Southern Tier Travel Guide
Discover the natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures of the Southern Tier in New York State. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide to the region.
- Introduction to Southern Tier
- List of Places to Visit in Southern Tier
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Tier
- Best Things to Do in Southern Tier: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Tier
- Food and Drink Scene of Southern Tier
- Where to Stay in Southern Tier: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Southern Tier: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Southern Tier
- Best Time to Visit Southern Tier
- Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Tier
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Southern Tier: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Southern Tier
- Where to Go Next from Southern Tier: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Southern Tier
Located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, Southern Tier is a beautiful region in Upstate New York, known for its picturesque landscapes, scenic views, and cultural diversity. The region is home to several charming towns and small cities that offer a range of attractions, from museums and historical places to natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, the Southern Tier has something for everyone.
List of Places to Visit in Southern Tier
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Corning Museum of Glass: Learn about the history of glassmaking and see thousands of glass objects on display at this world-renowned museum.
- Mark Twain Study: Visit the study of Mark Twain, one of America’s greatest writers, and learn about his life and writings.
- Roberson Museum and Science Center: Discover the natural history and cultural heritage of the Southern Tier region with its collection of artifacts, exhibits, and live events.
Natural Attractions of Southern Tier: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Finger Lakes Trail: Wind through forests, inspiring vistas, and waterfalls as you explore the diverse landscapes of Southern Tier.
- Letchworth State Park: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth boasts stunning waterfalls, deep gorges, and breathtaking views.
- Watkins Glen State Park: Walk through a series of beautiful gorges and waterfalls on the trail and be surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Tier
- The Great Western Trail: Explore the scenic beauty of Southern Tier by biking or walking on this 150-mile trail that connects Rochester and Salamanca.
- North Country Trail: The North Country Trail passes through several state parks and natural reserves and runs through the Southern Tier region, making it an excellent place for hiking and biking enthusiasts.
Best Things to Do in Southern Tier: Activities and Tours
- Brewery Tours: Go on a beer tour along the Southern Tier Brewing Company, the largest brewery in the region. Learn about the beer-making process and sample their draft beer.
- Grapevine Country Tours: Take a wine tour and experience the unique tastes and aromas of wine in the Finger Lakes region.
- Fishing: Go for fishing in the Finger Lakes region with its abundant fishing hotspots.
Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Tier
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Letchworth State Park |
| Day 2 | Watkins Glen State Park |
| Day 3 | Finger Lakes Trail |
| Day 4 | Corning Museum of Glass |
| Day 5 | Roberson Museum and Science Center |
| Day 6 | Brewery Tours |
| Day 7 | Grapevine Country Tours |
Food and Drink Scene of Southern Tier
Must-Try Dishes
- Spiedies: A famous local dish in Southern Tier is marinated meat skewered and cooked more than the coals, often served with fresh bread or vegetables.
- Cornell Chicken: A unique and tasty way of cooking chicken that’s said to have originated from Cornell University.
Local Beverages
- Finger Lakes Wine: Try the wines of one of the most renowned wine regions in the United States.
- Craft Beer: From The Southern Tier Brewing Company to several other microbreweries, the region is known for its craft beer scene.
Where to Stay in Southern Tier: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- The Hotel Ithaca: Located in the heart of downtown Ithaca, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
- Belhurst Castle: If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider staying at this castle hotel on Seneca Lake.
- La Tourelle Resort and Spa: Set on a private nature reserve, this resort offers several outdoor activities, a full-service spa, and a farm-to-table restaurant.
What to Buy in Southern Tier: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Spiedie Sauce: Bring home a bottle of spiedie sauce from the region.
- Wine: Take a bottle of Finger Lakes wine home as a souvenir.
Local Culture and Customs of Southern Tier
The Southern Tier is known for its friendly and welcoming people. Some of their customs include:
- Chatting with strangers: The community is known for being friendly, talkative, and welcoming.
- Enjoying local festivals: The region holds several festivals throughout the year like Apple Fest, Wine Fest, and others.
Best Time to Visit Southern Tier
The best time to visit Southern Tier is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. The fall season from September to November is also a beautiful time to visit when the foliage is at its peak.
Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Tier
Do:
- Visit the waterfalls: The region is known for its picturesque waterfalls, and they are a must-visit for any traveler.
- Try local food and beverages: Southern Tier is known for its unique dishes and regional beverages.
Don’t:
- Forget to tip: Tipping is customary in the United States, and it is expected that you tip in restaurants, hotels, etc.
- Litter: The region takes pride in its natural beauty, and it’s your responsibility to keep it clean.
Safety and Health
Safety in Southern Tier
Overall, Southern Tier is a safe place to visit. Still, it’s always best to exercise caution and avoid leaving valuable items in your car or unattended in public places.
Health in Southern Tier
The region has several hospitals and healthcare facilities, and there are no major health risks to be worried about. Just remember to pack any necessary prescription medications before your trip.
Getting to Southern Tier: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Southern Tier
- The Elmira/Corning Regional Airport (ELM): Located in Big Flats, NY
- Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport (ITH): Located in Ithaca, NY
- Greater Binghamton Airport (BGM): Located in Johnson City, NY
Bus Stations Near Southern Tier
- Greyhound Bus Lines: There are several Greyhound bus stations located throughout the region.
- Trailways: Trailways also offers bus service in Southern Tier.
How to Get Around in Southern Tier
The best way to get around the Southern Tier is by car. Renting a car is the most convenient option when traveling around the region.
Where to Go Next from Southern Tier: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Cooperstown: Take a trip to the famous National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.
- Niagara Falls: Located a few hours away, Niagara Falls is a popular destination known for its jaw-dropping waterfalls.
Conclusion
The Southern Tier region of New York State has it all, from natural wonders and outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and regional cuisine. Whether you’re traveling with your family or on a romantic getaway, Southern Tier has something for everyone. Use this travel guide to plan your trip and discover all that this beautiful region has to offer.
