Sodus Point Travel Guide

Discover Sodus Point, a hidden gem in New York known for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. This comprehensive tour guide provides everything you need to plan your visit, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Sodus Point

Sodus Point is a charming small town located on the southern shores of Lake Ontario in the Finger Lakes region of New York. Known for its picturesque scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, Sodus Point offers something for everyone. Whether you are traveling solo, with friends, or with family, you can be sure to have a memorable experience in this beautiful town. In this comprehensive tour guide, we provide everything you need to know to plan your visit to Sodus Point.

List of Places to Visit in Sodus Point

  • Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum
  • Sodus Point Beach Park
  • Chimney Bluffs State Park
  • Sodus Point Pier Light
  • Sodus Bay Heights Golf Club
  • Burnap’s Farm Market and Garden Cafe
  • Sodus Bay Junior Sailing Association
  • Sodus Bay Historical Society
  • Trolley Museum of New York

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum

The Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and lighthouse enthusiasts alike. The museum is located inside a restored 1870s lighthouse with a rich maritime history. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of Lake Ontario. The museum also features exhibits on the history of the area and its lighthouses.

Sodus Bay Historical Society

The Sodus Bay Historical Society is located in a beautiful 1849 Greek Revival-style mansion overlooking Lake Ontario. The museum houses exhibits on the history of the Sodus Bay area, including its Native American heritage and the role it played in the Underground Railroad. The museum also hosts special events and programs throughout the year.

Trolley Museum of New York

The Trolley Museum of New York is a unique attraction that preserves and showcases the history of trolleys in the state. Visitors can ride on vintage trolley cars and learn about the history of transportation in the area. The museum also has exhibits on the history of trolleys and the people who rode them.

Natural Attractions of Sodus Point: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sodus Point Beach Park

Sodus Point Beach Park is a popular destination for sunbathing, swimming, and other water activities. The park features a sandy beach, a playground, and picnic areas. Visitors can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and other water sports equipment at the park.

Chimney Bluffs State Park

Chimney Bluffs State Park is a unique natural attraction in the Sodus Point area. The park features towering cliffs along the shore of Lake Ontario, formed by glacier deposits. Visitors can hike along trails leading to the top of the cliffs for panoramic views of the lake.

Sodus Bay Heights Golf Club

Golf enthusiasts will enjoy a round at the Sodus Bay Heights Golf Club, which offers a challenging and scenic 18-hole course overlooking the bay. The golf club also has a restaurant and bar serving delicious food and beverages.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sodus Point

Sodus Point to Pultneyville Trail

This 6-mile trail stretches along Lake Ontario from Sodus Point to Pultneyville, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding scenery. The path is paved and suitable for biking, walking, and jogging.

Chimney Bluffs Trail

This 3.5-mile hike takes visitors through the beautiful Chimney Bluffs State Park, providing stunning views of the towering cliffs and Lake Ontario. The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep slopes and narrow paths.

Best Things to Do in Sodus Point: Activities and Tours

Fishing

The Sodus Point area is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with abundant salmon, trout, and other fish species in the lake and surrounding streams. Visitors can hire a fishing charter or rent a boat for a day on the water.

Wineries and Breweries

The Finger Lakes region is famous for its wineries and breweries, and Sodus Point is no exception. Visitors can take a tour of local wineries and breweries and sample delicious wines, beers, and ciders.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sodus Point

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum and Sodus Point Beach Park
Day 2 Hike the Chimney Bluffs Trail and explore Chimney Bluffs State Park
Day 3 Take a fishing charter or rent a boat and spend a day on Lake Ontario
Day 4 Play a round of golf at Sodus Bay Heights Golf Club
Day 5 Visit the Trolley Museum of New York and explore historic downtown Sodus Point
Day 6 Take a winery tour and sample local wines
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the beach, or explore nearby attractions such as Rochester or Syracuse

Food and Drink Scene of Sodus Point

Must-Try Dishes

  • Apple Cider Donuts from Burnap’s Farm Market and Garden Cafe
  • Lake Ontario Perch
  • Finger Lakes Wine and Ciders
  • Apple Pie

Local Beverages

  • Finger Lakes Wines
  • Local Craft Beers
  • Ciders

Where to Stay in Sodus Point: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sodus Point offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, motels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include the Sodus Point Lodge and the Bay View Suites Waterfront Hotel.

What to Buy in Sodus Point: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Finger Lakes wines
  • Local jams, jellies, and honey
  • Apple products, such as apple cider and apple butter
  • Handcrafted items from local artisans

Local Culture and Customs of Sodus Point

Sodus Point is a welcoming and friendly community, with a strong sense of tradition and pride in its history and natural beauty. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local culture and customs and treat the area and its residents with kindness and respect.

Best Time to Visit Sodus Point

The best time to visit Sodus Point is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and most attractions and activities are open. However, visitors can also enjoy the area’s scenic beauty in the fall, when the leaves turn vibrant colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sodus Point

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Take care of the natural environment
  • Try local foods and beverages
  • Explore the local attractions

Don’t:

  • Leave litter or damage natural sites
  • Disrespect the local residents or culture
  • Ignore safety rules and guidelines

Safety and Health

Safety in Sodus Point

Sodus Point is a generally safe area, with a low crime rate. Visitors should take standard safety precautions when exploring the area, such as locking cars and securing valuables.

Health in Sodus Point

Visitors are advised to bring any necessary medications and/or first aid supplies with them to Sodus Point, as medical facilities may not be readily available in the area.

Getting to Sodus Point: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sodus Point

The closest major airport to Sodus Point is the Greater Rochester International Airport, located approximately 35 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Sodus Point

Several bus companies, including Greyhound, provide service to the Rochester area. Visitors can then take a local bus or taxi to Sodus Point.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Sodus Point, as it is easily accessible from major highways and main roads.

How to Get Around in Sodus Point

Visitors can explore Sodus Point on foot or by bike. Taxis and rental cars are also available for those who prefer to travel by vehicle.

Where to Go Next from Sodus Point: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Rochester
  • Syracuse
  • Rochester Museum & Science Center
  • Genesee Country Village & Museum

Conclusion

Sodus Point is a hidden gem in New York, offering a rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. This comprehensive tour guide provides everything you need to plan your visit to Sodus Point, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, and more. So pack your bags and set out to explore this charming small town on the shores of Lake Ontario.

Sodus Bay Lighthouse (front) Sodus Bay Lighthouse (front) Sodus Bay Lighthouse (back - attached house) Sodus Bay Lighthouse (back - attached house) Sodus Point Sodus Point A sunny day in Sodus Point A sunny day in Sodus Point