Finger Lakes Apple Country Travel Guide
A comprehensive travel guide to Finger Lakes Apple Country, featuring must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, local customs, and logistics.
- Introduction to Finger Lakes Apple Country
- List of Places to Visit in Finger Lakes Apple Country
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Finger Lakes Apple Country
- Best Things to Do in Finger Lakes Apple Country: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Finger Lakes Apple Country
- Food and Drink Scene of Finger Lakes Apple Country
- Where to Stay in Finger Lakes Apple Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Finger Lakes Apple Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Finger Lakes Apple Country
- Best Time to Visit Finger Lakes Apple Country
- Do’s and Don’ts of Finger Lakes Apple Country
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Finger Lakes Apple Country: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Finger Lakes Apple Country
- Where to Go Next from Finger Lakes Apple Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Finger Lakes Apple Country
Finger Lakes Apple Country is a scenic region located in the heart of New York State, known for its abundant apple orchards, serene landscapes, and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. The region encompasses 6 counties – Cayuga, Wayne, Ontario, Monroe, Orleans, and Yates – and is home to over 20 apple varieties grown on more than 6,000 acres of land.
List of Places to Visit in Finger Lakes Apple Country
Finger Lakes Apple Country offers a plethora of exciting attractions, from cultural landmarks to natural wonders. Here are some of the must-visit destinations:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- George Eastman Museum
- Women’s Rights National Historical Park
- National Soaring Museum
- Seward House Museum
- Corning Museum of Glass
Natural Attractions of Finger Lakes Apple Country: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Watkins Glen State Park
- Letchworth State Park
- Seneca Lake Wine Trail
- Taughannock Falls State Park
- Chimney Bluffs State Park
Hiking/Biking Routes of Finger Lakes Apple Country
Finger Lakes Apple Country is a perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best trails to explore:
- Keuka Lake Outlet Trail
- Cayuga-Seneca Canal Trail
- Lehigh Valley Trail
- Erie Canalway Trail
- Finger Lakes Trail
Best Things to Do in Finger Lakes Apple Country: Activities and Tours
- Apple picking at Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards
- Hot Air Balloon rides with Liberty Balloon Company
- Wine tasting at Fox Run Vineyards
- Boat tour on the Erie Canal with Sam Patch Tour Boat
- Zip lining at Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures
Week-Long Itinerary for Finger Lakes Apple Country
Day 1: Visit Watkins Glen State Park and hike the Gorge Trail, followed by wine tasting at Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards. Day 2: Explore nearby wineries on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and stop at Taughannock Falls State Park for a scenic hike. Day 3: Take a hot air balloon ride with Liberty Balloon Company, followed by a visit to the George Eastman Museum in Rochester. Day 4: Spend a day on the Erie Canal with Sam Patch Tour Boat, followed by lunch at the acclaimed Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. Day 5: Visit Letchworth State Park, known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”, followed by dinner at Warfield’s Restaurant. Day 6: Spend the day exploring the Cornell Botanic Gardens and the beautiful campus of Cornell University. Day 7: End your trip with apple picking at Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards, and a visit to Blue Toad Hard Cider.
Food and Drink Scene of Finger Lakes Apple Country
Finger Lakes Apple Country is renowned for its delicious apple-based dishes and locally-produced beverages. Here’s what you should try:
Must-Try Dishes
- Apple cider donuts
- Apple pie
- Apple fritters
- Caramel apples
- Apple butter
Local Beverages
- Local hard cider from Blue Toad Hard Cider
- Craft beer from Genesee Brewery
- Wine from Fox Run Vineyards
- Handcrafted spirits from Black Button Distilling
- Non-alcoholic apple cider from Red Jacket Orchards
Where to Stay in Finger Lakes Apple Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Finger Lakes Apple Country has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs:
- The Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars
- The Gould Hotel
- Chalet of Canandaigua
- The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel
- The Agape Farm and Retreat
What to Buy in Finger Lakes Apple Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Finger Lakes Apple Country:
- Freshly picked apples
- Apple-based baked goods
- Locally-made cider and wine
- Maple syrup from Kettle Ridge Farm
- Handmade pottery from EarthArt Pottery
Local Culture and Customs of Finger Lakes Apple Country
Finger Lakes Apple Country has a unique culture that is heavily influenced by the region’s agricultural heritage. The locals take pride in their apple orchards, and many festivals and events are held throughout the year to celebrate the harvest season.
Best Time to Visit Finger Lakes Apple Country
The best time to visit Finger Lakes Apple Country is during the fall season (September-November), when the apple orchards are in full swing and the leaves are changing colors.
Do’s and Don’ts of Finger Lakes Apple Country
Do:
- Try the local apple-based dishes and beverages.
- Visit the region’s cultural landmarks and natural wonders.
- Support small local businesses.
Don’t:
- Pick apples without permission from the orchard owners.
- Litter or damage the natural attractions.
- Disrespect local customs or people.
Safety and Health
Safety in Finger Lakes Apple Country
Finger Lakes Apple Country is a relatively safe region, with low crime rates. However, it’s important to practice caution when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, and always follow the park rules and regulations.
Health in Finger Lakes Apple Country
Finger Lakes Apple Country is home to several hospitals and medical facilities in case of emergency. It’s always recommended to carry travel insurance when visiting a new destination.
Getting to Finger Lakes Apple Country: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Finger Lakes Apple Country
- Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC)
- Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR)
Bus Stations Near Finger Lakes Apple Country
- Trailways Bus Station (Rochester)
- Greyhound Bus Station (Syracuse)
Other Options
- Car rental from Rochester or Syracuse airport
- Private transportation services
How to Get Around in Finger Lakes Apple Country
The best way to get around Finger Lakes Apple Country is by car, as most attractions are spread out throughout the region. Alternatively, there are several private transportation services and tours available.
Where to Go Next from Finger Lakes Apple Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Niagara Falls
- The Adirondack Mountains
- The Thousand Islands
- The Finger Lakes Wine Region
Conclusion
Finger Lakes Apple Country is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a unique travel experience that combines history, culture, and outdoor adventures. From apple picking to hiking, wine tasting, and scenic drives, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy in this beautiful region. Plan your trip today, and discover why Finger Lakes Apple Country is a hidden gem of the American Northeast.
