in its festivals and events held throughout the year, bringing locals and visitors together to enjoy music, food, and fun.

Best Time to Visit Auburn (New York)

The best time to visit Auburn (New York) is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. The city hosts several festivals and events during these seasons, making it an exciting time to explore the city’s cultural scene. However, if you are interested in water sports or activities, summer is the best time to visit, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

Do’s and Don’ts of Auburn (New York)

Do:

  • (1) Respect local customs and traditions (2) Attend local events and festivals (3) Try local cuisine and beverages (4) Take care of the environment

Don’t:

  • (1) Litter or damage natural habitats (2) Disrespect residents or landmarks (3) Stray off designated hiking or biking trails

Safety and Health

Safety in Auburn (New York)

Auburn (New York) is a safe city, but visitors are encouraged to take precautions such as locking car doors and avoiding secluded areas at night. Visitors should also be wary of scams and pickpockets in tourist areas. In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Health in Auburn (New York)

Auburn (New York) has several medical facilities, including urgent care centers and hospitals, to address any health concerns that visitors may have. Visitors are advised to take precautions against insect bites in wooded areas and practice safe food handling to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Getting to Auburn (New York): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Auburn (New York)

The closest airport to Auburn (New York) is Syracuse Hancock International Airport, located about 45 minutes from the city. The airport offers several domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Auburn (New York)

Auburn (New York) is served by several bus companies, including Greyhound and Trailways, with services to and from major cities in the Northeast.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Auburn (New York) by car, with several highways and interstates connecting the city to major cities in the region. There are also several rental car companies available at both the airport and in the city for visitors who prefer to drive themselves.

How to Get Around in Auburn (New York)

Auburn (New York) is a small city that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. There are also several taxi and ridesharing services available. Visitors can also rent a car or join a guided tour to explore the city and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Auburn (New York): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • (1) Seneca Falls (25 minutes by car) (2) Skaneateles (20 minutes by car) (3) Ithaca (1 hour by car) (4) Syracuse (45 minutes by car) (5) Rochester (1 hour and 15 minutes by car)

Auburn (New York) is a great base for exploring nearby destinations and excursions. Seneca Falls is a charming town known for its historic landmarks and natural beauty. Skaneateles is another popular destination, with a beautiful lake and charming downtown area. Ithaca is a college town known for its gorges and waterfalls, while Syracuse is a bustling city with a vibrant food and arts scene. Lastly, Rochester is another nearby city known for its history and cultural diversity.

Conclusion

Auburn (New York) is a city that offers something for everyone, with its rich history, natural beauty, and exciting cultural scene. You can explore historic landmarks, hike scenic trails, attend local festivals, and indulge in the city’s delicious cuisine. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or a week, Auburn (New York) is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Auburn City Hall Auburn City Hall Phoenix Building Phoenix Building Westminster Presbyterian Church, where Harriet Tubman was married Westminster Presbyterian Church, where Harriet Tubman was married Auburn Doubledays game Falcon Park Auburn Auburn Doubledays game Falcon Park Auburn 174 Genesee Street 174 Genesee Street Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged