Steuben County (New York) Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and how to get around in stunning Steuben County, New York. Read on to learn more!


Introduction to Steuben County (New York)

Located in the Southern Tier of New York, Steuben County is known for its beautiful natural scenery, friendly communities, and rich history. The county is named after Baron von Steuben, a Prussian army officer who served under George Washington during the American Revolutionary War. Steuben County is home to the popular tourist destination, Corning Museum of Glass. The county attracts tourists and locals alike with its picturesque surroundings, outdoor recreational opportunities, and unique cultural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Steuben County (New York)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Steuben County has a rich cultural history that art enthusiasts and history buffs will appreciate. Here are some of the most popular attractions to explore:

1. Corning Museum of Glass

Located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, Corning Museum of Glass is ranked among the world’s best glass museums. The museum features an extensive collection of over 50,000 glass artifacts, including contemporary art, antique glass, and scientific glass.

2. Glenn H. Curtiss Museum

Glenn H. Curtiss was an American aviation pioneer and founder of the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company. The museum showcases his history and tells the story of aviation’s birth in New York State. The museum has a collection of unique antique airplanes, motorcycles and engines that are sure to impress any automobile lover.

3. Steuben County Historical Society & Museum

The Steuben County Historical Society & Museum showcases the cultural and social heritage of Steuben County. The museum features an outstanding collection of artifacts that describe the stories of the people, places, and events that shaped the county’s history.

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

Steuben County is home to an abundance of natural attractions that provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and picturesque views. Here are some of the best places in the county where you can enjoy nature:

1. Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park, also known as “Grand Canyon of the East,” is one of the most scenic parks in New York State and covers an incredible 14,427 acres. The park has a wide array of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and white-water rafting.

2. Keuka Lake

Keuka Lake, one of the Finger Lakes, is a popular place to visit, situated in the heart of the Finger Lakes region. Rich in natural beauty, the lake boasts crystal clear water, beautiful cliffs, and scenic vineyards surrounding it. Visitors may explore the area while enjoying boating, fishing, or wine tours.

3. Stony Brook State Park

Stony Brook State Park is a beautiful park with a stunning gorge, cascading waterfalls, and a natural swimming pool. The park offers numerous hiking trails and camping areas where visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Steuben County (New York)

Hiking and biking enthusiasts will love Steuben County for its natural beauty and diversity of trails. Here are three of the best routes:

1. Finger Lakes Trail

The Finger Lakes Trail runs 562 miles from the (Pennsylvania border in Allegany State Park to the Long Path in the Catskill Forest Preserve). It offers scenic views throughout the trail. Hikers can choose to start wherever is more appropriate for them

2. Pine Hill Airport Loop

Pine Hill Airport Loop runs through the Town of Campbell and circles around the airport. This loop offers scenic views, beautiful farmland, and gorgeous trees with many rock outcroppings and wildlife.

3. Great Wellsville Adventure Trail

The Great Wellsville Adventure Trail is a 4-mile long point-to-point trail located near Allegany County. This trail offers views of the countryside and passes by the beautiful Natural Bridge State Park.

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

Steuben County is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone looking to explore the region’s unique historical and cultural attractions. Here are some of the top things to do in Steuben County:

1. Wine Tours

Steuben County is known to produce and distribute wines of various brands and types. Tourists can visit wineries across the county, including the Chateau La Fayette Reneau, Heron Hill Winery Tasting Room, and more.

2. Hot Air Balloon Rides

Travelers looking for a unique adventure can take a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful scenery of Steuben County. Companies like Southern Tier Balloon Tours in Bath offer hot air balloon tours.

3. Explore Wildlife at the Tanglewood Nature Center

The Tanglewood Nature Center is a wildlife sanctuary that provides educational and recreational opportunities about the natural environment. Visitors can explore the preserve’s hiking trails and participate in educational exhibits.

Week-Long Itinerary for Steuben County (New York)

Visitors to Steuben County can maximize their time by planning a week-long itinerary. Here is an example itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the Corning Museum of Glass and dine at Market Street Brewing Co.

Day 2: Take a hot air balloon ride over the scenic wine country. Treat yourself to a wine tour and sample some of the finest wines in the area

Day 3: Go for a hike in the stunning Letchworth State Park and end the day at a campsite.

Day 4: Visit the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport and taste the Flying Bison beer on site.

Day 5: Have a relaxing bath at the tranquil Serenity Hills Bed and Breakfast followed by a wine tour at the Heron Hill Winery Tasting Room.

Day 6: Head to Stony Brook State Park for a day of swimming, hiking, and picnicking.

Day 7: Wrap up your trip with food and drinks at the Railroad Pusher located in Hornell.

Food and Drink Scene of Steuben County (New York)

Steuben County has an excellent gastronomic reputation for crafting the region’s finest, homegrown food, including locally sourced ingredients. Here are some of the best places to dine:

Must-Try Dishes

1. Chicken French

Chicken French is one of the most famous dishes in Steuben County. It’s made by pan-searing chicken breast, combined with lemon butter and wine sauce. It is said to have been created in the early 20th century by Italian immigrants.

2. Pierogies

Pierogies are a staple of Polish cuisine and made of dough and seasoned mashed potatoes. These are often associated with the “Polish Pioneers” in the county.

3. Spiedies

This dish is popular in the Binghamton area but can also be found Steuben County. It’s a skewered delight consisting of cubed meat boiled in marinade and served on bread.

Local Beverages

1. Wine

Steuben County is known for producing unique and distinct wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Wineries like Keuka Lake Wine Trail, Wagner Vineyards and Bully Hill Vineyard provide tourists with a place to taste the region’s finest wines.

2. Craft Beer

Steuben County has a thriving craft beer culture with breweries such as Market Street Brewing Co., Steuben Brewing Company, and Railhead Brewing Company, which produce some of the most sought-after beer for locals and visitors alike.

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

Steuben County has a range of accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Steuben County:

1. The Radisson Hotel Corning

The Radisson Hotel Corning is a highly-rated hotel located in the heart of downtown Corning. It features contemporary rooms, a restaurant, and access to nearby attractions.

2. Serenity Hills Bed and Breakfast

Serenity Hills Bed and Breakfast is a luxury B&B located in a beautifully secluded setting of Corning. It offers stunning views and a wide range of amenities and services.

3. Microtel Inn & Suites

Microtel Inn & Suites is located in Bath and provides clean rooms and excellent customer service. Its convenient location makes it an attractive option for travelers on a budget.

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

Steuben County is famous for its unique and locally made products. Here are some souvenirs you can bring home from Steuben County:

1. Glass Art

Corning Museum of Glass offers gift shops with an extensive collection of handmade glass items including jewelry, vases, and sculptures. These are perfect mementos to bring home the beauty of Steuben County.

2. Wine

If you had a wine tasting experience in Steuben County, make sure to bring some of the bottles home with you to remember the delicate taste of, for instance, Chateau LaFayette Reneau.

3. Maple Products

Steuben County is well-known for its locally sourced maple syrup and maple products. You can purchase a variety of delicious maple goods, including syrup, sugar candy, and even granola.

Local Culture and Customs of Steuben County (New York)

Steuben County has a rich cultural history that visitors can experience through its art, architecture, music festivals, and food events. The region has been shaped by the artisan traditions and farming communities of past centuries, which is still visible today.

Best Time to Visit Steuben County (New York)

Steuben County may be visited all year round however locals would recommend late spring or early autumn are the best times to visit Steuben County. The winter months usually attract people interested in winter sports and the snow-covered landscape.

Do’s and Don’ts of Steuben County (New York)

Here are some do’s and don’ts when visiting Steuben County:

Do:

  • Visit the Finger Lakes Trail and go for a hike in the Letchworth State Park
  • Tour the Corning Museum of Glass and appreciate the locally made glass

Don’t:

  • Litter in the natural areas of Steuben County.
  • Assume every restaurant serves farm-to-table cuisine. Be sure to check reviews or ask the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Steuben County (New York)

Steuben County is a relatively safe area with a lower crime rate than other parts of New York State. Visitors are advised to follow safety measures such as locking doors when absent from accommodation, suburban areas, or remote locations.

Health in Steuben County (New York)

Steuben County has several medical facilities to provide proper medical care to residents and visitors. Bath VA Medical Center, St. James Mercy Hospital are local health care facilities that offer quality care to their patients.

Getting to Steuben County (New York): Transportation Options and Logistics

If you are unsure of how to get to Steuben County, here are some of your best options:

Airports Near Steuben County (New York)

  • Elmira/Corning Regional Airport (15.3 mi)
  • Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport (56.3 mi)
  • Greater Rochester International Airport (96.5 mi)

Bus Stations Near Steuben County (New York)

  • Greyhound Bus Station – Corning, NY (Near Corning Museum of Glass)

Other Options:

  • Car rental services are available in Elmira and Horseheads and Corning alike.

How to Get Around in Steuben County (New York)

The best way to get around Steuben County is by car. Visitors can rent a car or utilize ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft.

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

There are many exciting destinations that visitors can explore after enjoying their Steuben County holiday. Some of the best nearby destinations include:

  • Watkins Glen State Park
  • Seneca Lake
  • Amish country

Conclusion

Steuben County offers a captivating blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy, attracting visitors all year round. With its stunning landscapes, unique attractions, and charming communities, visitors are sure to discover something new in Steuben County with each visit. From outdoor adventures to cultural exhibitions and delicious food, Steuben county is an unforgettable destination.



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