ithaca ny road trip

The Best 7-Day Finger Lakes Road Trip Itinerary (with map)

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I’ve visited New York state more times than I can count (and even lived in Manhattan for a year) and never knew an area known for world-renown wineries, glacier-made lakes, quaint towns, and heaps of natural splendor was just a few hours north of where I once called home.  

Rich with Native American origins, The Finger Lakes region includes 9,000 square miles of pristine lake views, rolling farmlands, gorges and waterfalls , world-class vineyards, flower fields , craft breweries, and historical museums, ancient landmarks, and even boasts an award-winning farm-to-table food scene. 

The Finger Lakes region makes traveling easy with accommodations from 5-star resort spas to charming B&B’s and spacious campsites suitable for all budgets.

A plethora of farmer’s markets, local produce stands, quirky bistros, and locally owned businesses are conveniently sprinkled throughout the region, along with over 200 wineries, 74 breweries, 400 historic sites, 24 state parks , and over 900 miles of hiking trails giving life to the term “something for everyone”!

Table of Contents: Jump to

Know Before You Go

I embark on my Finger Lakes road trips from the small town of Redwood, New York and have visited in summer and fall. The region is easily reached (a 2-hour drive or less) from Buffalo, Rochester, Albany, or Syracuse and is only a 5-hour drive north of New York City, all of which host their own international airports and rental car centers. Regional airports include Elmira/Corning and Ithaca Tompkins.

The area has a 4-season climate that is enjoyed year-round with accompanying activities. May-September has the best weather for enjoying all the region offers since days are warmer, and rain is minimal. This itinerary is best for spring and summer. If you are thinking of visiting in Fall make sure to read my Fall Finger Lakes Road Trip Itinerary that gives more specifics on where and how to find the best fall foliage, fun festivals and charming fall towns throughout the region.

Most wineries and specialty restaurants are only open Thursday-Sunday. Unfortunately, I didn’t know this during my first visit and missed out on a few recommended kitchens: Ryan William Vineyards (closed Tuesday & Wednesday), Rio Tomatlan (closed Monday), and Thirsty Owl Bistro (closed Mon-Thursday).

I like to be flexible during road trips and almost always plan nightly stays the day of, but I am willing to stay on the outskirts of town, camp, and even sleep in my car. It is a good idea to check to see if any big festivals or events like NASCAR are going on when you are visiting the Finger Lakes Region. If so, you may not get your first accommodation choice if you do not book ahead. Otherwise, there are plenty of lodging options available even during the high season, June-August if you are ok with staying outside of town.

If you are short on time, cut this 7-night itinerary down into 5 nights or even 3. If a few highlights or a specific area is all you are after, one night is enough. On the other hand, if you have more time, there is enough to see and do around the Finger Lakes to keep you busy for weeks on end!

This 300-mile, 7-day driving itinerary will take you through the major five (and most scenic) Canandaigua, Kekua, Seneca, Cayuga, and Skaneateles Lakes while showcasing an impressive array of exciting adventures along the way.

Road Trip Itinerary (7 days, 6 nights)

At the end of this 7-day Finger Lakes road trip itinerary, I listed optional routes for shorter stays that include some of my favorite landmarks, sights, and towns. I pack a lot into my trips but keep in mind all of these itineraries are easily altered to accommodate different interests and styles of travel.

Day 1: Canandaigua to Hammondsport

Start your road trip from the town of Canandaigua, at the north end of Lake Canandaigua. Stay the night in Hammondsport at the south end of Keuka Lake.

Best things to do around Canandaigua

• Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion (north end) -restored 1800s mansion with gardens, waterfalls, and greenhouses
• Boathouses at City Pier (north end) – colorful and cute!
• Canandaigua Sailboard (north end)- for water sport rentals
• Canandaigua Lady Boat Tour (north end)- Dinner, Lunch and narrated excursion tours
• Brew & Brats
• Three Huskies
• Twisted Rail
• Scenic Drive down W Lake Rd./Road 16 (west side)
• Grimes Glen (south end; closed on Sundays)- waterfall hiking
• Town of Naples (south end)- historic old town, cafes, wineries, and the BEST grape Pies in the world!
• Joseph’s Wayside Market -Large market with fresh baked goods, seasonal decor, garden fruits and vegetables
• Town of South Bristol Scenic Overlook – Picnic space with incredible views of the Lake

It is easy to spend ½ a day exploring the north end of Canandaigua lake. I loved strolling down the pier and snapping photos in front of the colorful boathouses.

Grab a tasty cocktail at the Sandbar Cafe on their outdoor patio (call ahead to ensure availability due to new COVID regulations) or get 5-star service at the famous NY Kitchen . They are known for their interactive and educational cooking classes and second-floor restaurant, where ingredients are seasonally fresh and locally sourced.

If you get an early start and the sound of flowering gardens and beautifully restored historical mansions brighten your day, you may want to explore Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion before heading south. Plan about three hours to explore the 50-acre estate complete with a cafe, gift shop, and 10+ unique gardens and greenhouses.

Once you’ve got your fill of North Canandaigua Lake , head to the south end via State Route 21 along the west side of the lake to the village of Naples .

Have a meal at the Roots Cafe for the “freshest, most beautiful food in the area” (they are not kidding- I can vouch from experience) or relax with a wine tasting overlooking manicured vineyards at Inspire Moore Winery , next door to Roots Cafe . 

Stop for a world-famous grape pie (and other delicious baked goods) at Monica’s Pies – you haven’t lived until you tried their Key Lime. Then, enjoy your goodies at the Scenic Overlook (located at 7083 Co Rd 12), only a 3 min drive away with breathtaking views of the lake. Google Maps has it as “ Lake View Point Scenic Overlook “

To get to The Scenic Overlook from Monica’s Pies, go north on Route 21 and quickly bear left (.2 miles) onto Griesa Hill Rd. Turn Right on to Route 12. It’s about ½ a mile up the road on the right from Griessa Hill Rd, you can’t miss it!

Around the same area is Grimes Glen Park. It is a fun pit stop for an upstream waterfall walk (closed on Sundays). It’s an easy 1-mile out and back trail through Grimes Creek (2 miles total). You will have to walk in ankle-deep water to make it to the last waterfall and swimming hole, but don’t let that stop you; it’s worth the effort!  

Joseph’s Wayside Market is another great stop in Naples for fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, wine, gifts, and more. Check their website for operating hours. They are typically open weekly from 8 am-6 pm during spring, summer, and fall.

Continue south (about 36 min, 25 mi) from Grimes Glen to Hammondsport (south Cayuga Lake) for the night. 

Where to stay in Hammondsport

• Historic Champlin House B&B $$$
• The Park Inn $$
• Camp Elmbois Campground $

Day 2: Keuka Lake to Corning

Drive around Keuka lake, stopping along the way before heading to Corning for the night .

Best things to see and do around Keuka Lake

• Keuka Lake State Park (northeast branch) -waterfront park for picnics & water sport rentals
• Keuka Outlet Trail (North end)- easy and scenic 13.3 miles out and back trail between Keuka and Seneca Lakes.
• Windmill Farm and Craft Market – South of Penn Yan on State Route 14A. “Friendly leashed dogs” welcomed.
• Sweet Melissa Charters – 1/2 day and full day fishing charters
• Finger Lakes Boating Museum (south end)- open daily, great for kids
• Glenn H. Curtiss Museum (south end)-antique aircraft, automobiles, motorcycles, and more near Hammondsport
• Keuka Lake Wine Trail -over 20 wineries

Some of my favorite wineries are around Keuka Lake (highlighted below), and Keuka had some of the best views! The scenic route is about 90 mins nonstop via Route 54/54A. We might have gone fishing for trout, largemouth bass, or landlocked salmon if we had more time. Keuka Lake has the healthiest population of native fish of all the Finger Lakes. 

My favorite Keuka Lake Wineries

• Bully Hill Vineyards – Wine tastings, open-air restaurant (closed Tuesdays), wine Museum and gift shop atop a hill overlooking Keuka Lake and vineyards
• Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery – one of the oldest wineries in the region, credited with launching the NY Wine Region into international statue in the 1960s with their award-winning Rieslings
• Keuka Spring Vineyards – awarded numerous “Best of” awards over the years and hosts tastings on their open-air patio overlooking gorgeous Keuka Lake.

We LOVED our lunch at Bully Hill Vineyards . The sprawling vineyard views were amazing, and they have the most delicious homemade pineapple wine slushies I’ve ever tasted (and I’ve tasted a lot).

We also did a four-station wine tasting at Dr. Konstantin Frank’s winery. Although none of the wines were to my liking (sweeter whites), the educational stations, views of Kekua lake, and salmon sculpture in the vineyard made it a great tasting experience.

Most wineries are open from 10 am-5 pm and take their last tastings an hour before closing. However, some wineries are reservations only, so make sure to call ahead and plan your wine stops accordingly .

After some fun around Keuka Lake, head south to the town of Corning for your second night (about 35 mins, 29mi from Hammondsport).

We planned a night in Corning specifically to see the Corning Museum of Glass (I’m so glad we did), but if you have limited time or are not interested in the Corning Museum of Glass, cut out Corning and head straight to Watkins Glen (south Seneca Lake) for the 2nd night.

Where to stay around Corning

• Hilton Garden Inn (walking distance to the Museum of Glass) $$$
• Rosewood Inn Bed & Breakfast $$
• Ferenbaugh Campsite $

Day 3: Corning to Watkins Glen

Explore the town of Corning before driving through Montour Falls and then to Watkins Glen (south Seneca Lake) for the night.

Best things to see and do in Corning

• Corning Museum of Glass -modern wing recently added
• Gaffer District- historic downtown full of art galleries, locally-owned boutiques, and restaurants
• Rockwell Museum – Western Art Museum
• Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes -history buffs will love
• National Soaring Museum – 20 mins from Corning in the town of Elmira

Start your morning at the Corning Museum of Glass. Arrive when they open to avoid crowds. We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn and walked over in under 10 mins. We spent almost 4 hours exploring the museum and had a snack at their cafe. 

On our way out of town, we stopped in the Gaffer District , a trendy area with lots of dining and locally owned boutiques. We devoured fresh-baked cupcakes from Poppleton Bakery and a piping hot pizza from Aniello’s Pizza that did not disappoint.

After you had your fill of Corning , head to Watkins Glen . If you are in the mood for some waterfall chasing and lite hiking, stop at the village of Montour Falls.

Montour Falls showcases four waterfall sites, all within a 5 min drive of each other.

• Shequaga Falls -scenic overlook
• Eagle’s Cliff Falls in Havana Glen Park- short hike with stairs to a swimming hole
• Deckertown Falls – short easy (muddy after rain) hike to cascading falls and swimming hole
• Aunt Sarah’s Falls – scenic overlook

The falls were not at their peak in early August, but the hike to Eagle Cliff Falls was lovely- be prepared to climb some steep stairs. If you make it to the falls, look for the carved-out eagle in the rock wall. Can you see it in the photo above?

My favorite stop in Montour Falls is Deckertown Falls. It is a short hike with an incline and only enough parking for 3 cars on a dead-end residential street. There are a few swimming holes and multiple falls. The upper falls require a short swim to a slippery climb up the lower falls, but it is worth the effort if you have a swimsuit.

We made it to Watkins Glen around dinner time. We filled up on tasty seafood at Seneca Harbor Station Restaurant overlooking the Seneca Town Pier and got treated to a spectacular sunset (see photo below).

Best things to see and do in Watkins Glen

• Watkins Glen State Park -hiking the gorge trail is a must!
• Watkins Glen International -“The Glen”- Automobile racetrack
• Captain Bill’s Seneca Lake Boat Tours -guided lake tours
• Horseback Riding -north of Watkins Glen on the east side of Seneca Lake
• Ben & Jerry’s
• Glen Mountain Bakery & Deli- Counter-serve offering pastries, coffee & NY-style sandwiches on homemade bread (closed Tuesday)
• The village of Montour Falls – waterfall chasing
• Elmira – “The Queen City” 30 mins south of Watkins Glen. Location of Mark Twain’s summer home and final resting place.

If you don’t do anything else in Watkins Glen , hike the Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen State Park . Plan two hours to complete the route, expect to get wet, and bring your camera! This park was voted NY’s #1 state park by USA Today for a good reason.

There are over 800 stone stairs along the way, 19 waterfalls, caves, stone bridges, and tunnels chiseled through the massive rock formations.

The trail is only 1.5 miles one way. Most people take the Indian trail or Rim Trail back to the entrance. Both are fun, scenic treks along the gorge’s edge. There is also a $5 bus to and from the main parking lots if you want to skip the round-trip hike.

Where to stay around Watkins Glen

• Harbor Hotel $$$$
• Idlwilde Inn $$$
• The Blackberry Inn B&B $$
• The Local Hostel $

Day 4: Watkins Glen/Seneca Lake to Geneva

Exploring the east side of Seneca Lake and heading to the town of Geneva (northwest side Seneca lake) for the night

Best things to see and do around Seneca Lake

• Photo op: I LOVE NY sign @ the Welcome Center
• Sidewalk stroll along the waterfront
• Smith Opera House – Historic Theater Venue with live performances
• Rose Hill Mansion – Tours of a 19th-century estate
• Hector Falls – Scenic view along Route 414 (no pull-off)
• Seneca Lake State Park – North end, something for everyone
• Sampson State Park – East shore, great for camping and boating
• Watkins Glen State Park – The most famous State Park in the Finger Lakes
• Keuka Lake Outlet Trail (west side of the lake)- an easy 13.3 miles out and back trail between Keuka and Seneca Lakes.
• Starkey’s Lookout- Dundee, NY, beer and wine tastings overlooking Seneca Lake
• Grist Iron Brewing Company- Microbrewery with comfort food and live music events
• Climbing Bines Hop Farm and Craft Ale Company- Fresh off-the-farm brews created with sustainable agriculture in mind
• Wagner Valley Brewing Co- “Only the finest Malt, Hops, Yeast, and Water can be used in the production of beer”. 
• War Horse Brewing Co.- handcrafted microbrews, hard ciders, and sodas.
• Seneca Lake Wine Trail – Largest wine trail in New York
• Scenic driving routes- Route 414 & Route 14S
• National Memorial Day Museum (Waterloo, NY)- Learn about the history and origins of the Memorial Day holiday while paying respects to America’s veterans (thanks for the suggestion WJ)

Seneca is one of my favorite lakes to explore, not just because there is a Ben & Jerry’s Ice cream shop in town but because of the variety of activities you can do around the lake such as boat tours, horseback riding, fishing, hiking, and so much more!

Have breakfast at Glen Mountain Bakery , and then from Watkins Glen, head North on 414 to explore the east side of Scena Lake. Make sure to stop along New York’s longest wine trail. If not for the wine, delicious food, lush green vineyards, and beautiful lake views.

Some of my favorite wineries on Seneca Lake are:

• Ryan William – delicious red wine and the best tapas- spinach artichoke dip is a must-try!
• Fox Run Vineyards – Enjoy a wine tasting, vineyard tour, or lunch in their café. 
• Leidenfrost Vineyards – the host was amazing and so was the sparkling pink!
• Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards – for the oasis, wine slushies, and outdoor vibes
• Idol Ridge-homemade fudge and a relaxing porch
• Three Brothers Wineries and Estates – Three tasting rooms, one brewery, sparkling vineyard views, and a delicious food menu
• Ventosa Vineyards-Cafe with striking vineyard and lake views off the patio.
• Tabora Farm and Winery (Organic Bakery & Deli)- I still haven’t tasted their wine but I always stop for a sandwich, quiche, and baked goods.

Make some time for a pit stop at the Finger Lakes Welcome Center in Geneva (north end). It is a great spot to enjoy a multipurpose space with a coffee bar, snack cafe, and outdoor patio. Take photos with the iconic I LOVE NY sign and walk along the paved trail for sprawling lake views, the fishing pier, lakefront park, and an ice cream hut.

If you are looking for a gastronomical experience, try F.L.X Table (seats only 12, so reservations are required) or Kindred Fare , both inspired by farmhouse cooking and spirited gatherings in downtown Geneva.

Geneva is also home to Belhurst Castle and Winery (10 mins south of the Welcome Center). Entranced by the word “castle,” I stayed here for a night and was pretty underwhelmed with my experience.

The property is well manicured, has two restaurants, a tasting room, and beautiful views of Seneca Lake, but I’d skip staying here for the night. But, of course, you could always go for a wine tasting and look around the property if you are as curious as me.

I stayed in the “modern” wing (all that was available) at Belhurst, and it’s not worth the high season price tag. The room was outdated and lacked the unique character I thought we’d get when staying in a “castle.”

Where to stay around Geneva

• Geneva on the Lake $$$$
• Hampton Inn Geneva $$$
• Holiday Inn Express $$

Day 5: Geneva/ Cayuga Lake to Ithaca

Get up early to make the most of your day exploring the west side of Cayuga lake and settling into Ithica for the night (south end of Cayuga lake)

Best things to see and do around Cayuga Lake

• The Women’s Rights National Historical Park
• The National Women’s Hall of Fame
• the Seneca Museum of Waterways and Industry 
• The Seneca Falls Heritage Area Visitors Center
• “It’s a Wonderful Life” Bridge and Museum
• Cayuga Lake State Park – great for fishing and camping
• Great Gully – swimming hole and waterfall walk
• Taughannock Falls State Park -the tallest free-falling waterfall east of the Mississippi. 
• Ithaca – Home of Cornell University and over 100 waterfalls
• Boat Tours- Discover Cayuga Lake (Ithaca), Bianconi Tours (Aurora), Ithaca Boat Tours (Ithaca)
• Town of Aurora -Charming town reinvigorated by American Girl Founder, Pleasant Rowland
• Aurora Farmers Market – Saturdays only
• Kings Ferry – town with sunflower fields, popular King’s Ferry corner store, Bright Leaf Vineyard and Trelevan Wines
• MacKenzie-Childs – home design center
• Cayuga Lake Wine Trail -16 wineries
• Cayuga Lake Beer Trail – 100+ breweries
• Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway – Routes 89 (west), 90 & 34 (east)

Start the day by filling up on car riding snacks at Saunders Market in Seneca Falls before continuing through town.

Stretch your legs on the short Ludovico Sculpture Walk along the Seneca-Cayuga canal (trailhead is at the intersection for Canal St. and Bridge St.) or enjoy a historic downtown museum such as the National Woman’s Hall of Fame before continuing south down Route 89 on Cayuga’s west bank.

Although never proven, Seneca Falls is famed for being the inspiration for the fictional town of Bedford in the popular 1940s movie “It’s a Wonderful Life.” It has a free museum full of memorabilia from the set.

There are plenty of brewers and wineries along the way. Unfortunately, we didn’t make it to any breweries, but these are my favorite Cayuga Lake wineries.

• Swedish Hill Vineyards – For the white flight and Donkey mascot Doobie and miniature horse Sven live on the property
• Buttonwood Grove Winery – relaxing atmosphere, open-air deck overlooking the lake and acres of vineyards. Also the home of Merlot, the vineyard kitty
• Thirsty Owl -Onsite Bistro (closed Tues & Wed) and large tasting room with serene waterfront views

Further south (about 32 miles south of Seneca Falls) is Taughannock Falls, State Park. It is worth a stop, even if it’s only for the scenic waterfall overlook. There are hiking trails and few different viewpoints of the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi.

Drive another 10 miles south and stop in Ithaca for the night. The beautiful Cascadilla Gorge Trail is located in downtown Ithaca, and there are plenty of outdoor dining options to end the day.

If you are short on time, skip staying the night in Ithaca and continue to Skaneateles for the night.

Where to stay near Ithaca

• Argos Inn Historical Boutique Hotel $$$$
• Canopy by Hilton $$$
• Camping in Robert H. Treman State Park $$

Day 6: Ithaca to Skaneateles

Drive northeast up Cayuga lake on Route 34/90 through King Ferry and Aurora. Stay the night in Skaneateles.

Best things to see and do around Ithaca

• Cascadilla Gorge Trail
• Robert H Treman State Park
• Buttermilk Falls State Park
• Liquid State Brewing Company
• Lucky Hare Brewing
• Ithica Beer Co.
• Ithaca’s Farmers Market – open Saturday & Sunday
• Cornell Botanic Gardens – consists of 25 acres of botanical gardens and 150 acres of the F.R. Newman Arboretum
• De Witt Park -Historic district with 45 buildings, one site, and three historic objects

If you didn’t get a chance to stroll down Cascadilla Gorge , make time to do that before you leave. It’s an easy 1 mile out and back trail (with a few stairs) overlooking a beautiful gorge with bridges and multiple flowing waterfalls. It’s really a beautiful scene and a part of Cornell University’s Botanical Gardens.

There are several other waterfall hikes and trails in Ithaca. We went for a 5-mile hike in Robert H. Treman State Park (gorge + outer rim) and had plans to visit Buttermilk Falls . Unfortunately, the parking lot was full when we arrived at 12 pm, so make sure to get an early start if visiting multiple state parks.

Continue your day by heading north on the east side of Lake Cayuga along route 34 to 34B.

Drive through Kings Ferry if your trip is in early to mid-August for the Sunflower fields . Look for sunflowers off of NY 90 near Turek Farms or across the street from Treleaven Winery. You can call or email Turek Farms to ask about the sunflowers to ensure they are blooming and where they are planted (the field location changes year to year). These flowers are plowed and turned into birdseed, usually at the end of August, so you have to time it right. When visiting, please be respectful (no picking or crushing them).

Turek Farms is located on the left, less than a mile west of the intersection 90 & 34B – If they are in bloom, you can’t miss them!

Stop at the MacKenzie-Childs Design Center in Aurora if you like handcrafted pottery in vibrant, quirky designs. Unfortunately, their free property tours were shut down when we visited (COVID-related), but their retail shop, farmhouse, gardens, and goose house can all be explored on foot. New for 2021, you can self-tour the inside of the farmhouse by making an online reservation 24 hours in advance.

From Aurora, Head north on 90 and take a right on 326, going through the town of Auburn onto Route 20 toward Skaneateles .

Auburn is home to a few historic sites and art museums, such as the Schweinfurth Art Center. It is a great pit stop on the way to Skaneateles. If you like sweets, stop at Camerons Bakery off of Grant Ave (state road 6). Just before Skaneateles off of HWY 20 is Strawberry Fields Hydroponic Farm and Floral Boutique . You can handpick strawberries (standing up), shop in their farm boutique, and enjoy a sunflower maze in early August or a corn maze in fall.

Best things to see and do in Auburn

• Strawberry Fields Hydroponic Farm – You pick strawberries (July-October), Gift shop, guided tours, and a sunflower field (blooming early- mid-August)
• Schweinfurth Art Center – offering more than a dozen contemporary art exhibitions each year, plus classes and workshops for children and adults
• Cayuga Museum of History and Art  – Historical mansion educating individuals about local art and history and the invention of sound on film
• Harriet Tubman House- Visit the 19th-century residence of the namesake abolitionist who rescued slaves via the Underground Railroad
• Emerson Park -135-acre waterfront park featuring a historic pavilion, playground, boat launches & picnic shelters
• Auburn-Fleming Trail – Short and flat 1.5-mile hike
• Cameron’s Bakery – Handmade baked goods, cookies, doughnuts, pastries, pies, bread, and more!

Where to stay near Skaneateles

• Sherwood Inn $$$
• Mirbeau Inn & Spa $$$$
• Finger Lakes Lodging $$

Day 7: Skaneateles to home

Enjoy your last day in the Finger lakes before making your way home. The closest airport is Syracuse Hancock International (SYR) Airport, only 29 miles, 40 mins away.

Best things to see and do around Skaneateles

• Skaneateles Village -main drag for entertainment, shops & restaurants
• Mid-Lakes Navigation – Sightseeing and guided lake boat tours
• Skaneateles Marina -Water sport and Pontoon boat rentals
• Anyela’s Vineyards – Daily tastings of world-class wines
• Lockwood Lavender farm – 120-acre flower and fiber farm with you pick bouquets (June & July)
• Scenic Route – Drive north on East Lake Road (east side of the lake) for picturesque rolling hills and pristine lake views.

Skaneateles Village borders the waterfront and is crawling with boutiques, specialty shops, locally owned businesses, outdoor dining, and my favorite local bakery, The Skaneateles Bakery . They serve breakfast and lunch and sweet treats until 4 pm daily (Sunday until 2 pm). Their toasted Gruyere Cheese Sandwich is so rewarding after a long week of traveling (and so are their baked goods).

We enjoyed a guided sightseeing tour of the crystal clear lake with Mid-Lakes Navigation . The Caption was very entertaining while sharing the history of the lake and even revealed some lake resident secretes.

Mailboat cruises are also available. One of the only operating US Mail boats hand-delivers mail to residents of the million-dollar mansions surrounding the lake beginning July 1st through the Tuesday after Labor Day each year.

Anyela’s Vineyards is a great place to relax and unwind. Tastings at $20 each are a bit pricy compared to other Finger Lake wineries, but I took the plunge and blissfully enjoyed the atmosphere and scenery with no buyer’s remorse.

Before you leave, Skaneateles, make sure to enjoy the lakefront, even if that means people-watching from one of two picturesque parks, Clift or Thayer Park . Grabbing a bite from Skaneatleas Bakery and enjoying a picnic on the lakefront is one of my favorite ways to enjoy a beautiful day.

If you have a long car ride ahead, a stop at Navarino Orchards off of Route 20 (just outside of Skaneateles) is perfect for car riding snacks, and you pick orchards (June-October).

As you can tell, there are so many fun areas to explore around the Finger Lakes. Whether you are a hiker or fisherman or prefer to catch a buzz at endless wine tastings, I’m sure you will love adventuring around the Finger Lakes region as much as I did!

One last tip, don’t try to pack too many activities into one day. Instead, make sure to enjoy the atmosphere and scenic views along the way. There is so much to see and do; one trip is never enough.

Alternate Finger Lakes Road Trip Itineraries:

There are endless options for road trip itineraries around the Finger Lakes that are easily tailored to your specific interests, available time, and travel direction. I always notice something new popping up around the lakes on every trip and never hesitate to stop. Here are a few of my favorite routes and sights to see along the way.

2 days/1 night

• Pick one lake to enjoy. My three favorites are Scenca, Cayuga, and Skaneateles.

3 days/2 nights

• Day 1 : Hike Great Gully, Aurora (Mackenzie Childs, Aurora Village Market for baked goods and Aurora Village Park), Kings Ferry (if it is August for sunflower fields), Ithaca (Ithaca Falls, Cascadilla Gorge Hike, Alley Cat Cafe)
• Night 1 : Ithaca
• Day 2 : Taughannock Falls State Park, Montour Falls (Deckertown Falls, Eagle Cliff Falls, Aunt Sarah’s Falls, Shequaga Falls), Watkins Glen (Gorge Trail, Raceway, Seneca Lake pier, Ben & Jerry’s, Glen Mountain Bakery)
• Night 2 : Watkins Glen (or Elmira if Watkins Glen is booked)
• Day 3 : Explore the west side of Seneca Lake (Fox Hill wineries, U-pick Blueberries, Ports Cafe, Geneva)
• Day1 : Filmore Glen State Park, Buttermilk Falls, and or Robert H. Treman State Park
• Night 1 : Ithica
• Day 2 : Ithica: Ithica Falls, Cascadilla Gorge Trail, Traugnock Falls
• Night 2: Watkins Glen (gorge trail, main street, South Seneca Marina)
• Day 3 : Montour Falls
• Day 1 : Canandaigua Lake, Naples (roots cafe, Monica’s Pies, scenic overlook), Kekua Lake (Hammond sport, Bully Hill, Dr. Frank, Kekua Springs)
• Night 1 : Penn Yan
• Day 2 : Penn Yan, Seneca Lake (Geneva, Belhurst Castle, Muranda Cheese Company, Seneca Falls)
• Night 2 : Scenca Falls or Auburn
• Day 3 : Skaneateles (main street, pier, lake boat tour, Skaneateles Bakery, Strawberry Fields Hydroponic Farm, Navarino Orchards)
• Day 1 : Skaneateles (lake boat tour, picnic in the park, main street, Anyela’s Vineyards, Lockwood Lavander Farm)
• Night 1 : Skaneateles
• Day 2 : Aurora, (Village market, Fargo Bar & Grill, boat tour, Mckenzie-Childs, Turek Farm Sunflowers, Trevelean Winery)
• Night 2 : Aurora (Inns of Aurora if its in the budget) or Ithaca
• Day 3 : Seneca Lake wineries (east side Ryan William Vineyard, Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars, Three Brothers, Hazlitt 1852)
• Night 3 : Geneva

5 days/4 nights

• Day 1 : Canandaigua Lake (north to south)
• Night 1 : Hammondsport
• Day 2 : Kekua Lake 
• Night 2 : Watkins Glen (south Seneca Lake)
• Day 3 : Watkins Glen/Seneca Lake
• Night 3 : Geneva (N Seneca Lake)
• Day 4 : Geneva/Auburn 
• Night 4 :  Skaneateles
• Day 5 : Skaneateles

More than 7 days

• Spend more time in each location above
• Add in Letchworth State Park (further west)
• Add in another lake
• Spend time exploring Syracuse

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Meet Sam, a fearless wanderer and avid solo traveler who has made the world her home. Through cross country road trips, car camping in her SUV and solo adventures to far corners of the globe, she has become an expert in crafting itineraries that balance adventure and self-discovery. Through her insightful tales and practical tips, Sam inspires others to embrace the unknown, break free from conventional boundaries, and embrace the beauty of solo exploration.

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Be sure to book a private sail with Sail Seneca when you visit Geneva. A great way to end your day watching the sunset on Seneca Lake from a 36 foot sailboat!

i loved Geneva- a great tip! i’ll have to book next time i’m in town

Great Finger Lakes, NY content. We live at the northern/western end of the lakes and love spending time in Ithaca, Skaneateles and Canandaigua. Thanks for the nice mention of our area. Great food, wineries and waterfronts abound.

oooo so lucky! that is such a great area to explore. I can’t wait to be back this summer and See more!

Thank you for the info

No Problem! I hope it was helpful. I’ve taken a little break from writing but I am back in the Finger Lakes this summer with lots more trips planned 🙂

Great information Thanks.

Suggest adding the Memorial Day exhibit in Waterloo, NY. Dedicated to the first Memorial Day and Waterloo soldiers who perished in the Civil War

ooo a great suggestion! I’ve never known there was such a thing. Adding it to the post now 🙂

We love the Finger Lakes area. There is so much there is to see and do. I think we could fill a whole week chasing waterfalls and drinking wine. We can’t wait to go back! We also really enjoyed the Corning Museum of Glass.

Thanks for sharing such an informative article

I’m so glad you found it useful! I update it every year. I love exploring the Finger Lakes

We are planning a trip to the finger lakes this summer. thank you for posting your information. Is there a newsletter I can sign up for?

I’m so glad you found my post. I hope it is helpful when planning your trip! I have more Finger Lakes posts coming soon. If you mean my personal newsletter, I am working on revamping it now. You can hit the subscribe button at the top of my site or enter your email in the newsletter section at the bottom of the site in the footer.

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The Perfect 5-Day Finger Lakes Itinerary: Wine and Waterfalls

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: June 12, 2023

Categories Destinations , Get Outside , Mid-Atlantic States , road trips , United States

What happens when you combine five state parks, five wineries, and 50+ amazing Finger Lakes waterfalls into a five-day road trip? A kind of crazy, but oh-so-fun Finger Lakes vacation in Western New York.

You already know that New York is home to one of the coolest cities in the world, but it also encompasses some seriously incredible landscapes for road-tripping adventures, and this Finger Lakes itinerary is exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Spend your days hiking into deep gorges, photographing waterfalls, and cooling off in the river; your evenings sipping wine at one of the dozens of Finger Lakes wineries, and your nights relaxing at beautiful camping spots, vacation rentals, and glamping retreats.

The Finger Lakes region is just four hours from Manhattan, but you might as well be on another planet.

No other area east of the Mississippi can boast of more wine sipping and gorge-hiking goodness than the Finger Lakes in Upstate New York.

Throw in more than 150 Finger Lakes waterfalls and a few perfect spots to spend the night, and you’ll want to pack your bags before you finish reading.

Ready to embark on your own wine and waterfalls road trip through the Finger Lakes region of New York? We’ve created a perfect Finger Lakes itinerary for five days of relaxing and adventuring on your next vacation.

Table of Contents

Where are the Finger Lakes?

The Finger Lakes Region encompasses 9,000 square miles in western Upstate New York and includes 14 counties and 11 gorgeous lakes. The area is approximately 5 hours from New York City, 3.5 hours from Boston, 3 hours from Albany, and 6 hours from Washington DC.

The nearest airport is Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), which is about an hour away from the heart of the Finger Lakes Region.

What are the 11 Finger Lakes?

When observed from above, the 11 Finger Lakes really do look like fingers stretching from north to south.

From west to east, the 11 Finger Lakes are Conesus, Hemlock, Canadice, Honeoye, Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles, and Otisco.

All of the Finger Lakes empty into rivers in the north as they make their way to Lake Ontario. The Finger Lakes are glacial lakes that were formed more than 100 million years ago — ancient lakes that we are so fortunate to be able to enjoy today!

When is the Best Time to Visit the Finger Lakes?

While the Finger Lakes Region is certainly a four-season destination, if you are road-tripping, we recommend visiting between May and October. The earlier in May you visit, the fuller those lovely Finger Lake waterfalls will be.

If you want to swim and camp, then June through August is ideal. You can find amazing swimming everywhere you go in the Finger Lakes, and there are lots of campgrounds too.

Finally, if you’re hoping to do some leaf-peeping, head to the area in mid-October. We haven’t visited the region for fall foliage, but we’re hoping to plan a trip soon — I hope this is the year!

Road trip tip:   We’ve created a free, printable version of this Finger Lakes Road Trip Itinerary!  It’s perfect for times when you find you find yourself GPS-free with no cell service. Be sure to download the itinerary so you know exactly what’s next!

A Perfect Finger Lakes Road Itinerary for a Wine and Waterfall Road Trip

How you tackle this road trip is entirely up to you. We drove in from Vermont, so I created the itinerary to go from east to west in a very loose loop. This will also work well if you fly into Syracuse, as the first stop (Chittenango Falls State Park) is just 25 miles from the airport.

The Roadtrippers map above includes travel to and from the airport.

Psst… Roadtrippers is one of our favorite apps for planning trips, and the premium version is 100% worth every penny. You can save $5 off the Roadtrippers app by using the code BTR5QTP. You’re welcome!

Read Next: How to Use Roadtrippers to Plan Your Next Road Trip

Day 1: Chittenango Falls, Owera Vineyards, and a Farm Stay

Total Driving Time:  47 minutes (33.9 miles)

At first glance, Chittenango Falls State Park looks like a typical day-use area. There’s a grassy picnic area with tables and grills, a row of port-a-potties, and some nice woodland trails.

The highlight though, is Chittenango Falls, a 167-foot waterfall that cascades over a wide swath of sculpted bedrock. It’s one of the prettiest waterfalls in the Finger Lakes region.

The base of the Chittenango Falls is home to a rare snail that isn’t found anywhere else on Earth.

We didn’t actually see said snail, but it’s cool knowing it exists. The gorge trail is a quick 1-mile loop (gotta ease into this road trip). Our first Finger Lakes waterfall, Chittenango Falls, was one of the prettiest on our journey.

Next stop, Owera Vineyards , an award-winning Finger Lakes winery and cafe with some of the best local food you’ll find anywhere.

We devoured the Mediterranean board with a flight of whites, and then locally crafted chocolates and a heavenly chocolate mousse. I loved the semi-dry Riesling and bought a bottle to have ‘round our campfire later on. 

There is ample space inside and out at Owera Vineyards, and we saw lots of kids and dogs on the vast lawn when we visited.

Owera Vineyards is open on Thursday and Friday from 5-9 pm, on Saturday from 12-9 pm, and on Sunday from 12-4 pm .

Day 1: Where to Stay

Plan A: Now that your belly is full of good things, head south to Heart’s Desire Farm in Truxton, which you can book on Hipcamp.

This is a 400-acre dairy farm with incredible views of the surrounding valley, and it’s a great place for secluded, primitive camping. Pitch your tent in the woods or pasture — your hosts will happily transport your gear in the ATV, provide you with a portable fire pit and wood, and leave you to your stargazing.

Plan B: If you aren’t traveling with camping gear or don’t want to rough it, head into downtown Cazenovia and check into Lincklaen House , which is a lovely historic hotel that has been operating for more than 170 years.

Cazenovia is a small town, but the architecture is beautiful, and there are several small eateries and shops that are worth visiting.

Day 2: Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and Montezuma Winery

Total driving time:  1 hour, 25 minutes (63.6 miles)

No waterfalls today, but a jaunt around the 10,000-acre Montezuma National Refuge more than makes up for it. This is a great spot for birdwatching — there are plenty of easy walking paths, not to mention wildflowers, streams, and gorgeous scenery.

Alltrails has a great overview of the best trails in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge .

Next, head into Seneca Falls and stop at Women’s Rights National Historical Park , which tells the story of the first Women’s Rights Convention held in Seneca Falls, NY on July 19-20,1848. 

Check out the visitor center, the historic homes, ad the Wesleyan Chapel. The grounds are open every day, but the visitor center is only open between Thursday and Sunday, 10 am – 4 pm. This national historic park is free to visit.

Next, a stop at Montezuma Winery and Marsh Distillery in Seneca Falls. This Finger Lakes winery is more of a quirky gift shop with a tasting counter, but the staff is friendly, and for a small fee, you can score a souvenir wine glass so you don’t have to drink out of your camp mug when you get to your campsite.

We walked away with the Dragonfly black currant and apple wine, which went well with our s’mores.

Day 2: Where to Stay in Seneca Falls

Want to spend some more time in historic Seneca Falls?

The Gould Hotel is located right downtown and features chic furnishings and modern amenities. It opened in 1920 to much fanfare, and it is still one of the best places to stay in the area!

We love staying in boutique hotels that allow us to walk everywhere. A restaurant on the first floor serves up contemporary Italian cuisine, and dogs are permitted for an extra fee.

If you’d rather pitch your tent or park your RV, head to Cayuga Lake State Park . This expansive park is located at the northern tip of Cayuga Lake, just a few miles from Montezuma Winery.

Campsites are spacious and private with electric hookups. There’s a great playground for the kids and a nice swimming beach that everyone will enjoy.

Day 3: New York’s Tallest Waterfall and a Yurt on a Forest Farm

Total driving time:  1 hour, 12 minutes (54.2 miles)

Today we’re heading south between two of the biggest Finger Lakes, Cayuga and Seneca Lakes. Today’s drive takes you through rolling hills, vineyards, and farmland to Taughannock Falls.

Taughannock Falls is the crown jewel of the Finger Lakes waterfall region — At 215 feet tall, it’s the highest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains.

The gorge trail in Taughannock Falls State Park is a flat ¾-mile hike that meanders along the stream.

There are several places where you can walk right through the stream if you’ve got the right footwear, and the views of the gorge from the water are spectacular.

For a longer hike, start in the upper parking lot, hike the north rim trail down to the lower parking area (1 mile), and then head to the bottom of the falls on the gorge trail.

The rim trails are fairly quiet, but you’ll share the gorge trail with plenty of other hikers, no matter what time of year you visit.

Once you get your first glimpse of Taughannock Falls, you’ll understand why. 

You’re bound to need some refreshment after all that hiking , and Americana Vineyards is just 5.5 miles north of the park.

Fuel up with diner fare at the Crystal Lake Cafe, or head to the tasting room to get right to business. We had a lot of trouble choosing a wine here. There’s a huge selection, but we went (again) with a semi-dry Riesling, and we weren’t disappointed.

Americana Vineyards is open Friday and Saturday from 11 am-5:30 pm, and Sunday from 11 am-5 pm.

Day 3: Where to Stay

Ready to relax? Wellspring Forest Farm in Trumansburg has everything you’re looking for in a Finger Lakes vacation — comfort, privacy, and farm-fresh goodies.

It’s way beyond camping or even glamping. In fact, if you’re not into road-tripping (or camping) and just want to explore the parks around Ithaca, make this beautiful yurt your home base for all your adventures.

The yurt B&B is located on the edge of the forest and surrounded by gardens. Small touches make a big impact here — you can buy shiitake mushrooms from your hosts for breakfast, brew up some local coffee, and stroll along the many farm paths through fields and forests. 

Day 4: Too Many Waterfalls to Count

Driving Time: 1 hour, 11 minutes (47.8 miles)

Not much driving today, but we’re visiting two awesome state parks with dozens of Finger Lakes waterfalls, plus the chance to cool off twice in one day!

Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous of the Finger Lakes parks, taking visitors on a magical journey through caverns and tunnels, across bridges, and past 19 magnificent Finger Lakes waterfalls.

The park opened as a private tourist attraction in 1863 but has been run by the state since 1906. The CCC crafted the gorgeous walls, bridges, and walkways in the 1930s, most of which have been beautifully preserved.

Wake up early for this one to beat the crowds, and after you’ve walked the gorge trail (3 miles round trip), consider taking a dip in the Olympic-size swimming pool.

Next, head east toward Ithaca and make a stop at Robert Treman State Park . I had never heard of this park before, and it totally blew me away.

First of all, the swimming area is situated at the base of an incredible waterfall. Most visitors we encountered were lugging their picnics and beach bags to these lower falls. This is waterfall swimming at its very best!

Like the other Finger Lakes State Parks that feature amazing waterfalls, this one allows you to head straight into the gorge on the gorge trail (2.05 miles) or combine it with the rim trail for a loop (total of 4.3 miles).

Either way, be prepared to climb up (or down) hundreds of stone steps as you make your way in and out of the gorge.

We recommend starting in the lower parking area, hiking the rim trail to the upper lot, and then descending through the gorge trail back to your car. On a hot day, it’s very important to cool off below the falls before continuing on your journey. This makes for two refreshing dips in one da y!

Day 4: Where to Stay

Just because we love to camp on our road trip, doesn’t mean you have to. If you need more room to spread out, or just want a few extra creature comforts on your Finger Lakes road trip, check out this beautiful (and affordable) little house in Ithaca, New York .

This cozy vacation rental sleeps up to four people in two bedrooms, and it’s within walking distance of downtown. Dogs are not permitted.

Day 5: Buttermilk Falls, Ithaca, and Six Mile Creek

Driving Time: 1 hour, 25 minutes (43.7 miles)

By now the Finger Lakes waterfalls are starting to all resemble one another, but truly, you could visit 50+ more today without leaving town.

Since we had to narrow down the choices, we’re recommending a few of our absolute favorites. The first is Buttermilk Falls State Park, which is very close to downtown Ithaca.

The gorge trail in Buttermilk Falls State Park is a short .62 miles (one way).

You can certainly combine it with other trails for a longer hike, but if you want to take it easy on the last day of your Finger Lakes road trip, this is an easy and beautiful choice.

Meander along the gorge trail, take a dip at the base of the lower falls , and then head into Ithaca for lunch. For a quick, inexpensive, and delicious meal, I recommend Luna Street Food on North Aurora Street.

Early afternoon is a good time to meander around Ithaca Commons. Ithaca is a bustling college town, home to Cornell University and Ithaca College. It’s worth spending an extra day or two in Ithaca if you have time.

If you’re a shopper, you’ll find all kinds of fun boutiques on State Street.

If you love waterfalls (and you must if you’re reading this), you should check out Ithaca Falls, which you can walk to from downtown Ithaca.

Fancy another wine tasting before leaving the Finger Lakes?

Locals recommended Six Mile Creek Vineyards , just 3.5 miles from downtown Ithaca. What a beautiful setting!

The sprawling vineyards are a perfect backdrop for wine sipping on the deck, and there is often live music to go with your gorgeous view.

We bought our first red wine of the trip here, Ithaca Red, and packed it away for a long drive home.

Final thoughts on our Finger Lakes Itinerary

The Finger Lakes might not be a well-kept secret, but it certainly wasn’t on our radar when we impulsively planned our summer road trip.

We have never seen so many incredible waterfalls in one area. In fact, we were so spoiled by amazing Finger Lakes waterfalls, that nothing has compared since then.

Hiking through fabulous gorges is up there with climbing peaks for me now, and I can’t imagine why I didn’t realize that sooner.

As for the Finger Lakes wine, it’s world-famous for a reason.

Those Cayuga white grapes create some pretty incredible flavors, and while I’ve never been a fan of white wine before, the Owera semi-dry Riesling has converted me.

Bottom line, a Finger Lakes road trip is the perfect combination of beauty, adventure, and relaxation. It’s also a great choice for a romantic getaway with the one you love!

If you need more ideas for places to stay, check out our recent article on the best spots to go glamping in the Finger Lakes.

Time to hit the road with our fantastic Finger Lakes itinerary.

Want more wine and waterfall goodness in New York? Check out this post on our wine and waterfall vacation in the Hudson Valley. 

Follow us on social media for more road trip inspiration!

Tara is a freelance writer and travel blogger with a passion for outdoor adventures. She is the co-author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont and currently blogs at Back Road Ramblers and Vermont Explored , where she shares travel tips, adventure destinations, and vacation ideas for the wanderer in everyone.

Writing the waves of coastal travel

Finger Lakes Road Trip: Watkins Glen & Seneca Lake

Many thanks to CM Communications and the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel for hosting me on my Finger Lakes road trip. The support of businesses and organizations such as these helps me to create useful guides for readers like you. All opinions are my own.

“Wait,” my husband, Floren, says, and catches my arm. He holds out his hand, a blue surgical mask dangling from one fingertip. I take it and pull it over my nose and mouth. I ’ ll never get used to this, I think, and head for the coffee shop.

Four months into the pandemic that’s finally loosening its grip on New York State, and I still step out of my car and, as if nothing has changed, head toward the store or office, only to double back when I remember the one thing that seems to be keeping most of the world’s population healthy. On a Sunday morning, Floren and I have embarked on a four-day road trip, our first since the pandemic began, from our home in the upper Hudson Valley to the Finger Lakes and Thousand Islands. We’re relearning, moment by moment, what it means to be responsible travelers.

Finger Lakes Road Trip Day 1 Itinerary: On the Road to Watkins Glen

We leave behind the mountain vistas of the Route 88 highway for rural Route 206, where small houses crouch on what was once pasture and cropland. I keep having déjà vu moments; we must have driven this way on our trip to Corning four years ago. What I didn’t see last time around: a smattering of Confederate flags hanging limp in the clammy air. I squirm in my seat, knowing the color of my skin alone is what makes me welcome to some.

After a pause in Ithaca to visit friends, we pull into our first Finger Lakes road trip stop, Watkins Glen. We roll down scenic, lake-hugging Route 414, past a beach, where people are bobbing in the water or talking in small groups, up to their shins in Seneca Lake, trying to beat the 95-degree heat. Another turn, and we’re downtown, where neat rows of Revival architecture—Greek, Gothic, and Romanesque—form a brick procession down each side of the street.

At the far southern tip of the lake, just as the sky splits open in a colossal crack of thunder and lightning, we check into the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel , all tall ceilings and studied dark-on-light elegance. We scrap our plans for a walk along the water and instead head for the wineries that cluster like brood hens along the eastern shore of Seneca Lake.

Our first stop is closed. So is the second, and the third. As it turns out, most of the wineries and distilleries close at 5:00 p.m. on Sundays. It’s still pouring, but even under a choleric sky, the lake is beautiful. I stare out my window at the rectangular rows of grapevines that break up meadows and croplands, at the diminutive old-timey farm stands and the enormous, sleek winery buildings that have sprung up to cater to the region’s many tourists.

Exploring Downtown Watkins Glen

The rain has stopped by the time we return to the village. Though most of the businesses are already closed, we walk along North Franklin Street , the heels of my sandals spraying cool drops from the sidewalk against my calves. Summer is usually festival time in town, but with most on hiatus, foot traffic is a fraction of its usual. It’s anyone’s guess what kind of a toll the pandemic will take on a town like this. Watkins Glen was once a destination famous for its lavish sanitarium, and traces of long-ago wealth cling around its edges—opulent trim on a commercial building, a lovingly preserved Art Deco theater, pricey boats. But it’s still only partway through a resurgence that began after a half century of economic hard knocks.

Floren and I point out interesting architecture, clever names, incongruous venues. There’s the Colonial Inn , an eccentric combination of hotel and ice cream shop. And the Micro Diner , sidled up against a hair salon, with signs proclaiming it the World’s Smallest Diner, and Watkins Glen: so cool heaven can wait. There’s also Scuteri’s, on East 4 th Street, reputed to be home to a killer cannoli, but which won’t reopen until after we leave on Tuesday. Travel serendipity—those moments of finding an unexpected treasure—seem harder to come by in our current state of flux.

We head back to the hotel for a seafood-focused dinner, and are seated at a table close to the host’s station. Despite the signs around the property outlining the governor’s face-mask mandate, there’s a female guest, pretty, barely into her twenties, standing at the entrance, mask around her neck. I’ll see her several more times throughout our stay, always maskless. I can’t help myself; I judge her, this woman I’ve never met, assuming her youth equates to carelessness, or at least a false sense of immortality. I soothe myself with a Dark & Stormy, sipping slowly, allowing the maraschino cherry to wallow in the rum that’s sunk to the bottom, before scooping it out with my fingers to slurp it off the stem.

Finger Lakes Road Trip Day 2 Itinerary: Watkins Glen State Park

In the morning, I slip out onto the balcony to take in the sunrise and the early-morning quiet of the lake. This is the time of day I like best, whether halfway across the world or at home in my wooded neighborhood, when I feel like nature has laid out every color, every texture, every sound and smell just for me. I’m still there, under the Creamsicle-colored sky, when Floren comes looking for me, a cardboard cup of Moroccan mint tea in each hand.

It’s going to be in the mid-90s again, so we go to Watkins Glen State Park before the heat and humidity make the quick slide from uncomfortable to insufferable. At 7:00 a.m., the parking lot contains only three other cars. I scan the plates: New York, Pennsylvania, Arizona.

The last time we were here, the main entrance was under construction, so we came in from the trailhead at the top of the park. The gorge was still, well, gorgeous, but hiking it any way but through the main entrance is an oversight. This direction affords the opportunity to read the historical placards, including those on Seneca Indian history, that have been installed along the nearly-new, accessible entrance trail.

We walk the Gorge Trail, marked for one-way traffic to promote social distancing, and strewn with delicate magenta wild rose petals shaken loose in yesterday’s storms. Birds and dragonflies alight on trees, the brambles of a raspberry bush, the stone wall. We walk toward and then under a waterfall, the sound of the water like drumming timpani in my ears. On the other side, we pause so Floren can retie his laces. I get lost in the signs of human interference: a half-empty bottle of Gatorade sitting on a wall, some wadded-up napkins in a damp, bleached ball on one of the steps, a stray green rubber flipflop trapped against a sharp edge of rock in the water of the gorge.

Then I glance over my shoulder and take in a sharp breath. The rising sun is burning away the morning fog, tilting beams of diffused light over the gorge. Whether by luck, natural alchemy, or both, we have this moment completely to ourselves.

Title for This Block

Your mom doesn’t live here.

This is an actual trash can at the end of the trail at Watkins Glen State Park. No kidding. It should go without saying, but if the garbage cans are full, take your trash with you and dispose of it responsibly.

Day 2 Itinerary: Kayaking Seneca Lake

When we exit the park around 9:00 a.m., the lot is more than half full. We return to the hotel for a quick breakfast and a change of clothes, then make the short walk to boardwalk to rent a two-person kayak .

Floren and I haven’t been kayaking in several years, but we confidently push off into Seneca Lake, him in the back and me in the front. It takes a while to develop a rhythm. We head under the first bridge we see, imagining secret coves ahead, and wind up getting our paddles tangled in the weeds around the Cargill Salt facility. By the time we return to open water, we’re about twenty minutes into the trip, the sun beating down and slicking the skin under our lifejackets with sweat. The bickering begins. Floren accuses me of not paddling hard enough; I blame him for not following my steering directions, leaving me to manage, poorly, the turning of the boat.

Travel serendipity—those moments of finding an unexpected treasure—seem harder to come by in our current state of flux.

But as we guide the kayak down past a pair of marinas, the argument dissipates. Boats nod rhythmically in their moorings, carried on wavelets of current that send them rocking against their neighbors in a quiet tock-tock or the squeak of vinyl fenders. We catch the occasional snippet of conversation from people on the docks, but otherwise it’s quiet—even when a gray-haired man putters past us on a JetSki, then releases the throttle as he reaches the open lake. A glossy-furred mink runs along the shore parallel to our boat, darting in and out of the undergrowth as if keeping an eye on intruders.

We pause for a few minutes and let the kayak float. I allow my hand to trail in the cool water. A solitary common loon glides past, turning one red eye in our direction, the spectacular geometry of its back and wings visible above the waterline. I reach for my phone to take a picture, then curse myself. I forgot to bring a dry bag on the trip and had to lock the phone in my car.

Without a phone, we’re also without time, and figure it’s probably a good idea to start heading back. We paddle the long way around a stone breakwall. Its metal tower is filled on every tier with double-crested cormorants, which open their wings like matadors flashing their capes before arrowing into the water for a snack.   

Finger Lakes Road Trip: Watkins Glen & Seneca Lake

Where We Stayed Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel Where We Ate Blue Point Grille What We Did & Saw Watkins Glen State Park Summit to Stream Adventures kayak rentals Seneca Lake Wine Trail Watkins Glen State Park

Day 2 Itinerary: Wine Tasting on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail

In the afternoon, we’re back at the wineries. While the entire Finger Lakes region is replete with vineyards, the density along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail —30-plus wineries, cideries, and distilleries—is especially impressive. The unusual geography of the area was carved out of the last Ice Age, and has created ideal conditions for growing wine grapes.  

Knowing my time on this Finger Lakes road trip would be limited, I’d reached out to a colleague, wine expert Nancy Koziol, for recommendations. We stop first at Atwater Estate Vineyards . At 2:00 p.m. on a Monday, they’re already fully booked in their indoor tasting room. The host offers to give us a tasting outside under the tent, with a view of the lake. We don’t mind being the only ones here, and take our time sampling five mostly fruity whites and pinots.

Next we head to the sustainability-focused Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars , where a table has just opened up. We follow the hostess down a sunny path toward a large tent, where a half-dozen picnic tables have been set near a long bar.

Floren and I claim seats on the same side of the table so we can share the view of vineyards, laden with immature grape clusters, that slope down to the lake. Our server walks us through a tasting, setting each flight on a barrel beside our table, then stepping away to let us taste. We linger, jotting notes with stubby golf pencils onto printouts smudged with droplets of wine. We’re both infatuated with a bright, peachy Moscato, and buy a bottle to take home.

On the way back into town, we stop for a pint of fresh cherries at an old-timey farm stand, rinse them with water from a bottle growing unpalatably warm in the car, and eat the sweet fruit, spitting the pits into our fists.

After dinner, we dawdle along the shoreline. Past the iconic red Seneca Lake Pier House , we walk out onto the flat-topped pier. The sun has begun its long descent through the sky, and we sit at the end of the pier, watching as the western horizon flushes with streaks of cotton-candy colors: pink, aqua, apricot.

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Road Trip from New York to Finger Lakes

Prepare for a journey from the energetic heart of New York City to the serene tranquility of the Finger Lakes. This road trip promises a fascinating mix of winery-filled countryside, glittering lakes and unrivaled natural beauty that makes it an irresistible escape from the urban jungle.

The 280-mile road trip from New York to Finger Lakes will take 5 hours and 20 minutes to cover. You will get to visit Woodstock, Callicoon, Watkins Glen, Ithaca, Seneca Falls, Peekskill, Corning, Catskill Mountains and Taughannock Falls State Park.

Read on to find out about the best routes to follow on a New York to Finger Lakes road trip, amazing things to see and do, unforgettable places to stay and when to set off on this scenic adventure.

How far is Finger Lakes from New York, and how long will the road trip take?

Following the Finger Lakes Wine Country Route from New York to Ithaca, you can expect the journey to cover approximately 280 miles and take around 5 hours and 20 minutes without any stops.

If you opt for the Catskill Mountains Route, the drive from New York to Seneca Falls will take about 7 hours and 30 minutes, navigating through the winding roads and mountainous terrain, but the views are worth every moment. This route covers 350 miles

We'd recommend setting aside at least 3-4 days for the road trip to allow time to explore and soak up the attractions along the way.

Best road trip route from New York to Finger Lakes

Feel like a stroll down lush vineyards? Then the Finger Lakes Wine Country Route is the perfect option for you. Imagine cruising down roads hemmed with wineries, where the world's tastiest wines are crafted.

This route serves a full-bodied blend of relaxation, exploration, and of course, top-notch wine tasting. Not to mention, natural gems like Watkins Glen State Park as well as the shimmering shores of Seneca and Cayuga Lakes are ready to wow you at every turn.

The Catskill Mountains Route calls out to adventurers and culture buffs. With a backdrop of the majestic Catskill Mountains, this route traces a journey through New York's scenic highlands and intriguing towns.

Here's your chance to soak in the bohemian vibe of Woodstock or stand awestruck by the grandeur of the Catskills. It's an unforgettable mix of picturesque settings, amazing cultural pit stops, and that perfect "back to nature" feeling.

How to drive from New York to Finger Lakes

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between New York to Finger Lakes. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

Finger Lakes Wine Country Route

Start your journey from the bustling metropolis of New York City, heading northwest on Interstate-280 (I-280). Continue heading this direction to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Pocono Mountains.

Once you reach Scranton, switch onto US-6 heading west. This scenic route will take you through charming small towns like Tunkhannock and Towanda, offering perfect opportunities for rest stops and grabbing a bite to eat.

You will also pass the picturesque Endless Mountains area, known for its rolling hills and rural beauty.

As you exit Towanda, make your way to your next destination, the Finger Lakes Wine Country located in Corning. The Finger Lakes region is one of the most renowned wine-producing areas in the United States, with vineyards and wineries lining the region's numerous lakes.

Next, you will head north towards the quaint village of Watkins Glen, known for the stunning Watkins Glen State Park. Here, you can walk along the Gorge Trail to witness stunning waterfalls.

Continue east to your final stop, the beautiful city of Ithaca, nestled on the southern tip of Cayuga Lake.

Catskill Mountains Route

Head north on I-87 to reach the picturesque town of Peekskill. Here, the Hudson River meets the start of the Hudson Highlands, offering stunning riverside parks and a charming downtown area for a pleasant start to your road trip.

Continue your drive north to the legendary town of Woodstock. Known for its namesake music festival in 1969, Woodstock is brimming with a rich musical history, bohemian culture, and an array of unique shops and art galleries.

Soon you'll find yourself surrounded by the awe-inspiring Catskill Mountains in Shandaken. This vast expanse of nature's bounty offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation including hiking, fishing, and camping, perfect for the adventurer at heart.

Next, head to Callicoon, a hidden gem nestled along the Delaware River. Here, you can explore the quaint, historic town and enjoy a peaceful riverside picnic.

After your visit, head east to reach Binghamton, a city renowned for its unique blend of urban life and natural beauty. Visit the Ross Park Zoo or explore the lovely Recreation Park for a taste of the city's allure.

Continue your journey east on Route 96, and you'll reach the historic town of Seneca Falls, your destination.

Best places to stop between New York and Finger Lakes

We've carefully handpicked our preferred stopovers along both routes on a road trip from New York to Finger Lakes, coupled with a smattering of top-notch activities to explore during your break. Read on to find out more about the best places to stay.

Embrace the bohemian soul of Woodstock

Enveloped in a rich tapestry of music history and counterculture spirit, Woodstock stands as an iconic pit stop on the Catskill Mountains Route. Located about 3 hours from New York, Woodstock is known for lending inspiration to the mother of all music festivals in 1969 (despite the festival eventually settling on Yasgur's Farm in Bethel, some 40 miles southwest).

Nature strums a beautiful tune in Woodstock as well. Overlook Mountain, a hiker's delight, rewards every bit of your effort with sweeping vistas of the surrounding Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley.

Meanwhile, the peaceful waters of Cooper Lake offer an idyllic setting for a leisurely walk or a lakeside picnic.

A trip to Woodstock wouldn't be complete without strolling through its quaint, welcoming downtown. Packed with unique shops, eateries, and music venues, it's the perfect place to experience the continuing harmony of Woodstock's music, arts, and legacy.

To immerse yourself in the bohemian vibes of Woodstock, there is no better place to stay than Hotel Dylan . This beautiful hotel features stylish music-themed rooms, a cozy outdoor firepit to relax by, and a fantastic restaurant on-site.

You will find something to enjoy on the property no matter what time you visit, such as outdoor table tennis in summer and easy access to ski passes in winter. Make sure to take a snap with the popular peace sign on the premises before you check out!

Where to stay when you reach Ithaca

Nestled at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is known for its dynamic blend of natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and prestigious educational institutions.

Ithaca is famously home to Cornell University and beyond its collegiate credentials, Ithaca brims with scenic wonders and outdoor adventures. It's often said that "Ithaca is Gorges" due to its impressive number of waterfalls and gorges, including the remarkable Ithaca Falls and Taughannock Falls.

On top of this, Ithaca is the starting point of the Cayuga Wine Trail, the oldest of its kind in the United States, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. Whether you're a nature lover, a scholar, or a wine connoisseur, Ithaca has something for everyone.

After visiting Ithaca, drive a little further on the shores of Cayuga Lake to reach Taughannock Falls State Park, home to the famous waterfalls. We highly suggest taking an overnight break here and staying at the Inn at Taughannock Falls .

This gorgeous property, a Victorian house built in 1873, is surrounded by the stunning state park and is a short distance from the waterfalls. Make sure to sample their delicious breakfast before setting off on your next adventure on this beautiful road trip from New York to Finger Lakes.

Where to stay when you reach Seneca Falls

Seneca Falls is a charming small town with a significant place in American history. The town is widely recognized as the birthplace of the Women's Rights Movement; it was the site of the first Women's Rights Convention in 1848.

Visitors can explore this pivotal part of American history at the Women's Rights National Historical Park, which includes the National Women's Hall of Fame, dedicated to honoring women whose contributions have made a significant impact.

There's more to Seneca Falls than its historical significance. Wine aficionados will also appreciate its location along the Cayuga Wine Trail. Furthermore, local lore suggests Seneca Falls was the inspiration for Bedford Falls, the fictional town in the classic film "It's a Wonderful Life".

While in Seneca Falls, Barrister's Bed & Breakfast is our favorite place to stay. This beautiful and charming property s located in the historic village of Seneca Falls and is a short drive from the Cayuga Wine Trail and a short walking distance from the Women's Rights National Historical Park.

Things to see on a road trip from New York to Finger Lakes

Whether you're an ardent wine connoisseur, a nature lover drawn to verdant landscapes and cascading waterfalls, or a history buff intrigued by remarkable architecture and intriguing museums, the New York to Finger Lakes road trip promises an unforgettable adventure.

• Pocono Mountains - The Pocono Mountains are a natural treasure trove that captivates visitors with its scenic beauty and diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation. The area is ideal for exploring, boasting numerous hiking trails, enchanting waterfalls, and a diverse array of wildlife.
• Tunkhannock Viaduct, Tunkhannock - The Tunkhannock Viaduct is a remarkable concrete deck arch bridge that spans the Tunkhannock Creek. From this vantage point, visitors are treated to mesmerizing views of the surrounding landscapes.
• Endless Mountains - The Endless Mountains region presents breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and charming towns. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a myriad of activities.
• Worlds End State Park, Forksville - Tucked away in the mountains of Sullivan County, Worlds End State Park offers magnificent views complemented by hiking trails and camping facilities. The park provides a perfect backdrop for both adventure and relaxation.
• Corning Museum of Glass, Corning - The Corning Museum of Glass, housing 35 centuries of glass artistry, offers a unique blend of art, history, and science. Through interactive exhibits, visitors can explore the fascinating world of glassmaking.
• Rockwell Museum, Corning - The Rockwell Museum provides a showcase of American art and cultural experience, set within the beautifully restored 19th-century former City Hall in Corning. It's a visual journey through America's past and present.
• Seneca Lake Wine Trail, Watkins Glen - The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is a picturesque path lined with over 30 wineries on the shores of the Finger Lakes' largest body of water. It's an ideal location for wine tasting and taking in the tranquil lake views.
• Watkins Glen State Park, Watkins Glen - Watkins Glen State Park is renowned for its 19 cascading waterfalls nestled along a stunning two-mile trail. A walk through this park offers an awe-inspiring immersion into nature's beauty.
• Watkins Glen International, Watkins Glen - Watkins Glen International is a globally celebrated auto racing track that hosts exciting NASCAR and sports car races. Speed enthusiasts would consider this a must-visit destination on their travels.
• Lodi Point State Marine Park, Lodi - Lodi Point State Park is a serene retreat located on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake. It offers the perfect setting for picnics, leisurely walks, and kayaking.
• Wagner Vineyards and Brewery, Lodi - Wagner Vineyards and Brewery, one of the oldest wineries in the Finger Lakes region, also boasts an award-winning microbrewery. It's a fantastic spot for tasting a variousines and beers while taking in the lake views from their on-site restaurant.
• Montour Falls, Montour Falls - In Montour Falls, the town's main street ends in a dramatic fashion at the base of beautiful waterfalls. This unique layout offers an impressive visual treat that's perfect for photo ops.

• Bear Mountain State Park Peekskill - Bear Mountain State Park is an outdoor lover's dream, featuring hiking trails, picnic spots, and stunning views over the Hudson River. In winter, it also offers ice skating and sledding opportunities.
• Hudson Valley MOCA, Peekskill - The Hudson Valley Museum of Contemporary Art exhibits works by emerging and established contemporary artists. It serves as an engaging cultural hub, hosting various workshops, performances, and lectures.
• Opus 40, Saugerties - Opus 40 is a monumental environmental sculpture handcrafted by sculptor Harvey Fite over 37 years. It's a sprawling labyrinth of finely fitted stones, curated by nature and art alike.
• Woodstock Artists Association & Museum, Woodstock - The Woodstock Artists Association & Museum showcases a rich collection of local and regional art. It celebrates the region's cultural heritage, hosting regular exhibitions, art classes, and special events.
• Overlook Mountain - Overlook Mountain is a hiking hotspot offering panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and the Catskills at the summit. The trail also features the enchanting ruins of an old hotel and a fire tower.
• Phonecia Diner, Phoenicia - Phoenicia Diner serves classic diner fare with a modern twist, using locally sourced ingredients. Its retro, 1960s ambiance and beautiful views of the Catskills have made it a favorite among locals and tourists.
• Emerson Kaleidoscope, Mount Tremper - Housed in a silo, this giant kaleidoscope provides a psychedelic experience of colors and patterns. Visitors can lie on the floor and watch a 10-minute show inside this Guinness World Record holder.
• Giant Ledge and Panther Mountain - This is a popular hiking destination boasting stunning vistas from Giant Ledge and Panther Mountain. Each ledge offers a unique view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Callicoon Theater, Callicoon - The Callicoon Theater is a historic, single-screen cinema that gives you a nostalgic movie-going experience. It shows a mix of new releases and classic films.
• Ross Park Zoo, Binghamton - The Ross Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the nation, housing a variety of animals in naturalistic exhibits. The zoo is particularly known for its commitment to animal conservation.
• Roberson Museum and Science Center, Binghamton - The Roberson Museum and Science Center offers a blend of art, history, and science exhibits. The museum also houses a planetarium, providing stunning virtual tours of the universe.

Best time to go on a road trip from New York to Finger Lakes

The best time to set off on a road trip from New York to the Finger Lakes depends largely on your preferences for weather and activities. The Finger Lakes region is indeed a year-round destination, each season offering a unique charm and range of activities.

If you enjoy warm weather, wine tastings, and water sports, summer is ideal, with temperatures averaging between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the time when the lakes truly shine – locals and visitors alike enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

The vineyards are lush and green, inviting for wine tastings and vineyard tours. Summer is the peak tourist season, so attractions might be crowded and accommodation prices tend to be higher.

If you are visiting Watkins Glen in summer, Finger Lakes Wine Festival is a paradise for wine enthusiasts. It brings together over 90 wineries, gourmet foods, live music, and art. It's the perfect place to sample the region's celebrated wines.

Spring, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 60 degrees, sees the region reawakening with blooming flowers and greenery. The vineyards begin to sprout their new leaves and create a scene worthy of Van Gogh painting.

2300° GlassFest takes place in May, and is a celebration of glass and the fire arts in Corning, which is known as America's "Crystal City". The festival features glassmaking demonstrations, live music, art vendors, shopping, food, and fireworks.

Fall, on the other hand, presents a glorious display of autumn foliage, creating a picturesque driving experience. The temperatures during this time range between 45 and 70 degrees. Fall is also the harvest season for wineries, making it a great time for wine enthusiasts.

Winter, on the other hand, transforms the Finger Lakes into a snow-covered wonderland. With average high temperatures generally in the mid-30 degrees Fahrenheit, it's the perfect season for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing.

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35 Best Stops Between New York City and Ithaca

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

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How long is the drive from New York City to Ithaca?

The direct drive from New York City to Ithaca is 222 mi (358 km) , and should have a drive time of 4 hrs 2 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from New York City to Ithaca, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Allentown , Jim Thorpe , Scranton , Newark , and Bethlehem , as well as top places to visit like GRAMMY Museum Experience Prudential Center and New Jersey Performing Arts Center, or the ever-popular The Mills at Jersey Gardens.

Top cities between New York City and Ithaca

Best stops along New York City to Ithaca drive

The mills at jersey gardens.

GRAMMY Museum Experience Prudential Center

New jersey performing arts center, new jersey convention and exposition center, westfield garden state plaza, rockland bakery, paterson great falls national historical park, the frelinghuysen arboretum, new jersey botanical garden, jockey hollow bar & kitchen, new york renaissance faire, alstede farms, hacklebarney state park, lake hopatcong cruises, mountain creek resort, mountain creek water park, crystal springs golf club, sand castle winery, the newton theatre, ringing rocks county park, raymondskill falls, grey towers national historic site, dingmans falls, lakota wolf preserve, delaware water gap national recreation area commercial vehicle toll booth, sands casino and hotel, bushkill falls, steelstacks, christkindlmarkt bethlehem, roebling’s delaware aqueduct, top searches in ithaca, other popular road trips from new york city, explore nearby places.

• Brooktondale
• Trumansburg
• Willseyville
• Montour Falls
• Watkins Glen
• the Newark Valley
• Rock Stream

All related maps of Ithaca

• Map of Ithaca
• Map of Lansing
• Map of Brooktondale
• Map of Newfield
• Map of Freeville
• Map of Dryden
• Map of Trumansburg
• Map of Willseyville
• Map of Groton
• Map of Cayuta
• Map of Locke
• Map of Richford
• Map of Candor
• Map of King Ferry
• Map of Odessa
• Map of Van Etten
• Map of Interlaken
• Map of Virgil
• Map of Burdett
• Map of Berkshire
• Map of Montour Falls
• Map of Moravia
• Map of Watkins Glen
• Map of Erin
• Map of Hector
• Map of Valois
• Map of Lodi
• Map of Cortland
• Map of Homer
• Map of the Newark Valley
• Map of Rock Stream

Ithaca throughout the year

• Ithaca in January
• Ithaca in February
• Ithaca in March
• Ithaca in April
• Ithaca in May
• Ithaca in June
• Ithaca in July
• Ithaca in August
• Ithaca in September
• Ithaca in October
• Ithaca in November
• Ithaca in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Ithaca?

Get inspired for your trip to Ithaca with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Ithaca Itinerary
• 2-Day Ithaca Itinerary
• 3-Day Ithaca Itinerary
• 4-Day Ithaca Itinerary
• 5-Day Ithaca Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from new york city to ithaca.

Yes! You can drive from New York City to Ithaca.

How far is Ithaca from New York City by car?

The drive from New York City to Ithaca is 222 miles (358 km).

How long does it take to drive from New York City to Ithaca?

Driving from New York City to Ithaca should take you 4 hrs 2 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from New York City to Ithaca?

Gas from New York City to Ithaca would cost around $20 to $46 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from New York City to Ithaca?

You could check out GRAMMY Museum Experience Prudential Center and New Jersey Performing Arts Center, or the always popular The Mills at Jersey Gardens!

What are the best cities to visit between New York City and Ithaca?

People love visiting Allentown, Jim Thorpe, and Scranton, among others.

What's the weather like in New York City?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in New York City in January
• Weather in New York City in February
• Weather in New York City in March
• Weather in New York City in April
• Weather in New York City in May
• Weather in New York City in June
• Weather in New York City in July
• Weather in New York City in August
• Weather in New York City in September
• Weather in New York City in October
• Weather in New York City in November
• Weather in New York City in December

What are some other road trips from New York City?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for New York City.

• New York City to Washington DC drive
• New York City to Philadelphia drive
• New York City to Boston drive
• New York City to Orlando drive
• New York City to Baltimore drive
• New York City to Toronto drive
• New York City to Montreal drive
• New York City to Chicago drive
• New York City to Niagara Falls drive
• New York City to Atlantic City drive
• New York City to Newport drive
• New York City to New Orleans drive
• New York City to Gettysburg drive
• New York City to Nashville drive
• New York City to Pittsburgh drive
• New York City to Williamsburg drive
• New York City to Quebec City drive
• New York City to Gatlinburg drive
• New York City to Cleveland drive
• New York City to Atlanta drive
• New York City to Savannah drive
• New York City to Hershey drive
• New York City to Charleston drive
• New York City to Ottawa drive
• New York City to St. Augustine drive
• New York City to Myrtle Beach drive
• New York City to Mystic drive
• New York City to Virginia Beach drive
• New York City to Miami Beach drive
• New York City to Saint Louis drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

The Top 12 Things to Do in Ithaca

Located in the heart of the Finger Lakes, Ithaca is teeming with bohemian culture, natural beauty, and progressive attitudes. Known largely for its Ivy League institution, Ithaca is much more than your average college town. Between its local food scene, spectacular waterfall hikes, thriving creative community, and renowned vineyards, Ithaca captures many identities in a single destination. To help get your trip planning started, we’ve broken down the 12 best things to do in Ithaca.

Go Chasing Waterfalls

TripSavvy / Tanya Nikolic

Though Ithaca’s lakefront is incredibly picturesque, Cayuga Lake’s smaller tributaries steal the show for their impressive collection of gushing waterfalls and deep limestone and shale gorges. As the local slogan goes, “Ithaca is Gorges'' after all.

The Cascadilla Gorge trailhead starts just north of downtown and traces the craggy gorge past a series of waterfalls to Cornell’s campus. Across campus, Ithaca Falls plummets 150 feet to a popular fishing hole on Fall Creek. The falls are easily reached by a short walking trail. To the south of downtown, exploring the falls at neighboring Robert H. Treman State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park could easily fill an afternoon. At Robert H. Treman, hiking trails continue beyond the swimming hole below Lower Falls to several other cascades, including Old Mill Falls, Enfield Falls, and 115-foot Lucifer Falls. Buttermilk Falls is one of several waterfalls on the Butternut Creek, all of which can be seen from the Gorge and Rim Trails. For a more secluded setting, Six Mile Creek is a local hideaway with falls at two main dams, First and Second Dam. An abandoned mill stands atop the falls at First Dam, creating a surreal and eerie atmosphere.

Although it’s technically just northwest of Ithaca’s boundaries, Taughannock Falls State Park boasts a striking 215-foot waterfall, carved out through massive 400-foot cliffs.

Take a Dip at Robert H. Treman State Park

Since winter can stretch on for what seems like an eternity, locals know how to make the most of summer between festivals, concerts, and dining al fresco. And when things really heat up, the stream-fed pool below the Lower Falls at Robert H. Treman State Park is the place to be. As a state park, there is a lifeguard on duty throughout the summer.

Wander Ithaca Commons

Simply referred to as The Commons, this pedestrian-only thoroughfare spans several blocks between Aurora and Cayuga Streets in the heart of downtown Ithaca. The area is lined with specialty shops, bars, and restaurants amid public art and outdoor seating. While walking through the first time, you’d be forgiven for missing the Sagan Planet Walk . However, this 1:5 billion scale model of the solar system and its information displays are well worth closer examination. Starting from the sun, the Sagan Planet Walk stretches beyond the limits of The Commons to reach Pluto, which is located about three-quarters of a mile away at the Sciencenter . Although the start of each semester undoubtedly brings a burst of life downtown, there is plenty going on year-round for visitors of all ages. For starters, The Commons sets the stage for popular local events like the Chili Cook-off in winter, Apple Harvest Festival in fall, and a weekly concert series in summer. 

Taste International and Local Flavors at the Farmers Market

Farmers in the Finger Lakes region produce a bounty of wine, artisanal cheeses, and fresh produce. To access the widest array of local offerings in one place, the Ithaca Farmers Market is your best bet. Market is held on the waterfront at Steamboat Landing on Saturdays and Sundays from April to December. All of the roughly 160 vendors are located within 30 miles of Ithaca.

In addition to local farms, craftsmen, and cideries, there’s a wide selection of food vendors, too. Options range from Vietnamese dim sum to Cambodian cuisine, Indian samosas, and Cuban fare. The last market Saturday sees the annual Rutabaga Curl, a jovial competition of vegetable marksmanship. Participants can alter their rutabaga to their liking to help their chances of hitting the bulls-eye at the end of a long chute. For the remainder of winter, the market moves venues to GreenStar Co-op . There are smaller farmers markets to check out in season during the week too. The Congo Square Market , which takes place on Fridays at Press Bay Alley, features entertainment and food vendors run by people of color.

Sip Your Way Along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

Wineries are prolific across the Finger Lakes due to unique microclimates formed by the hilly lakeside topography, and Cayuga Lake is no exception. Ithaca is a great base for exploring the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail , which holds claim to America’s first and longest-running wine trail. There are a total of 14 wineries on the route, offering picturesque settings to sample a range of whites, reds, and dessert wines. Six Mile Creek Vineyard, which also doubles as a distillery, is conveniently located on the outskirts of Ithaca. Of the 13 remaining wineries, 11 are clustered on the Cayuga Lake’s west bank, allowing visitors to sample a wide range of vintages and varieties. If you only have time for a couple stops, be sure to squeeze in Buttonwood Grove to savor a glass and expansive views from their multi-level deck and Swedish Hill for a wide range of award-winning wines and a friendly welcome from their donkey, Doobie.

Catch a Live Show or Concert

With a healthy student and intellectual population, it’s no surprise that Ithaca gets a disproportionate amount of bands, artists, and performers rolling through town. The Kitchen Theatre’s modern and intimate performance space puts on plays and musicals year-round, many of which were founded by the company in Ithaca. The aptly named Hangar Theatre is housed in a renovated airport hangar near Cass Park and is known for its summer line-up of musicals, performances, and experimental theatre. For concerts, The Haunt and the State Theatre each maintain a bustling schedule. The Haunt sees a lively mix of touring indie and alternative bands, whereas the State Theater hosts famous authors, comedians, and musicians alike at its historic, 1,600-seat stage. Come summer, The Commons has free Thursday night concerts at the Bernie Milton Pavilion.

Spot Wildlife From a Six-Story Treehouse

Due north of Ithaca, the Cayuga Nature Center packs education exhibits and local species, warmly referred to as animal ambassadors, amid stunning forest scenery. The 100-acre reserve has extensive walking trails past a waterfall, meadows, and pristine habitat for woodland creatures. There are a range of facilities, including an aquarium showcasing species that thrived in Cayuga Lake pre-colonization. After visiting the resident fox, hawks, and owls, ascend the six-story treehouse for an aerial view of the surrounding landscape. 

Sample Local Brews

If wine isn’t your drink of choice, Ithaca and the greater Finger Lakes have you covered with an abundance of craft breweries. Just off The Commons, Lucky Hare Brewing operates a lively bar opening to pedestrian-friendly Press Bay Alley. On the west end, Liquid State Brewing Company has a mixed operation brew house and beer hall that serves ales and lagers with the added perk of local food trucks onsite. Ithaca Beer Company is a more expansive beer garden, and provides immediate reward for hikers arriving from neighboring Buttermilk Falls and Robert H. Treman State Parks.

Cruise Cayuga Lake

Stretching nearly 38 miles from end to end, Cayuga Lake is a premier destination for fishing and water sports. There are multiple options for departing Ithaca’s shoreline to explore the glacial lake. At the confluence of the Cayuga Inlet and Six Mile Creek, an island in Old Port Harbour is the departure point for boat tours, rentals, and cruises. Ithaca Boat Tours operates several tours, including a farmers market cruise and sunset cruise. During the summer months, paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks can be rented from Puddledockers to venture out on the calm lake at your own pace. Puddledockers also offers guided sunset paddle tours during the summer months.

Join a First Friday Gallery Walk

On the first Friday of each month, a rotating list of Ithaca’s galleries and studios open to the public for Gallery Night Ithaca. Often, there is music and other complementary activities to partake in between perusing the work of local artists and artisans. If your visit doesn’t coincide with the first Friday, there are still plenty of opportunities to see Ithaca’s creative side. As of 2020, Ithaca possesses more than 150 murals, many of which were painted by LGBTQIA+ and female artists from diverse backgrounds. Ithaca Murals is behind the inclusive beautification initiative, and maintains a map to find masterpieces all over town.

Indulge in a Sundae at Purity Ice Cream

The rolling countryside surrounding Ithaca and the Finger Lakes has long been prime land for dairy farmers. Founded in 1936, Purity Ice Cream is a favorite among Upstate New Yorkers, and their flagship operation is located on Ithaca’s west end. A total of 34 flavors, ranging in decadence from vanilla to blueberry cheesecake muffin and pumpkin praline, make it easy to get creative with a well-deserved sundae.

Reconnect With Nature at Cornell Botanical Gardens

Another perk of local academia is the 500-acre Cornell Botanic Gardens . There are extensive paths leading between the many different gardens and facilities. In spring and early summer, the Mundy Wildflower Garden, Young Flower Garden, and Robison Herb Garden are flourishing. Later in fall and winter, the Pounder Heritage Vegetable Garden is teeming with delectable produce and the Mullstein Winter garden’s 700 plant varieties thrive in the snow and ice. For sweeping views of the compound, loop around Beebe Lake or climb up to Newman Overlook for a birds-eye view.

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Ithaca, NY!

Ithaca is “gorges” in any season, spring is an especially great time to experience dramatic view of  waterfalls . Some of our favorite spring activities include hiking and attending an art performance . Find your flow and explore something new. Find upcoming events celebrating the season, including Ithaca’s beloved beverages, wine and cider .  If you are planning a multi-gen vacation, we’ve also got suggestions for how to make the most of a family trip to Ithaca.  Sapsucker Woods is an easy 3-mile loop and one of the best places for bird watching in the area. Bring the kids and experience these and other  activities as a family . Whether you’re staying in a hotel  or a charming inn , the greater Ithaca area will welcome you with top-notch hospitality and lodging options.

If you are looking for the best waterfalls in New York, Ithaca is the place to visit.

Taughannock Falls State Park

Cascadilla creek gorge, triphammer falls, ithaca falls, robert h. treman state park.

You never know what you'll discover with all the things to do in Ithaca. It could be something fleeting, like a rainbow in the mist of one of the many Ithaca waterfalls, or some powerful live performance. Whatever you choose, your visit will be memorable!

The tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains! Open year-round with two main access points for viewing Taughannock Falls.

Robert H Treman State Park

A winding, rugged gorge creates multiple waterfalls, including the notable Lucifer Falls. Hiking trails, camping, playground, and swimming in-season.

Waterfront Trail

Curving along Cayuga Lake's southern shore, this paved 8-mile trail connects many popular attractions. ADA compliant.

Epic views in every season, this is Fall Creek's final plunge to Cayuga Lake and one of the region's most powerful falls.

Ithaca College

The area is known as South Hill, and Ithaca College's campus offers some of the best views of Cayuga Lake.

Black Diamond Trail

An 8.5-mile rail trail, which connects Trumansburg to Ithaca, is equally fun for bike riding or cross-country skiing.

Cornell University

Cornell University's expansive main campus offers many attractions open to the public.

Ithaca Commons

Considered the heart of downtown Ithaca, this four-block pedestrian shopping area features boutiques, restaurants, galleries, events & entertainment year-round.

Cascadilla Gorge

The secluded cascading falls and stone path connects Cornell University to downtown Ithaca, offering a quiet refuge in the heart of the city. Open seasonally.

Ithaca Farmers Market

An icon since 1973, the outdoor market at Steamboat Landing is open Saturdays & Sundays, April through early December.

Buttermilk Falls State Park

A series of plunging pools and cascades that converge into a beautiful basin. The main lower falls is easily viewable from the paved entrance. Hiking trails, camping, and swimming in-season.

A series of plunging pools and cascades that converge into a beautiful basin. The main lower falls is easily viewable from the paved entrance. Hiking trails, camping, and...

A town of Lansing gem on the east side of Cayuga Lake, this park offers multiple recreation options, pavilions, summer concerts, and swimming in-season.

With the main campus in Dryden, this community college offers a variety of majors and operates an on-site learning farm.

"Ride the Cyclone: The Musical"

• Hangar Theatre

Ride the Cyclone: The Musical June 20–29, 2024 Music, Book, and Lyrics by Brooke Maxwell and…

Ithaca Gallery Night, first Friday

Cfcu summer concert series.

• Downtown Ithaca Commons
• July 4, 2024 - September 12, 2024

Club Cayuga DJ Sunset Cruise

• Allan H. Treman State Marine Park
• June 30, 2024 - October 20, 2024

KIDDSTUFF: "Make Way for Ducklings: The Musical"

• July 12, 2024 - July 14, 2024

ITHACA STORIES

Ithaca reggae fest: a celebration of music and culture, a sense of belonging: queer-owned businesses in ithaca, ny, 20 eco-friendly activities for your next ithaca getaway, a pet-friendly guide to ithaca ny, what others are, #visitithaca.

The Ultimate New York Road Trip Itinerary

Ready to plan to best every New York road trip itinerary? Umm, hell yeah you are. Because contrary to popular belief, there is WAY more to New York than just NYC.

Sure, NYC is nice but you kind of owe it to yourself to enjoy EVERYTHING that New York state has to offer.

Because between rolling hills, iconic metropolises, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and lakes that stretch out as far as the eye can see. New York really does have it all. I pinkie promise.

But, if you’re not from New York, it can be difficult (aka stressful) to figure out exactly where to start when planning a trip to the Empire state.

And that’s where I – and my tried and true New York road trip itinerary – come into play. I mean, I want to use my 30+ years of experience of traveling in New York to make your life a whole heck (only pretend I didn’t say heck) of a lot easier.

This way, you can quickly and easily all of the best landmarks in New York.

So, if you’re ready to experience New York like a REAL New Yorker, then onwards my friend as we swan dive into this New York road trip itinerary.

Trust me, it’s filled with TONS of insider tips and tricks to make your life 10,000 times easier. And yes, that is an exact number.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my  disclosure  for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Traveling To New York

Thankfully, traveling to New York for your New York road trip itinerary is pretty dang easy.

After all, New York is home to no less than three major airports – JFK, Newark, and LaGuardia – that are all well connected both domestically and internationally.

Personally, I’d recommend flying into either JFK or LaGuardia since both are closer to NYC than Newark, which is actually in New Jersey.

From here, you can then spend a few days in NYC before starting your New York road trip itinerary.

Personally, I wouldn’t rent a car in NYC just because it can be super expensive.

Instead, I’d spend a few days in NYC, take the train/bus to the Catskills, and THEN rent a car upon arrival.

Now, to get to the Catskills – the first stop in this New York road trip itinerary – from NYC you have a couple of different options. You could:

Take the Train  – Take NJ Transit’s mainline or the Bergen County line from Penn Station and then transfer to Metro-North’s Port Jervis line to Otisville. Once at Otisville, you can use a rideshare service to take you to the nearest car rental service.

Take the Bus  – This option is a bit more straightforward. Basically, all you’d need to do is hop on an Adirondack-Pine Hills Trailways/Greyhound bus and take it to the Catskills. Yeah, it really is that easy since they depart from the Port Authority bus terminal in Mid-Town. Once there, you could again use a rideshare service to take you to the nearest car rental service.

Pro Tip:  I’d go by bus. It’s easier, only takes about 2.5 hours, and will only cost between $45 and $65 per person. You’ll also get dropped off at the Catskill Park and Ride which is in Catskill, NY, near exit 21 of the New York Thruway.

How to Get Around New York

There is no reason why you should EVER drive in New York City. No really, that is not an exaggeration.

Not only are parking spots hard to come by – with insane, totally different, super complicated parking laws are found on every street block – but traffic is awful and if you park in a garage, well, you’ll pay the equivalent of the GDP of a small(ish) country.

Translation? You’ll pay a lot. Like, $40+ an hour a lot.

So, yeah, never drive in NYC and ALWAYS take the subway. Or bus. But the subway is usually easier since there’s no traffic.

Once outside of NYC though, you’ll 110% need a car. Yeah, sorry but outside of NYC, New York’s public transportation system is notoriously terrible or non-existent.

In either case though, you’ll need a car any time you travel outside of NYC.

So, if you want to start in the Catskills like this New York road trip itinerary suggests, I’d take the bus from Port Authority to the Catskills and then rent a car upon arrival.

Car rental services in Catskill, NY are basically Hertz. Conversely, you could always do a rideshare to Kingston and check out Enterprise, Budget Car Rental, or Sensible Car Rental while you’re there.

Best Time to See Fall Foliage in New York

Honestly, most people typically plan a New York road trip itinerary for the autumn since this is when vibrant foliage typically takes over the New York region.

So, if you’re lookin’ to do a wee bit of leaf peepin’, then consider planning your New York road trip for sometime in October.

Typically, fall foliage is JUST starting to come out in late September and then really takes over the region in October.

And depending on where you are in the state, fall foliage typically peaks in early October in the Adirondacks and around mid-October in the Catskills, which is much further South.

Below you’ll find two different totally amazing New York road trip itineraries that have ten amazing places in total.

Obviously, this is just a suggested NY road trip itinerary and it will vary based on your interests and how much time you have to spend in New York.

So, use this post as a rough guide and to help you plan one of many perfect road trips from NYC for you!

New York Road Trip Itinerary #1 – Headin’ Up North

New york road trip stop 1: catskills.

First stop: the Catskills! And I truly love this region since everyone takes something different away from this vast area of natural beauty.

Will you go get lost in the woods? Or head up to the lake to catch fish for supper? Perhaps you’ll attempt to climb one of the many mountains in Catskills? The possibilities are endless!

Things To Do In The Catskills

Explore Catskill Park  – There are two lakes for water sports, over 120 miles of mountain bike trails, and 8 major hiking routes , including climbs up 5 of the 10 highest peaks in the Catskill Mountains. So, there’s plenty to do for anyone looking to get physical during their New York road trip itinerary!

Take in the view at Kaaterskill Falls  – See this beautiful natural marvel in its full glory, as water drops down over 260 feet at the highest waterfall in New York State! This gorgeous site has captured the hearts and minds of painters and poets for hundreds of years. It also happens to be one of the best waterfalls in New York  State!

What To Eat In The Catskills:

Binnekill Tavern  – If fine dining is yo’ thang, head over to Margaretville and grab yourself some top-level dishes at the Binnekill Tavern. Re-opened in 2018 with a new highly acclaimed chef, this Catskills institution will make you want to come back again and again! I recommend the schnitzel – it’s a local specialty!

Gracie’s Luncheonette  – If you feel the need to chow down on some good ol’ comfort food, but with a southern twist, look no further than Gracie’s Luncheonette in Leeds.

Feel-good food is the top priority here, with all-day breakfasts, fry baskets, hamburgers, and sandwiches aplenty. You might have to roll me on over to the next stop after a meal here!

Where To Stay In The Catskills: 

Mountain Treasure Bed & Breakfast  (Maplecrest)  – The scenery alone makes this place a pleasure to stay in! Add in spacious rooms, cozy furniture, cute fire pits, and an adorable gazebo, and you could convince me that  Mountain Treasure  might have been plucked straight out of a fairytale!

Antique Rose Inn  (Windham)  – With interiors like this, you’ll find it hard to head outdoors.  The Antique Rose Inn  also offers wood-paneled walls, provides personally tailored breakfasts, and has beautiful gardens surrounding Victorian-style architecture.

There’s also a wrap-around terrace that is perfect for sitting and watching the evening sunset with a cup of warm cocoa – or a cool beer, depending on when you stay

New York Road Trip Stop 2: Albany

Time to head further up the highway! Because believe it or not, Albany has a rich history, and it shows in every part of the city.

From the nightlife to the wineries and breweries, to the live performances, to the county fairs, there’s something for everyone who comes to visit. If you are one of those people who love the great outdoors, you can even chase waterfalls near Albany!

Things To Do In Albany

Head to the State Capitol  – Trust me – you can’t miss it! This five-story, hugely ornate building took over thirty years to build. But it looks like it was worth it!

And as the focal point of the Empire State Plaza in Capitol Park, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Also be sure to take a tour so that you can explore to the vast interior too!

Albany Institute of History and Art  – Put those thinking caps on, y’all! This is one of the oldest museums in the US, and has over 20,000 different pieces on display, including paintings, sculptures, historical artifacts, and more!

What To Eat In Albany:

Sam’s Italian American  – This family-owned Albany mainstay has been serving customers for four generations. So, if you want to get your Italian pasta fix, Sam’s is the place for you.

The portions are huge, the menu is long, and by the end of your meal, you’ll feel like you just had dinner at your favorite Italian grandma’s house!

Cheesecake Machismo  – Need to satisfy that sweet tooth? Then head over to this epic place on Hamilton Street. it’s a quirky bakery that will ensure that you remember your New York road trip itinerary for years to come! Cherry Amaretto, Bavarian creme, green tea with chocolate…

Whatever you decide on, buy it by the slice or pick up a whole cheesecake for the road!

Where To Stay In Albany

Oakcliff Bed & Breakfast  (Halfmoon)  – Built in the style of Greek revival architecture,  Oakcliff Bed & Breakfast  will make you feel like royalty. Seriously, whether you’re resting your head in a four-poster bed or admiring the grand piano in the lounge, you’ll never not be in the lap of luxury here!

Olde Judge Mansion B&B  (Troy)  – This striking gothic-Victorian style building feels like something out of a game of Clue if the staff weren’t so welcoming and hospitable! Guests will also be treated to ornate furnishings and delicious home-cooked breakfasts. The only question is, will you entertain yourself in the poker room or in the parlor?

New York Road Trip Stop 3: Saratoga Springs

No New York road trip would be complete without a visit to Saratoga Springs. And I’ve talked a lot about it a lot before in my article about  25 amazing things to do in Saratoga Springs, NY !

Because from thrilling horse racing to charming Greek Revival-style homes, Saratoga Springs brings its A-game to anyone who crosses its welcoming borders!

Things To Do In Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Spa State Park  – You could spend your entire stay in Saratoga Springs inside Saratoga Spa State Park and not run out of things to do. I mean, hiking, fishing, swimming, spa treatments (of course), museums, and even golf are just some of the things you can do here. The hikes in Saratoga Springs are mind blowing! There are also tons of food venues so you won’t go hungry either.

Ride the historic carousel in Congress Park  – Take a blast from the entertainment past with this 120-year-old wooden merry-go-round! The original hand-carved animals are still in place, and will take you back to the good ol’ days as you bop up and down in style!

What To Eat In Saratoga Springs

Osteria Danny  – Just around the corner from Congress Park is this delightful Italian restaurant. Fill your belly with such delights as bacon-crusted cod, lobster bolognese, or a wealth of vegan and gluten-free dishes, which are all sure to fortify you during your awesome New York road trip itinerary!

Sushi Thai Garden  – Or if you’re feeling like you want some Asian cuisine, Sushi Thai Garden will be able to provide you with delicious sushi featuring all kinds of seafood, including salmon, crab, tuna, mussels, and octopus.

They also serve a whole host of different Thai curries, with fried rice and noodle dishes available too.

Where To Stay In Saratoga Springs

Adelphi Hotel  (Saratoga Springs)  – Looking for some luxury during your NY road trip itinerary? Well, then this place will blow you away. It features spacious rooms with breathtaking views of the city (make sure you book a room with a balcony!), beautiful furnishings, and top-quality service.

Some say it’s also one of the  most haunted hotels in New York , but don’t let things that go bump in the night spoil your stay!

Ann’s Washington Inn  (Saratoga Springs)  – If you’re in the mood for more of a quiet, peaceful night’s sleep, head on over to Ann’s Washington Inn. This delightful guest house comes with lush gardens and terraces on which to sit, have a drink and relax.

It’s no wonder plenty of couples decide to host their weddings here – it’s a place where you’re guaranteed to have a good time (and a comfy bed afterward)!

New York Road Trip Stop 4: Lake George

It’s time for a tan! Or in my case, a mild change in my pasty white, white complexion! And the one place I like to pretend to tan is Million Dollar Beach.

But, this beautiful natural oasis is just one of the many things that attract road trippers to Lake George every year. And there’s no reason for you to miss out either.

Because this top NY road trip destination is more than just a big body of water – there’s historical forts, rail bikes, a huge amusement park, need I say more?

Things To Do In Lake George

Take an authentic steamboat cruise on Lake George  – Get out on that water, yo! After all, this town is named after the lake for a reason, and you should definitely head onto one of their local steamboats – especially the Minne Ha Ha Paddlewheel! – to enjoy one of the oldest pastimes in the USA.

House of Frankenstein Wax Museum  – Wax figures? Check. Movie monsters? Double-check. The ultimate creepiness collection? Check check and CHECK! If you’re after some scares during your ultimate New York road trip itinerary, this house of horrors will definitely scratch that itch. Be warned: not all of the wax statues stay still ….

What to eat in Lake George

The Garrison Restaurant and Bar  – For great food and great company, head to the Garrison, just around the corner from Million Dollar Beach. This all-American bar and grill boasts live music, patio seating, and a huge menu full of satisfying pub grub. Plus, there’s plenty of craft beers on tap!

The Boathouse Restaurant  – For the best in waterfront dining that Lake George has to offer, this former boathouse (who would have guessed?) provides high-stacked burgers, tasty steaks, the freshest seafood, and a whole host of other dishes that will kick your New York road trip up an extra notch!

Where To Stay In Lake George

Inn on the Hill  (Lake George)  – This place has everything you could want from a comfortable night’s stay, with modern furnishings and the added bonus of an outdoor pool.  Umm, hi. Sign me up, please! Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from Lake George itself, meaning you can head straight out onto the water easily.

The Inn at Erlowest  (Lake George) –  I’ll admit it, this place comes with a hefty price tag. But when you want luxury, this is the place to measure it by. This beautiful stone building comes with HUGE rooms, some even with a fireplace or a jacuzzi, and excellent views of the lake, so your breakfast scenery will be second to none

New York Road Trip Stop 5: Lake Placid

It’s now on to our final stop of our first New York road trip itinerary – Lake Placid, a jewel among the Adirondack Mountains and home to one of the  best lakes in New York . .

If you’re venturing out on the ultimate road trip from NYC in the winter, this will be the perfect place to finish, because Lake Placid is a snow sports paradise!

But what if I’m on a NY road trip in summer? Oh well, I guess you’ll just have to settle for the natural beauty of sunlight pouring through green trees and shimmering off the cool, clear lake water. Sigh, it’s a hard life!

Things To Do In Lake Placid

Zip through the trees at Experience Outdoors  – What better way to view nature than by speeding over it at top speed? JK y’all, this isn’t you’re usual outdoor adventure! But just south of the main town of Lake Placid, make sure you stop by this family-friendly thrill ride.

Because in addition to epic zip lines, there’s also an adventure park full of challenging obstacles all set up in the Adirondack Mountain forests! You can see why this is one of the popular things to do in Lake Placid.

Shoot across Mirror Lake in a Toboggan  – Prepare for the longest slide of your life as you rocket down this 30-foot tall structure straight onto Mirror Lake! Although only available in winter, this is one of the most unique things to do in Lake Placid , with some sledders managing to slide over 1,000 feet across the ice!

You can also check out some of the best breweries in Lake Placid while you’re here.

What To Eat In Lake Placid:

Delta Blue  – Classic Lake Placid decor meets sumptuous Southern cuisine in this wood-paneled establishment complete with tree branches lining the ceiling. On the right day, you can even catch a live blues night while you enjoy your barbecue ribs!

Mis Amigos  – Sometimes you just want a burrito, amirite? Or, tacos, nachos, enchiladas, and the ocassional chimichanga. Well,  Mis Amigos deffo has got what you want with dishes that are bursting with flavor! If the weather is good, make sure to get a seat by the fire pit outside on the patio so that you can embrace Lake Placid’s sweet, small-town ambiance.

Where To Stay In Lake Placid:

Maple Leaf Inn  (Lake Placid)  –  Maple Leaf Inn  sits between Mirror Lake and Paradox Bay, within easy walking distance of both lakes. This quaint budget option will have you ready and refreshed for the day’s activities, and is perfectly positioned for anyone wanting to head up to Whiteface Mountain!

Cobble Mountain Lodge  (Lake Placid)  – When you think “mountain lodge”, this is what will appear in your head. Warm and comfortable rooms, with wooden furnishings and wood-paneled walls, this place just screams cozy!

New York Road Trip Stop 6: Montreal

If you’ve driven this far north, why not go a little bit further and add another country to the mix? I mean Canada is just right across the border and Montreal looks so tempting right? Montreal is one of those places that I have been to more times than I can count because it is such a beautiful city and it is so accessible. Probably why I’m a bit biased when it comes to visiting it.

Things To Do In Montreal

Explore The Gorgeous Sandy Beaches – Montreal has some great beaches where you can enjoy the sand and the sun. If you are visiting in summer that is. If it’s winter, you can still enjoy the sand but it would be a bit too cold to enjoy the water. Nevertheless, it still a great spot to come to enjoy the view!

Go For A Hike – Montreal is a haven for anyone who loves the outdoors. There are amazing park trails for people at all levels of hiking experience and endurance. It is a great way to unwind.

Some of the popular parks are Parc Jean-Drapeau, Mount Royal, Lachine Canal and Champ des Possibles. These parks are just one of those benefits for the lucky ones living in Canada.

What To Eat In Montreal

Foiegwa – Head to Foiegwa for one of the best brunches in Montreal . This elegant diner was actually crafted out of an abandoned space. It is currently known for its gourmet regional cuisine and yes as I mentioned its brunch!

If you visit Foiegwa make sure to try out the waffles and the chicken. Doesn’t sound gourmet? Trust me, you will be surprised!

La Cave A Manger – You may have left NYC way behind but Montreal can offer you one of the most iconic dishes from your fav city. Try the Lafayette Supreme croissant at La Cave A Manger. This is a cream filled delicacy with multiple circular croissant layers. Have I convinced you yet? You seriously have to try it because it will have you craving for more than just one!

Where To Stay In Montreal

Best Western Plus Hotel – The Best Western is a popular hotel chain and with good reason. The hotel has modern rooms which are clean and pretty large. It comes with all the amenities that you could need for a night out in the town. Plus it is very conveniently located in the downtown area.

Hotel Bonaventure Montreal – This is another pretty great hotel to stay at and it has some raving reviews. Not only is Hotel Bonaventure in the heart of the downtown activity, it even has a fitness center that guests can use for free. The 2.5 acres of manicured gardens is also a big draw, as is the rooftop pool and terrace.

Bonus Stop For The Winter Lovers: White face mountain

Whiteface mountain is so close to Lake Placid that you don’t really need to have two bases to visit it. The location however does beg to be mentioned especially if it’s winter but it really doesn’t matter which time of the year you head there. There is always something to do. If you don’t want to be ultra adventurous, there are so many options where you can just kick back and enjoy the view!

Did I mention that there quite a few cool romantic winter getaways here too?

Things To Do In White Face Mountain:

Skiing:  Did you know that the White face mountain is one of the highest in the country? During winter the slopes get coated white and it is a great spot to test your skills whether on a snowboard or on skis!

Hill falls gorge:  It is a privately owned nature park but everyone really raves about how there are trails and activities for all ages. Plus the views are spectacular and it is rather peaceful. Such a break from the noisy streets of the city, if you get what I mean!

Santa’s workshop:  A quirky theme park that has stood the test of ages! It is perfect for families with kids and a fun stop along the way. Don’t expect a huge amusement park with rides though. Here the kids can catch a bit of the Christmas magic and so can you. I know I loved it. Bonus points because I got to feed the reindeer which was so much fun!

Where To Stay In White Face Mountain

Hungry Trout Resort:  It is perfect if you want to stay close to the ski lifts and get as much out of the slopes as you can. 

Sara Placid Inn:  Located in Lake Placid, this a warm tranquil place to stay. It allows you to access the slopes and yet have the quite laid back life near the lake.

New York Road Trip Itinerary #2: Way Out West

New york road trip stop 1: ithaca.

It’s wine o’clock, baby! Because wine and craft beer are the names of the game in Ithaca. Just get me a bespoke beverage, y’all!

So, as you head west into the Finger Lakes region – aka the number 1 wine region in the USA (oh yeah!) – Ithaca will be your first port of call.

As you pass vineyards full of delicious grapes just waiting to be picked, keep an eye out for the many waterfalls you’ll be passing along the way.

With excellent wine and so much gorgeous scenery, this will be the perfect place to start the best New York road trip itinerary ever! Aside from wine, there are also loads of things to do in Ithaca that draw people here year after year.

Things To Do In Ithaca

Head to Taughannock Falls State Park  – The biggest and most impressive of Ithaca’s 150 waterfalls (OMG is there a place where water ISN’T falling around here?!), the Tuh-GA-nick Falls waterfall, as it’s known locally, is 215 feet tall. And the rest of the state park isn’t too shabby either! There are hiking trails , swimming in Cayuga Lake, camping grounds, playgrounds, picnic areas, and more.

Get your art on in Downtown Ithaca  – Walking around Downtown Ithaca is like walking around an art gallery, except that you’re outside on the streets! There are statues and murals everywhere, many by local artists. It’s easy to see why this place has a reputation for its artistic diversity! Heck, even the restaurants and the nightlife are unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else!

What To Eat In Ithaca

Moosewood  – Get yourself some all-natural cuisine at Moosewood Restaurant! Dishes here are made with whole grains, nuts, beans, and seeds, and mixed with the freshest vegetables and spices, for the most organic meal imaginable. You’ll probably feel healthier just by reading the menu!

Agava  – Over in east Ithaca, Agava offers the best in Southwest-inspired vegetarian and vegan cuisine with its amazing selection of farm-to-table style dishes. Just choose between traditional entrees or tapas-style small plates, making it great for groups of friends and families alike. Get sharing, yo!

Where To Stay In Ithaca:

William Henry Miller Inn  (Ithaca)  – This cozy bed and breakfast is right in the Downtown area of Ithaca, and treats guests to historic ambiance while also providing all the modern-day comforts you could want. And if you’re after handmade desserts before bed following a day of fun in the city, then this is the place for you!

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott  (Ithaca ) – This hotel sits right by the Buttermilk Falls State Park, with Cayuga Lake just a 5-minute drive away. The rooms are also neat and spacious, with a pool and a fitness center on-site. That’s why, this is a great place to stop, drop and recharge.

New York Road Trip Stop 2: Watkins Glen

It’s time to jump from one Finger Lake to the next. Because Watkins Glen is less than an hour from Ithaca and sits on an entirely different – but totally picturesque – body of water that is known as Seneca Lake .

Therefore, it’s the perfect spot to go for a hike, cruise out on the lake, or sample some delicious wine from one of the many Seneca Lake vineyards that can be found in this quaint little New York town.

The Corning Museum of Glass also isn’t too far away if you fancy a little trip to one of the best museums in the region.

Things To Do In Watkins Glen

Hike the Gorge Trail  – This hour and a half long trail through Watkins Glen State Park is one of the  best hikes in upstate New York ! Start at the Sentry Bridge, walk around behind the Cavern Cascade waterfall, cross the suspension bridge, marvel at the Rainbow Falls plunge pools, and head onwards towards Jacob’s Ladder. It’s an awesome adventure!

Get your pick of the bunch at the Farmers Market  – Throughout the summer and fall seasons, you won’t find a better selection of fresh produce, meats, crafts, and toiletries than at the Watkins Glen Farmers Market in Lafayette Park. See the community of Watkins Glen at its best here, and grab yourself a bargain!

What To Eat In Watkins Glen:

Seneca Harbor Station  – Here you’ll find meals that’ll fill you up, all year round. During the summer, it’s seafood, steak, and sandwiches. But throughout the winter, the menu changes to hearty chowders that will keep you warm and happy on the inside for a long time!

Blue Pointe Grille  – If you’re after breakfast then the Blue Pointe Grille at the Harbor Hotel is an excellent choice. Order yourself a Finger Lakes omelet and follow it up with some pancakes and waffles. You might even want some oatmeal, yogurt, and perhaps even a muffin. Regardless of what you choose tough, the food here is guaranteed to leave you feeling ready to start your day!

Where To Stay In Watkins Glen

Budget Inn  (Watkins Glen)  – Cheap an’ cheerful, as they say in jolly old England! But don’t worry, the service is 100% American-style hospitality. The location is great too since this hotel sits in between the Six Nations Campground and the Catharine Creek Wildlife Management Area, which means that you’re downtown!

Lakeside Resort  (Watkins Glen) –  The Lakeside Resort  is exactly what it sounds like! So, enjoy 30 acres of walking trails, waterfalls, and garden areas, plus plenty of space for hanging out on the terrace and having a barbecue. You’ll be living the cabin life to the max here during your New York road trip itinerary!

New York Road Trip Stop 3: Rochester

Time to head north! And Rochester makes for an epic, intellectual stop on your New York road trip itinerary.

Especially since there are museums aplenty up here by Lake Ontario, covering everything from science to gamesto art, and even photography.

Plus, there’s the Seneca Park Zoo, which has been open and running for over 120 years!

Things To Do In Rochester

It’s game time at The Strong National Museum of Play  – What’s that? An entire museum dedicated to games, toys, and entertainment? Hold my beer! Because it’s not just kids that will enjoy this museum (although this place is totally family-friendly!).

I mean, there are over 30,000 consoles and games in the International Center for the History of Electronic Games, and it’s home to New York’s only indoor butterfly garden!

Browse through paintings at Artisan Works  – This not-for-profit gallery showcases community artwork that has been created by the local people of Rochester. So, marvel at the artistic creative process in action as artists work to create imaginative new pieces while you visit. There are also guided tours of the facility available for all age groups too!

What To Eat In Rochester

Voula’s Greek Sweets  – Vegan and vegetarian Greek food never looked and tasted so good. And you don’t hear me saying that very often! Whether it’s brunch, lunch, dinner or just some pastries to go, everything here is delicious, and almost all of it is gluten-free or has the option of being gluten-free. Yup, go, go Greek food!

Nick Tahou Hots  – For something uniquely Rochester, head to Nick Tahou Hots and order yourself a “garbage plate”. This local dish, invented at Nick Tahou Hots, includes your choice of protein (steak, chicken, hamburger etc) served on top of a combination of home fries, baked beans, and macaroni salad, topped with a spicy meat sauce.

One way or another, you’re sure to remember your New York road trip itinerary here!

Where To Stay In Rochester:

Hampton Inn Rochester  (Irondequoit)  – This is a modern hotel features plenty of amenities like an indoor heated pool and gym, as well as a daily breakfast with plenty of tea and coffee. Yup, sure sounds good to me! The rooms are also nice and big and well maintained. Hip hip hooray!

School 31 Lofts  (Rochester)  – Right in the middle of the Neighbourhood of the Arts, this modern hotel comes with some impressive furnishings mixed in with some very artistic designs, which is appropriate! You can totally tell this used to be a school, but this is a much better use of the building if you ask me. I’ll take comfort over homework any day!

New York Road Trip Stop 4: Buffalo

Time to head further west to Buffalo, New York’s second-largest city.

As you can imagine, with great size comes a great amount of things to see and do! So, when you visit, expect to find nature preserves, botanical gardens, museums, a thriving nightlife scene, and plenty of activities down by the harbor.

Because it’s all happening here, at least if you embark on one of the best road trips from NYC!

Things to do in Buffalo

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens  – These amazingly beautiful gardens were designed by the same guy who developed Central Park back in New York, New York! Not only are they a visual spectacle to behold, but they also act as a center for research and education. They’re dual-purpose, y’all!

And the centerpiece of it all is a tri-domed conservatory that is made from wood, steel, and glass, which houses tropical plants and looks Insta-mazing at sunset!

Definitely take some time to go on the Garden Walk, which is known for being America’s largest garden tour. And if you want to be the first one through the door, they also offer an early access activity where you get to help feed the koi fish who live in the ponds here!

Explore Outer Harbor  – This quiet area is home to over 200 acres of green spaces, with plenty of bike paths and walking trails for you to enjoy. There are also plenty of places here where you can rent out kayaks and head onto the waters of Lake Erie. You even have the option of renting water bikes, so you can cycle across the lake. It’s fun and a bit surreal, all at the same time!

Plus, If you head north into Buffalo Lighthouse Park, you can see the towering figure of Buffalo Main Light right at the edge of the water.

What To Eat In Buffalo

Sinatra’s  – Time for some fine dining during your New York road trip itinerary! And this family-owned Buffalo institution fits the bill since they’ve been in operation for over forty years.

They also serve up some of the best Italian Old Country flavors with a bit of modern flair. Soups, salads and antipasti will lead into pasta and specialties like Osso Bucco. With a bottle of wine (or two – who’s counting?) to accompany the proceedings, you and your NY road trip friends will feel like royalty!

Black & Blue Steak and Crab  – Seafood, seafood, seafood, and – oh yeah – more seafood. After all, this is a harbor city, that is known for it’s fresh catch of the day and stunning scenery.

So, for the best seafood the city has to offer, head to Black & Blue for tasty oysters, red snapper, lobster, scallops, shrimp, and, of course, crab. There’s plenty of fish alternatives on offer too if seafood ain’t your jam, including all manor of steaks and sides to go with them!

Where To Stay In Buffalo

The Delavan Hotel  (Buffalo)  – Feel like playing some billiards? Then staying at  the Delavan Hotel  will make you feel like you’re living in a palace!

Yup, nothing but large rooms with an abundance of lamps and chandeliers. Add in a 24-hour front desk, an on-site fitness center, and a bar to create the perfect place to stay in Buffalo. Yes, nothing but the star treatment for me, please!

Wyndham Garden  (Buffalo Downtown)  – Located right in the center of the city, this affordable hotel is perfect for those who want to stay right where the action is.

The rooms are comfortable and well equipped, with friendly and hard-working staff who help facilitate an easy check-in and check-out. Yup, just what you want during your New York road trip itinerary!

New York Road Trip Stop 5: Niagara Falls

“It’s the end of the world and we know it”, and by world, I mean road. Because yes my friend, this is the final stop on our New York road trip itinerary!

And I dunno about you but I personally think it’s important to end with a big finish, and they don’t come much bigger than this!

Because Niagara Falls is famous for being home to one of the world’s most amazing and beautiful natural waterfalls. One of those things that makes you proud to be a New Yorker!

Fortunately, there’s way more to this corner of New York state than just impressive (VERY impressive!) water features.  But, I alos understand if you just want to spend most of your time at the falls.

Things To do In Niagara Falls

Uh … visit Niagara Falls?  – I mean, how are you not gonna see it? You have to, really, it’s SUPER famous! Although, you really do have to see Niagara Falls with your own eyes to appreciate the full power of its beauty. I have a whole Niagara falls itinerary that guarantees you make the best out of your trip!

First, head over to Niagara Falls State Park to begin your journey, and then head up to Prospect Point to take that all-important selfie. Gotta make those waterfalls more beautiful, amirite? Don’t forget to match those amazing pics with the right Niagara falls captions.

If you want, you can even take a ride aboard the Maid of the Mist to see the base of the Falls and refresh yourself in the cascading mists! Just make sure that you pack everything you need for Niagara falls .

What To Eat In Niagara Falls

Zaika Indian Cuisine & Bar  – For a vegetarian-friendly taste of India, this restaurant creates dishes taken from royal Indian menus dating back hundreds of years.

Choose from exotic meals like paneer, biryani, rogan josh, dal makhani, and more. Finally, wash it all down with a refreshing lassi, or a yogurt-based drink that can be served sweetened or salted, your choice!

Top of the Falls Restaurant  – It’s the only restaurant that actually overlooks Niagara Falls! So, as you munch away on your fish and chips, Beef on Weck, or a quality hamburger, you can gaze out the floor-to-ceiling windows at Horseshoe Falls. And if you want, you can even sit on the outdoor dining deck for a closer look!

Where To Stay In Niagara Falls

Wanderfalls Guesthouse and Hostel  (Niagara Falls)  – If you’re looking for a cozy, budget accommodation, and all you really need for the night is a bunk and a pillow, then  Wanderfalls Guesthouse and Hostel  will be perfect for you.

There are also plenty of different sleeping options available, all of which include comfortable communal eating and living spaces. Yup, it’s the perfect place to meet like-minded travelers who have also embarked on one of the best road trips from NYC to see the world-famous Niagara Falls!

Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino   (Niagara Falls)  – Feel like splashing out on your final New York road trip itinerary stop? Well, this is the place for high rollers and ballin’ ballers such as yourself!

I mean, the rooms here are equal parts huge and amazing and include access to jacuzzis, swimming pools and gym equipment. You can even get pampered in the in-house spa, or try your luck in their casino and have yourself a great time!

Map of the Ultimate New York Road Trip itinerary

Additional New York Travel Resources You’ll Love

• Best Things to do in Beacon
• Best Things to do in Poughkeepsie
• Best Things to do in Lake Placid
• Best Things to do in Lake George
• Best Christmas Tree Farms in New York
• Romantic Winter Getaways from NYC

Well my road trippin’ homies, that just about concludes this epic guide to the ultimate New York road trip itinerary!

Tell me, did all your favorite road trips from nyc make the list if not then let me know in the comments below and i’ll check them out. , and if you found this post helpful, be sure to join our email list and pin this post now so that you can read it again later.

Monday 4th of July 2022

Nice article with excellent suggestions. However, Sam's Italian in Albany has permanently closed.

travelnewyorknow

Saturday 7th of January 2023

Thanks for letting me know!

Saturday 18th of June 2022

Loved this, but what about the 1000 Island /St. Lawrence area... Maybe this is your next project. Lots to do there and along that western coast

5 Best Upstate NY Lakes: A Finger Lakes Road Trip

Written by lori bruton, road trips | destinations | new york | north america | travel | united states.

What’s better than exploring upstate New York in the fall? Here are 5 best upstate NY lakes we discovered on a Finger Lakes road trip.

The saying, “Go jump in the lake,” can be taken literally when you visit the eleven Finger Lakes. I visited five favorites on my Finger Lakes Road Trip—Seneca, Cayuga, Keuka, Conesus, and Canandaigua. The name Finger Lakes has a great origin. According to Native American legend, the Great Spirit placed his hands on the land to bless it, creating his handprint on the land, thus the name Finger Lakes.

I first explored the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York with my mom. Our favorite season to travel was fall. The flame-colored fall foliage is at its peak in October and early November. Here are the 5 best Upstate NY Lakes you can discover on a Finger Lakes road trip.

Glenwood Waterfalls near Ithaca, New York is just one beautiful area you will experience in a Finger Lakes road trip. Photo by Paul Massie Photography via iStock by Getty Images

What's in This Article:

Road Trip Adventures

Road trips with mom are treasured memories. It was a season in our lives when it was just mom and me against the world after her divorce. She made sure we made time to travel together. (That was our theme song by Helen Reddy, “You and Me Against the World.” )

Those adventures had us laughing so hard. One time, after having brunch at Belhurst Castle in Geneva, NY, we ran in the rain to get to the car. She peeled off her soaking wet pantyhose in the car. Oh my! Finally, the rain cleared, and a bright, breathtaking rainbow appeared in the blue sky.

The scenery on a Finger Lakes Road Trip will warm your heart, and so will the wine. The Finger Lakes is also Wine Country. There are over 100 wineries, breweries, and distilleries around Keuka, Seneca, and Cayuga Lakes. Some of them host wine and food events.

Enjoy the wines as you explore Upstate NY on a Finger Lakes road trip. Photo by Anita Warren-Hampson via iStock by Getty Images

This time, I traveled solo, creating new memories on this Finger Lakes Road Trip wearing not pantyhose but my Serengeti shades (even Tom Cruise has a pair of this amazing eyewear).

Seneca Lake

Seneca Lake is the largest of the glacial Finger Lakes in upstate New York. It’s named after the Seneca Nation of Native Americans. It is known as the lake trout capital of the world and is hosts the National Lake Trout Derby.

Seneca Lake is the largest of the Finger Lakes. Photo by Albert Pego via iStock by Getty Images

A relaxing way to take in the sights on Seneca Lake in Watkins Glen is a dinner cruise or narrated sightseeing cruise on Capt. Bill’s vessels. The crew catered to every need. The dinner cruise was delightful, and we enjoyed live music. Dancing to the music and watching the sunset from the deck made me feel happy and free. You get the best views of lovely homes and Hector Falls from the boat.

Set sail on the famous True Love . In 1956, True Love made her debut in the musical film, High Society , starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly, Frank Sinatra, and Louis Armstrong. There is a famous scene where Bing serenades Grace with the song “True Love” by Cole Porter. Wow, I love a good romance story. Today, this pristine schooner is home in the heart of the Finger Lakes. That makes my heart go pitter-patter.

Another fun adventure on my Finger Lakes Road Trip was kayaking on Seneca Lake. I walked along the marina and discovered Summit to Stream Adventures , where you can rent kayaks, participate in excursions, have a go at fly fishing, or go charter fishing. They supply all the equipment and instructions necessary.

Capt. Bill’s Seneca Legacy Dinner Cruise. Photo by Lori Bruton

Eat, Play, Stay on Your Finger Lakes Road Trip at Seneca Lake

When you get hungry, take a stroll along North Franklin Street and stop at Nickel’s Pit BBQ or if you prefer Italian food, I recommend Jerlando’s Ristorante & Pizza Co.

Homemade ice cream for dessert hits the spot. When Mom and I visited Watkins Glen years ago, there was a five-and-dime type store that served homemade vanilla ice cream at the counter. I can still remember how sweet and creamy it tasted. Now, you can find homemade ice cream at the Colonial Inn & Creamery . They have a variety of flavors. This time I chose a scoop of chocolate and a scoop of coffee ice cream that I enjoyed eating outside, sitting in a wooden rocking chair.

Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks. Chiseled stone stairs lead you past captivating waterfalls and gorges. Rim trails overlook the gorge. Be careful, it can be slippery. The views are worth the hike. Campers and visitors can enjoy the Olympic-size swimming pool.

Take the Watkins Glen State Park stairs to see the Cavern Cascade waterfall. Photo by Juntaski via iStock by Getty Images

Stay a day or two and capture as much as you can. I found myself with no place to stay one night. I was grateful there was room for me at The Red Kettle Inn Bed & Breakfast. It is a charming Victorian home, and the Innkeeper serves a homemade full country breakfast with food from local farms.

A Glamping Experience at Seneca Lake

Glamping lets you experience nature without roughing it. I stayed at NaturLuxe & Stars , which was true luxury and serenity surrounded by nature. A campfire, modern amenities, and a comfortable bed in a safari tent were amazing. Dawn Aprile created and designed this place with style. I highly recommend glamping here. This place is unique because it is located next to Watkins Glen International Racetrack . Did you know that you can drive your vehicle on the racetrack? Check out the other racetrack events and festivals while you’re there.

Safari Tent at NaturLuxe & Stars. Photo courtesy Walter Colley

Cayuga Lake, Part of a Finger Lakes Road Trip

Cayuga Lake is the longest of New York’s glacial Finger Lakes. It is just under 39 miles long. This name comes from the smallest Native American tribe of the Iroquois confederacy.

I drove on the East side of Cayuga Lake and had the pleasure of staying at the historical Rogues Harbor Inn . I didn’t need to travel far for a bite to eat. The Corner Pub at Rogues was right next door. After a good meal and resting at the Inn, I was ready for another day to explore.

Rogues Harbor Inn. Photo courtesy of Walter Colley

The historical homes of Harriet Tubman and William Henry Seward are nearby. Wandering along the waterfalls and trails, I had many “wow” moments of the views and rock formations at Ithaca Falls and Buttermilk Falls.

Pack in some time for pampering. I booked a massage with Bec Haley at Ithaca Massage Station . That was a wonderful wow experience. You can go to her, or she can come to you.

Later, I enjoyed a spectacular sunset at Myers Park, located on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake in the town of Lansing. There are pavilions, picnic tables, and grills throughout the park. It’s a peaceful place to swim, play volleyball, or do horseshoes. I was in awe, looking at the boats in the marina. You can have an adventure by renting a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe from Paddle-N-More .

Myers Park on Cayuga Lake. Photo by Lori Bruton

Keuka Lake is one of the major Finger Lakes in upstate New York. Its name is derived from the Iroquois meaning, “canoe landing.” This unusual Y-shaped lake has been called Crooked Lake. However, it is commonly called “Lady of the Lakes” because of its natural beauty.

This was a must-see lake on my Finger Lakes Road Trip. Both sides of the lake have wineries. Hammondsport is a quaint village on the southern tip of the lake. You’ll enjoy the antique shops, stores, restaurants, and gazebo.

Drive up the hill for a breathtaking view, good food, and wine. Learn about ice wine and take a tour at one of the wineries.

By now, you may have guessed that my favorite adventure is kayaking. I got to kayak on Keuka Lake, thanks to Keuka Watersports . Those jet skis looked tempting to ride. Maybe next time. If you love boats, water, and swimming, make this a stop on your Finger Lakes Road Trip.

Keuka Watersports jet skis. Photo by Lori Bruton

Conesus Lake

Conesus Lake is the westernmost of New York’s eleven Finger Lakes. Like the majority of the Finger Lakes, at one time, this is where the Iroquois Indians lived. In the Native American language, Conesus means “always beautiful.” Positioned on two stagecoach routes and a railroad, the area boomed in the mid-1800s with ferry boats, hotels, and an amusement park.

I remember going to Long Point Amusement Park back in my dating days. Today, it is a public park with pavilions which is still fun.

View of Conesus lake from Vitale Park in Lakeville, New York. Photo by Debora Truax via iStock by Getty Images

This lake holds a special memory for me. It was our first camping trip when my sons were young. We rented a camper and boat at Conesus Lake Campgrounds . It is clean, comfortable, and a complete experience. They still have RV and tent sites, cabins, rental trailers, and camping cottages. Enjoy this home of hospitality full of fun activities.

I have been and will go again to the Naples Grape Festival . This is one you don’t want to miss in September. Have you ever tasted a grape pie? Since 1961 the grape festival has been held every September in Napes, NY, to celebrate the grape harvest. You can do more with grapes than make wine. The festival has artisans, winemakers, food, and music to fill your adventure cup.

The village of Naples is at the southern end of Canandaigua Lake. That is the next lake I visited on my Finger Lakes Road Trip.

Canandaigua Lake 

Canandaigua Lake is the fourth largest of the Finger Lakes in upstate NY. It runs from the City of Canandaigua to Naples. The name came from the Native American word, “Kanandarque,” meaning “chosen spot.”

This is my chosen spot. It doesn’t feel like summer unless I’ve been swimming in Canandaigua Lake at Kershaw Park. This lakefront—the landscaped park—has a sandy beach, walkways, a public dock, picnic pavilions, and an open-air gazebo. I like sitting on the swinging benches and looking out at the water when I’m not swimming.

Canandaigua Lake is my chosen spot as I explore the Finger Lakes. Photo by Debora Truax via iStock by Getty Images

Swimming works up an appetite. I walked to Murphy’s Law Irish Pub and enjoyed a BBQ Chicken Quesadilla on the outside deck.

BBQ Chicken Quesadilla. Photo by Lori Bruton

Be sure to experience the Canandaigua Lady on your Finger Lakes Road Trip. The Canandaigua Lady is a 19th-century steamboat replica and authentic double-decker paddle-wheeler. Enjoy a meal or a narrated cruise on this Mississippi-style paddle-wheel boat. Lunch, dinner, and excursion cruises run from May through October.

Enjoy a lunch or dinner excursion onboard the Canandaigua Lady. Photo by Barefoot_Photos via iStock by Getty Images

Make a bigger splash at Roseland Water Park just down the road. It’s the largest waterpark in the Finger Lakes Region. I remember my dad would surprise us when I was a kid and take us there. Maybe that’s why I have a passion for water activities. Dad would go on the rides with me. Now, I prefer a milder ride in the wave pool.

Canandaigua Lady. Photo by Lori Bruton

History, Art, and Culture on a Finger Lakes Road Trip

My mom found beauty in flowers. She was a creative gardener. It’s no wonder she enjoyed visiting Sonnenberg Gardens in Canandaigua, NY. I can now appreciate the beauty and history there.

Sonnenberg is a 50-acre estate known for its distinctive period architecture, formal, unique gardens, and fountains. What captivated me most was the fountains and mansion, specifically the library. The mansion was once a summer home of the affluent Frederick Ferris and Mary Clark Thompson.

Sonnenberg Gardens in Canandaigua. Photo by Lori Bruton

On this Finger Lakes Road Trip, I stayed in the Elizabeth room in this 200-year historic home, the first bed and breakfast in Canandaigua. It was originally owned by Oliver Phelps, the founder of Finger Lakes. B&B at Oliver Phelps has lovely features of Greek Revival architecture and a lovely Innkeeper. She provides a generous, farm-to-table breakfast and excellent service and amenities. There is information available about what to see and do.

Warm Lemon Pudding Breakfast Cake. Photo by Lori Bruton

Across the street is the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center and another art and culture experience nearby, CMAC . It is located on the Finger Lakes Community College Campus. My sister and I saw Kenny Rogers perform there years ago. Whatever your taste in music, you’re sure to find the event that suits you.

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Make Memories on a Finger Lakes Road Trip

This Finger Lakes Road Trip held surprises, memories, and new experiences. There is always more to explore, see, and do. The winding wine and hiking trails paired with the canvas of the colorful views are treasures I will hold dear forever. Art, culture, cuisine, music, water, boats, and nature are everywhere. Discover more hidden gems of your own and enjoy the ones I shared with you in the Finger Lakes. Whether you are looking for an exciting road trip in the United States, a fall leaf-peeping tour through New England , or a boutique stay in a small town, let Wander with Wonder be your guide.

Culinary Travel | Family Travel | Gardens | Hiking | New England | Outdoor Activities | Small Towns | Wine Tasting | Wineries

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NYC To Ithaca: The Perfect Road Trip (& What To See On The Way)

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A road trip from New York to Ithaca is similar to heading from the land of the concrete jungle towards the hilly town shrouded by forests and waterfalls. The journey from NYC to Ithaca via road takes around 4 hours. Undoubtedly, “Ithaca is gorges” is boasted across New York state, but there are a couple of great stops on this road trip as well. Indeed, the destination is incredibly rejuvenating, but so is this journey throughout.

Towns Along The Way

The most popular city on this route is Allentown, located in eastern Pennsylvania.

The city has museums galore, like Liberty Bell Museum, Allentown’s Art Museum, and America On Wheels Museum depicting the Renaissance and Modern American works, as well as vintage vehicles.

If concerts, dance performances, or any branch of art feels intriguing, Newark, a New Jersey City, should be enticing. With New Jersey, Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), Newark Museum, the Cathedral Basilica of Sacred Heart, or relaxing by the cheery trees across Branch Brook Park, this stop has plenty of things to explore around.

Scranton is another stop on this road trip which is a city in northeast Pennsylvania. Popular for Steam town National Historic Site, the Electric City Trolley Station and Museum, The Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den, Scranton Lake Walking Path, and Scranton Cultural Centre, this place is full of historical sites.

Related: The Ultimate Travel Guide To New York City: See The Best Of NYC

Remarkable Stops Along The Way

Paterson great falls national historical park.

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park is not just a city park but also the center of a historic area. Located in Paterson, New Jersey, which is 12 miles west of New York City, it is home to one of the largest waterfalls. The “Great Falls Of The Passaic River” and the historic mill tours, as well as ancient buildings, lend this experience to behold in person.

• Timing: 9.00 AM to 4.00 PM
• Location: 72 McBride Avenue Extension, Paterson

New Jersey Botanical Garden

Part of Ring wood State Park, New Jersey, this is a beautiful place with wildflowers, seasonal blooms, birdwatching trails, and haiku readings as well. There are an array of gardens such as Perennial Garden, Lilac Garden, Italianate Gardens, Hosta & Rhododendron, Wildflower & Annual Garden. Almost 4 hours can be easily covered around this vast stretch of blooming gardens. There are family hikes and walks which include 96 acres of garden and also the tour of the manor house.

• Timings: 8.00 AM to 8.00 PM
• Location: Morris Road, Ring wood, N.J. 07456

The NewYork Renaissance Faire

An outdoor theme park based on Elizabethan England, which entices visitors more with acrobats, jousting & crafts market. This 65-acre faire has permanent structures along with twenty stages and more than 100 shops. Started in 1977, this place also has 100 artisans offering their finest works in handmade wares.

• Location : 600 Route 17A, Tuxedo, NY
• Tickets: Adults ($35) Children ($18)

Related: Forget Bar Crawls: A NYC Dumpling Crawl Is For Serious Foodies Only

Alstede Farms

A perfect place for the family is located in Tuxedo, New York off New York State Route 17A.

With activities such as apple and peach picking, this place has only sustainable and certified organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers. There are farm tours and many events as well as the place is available for wedding receptions, birthday parties, and photography locations. A few Restaurants near Alstede Farms are Old Mill Tavern, Lamplighter Restaurant, Thai Kitchen, and Marilyn's Café.

• Ticket: Fee of $8
• Duration: 9.00 AM to 6.00 PM

Food Outlets Between NYC To Ithaca

Roscoe is a popular halting stop for people traveling between New York City and Western New York. Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps, Panini, and Salads are a few items on the menu to grab from. Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen, a 1917 American landmark restaurant with a lounge. Raimondo, another outlet for Italian food, and Floyd & Bobo, a decent bakery with a modest lunch menu, are a few other options too.

Best Time For This Road Trip

October is the perfect season for this road trip, as the fall foliage adds to the beauty of the journey. As Ithaca is a place brimming with natural beauty, this leaf-peeping season makes the experience more incredible.

Things To Do In Ithaca

Buttermilk falls state park.

Ithaca is popular for its State Parks, and Buttermilk Creek is famous for its waterfalls, especially Buttermilk Falls . A cascading fall of 500 feet below is surrounded by hiking trails and meadows beyond the park. There is a natural pool at the base of the falls, which is absolutely safe for swimming and also, and the park has five trails with gorgeous landscapes. To view the Buttermilk Falls, one can witness it through the park entrance or lower Gorge Trail.

• Hours of Operation: Park Is Open Year Round (From Dawn To Dusk)
• Camping Season: May 20th to Oct 9th
• Fees: Entry Fee for Cars ($9)
• Camping fees: $15 to $19 per night

Cayuga Waterfront Trail

A relaxing trail dispersed with scenic views all along, connecting Cass Park to Farmer’s Market to Stewart Park and a beautiful waterfront. It is a multi-use trail of almost 8 miles and is non-motorized throughout for a perfect recreational activity. Thus, the trails are flat and are perfect for jogging, running, biking, rollerblading, etc. It is the perfect route to be more remote, with the southern end of Cayuga Lake and the area’s popular waterfront destinations.

Ithaca’s Farmer Market

The real element of Ithaca can be witnessed at the Ithaca’s Farmer Market, which has almost 85 vendor stalls. Be it fresh vegetables from the farm, pastured meat, cheese, fruits, eggs, bakeries, honey or maple syrups, artisanal gifts, or handmade local crafts, this place gives the real slice of Ithaca. Moreover, it also has authentic Laotian, Cuban, Indian, Cambodian, Ethiopian, and Thai food items lending it a cross-cultural vibe. Just not food, the market has stalls featuring carvings, weaving, and paintings as well. Do not miss the Coffee Roasters, receiving national acclaim, or Macros Mamas and Solaz Breakfast Burritos. On Saturdays, the place is bustling with more life owing to musicians and market goers compared to mellow Sundays.

• Location: Ithaca Farmers' Market, 3rd Street, Ithaca
• Days Of Operation : Saturdays & Sundays

Things To Do At Downtown Ithaca

Downtown is replete with restaurants, bars, art galleries, a farmers market, and a hub for celebrating many local festivals. Ithaca Commons has been the hanging spot for most college-going students, but it's popular among locals and travelers owing to the musical and street performances, the Apple Harvest Festival in the fall, and the Downtown Ithaca Chili Cook-Off festival in winter. If visitors are looking for a quick bite or even fine cuisine, they can head to Restaurant Row or Moosewood Restaurant. Cascadilla Gorge Trail, a short and gorgeous trail to hike, or Sciencenter Sagan Planet Walk explaining the solar system in Commons are a few other activities to engage in downtown.

Discovery Trail

This trail offers a myriad of unique activities as well as family attractions comprising history, science, and art. "Ithaca’s Museum of Earth” exhibits America’s largest fossil collections, Cayuga Nature Center with a forest canopy and tree house, Cornell Botanic Gardens with 14 specialty gardens, Sciencenter of Ithaca, a museum for all ages; this trail also has multiple fascinating sites across downtown Ithaca.

Farm To Fork Experiences

The right epithet for Ithaca is “Eclectic,” as it is a place with gorgeous beauty and serenity but also adventurous and fun to explore the other way around. Indeed, having Farm To Fork Experiences with ample wineries, artisan cheese makers, breweries, and a farmer’s market, this place treats one’s taste buds in every sense. Head towards Eve’s Cidery, which has a private, in-depth tasting which is of an hour duration and discusses ciders. Gourdlandia has grown and dried gourds with fun patterns into the gourds. Also, the region of Finger lakes has many sightseeing tours.

Where To Eat In Ithaca

Mix Kitchen and Bar typically American food, Saigon Kitchen serves Asian and Vietnamese cuisine; the Boatyard Grill serves local cuisine, seafood as well as vegetarian options; Mahogany Grill serves local cuisine; specifically, its steaks, Ithaca Beer Co are moderately priced food outlets. For cheap eats, travelers can grab a bite at Wegmans, The State Diner, and Coal Yard Café, and for breakfast options, College town Bagels, Ithaca Bakery, and Dolce Delight are some really cool options.

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The Ultimate New York Road Trip Itinerary

July 28, 2020 //  by  Follow Me Away //   Leave a Comment

New York, New York. Every music genre from Rock to Country has a song about this place. You just might have one of them running through your head as you plan your New York road trip.

Honestly, you could probably make a road trip playlist with all the songs about New York and have a solid hour or two of music. It might not be the most fluid of playlists, but hey, we are not the playlist experts. We are the road trip experts.

New York is one of the smaller states in the good ol’ USA, but it is nonetheless packed with places to go and things to do. The state is riddled with history from the revolutionary war to the present. You can hardly go a step without running into something significant or symbolic.

Not to mention the stunning fall foliage and lush landscapes. New York is beautiful at any time of year, and especially in the fall. There is nothing quite like an East Coast Autumn.

We have made this itinerary pretty all-encompassing, with a good mix of urban cities and country wilderness. You do not have to visit every stop on our list to have an amazing road trip.

Rather, pick the ones that sound the most interesting and fun to you! We have tried to list everything worthwhile to make this article your one-stop New York road trip shop. Read on to learn everything you need to know to have the best road trip in New York ever!

Getting to New York

Road trips in New York often begin in the great New York City. While you may absolutely begin your New York road trip in its most famous city, we recommend starting in Albany.

Albany has an international airport all of its own, and ticket prices can be comparable to flying into New York City. We are always advocates for shopping around and finding the best price, just keep in mind that the plane ticket is not the only cost for flying into the city.

Car rental prices tend to be quite high in New York City. As you will likely be spending a good amount of time driving during your New York road trip, it is a good idea to save what you can on rentals.

That is why we recommend beginning and ending in Albany. We have listed New York City as a stop instead.

Not to worry, you can still spend plenty of time in the Big Apple. This road trip is up to you! Pick as many (or as few!) stops as you want and budget your timing accordingly!

Getting Around New York

Wherever you choose to fly in to, you will need to rent a car. We will not be taking you down any gravel or dirt roads during this New York road trip, and you can pretty much rent whatever you like.

Driving in New York City is likely to be the most harrowing part of your road trip! We advise trying to avoid driving in the city during peak traffic hours.

Honestly, we advise not driving at all in New York City if you can help it. The city has a solid public transportation system. Take a train into the city if you have flown in elsewhere and save yourself the headache of driving.

New York City only occupies one of the stops along our New York road trip itinerary. Most of your driving will be in beautiful upstate New York.

While this is not necessarily a purely upstate New York itinerary, it can certainly serve as such! Many of the stops feature the iconic country getaways available in upstate New York.

When to See Fall Foliage in New York

Fall just might be the best time to visit New York. You can pretty much ask anyone and they will tell you the same thing.

If you choose to road trip in New York in the fall, you can definitely come anytime during the season. But if you are choosing this season because autumn leaves in every shade of yellow, orange, and scarlet are your thing, you will want to narrow it down a bit.

Of course, you can catch these colors anytime in the fall. But they are really at their best in October. The leaves are just starting to change in September and starting to fall en masse in November.

The best time to see fall foliage in New York is definitely October. If you love crisp mountain air and vibrant autumn colors, do your New York road trip in the fall!

Otherwise, you can really come at pretty much any time. Just keep in mind that New York is close to Canada, and the winters there can be very snowy.

Stop 1: Begin Your New York Road Trip in Albany

As we mentioned above, we recommend beginning your New York road trip in Albany. You will typically find much less expensive rental rates here. The longer your road trip, the more important this factor is!

If you are flying in elsewhere, you should still consider adding Albany to your road trip stops. Albany is actually New York state’s capital. If you thought it was New York City, you are not alone.

Albany is also home to the oldest state museum in the entire USA. (Spy it later in our recommended things to do in Albany!) If you are interested in New York because you are interested in history, Albany is a must-see.

Things to Do in Albany

New york state museum.

The only day you cannot visit the New York State Museum , otherwise known as the oldest state museum in the US is Mondays. Otherwise, come any day to check out this impressive tribute to United States history.

History is not the only thing this museum has going for it. It is also renowned for its displays of art and science. All three things go hand in hand in this beautiful reminder of days forgotten.

If museum-going is your cup of tea, you can also check out the Albany Institute of History and Art . Both museums are free!

Albany Pine Bush Reserve

For a bit of an escape, visit the Albany Pine Bush Reserve . This pine habitat hosts upwards of 1500 plant and animal species!

Even though it is dedicated to protecting a number of endangered species, there is plenty of room for humans here. Hike and bike on the dedicated trails to your heart’s content and check out all the wildlife along the way!

Horseback rides are another feature of this beautiful place. If you are doing your New York road trip in the Winter, you can also ski in the Albany Pine Bush Reserve.

You can also check out the Corning Preserve for more outdoor adventures in Albany.

Corning Tower Observation Deck

You can see all kinds of famous New York sites from the Corning Tower Observation Deck . It is a great way to get some striking views without having to hike to them.

Honestly, the Corning Tower Observation Deck is a good reminder of the convenience of Albany. Just like you can see the Adirondack Mountains and the Catskills from here, you can also visit them relatively easily.

Albany makes a good home base if you want to stay in one place and visit everywhere else from there. But if you are just stopping here, check out the Corning Tower Observation Deck to get a taste of some of the other amazing stops on this New York road trip itinerary.

Places to Stay in Albany

Architectural beauty in historic neighborhood.

Honestly, the name of this place sells it. This place is a small private apartment for 1-2 people that you will have all to yourself.

The apartment has everything you need for a successful night’s stay. Including a kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom, you will love all the space.

Complete with plenty of windows to let in light and beautiful old architecture, you could hardly find a prettier place to stay.

Beautiful 3 Bedroom Spacious Apartment

This apartment is wonderful if you need room for more than two people. You can fit 6 people a night here! You can also cook for all 6 if you would like in the full kitchen!

It also boasts a charming sitting area in an enclosed front porch. The whole home can be yours as long as you want to stay in it.

And if you do not want to cook for 6 (or however many people are in your party) this place is also close to restaurants and shopping. With wi-fi, air conditioning, and free parking, it is hard to go wrong with this 3 bedroom apartment.

Stop 2: Take Your New York Road Trip to Hudson Valley

Hudson Valley is less of a city and more of an area. Albany is right on one the edge of it. New York City is on the other edge of it!

Visiting Hudson Valley is one of the best things to do in New York state. The Hudson River flows right through the valley, making it a lush and vibrant place.

Hudson Valley is also a must-see if you are interested in New York’s fall foliage. All the greenery of spring and summer turns into the most beautiful autumn colors you can imagine.

Outdoor adventures abound, as well as indoor retreats. There are tons of things to do in this iconic New York location. Some of our favorites are below!

Things to Do in Hudson Valley

Hike the shawangunk mountains.

The Shawangunk Mountains reach heights of 150 feet. Not much when compared to the 14500 some odd feet of the Rockies, but then, there is not much that compares to that! It is one of the best hikes from NYC!

In New York you will find this height to be pretty standard. It is more of a rolling-hills type of area than Olympic peaks. This also means that the hiking around here is pretty do-able!

A variety of different trails exist throughout the Shawangunk Mountains. You can easily find one for your skill and expertise level!

Some lead to pristine cliff views, and some lead to waterfalls. There are even guided hikes available if you want to be sure not to get lost.

For a different hike, check out the Appalachian Trail in Bear Mountain . It is one of the most famous trails in New York, and features a stream along the way!

Brotherhood Winery

Along with being home to the oldest state museum, New York is also home to the United States’ oldest winery. Brotherhood Winery works hard to maintain its claim to fame and history.

Even if wine tasting is not really your thing, there are plenty of reasons to visit Brotherhood Winery! From on-site tours to live music, this place has a lot to offer.

They can even guide you toward other fun activities to participate in while visiting the valley. One of these things is hot air balloon rides!

We cannot mention Hudson Valley without mentioning Woodstock ! The world-famous site of the 1969 music festival is ready for you to visit on your New York road trip!

The festival was actually held in Bethel, not in Woodstock as you might expect. Both towns have a ton of history regarding the event though.

Woodstock still hosts several music festivals a year. You will love the artsy, indie vibe wherever you go in this historic town.

Places to Stay in Hudson Valley

Willow treehouse.

Folks, if you are going to dump a chunk of change into lodging anywhere, this is the place to do it! Seriously! Stay in the Willow Treehouse by night, swim in its pond by day…

This, friends, is what dreams are made of.

You will not even have to worry about roughing it here. The treehouse has a bedroom, bathroom, and even a small kitchenette!  And just outside there is a Swedish hot tub!

If you can afford it, you absolutely will not regret staying here.

Rushing Rapids Cottage

For a much less expensive option that is still wonderfully charming, check out the Rushing Rapids Cottage .

With a cozy reading nook, a sunroom filled with plants, and an outdoor patio shower, there is a lot to love about this place. They also provide laundry facilities, wi-fi, and an eat-in kitchen.

Along with all of that, you will be able to spy a ton of different species of birds from this location. It is a great place to get a good night’s sleep, and to watch some wildlife!

Stop 3: New York City, of Course

If you are looking for an upstate New York road trip itinerary, just skip this stop. However, if you are interested in spending some time in one of the greatest cities in the world, hop on down to New York City!

The hustle and bustle of the city is a stark contrast to many of the other stops we have listed. Nature is fantastic, but it is okay to appreciate the city too!

New York is home to amazing history, fashion, and culture. It is a true melting pot, and there is no end to the variety of experiences to be had.

You could spend weeks here and never run out of things to do. However, if you are wanting to get in, see some marvelous things, and get out, we have listed our favorite activities below.

New York has its classics, like the Met, Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building. We do not have them listed below–not because they are not noteworthy, but because we wanted to share some exciting experiences that you might not have already thought of on your own.

Things to Do in NYC

The high line.

If you are looking for something unexpected, and yet still whole-heartedly NYC, you will love The High Line .

Once a railroad used to transport freight through the city, it fell into disrepair as other railways and options like trucking came into use. Rather than demolishing it to make way for something new, New York rallied to make it into the park and walkway that it is today.

When you visit you will be able to see the old tracks where the railroad still stands. However, they have become newly furnished with greenery and walking paths. The walking paths are aesthetic works of wonder themselves, with outlooks that feature not only the railroad but the city itself.

There really is not anything like this in the world. It is a must-see if you want to get out of the usual New York City road trip rut.

Top of the Rock

If you want the views of the Empire State Building but better, check out the Top of the Rock . Seriously, people really do prefer the Manhattan views here and they are not wrong.

Like the Empire State Building, you will have 360-degree views of the city. Also, like the Empire State Building, there is a queued entry for this view. However, the observation deck is much larger and wait times and queues tend to be much shorter.

The Top of the Rock does have something that the Empire State Building does not (besides just shorter wait times), and that is a stunning view of Central Park.

You will find the Top of the Rock in Rockefeller Square, at the Art Deco Skyscraper.

Bryant Park

Once Bryant Park was known for drug use and prostitution but it went through a complete overhaul in the 1990s. This was also the same era that led to the High Line becoming the park it is today.

Now, this park flourishes on top of an underground portion of the famous New York Public Library . You can visit both in the same outing!

Shops and cafes share the outdoor essence and vibe of Bryant Park and make it a treat to stroll through. It also boasts classes and activities for all ages. Check out their website to see what they have going on during your New York road trip!

St Patrick’s Cathedral

Alright, so St Patrick’s Cathedral is a little bit of a classic New York Road Trip stop. However, when you are thinking of exceptional places to go in New York City a church might not be the first thing you come up with.

We had to list it because it is a marvelous experience. Although they do not offer tours anytime that Mass is being held, you can check out this historical building any other time during their open hours.

Built in 1878, St Patrick’s Cathedral is an architectural work of wonder. Even if you just go for a walk around the perimeter, the building alone is a sight to behold and an experience you will not forget.

Places to Stay in NYC

Bright & airy in highland park.

You can have an entire Brooklyn apartment to yourself at Bright & Airy in Highland Park ! With two bedrooms, it is equipped to sleep up to three people.

This apartment has a good location for accessing public transportation. While Brooklyn is a little bit removed from New York’s most famous sites, you can easily access them from this apartment thanks to New York’s above-average public transportation. That being said, you will still want to give yourself a good amount of time to get to your destinations.

Enjoy the free wi-fi, washer and dryer, and delightful sunroom to your heart’s content in this wonderful apartment.

Luxury NYC 2 Bed, Corner of Central Park

If you want to stay right in the heart of New York City, this Luxury NYC 2 Bed condo is for you! It is more of a studio-type setup, with one bed in the living room and another in the entry room.

However, it still comes with a complete kitchen and bathroom. And, of course, wi-fi! What else could you need?

Even better, it is located right on the corner of Central Park!!! The pricing is very budget-friendly, and you are sure to be able to see all of the sites without having to spend half your day traveling! You can actually just walk to most of NYC’s most famous places from here.

Stop 4: Drive On Up to the Catskill Mountains

Now that we have spent some time in the city, let’s take a drive through the mountains, shall we? The Catskills is where everyone goes when they need a break from the hustle and bustle of New York City. They are a timeless retreat of relaxation and recuperation.

Not to mention, they are not a far drive from New York City! You should reach them in just about two and a half hours.

With plenty of lakes and rivers, trees for days, and heaps of tranquility, the Catskills have everything you need to breathe easy for a little while. Even if you choose not to stop anywhere, there are some scenic drives in the area that are worth taking a diversion from your route of choice!

We have some of our favorite drives, along with some other things you can do in the Catskill Mountains below.

Things to Do in the Catskill Mountains

Scenic drives.

There are few burdens that are not made lighter by a scenic mountain drive . New York’s Catskills are no stranger to this theology and are one of the best places to get a little mountain therapy in.

For a comprehensive drive that has everything from waterways to farm fields, we recommend the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway. This road is 52 miles long and has everything a scenic drive enthusiast could ever ask for.

The Mountain Cloves Scenic Byway will take you back through Hudson Valley. It features the Kaaterskill Falls, which is otherwise known as New York’s tallest cascading waterfall! Stop along your drive for a zipline ride!

If you are doing your New York road trip in the fall for all the fall foliage, you need to drive Route 28-47-42-28A. It winds its way through some of New York’s prettiest forests.

Catskills Hiking

Where there are mountains, there are hiking trails . You will find plenty of them in the Catskills! With varying distances and difficulties, there is something for everyone.

Try the Frick Pond Loop for a 2-mile hike that is relatively short and easy. Sometimes the best hikes are the shortest ones. They get you in and out of nature before you can get tired of all the walking!

For a more challenging hike, try Kaaterskill Falls. It is only one mile long. The difficulty here comes in its steepness. Wear good shoes and prepare yourself to take some resting breaks along the way.

Overlook Trail is definitely more difficult and is 5 miles long. However, it also has a phenomenal reward: a remarkable view overlooking the Hudson Valley. Just bring water and good shoes, and keep an eye out for rattlesnakes.

Ride on the Catskill Mountain Railroad

When you have worn yourself out with hiking, check out the Catskill Mountain Railroad . Or, if you never intended to hike anyway, just head straight here!

The Catskill Mountain Railroad is a fabulous way to experience the Catskills without having to do all the driving or hiking yourself. You can just sit back and relax as the train takes you through the mountains and valleys, enjoying all the views from your comfy, cozy train seat.

Based out of Kingston, NY, it is pretty easy to drive to and even easier to experience. They have special events throughout the year to make it fun and exciting, which you can check out on their website .

Places to Stay Near the Catskill Mountains

Cozy catskills lakefront cottage.

For a lakeside retreat that will  not break your bank, you have to check out the  Cozy Catskills Lakefront Cottage !

This cozy cottage sleeps 4, has two bedrooms, and one bathroom. The kitchen comes fully stocked, and–get ready for this one–there is a washer and dryer! Being able to conveniently do laundry along the way makes packing for a road trip so much easier!

Even without the amazing amenities, the view would absolutely make this place worth the super reasonable price.

Catskill Village House

Another perfectly reasonable and very chic lodging option is the Catskill Village House . A beautiful apartment suite, this place is perfectly located to enjoy everything the Catskills have to offer.

Although it is one bed and one bath, the sofa is actually a sleeper sofa. This makes it so that the suite sleeps up to 4, but is perfectly comfortable for 1 or 2 as well.

Complete with wi-fi, heating and air-conditioning, and free parking, you could very well stay here for a long, long time.

Stop 5: Ithaca Comes Next on Your New York Road Trip

Ithaca is a picturesque city in New York’s Finger Lakes region. On the edge of a lake, waterfalls abound in this pretty place.

A fun fact about Ithaca is that it is home to the ice cream sundae. One of the local churches still has “sundae Sundays” to commemorate this!

Ithaca is also home to the classic Ithaca Gun Company, which if you are a musical history buff, you will recognize as the gun of choice of none other than Annie Oakley of Annie Get Your Gun fame. The factory is now gone, but the city remembers it fondly.

You also might recognize the local Ivy League School, Cornell. Ithaca has several claims to fame, but this is the one most people are familiar with. The Finger Lakes Region has so much to offer!

Overall, even if you do not spend much time in Ithaca, it is worth driving through during your New York road trip.

Things to Do in Ithaca

Waterfalls, waterfalls, waterfalls.

Ithaca has so many waterfalls that you can go on waterfall tours. There are more than 100 waterfalls within a few miles of the city!

Ithaca’s most famous waterfall shares its name–Ithaca Waterfall. It is located right inside the city. You do not have to go for a lengthy hike to reach this one!

If you are interested in a bit of a hike, check out Taughannock Waterfall. The hikes that feature this wonder of nature range between a little over a half a mile to a mile and a half.

Buttermilk Falls has a few trails of its own, all about the same length as the ones for Taughannock Waterfall. You do not have to expend a ton of energy or effort to see waterfalls in Ithaca!

Swim in Cayuga Lake

Cayuga Lake is the lake Ithaca is built next to. It is the longest Finger Lake, and it offers astonishing views no matter which dock or beach you are accessing it from.

If you are planning to swim in Cayuga Lake, check to make sure that swimming is allowed in the area you are going to. Some areas are reserved just for boating.

You can swim at the Taughannock park, which is super convenient if you are planning to check out the waterfall! Another place you can swim is Myers Park. Swimming is very much a seasonal thing this far north, so plan accordingly.

For boating check out the Allan H Treman State Marine Park. This is one of those places reserved for boating, and swimming is not permitted here.

Downtown Ithaca

For a little more of an urban pursuit, visit Downtown Ithaca . Charming and inviting, Ithaca’s city scene is full of delicious restaurants and eateries. Shops offer everything from local artwork to curated imported goods.

Downtown Ithaca is also home to many of the city’s colorful and exciting festivals. Favorites include the Ithaca Festival and the Downtown Ithaca Apple Harvest Festival.

Ithaca has niche festivals too. The city prides itself on its art and culture, and you will find this reflected in their celebrations.

Places to Stay in Ithaca

Charming lakeview cottages.

If you have come to Ithaca because you love the lake, why not stay the night right next to it? The Charming Lakeview Cottages offers just that!

Once used as a lighthouse, and then as a railroad switchback, the property has a dreamy history to match its perfectly ethereal location.

While this apartment does not offer a full kitchen, it does have a mini-fridge, toaster, and coffee maker. The bedroom is accessed via a ladder, something to keep in mind if this might be a problem for you.

Charming Lakeview Cottages does come with wifi, heating, and air conditioning. Reasonably priced, it is a beautiful place to spend the night in Ithaca.

The Carriage House Downtown

Alright folks, prepare yourself. The Carriage House Downtown has a spiral staircase. A spiral staircase!!!

If that is not enough for you, maybe the modern aesthetic, the full kitchen, or the two bedrooms with room for 4 will persuade you. Still not enough? Consider that this apartment is located in Downtown Ithaca!

Ithaca has two stellar locations as far as we are concerned–the lake and Downtown. The Carriage House Downtown puts you right in the middle of the city with easy access to everything it has to offer!

It also has wifi, heating and air conditioning, and laundry machines! You can also park for free, which is always a nice perk when you are staying in the middle of a city!

Stop 6: Give Your New York Road Trip a Breather in Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen is a village located within the New York towns of Reading and Dix. With only about 2000 residents, it is definitely a change of pace after Ithaca.

A canal goes right through the village, creating a pretty waterway for the quaint village.  At the bottom of the village, it becomes Watkins Glen State Park. This state park extends into the woodlands beyond.

Watkins Glen is also home to racing fans! With a street track and a raceway, Watkins Glen is no stranger to NASCAR. It is also where the first road race took place after World War II.

There are not many places like Watkins Glen. Stop here for a little something different and a breath of fresh air.

Things to Do in Watkins Glen

Watkins glen state park.

Of course, we have to recommend the state park! You can hike through the whole thing in less than 3 miles, and see 19 waterfalls along the way!

The state park is  not  a winter activity, but it is great at any other time of year! The streams flow at their strongest in the Spring, and the fall foliage is on point in the autumn!

Another thing that Watkins Glen State Park has going for it is that it is pet friendly. A lot of outdoor places are closed to pets in New York, but you can bring your furry companion here!

Watkins Glen International

You can watch the racing in Watkins Glen, or you can do the racing at Watkins Glen International . It is New York’s only NASCAR raceway.

When NASCAR is not running races though, you can drive it yourself! You do have to be 18 and have to have a driver’s license to do so.

Watkins Glen International also hosts a multitude of festivals and activities throughout the year. It is a hotspot for fun in Watkins Glen.

Seneca Lake Wine Trail

We just have to ask–where else can you go to a NASCAR race, see 19 waterfalls, and also go wine tasting all in the same day? Watkins Glen is a seriously multi-faceted place.

The Seneca Lake Wine Trail takes you through Watkins Glen’s very own vineyard, and you get to taste locally produced wine along the way!

They also offer food-themed weekend events, including the Pasta & Wine Weekend, and the Spring Wine & Cheese Weekend.

Places to Stay Near Watkins Glen

Spacious sanctuary in the heart of wine country.

Speaking of wine, check out this Spacious Sanctuary in the Heart of Wine Country . You might not think this kind of tranquility would be available in a town that raves about its NASCAR racing, but they coexist beautifully side by side.

It is also a short walk from Watkins Glen State Park. If you are looking for peace and relaxation, this is the place to do it.

The downstairs apartment has wifi, air conditioning, and a fireplace. It sleeps up to six people at a time.

Studio Apartment with View of Lamoka Lake

If a lakeside retreat is more to your taste than wine country, you will love staying at the Studio Apartment with View of Lamoka Lake . It may be a studio apartment, but it sleeps up to 4 and is a nice lodging option for your New York road trip.

Go kayaking with the provided kayaks during your stay, right off the docks located on the property. Roast marshmallows in the fire ring, or grill up some freshly caught fish on the provided gas grill.

Please note that this location does require you to have your own sheets and towels. They provide so many other lovely amenities that this is hardly a deal-breaker, just something to be prepared for if you choose to stay here.

Stop 7: Hello Buffalo!

People often visit Buffalo to visit Niagara Falls, but we have them listed as separate stops. You can absolutely combine them. People do all the time!

We just did not want to leave out important details about either in favor of combining them. Both are worthwhile in their own right.

Buffalo is a beautiful city. After the small town ways of Watkins Glen, and even of Ithaca to some degree, Buffalo is a true city again with over a million residents.

We cannot blame all the people who want to live there–being a quick 25-minute hop from Niagara Falls is nothing to snuff at. And, as we said, Buffalo is stunning in and of itself.

Things to Do in Buffalo

Buffalo & erie county botanical gardens.

City gardens can be some of the best gardens. When people are surrounded by traffic and business on all sides, it drives them to their creative roots.

This is definitely the case for Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens ! It is a beautiful urban escape into nature.

The Botanical Gardens feature a lot more than just plants too. You will find festivals, classes, art shows, and can even host your wedding there!

Erie Basin Marina

The Erie Basin Marina is one of the finest marinas in New York. While the Catskill mountains and Ithaca waterfalls have an abundance of serenity, the Erie Basin Marina has a peacefulness of its own.

Go kayaking on the lake, or take some time to survey your surroundings from the observation tower. Or simply go for a walk along the waterside.

You are sure to find something you will love in the marina’s shops and restaurants. There is also a garden to visit if you are craving some more beautiful nature after the Botanical Gardens mentioned above.

West Side Bazaar

Buffalo’s West Side Bazaar is an awesome representation of the cultural diversity of the area. The West Side Bazaar is a spectacular combination of nine different restaurants.

None of the restaurants are alike, and you will have a hard time choosing where to eat! Featuring everything from Ethiopian food to Thai, there is no end to the flavors you can find here.

The West Side Bazaar also offers retail shops and vendors. It is a place where you could spend a few minutes or a few days.

Places to Stay in Buffalo

Heart of elmwood.

For a classic apartment located right in the city, check out the Heart of Elmwood . While it is in a busy part of Buffalo, it is inside an apartment complex and will give you all the privacy you need.

The main bedroom has a queen bed, and the couch in the common area pulls out into another queen bed. That means that as long as you are okay with getting cozy, you can lodge up to 4 in this apartment. However, it is also perfect for one or two!

You will have access to wi-fi, and the TV comes with Hulu and Netflix so that you can log into your accounts. Park for free in the parking lot, or utilize the city’s awesome public transportation.

Upper Studio

For those interested in staying in the artsy, college part of town, check out this Upper Studio in Allentown. The house itself is a bit of art. It was built in 1852.

This is a studio apartment on the upper level of a home. As such, the entrance is located in the back and up some stairs. However, as long as you are okay with stairs, it is still reasonably accessible.

Outfitted for two people maximum, the apartment is ideally located to see some of the prettiest parts of the neighborhood of Allentown. It is also quite close to a subway station so that you can get around the city without having to drive yourself.

With a kitchen, wifi, and cable TV, the Upper Studio has everything you need.

Stop 8: Niagara Falls Will Take Your Breath Away

It is a rare person who has not heard of the famous Niagara Falls. Whether you view it from the Canadian side, or the US side you are in for a treat!

Of course, since this is a New York road trip, we recommend approaching from the US side. But there are plenty of ways to view the Canadian side approaching from the US, you just have to pay for them.

You will need to bring your passport with you if you want a view from the top of the Canadian side. Any crossing between the US and Canadian border requires a passport.

However, if you do not have one or do not bring it with you, you will still be able to have a fantastic experience at Niagara Falls!

Things to Do at Niagara Falls

Maid of the mist.

If you are going to do any boat tour of Niagara Falls, it has to be Maid of the Mist .  This boat ride gives you an up-close and personal experience of Niagara Falls.

Departing from the US side of the falls, the Maid of the Mist is a fantastic way to explore one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. You will get a chance to observe the Canadian side of the falls as well as the US side.

The tickets are a little pricey at nearly $23 per adult, but if you are going to spend your money on anything during your New York road trip, this just might be the place to do it!

Niagara Falls Hiking

Did you know that you can hike around Niagara Falls? Because you can! There are a variety of trails too, so not to worry if difficult and dangerous hikes are not your thing.

The Great Gorge Scenic Overlook Hike is a wonderful hike one for all ages and skillsets! It will not take you more than an hour and will reward you with some amazing views.

Another fun option is the Goat Island Scenic Walk . Only two miles round trip, this walkway will bring you very close to the falls. This one is quite popular, so we recommend coming earlier or later in the day.

Whichever hike you choose to go on, make sure you wear sturdy shoes and bring a poncho. All of Niagara Falls’ hikes feature the falls and have a lot of opportunities for getting a little wet.

Old Fort Niagara

If you thought you were coming to Niagara Falls strictly to experience the falls, think again. We mean, obviously the falls are the most important part. You are not wrong about that.

But once you finish exploring those you have got to visit Old Fort Niagara . Home to some of the oldest American history in West New York, the fort played major roles in the Frend & Indian War, as well as the American Revolutionary War.

It is also another classic example of local people banding together to save something important. Rather than letting it fall into complete disrepair and ruin, nearby locals saved the fort in 1927.

It was turned restored and turned into a museum over the next several years and has been serving as such ever since.

Places to Stay Near Niagara Falls

Niagara falls (usa) minutes to everything.

This Niagara Falls home is the epitome of why we love Air BnB–you can rent the entire home. The entire home! And it still costs less than a hotel would!

Not only that, but it is within just a few minutes of the falls. This home sleeps up to six people at a time, just be sure to give the host a head’s up if that is how many people are in your party.

You will not want for anything while you are here either. It comes with all the usual amenities: a kitchen, TV, wifi, and free parking.

The Lil’ Cozy on Ferry Ave

You cannot beat the Lil’ Cozy on Ferry Ave for location. It takes the cake for the cutest name ever as well! The Lil’ Cozy itself is pretty dang adorable.

Stay in this delightful place and you will be able to bring 2 or 3 buddies with you. Within walking distance of the falls, it is the perfect place to decompress after an exciting day boating, hiking, or otherwise exploring.

Complete with a kitchen, wifi, laundry facilities, and a TV, you can relax even longer than you explore!

Stop 9: Remember Rochester!

Rochester does not make it on many New York road trip itineraries, and we are not sure why! It is a charming small city of about 200,000. The metropolitan area is much bigger though and has about a million people in the whole area.

With Lake Ontario to the North and Canada beyond that, Rochester has a vibe all of its own. Even though it is the third-largest city in New York, the outdoor scene is very much a part of Rochester.

Rochester also has a lot of history, and although it is not all pretty, some of it is very important. It is the scene of the 1964 Rochester Race Riot, which led to police policy reappraisal at the time.

You might not expect it as you walk through the calm city today, but Rochester has been at the forefront of a lot of important movements for civil rights. It was a hotspot for the Underground Railroad, and both Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglas are buried in one of the city’s cemeteries.

Things to Do in Rochester

Susan b. anthony house.

Did you know that Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglas were actually friends? Go to her old home and you will find a picture of him there. Not because he was also a big deal, but because the two supported each other in their quests for civil rights.

Susan B. Anthony’s name is typically connected with the suffrage movement. She was also an active supporter of the abolitionist and temperance movements.

You will find evidence of her multiple pursuits in her home when you visit. It was turned into a museum after her death and is a fantastic monument to those who have fought for American freedom in eras gone by.

Sodus Point

Sodus Point is no stranger to change and adaptation. A little village located inside Rochester, Sodus Point is bordered on three sides by Lake Ontario.

The village was destroyed in the war of 1812 and rebuilt after into a place of commerce with a busy port on Lake Ontario. However, when trade shifted elsewhere Sodus Point rebuilt itself once more into a cute vacation town.

To this day Sodus Point is a quaint, bright place of revival and relaxation. With Lake Ontario so close, the waterside vacation ambiance is present in every bit of the place.

It even has its own beach! Check out Sodus Point Beach Park for a day of sandy sun.

Highland Park

If you are not planning on spending a lot of time in Rochester but want to pack in as much as possible, check out Highland Park . It has a castle, Vietnam War memorial, hiking paths, and mind-blowing landscaping to top it all off.

Whether you have an hour or a day, Highland Park will not disappoint. With more than 500 types of flowering shrubs alone, you will be hard pressed to find something you do not love.

In addition to all that, Highland Park is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year. The most famous one is the Lilac Festival which happens every May.

Rochester International Jazz Festival

Jazz is one of those purely American things that the entire world has latched onto. The Rochester International Jazz Festival is a celebration of Jazz’s roots and global reach.

More than just a multi-artist, multi-day concert, the Rochester International Jazz Festival also has workshops for those learning and perfecting their Jazz craft. Famous Jazz musicians and local artists alike come together to share their love of Jazz.

This festival takes over a good part of the city, offering multiple venues to enjoy the classically American music. We highly recommend checking it out if your New York road trip coincides with the festival!

Places to Stay in Rochester

Private sanctuary on irondequoit bay.

“Private Sanctuary” describes this Air BnB perfectly. The Private Santuary on Irondequoit Bay is a refuge right next to Lake Ontario. However, it still manages to be close enough to the heart of the city to access everything you need.

With access to the lake right next to the apartment, you can spend all your time in Rochester on the water if you want! You will also have access to the gym on the bottom floor of the building if you would like to get a workout in during your New York road trip!

This apartment has room for up to three people. Along with heating and air conditioning, the kitchen and wifi provide everything you need to feel right at home.

Whole Apartment Off Monroe Ave

For a whole lot of room for an excellent price, check out the Whole Apartment off Monroe Ave .  This two-bedroom apartment packs a punch with room for 8.

Each bedroom has a queen bed along with a sofa bed or inflatable air mattress–put two people in each bed and you have 8! You might be able to find lodging for 8 elsewhere, but we seriously challenge you to find it at this level of quality for this price!

Complete with cable TV, wifi, free parking, and even laundry facilities, this apartment is the place to stay if you are road tripping with a group.

Stop 10: Do Not Miss the Adirondack Mountains

A few years ago, give or take 5 million, some glaciers carved their way through what is now New York state. And by “give or take”, we mean, it was about 5 million years ago.

One of the results of that glacial migration is what is now the Adirondack Mountains. They are a series of peaks ranging from 1200 to 5000+ feet tall.

From the tallest Adirondack peak, Mount Marcy, flows the source of the Hudson River. Lake Tear of the Clouds is aptly named and is the highest lake in New York at 4292 feet.

Not only are the Adirondack Mountains the site of impressive geological history, but they are also a hot spot for tourism, relaxation, and fun. There are a number of towns scattered throughout the area, each with its own brand of adventure. You will not be disappointed if you add this stop to your New York road trip.

Things to Do at the Adirondack Mountains

Where there are mountains, there are hikes. While an argument could be made that hikes are just glorified walks, there are few places as pretty as the Adirondack Mountains to do a glorified (and sometimes kind of difficult) walk.

For an easy hike just over a mile round trip that ends in a beautiful waterfall, check out Auger Falls Loop . If you can walk a mile, you can do this hike. It is accessible, and kids as young as three can do it! (With close adult supervision, of course!)

If you want a little more of a challenge, try the Hadley Mountain Trail . If you have never hiked to a fire tower and can go just over three miles, you seriously should consider this opportunity. There is something about a view that puts you on the level of the treetops that just cannot be beaten.

Buck Mountain Trail is a great 7-mile trail for the avid hikers with a penchant for finding a good view. It even has blueberries near the summit! You just have to come in the right season (early summer) and beat all the other hikers (good luck).

Six Flags Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom

Did you know that there is an amazing theme park located in the Adirondack Mountains? For some serious heights without nearly so much hiking, visit Six Flags Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom .

It may not be your typical road trip stop, but it is an excellent way to quell the road trip drag. Sometimes the later half of a road trip can start to feel a bit mundane, and visiting Six Flags will absolutely change things up!

Six Flags Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom features the usual roller coasters, carnival rides, and games. It also has a water park to help you cool down in the muggy New York summers.

Adirondack Scenic Railroad

The Adirondack Scenic Railroad began as a means of transportation through the mountains. A fabulously wealthy man, Dr. William Seward Webb, wanted a better way to access his hunting preserve and so financed the railroad.

Rich people–they are just something else.

The railroad still exists and is a fantastic diversion for your New York road trip. Let someone else do the driving for a bit and take a relaxing, beautiful trip on the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.

Places to Stay Near the Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack treehouse retreat.

We had to list another treehouse. We just had to. And the Adirondack Treehouse Retreat is even less expensive than the one we listed up in Hudson Valley!

This one still has its own bedroom and bathroom, although the bathroom is not connected to the treehouse. The kitchen is outside, but there is a kitchen!

Add to all that the whimsical spiral staircase and the loft, and you have a wonderful, beautiful place to stay the night!

Serene House at Lake Algonquin Getaway

With room for six and your very own lake, it is hard to beat the Serene House at Lake Algonquin Getaway !

Okay, okay, so the lake is not yours. It is difficult to access from the property, but there is a public beach within walking distance.

The Serene House gives you an opportunity to disconnect. While there is internet available, the location is pretty remote and the internet is not amazing. The only working cell provider in town in Verizon.

Some people might view these things as deterrents, but if you need a break from technology this is your chance! The location is beautiful, and the other amenities make up for the disconnect.

There is an indoor fireplace, a backyard and fire pit, and even cable TV. You will not be totally disconnected from the outside world here if you do not want to be!

Stop 11: Find Your Way to Syracuse

Syracuse has a fascinating history of industry and ingenuity.  It is a place of opposites, and you are sure to find things that pull you in.

One example of this is that Syracuse is home to Skaneateles Lake and Onondaga Lake. While the first is one of the cleanest lakes in the country and the source of drinking water for the city, the second is so polluted from decades of industrial dumping that it has yet to clear up.

However, the source of water for both lakes is pure, and both provide scenic walks and beauty to Syracuse. The city also has several different universities, which has contributed to its love of art and history.

Syracuse makes a great stop along your New York road trip. It is a beautiful city full of waterways, trees, culture, and life.

Things to Do in Syracuse

Little italy.

One of the most fun things you can do in Syracuse is to visit Little Italy. This primarily Italian neighborhood pays tribute to its heritage and history with some of the finest shops and bakeries in the state.

Stop by Biscotti Cafe for a stellar breakfast, brunch, or snack! They have everything from Lobster Tails (the pastry, not the crustacean) to Cannolies. You will not be disappointed with anything you try from this lovely cafe.

For lunch try the Columbus Baking Company and Deli. They have been baking bread for more than 100 years, and have definitely honed their craft. Their sandwiches are divine and a great way to satisfy the midday hunger pangs.

When you are ready for dinner, try Francesca’s Cucina . This family restaurant that goes back generations and their recipes are ones that have withstood the test of time. Try their Utica Style Greens or their Lobster Ravioli for a dinner you will not forget.

Tree of 40 Fruits

After you check out Little Italy, if you are still hungry go check out the Tree of 40 Fruits at Syracuse University. Note the lack of plurality there–tree. One tree. That grows 40 fruits.

It blew our minds too, but it is real! Sam Van Aken, a professor of art at Syracuse University, came up with the idea to graft several different kinds of fruit onto a single tree back in 2008 and it worked!

Every spring it blooms in several different colors, and then fruits with everything from peaches to almonds. In 2011 it was dedicated as a symbol of acceptance during a 9/11 memorial event. Whether you come for the peculiarity or the ingenuity, it is a pretty cool attraction.

New York State Fair

While every state has a fair, few state fairs rival the New York State Fair . It is the oldest state fair in the United States. Ideally located in Syracuse since 1890, the fair goes above and beyond to outdo itself every year.

Every year the state fair begins in August and ends on Labor Day. The only years it has been canceled for were 2020 for COVID-19, and between 1942 and 1947 when the fairgrounds were used as a World War II military base.

You will find all your favorite fair foods, vendors, and carnival rides if you take your New York road trip to the state fair. Stop at any of the live shows and you will be sure to enjoy yourself.

Places to Stay in Syracuse

Apartment near su & wescott.

Syracuse is central to New York, and it is only natural to stay in central Syracuse to truly be at the heart of everything! This Apartment Near SU & Wescot is a great place to stay if you want to be close to everything.

A remodeled third floor in a classic Victorian home, you will have all the privacy you want here. Spend the day in the city and come here for a convenient night’s sleep.

Enjoy the cable TV and wifi as you unwind from your day’s adventures. Use the kitchen to prepare and eat whatever you want if you are sick of eating out at this point in your New York road trip.

Country Farm Retreat

Located just outside of Syracuse you will find farm country. And in this rustic farm country, you will find the Country Farm Retreat . Trust us, this one is worth the drive.

You will have the entire house to yourself, and it sleeps up to 13! While there are only two bedrooms, the hosts offer plenty of pull-out couches and air mattresses to provide plenty of sleeping space!

Tons of room is not the Country Farm Retreat’s only perk. Far from it! There is also a jacuzzi, and outdoor hikes and trails run right through the back yard.

Enjoy your fresh country air with free wi-fi, a stocked kitchen, and a private shooting range. You can even arrange for shooting lessons!

Stop 12: Stay a While in Saratoga Springs

Imagine, for a moment, the height of luxury in mid-1850’s America. Horse races, picnics on grassy lawns that spread for acres, natural springs with healing qualities… This is Saratoga Springs, New York.

Full of art, relaxation, and beauty, Saratoga Springs is a must-see during your New York road trip. You might feel as if you have stepped into a renaissance painting of an idyllic country afternoon.

Come to Saratoga Springs for all the rest and peace you are taking this road trip to find. Whether you go to the races, the spa, or just spend some time out in nature, this is what you have been waiting for.

Things to Do in Saratoga Springs

Saratoga spa state park.

Do not scroll past this if spas are not your thing! While the Saratoga Spa State Park certainly has spas, it has so much more!

To name a few things: the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, the National Museum of Dance, a pool complex, a golf course, and the Saratoga Automobile Museum.

Of course, if you love spas, definitely check out Roosevelt Baths and Spa. If you love outdoor relaxation, check out the Creekside Classroom for year-round nature excursions.

Basically, you can check pretty much any activity off your list when you visit the Saratoga Spa State Park. Whether you prefer to gain your serenity inside or outside, you will definitely find it here.

Saratoga Race Course

Horse racing has been a noble pursuit for centuries. The Saratoga Race Course pays tribute to the history behind the sport and also puts its own flair on the time-honored pursuit.

People come from all over the world to watch the races in Saratoga Springs. It is one of those things that is hard to understand until you have experienced it.

Like the New York State Fair in Syracuse, the Saratoga Race Course was the first horse racing course in the country. It is even rumored to be the United State’s oldest sporting venue!

You might already know you love a day at the races, or you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. Visit the races during your New York road trip to find out.

Check Out the Saratoga Monument

If you want a reasonable hike that gives a view of  alllllll the mountains, you want to check out the Saratoga Monument. It is one of those hikes that is made up of stairs rather than a dirt path. And at 190 stairs, it will still give you a challenge.

However, once you reach the top you will be able to see the Adirondack Mountains behind you, the Taconic Mountains out east, and the Helderberg Mountains down south.

The monument commemorates the surrender of a British general to an American general back in the American Revolutionary War.

Places to Stay in Saratoga Springs

Romantic guest suite.

Your eye for lovely and delightful things will be absolutely charmed by the Romantic Guest Suite near Saratoga Springs . It is the place to stay if you want your lodging to reflect the tasteful tranquility of the city.

Complete with in-house spa treatments, walking trails, and horses, this suite has everything you need to enjoy your time in Saratoga Springs. Staying here is an activity and a treat in and of itself!

Spend your evenings overlooking the property from the screened-in porch or sitting by the candlelit fireplace. You will also have access to wifi and cable TV.

Cozy Studio in the Heart of Saratoga Springs

For a cozier, less expensive option for two, check out the Cozy Studio in the Heart of Saratoga Springs . It may not be a romantic guest suite, but it has something the suite does not: laundry facilities!

This cozy studio is also ideally located. You can walk almost anywhere you want to go! Whether you have come for the races, the downtown scene, or the outdoor experiences, you can get to them easily from here.

You will have everything you need if you stay here during your New York road trip. The studio comes with wifi, TV, heating, and air conditioning. It is an excellent place to stay the night while in Saratoga Springs!

Stop 13: End Your New York Road Trip Back in Albany

Our final stop is our first stop: Albany. As we mentioned above, it is a wonderfully central location with an international airport, making it a great starting and ending point.

It is not just the airport that makes it great though. If there is any stop you wish you would have spent more time at, it is easy to take a quick day trip from Albany to go back.

If you have the time, you might benefit from scheduling an extra day for the end of your road trip. This way you can go from Albany back to some of your favorite places.

After all, this is  your road trip. It is all about going to all the amazing places you have been dreaming of. You might not know which ones are your favorite until you have already visited!

Even if you do not have time to revisit them at the end of your road trip, you will have your memories forever. We hope you make some great ones during your New York road trip!

Let us know your favorite stops in the comments below. New York is a great state, with a ton of amazing places. Have fun road-tripping!

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7 Scenic New York Road Trips to take in the Fall

The air is crisp, the leaves are changing color, and it is harvest season at the apple orchards, farms, and wineries across New York state. Before winter arrives, it is the perfect time to escape from NYC or visit from a neighboring state on one of these New York road trips. Hop in the car and then go on a hike, visit a farm or winery, check out some of New York state’s unique museums and attractions, and enjoy the beautiful fall foliage.

New York Road Trips Perfect for Fall

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

Get ready for your road trip and download some audiobooks to pass the time or road trip games for the kiddos. Soon you will be driving past glowing fields of goldenrod, winding through mountain roads rich with color, and sitting at the edge of peaceful lakes enjoying the view.

There are so many great spots to enjoy New York fall foliage .

1. Hudson River Valley

If you are looking for a quick escape from New York City, the Hudson River Valley awaits. In fact, you don’t even necessarily need a car, as trains can get you there just as easily, but it will help when you want to explore outside of the towns that line the rail tracks. Dutchess County, on the eastern bank of the Hudson River, is home to many indoor and outdoor attractions that are perfect to visit in the fall.

Base yourself in Beacon, the hip town called the “Brooklyn” of the Hudson Valley. Here you can explore the galleries and boutiques or hop a boat tour out to Bannerman Castle , an abandoned “castle” that was formerly a munitions depot sitting on an island in the Hudson. You won’t want to miss the fabulous Dia: Beacon contemporary art museum nearby.

Further afield, you can follow the Taste NY wine or food trails to visit Millbrook Vineyards and sample exemplary maple syrup at the Crown Maple Estate . Finish off with a meal or cooking class at the Culinary Institute of America.

History buffs should also plan a visit to Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum . And Downton Abbey fans or those that enjoy the homes of the Gilded Age should also visit the Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park.

For scenic views, check out the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie. After your walk you can enjoy a great meal and views at Shadows on the Hudson.

Who should go: This road trip can be adapted for families but is best for romantic getaways, girls’ trips or solo travel.

Suggested length of time : 2-3 days — a long weekend is perfect for this trip

Where to stay: Roundhouse in Beacon. The Roundhouse is located right on the falls in downtown Beacon, walkable to local restaurants and shops. Located in former factory buildings, the simple and minimalist aesthetic gives this hotel a unique, boutique feel, unlike other chain hotels in the area.

Roundhouse has been restored with exceptional attention to detail. There are three buildings, the main building which houses the restaurant overlooking the falls, lounge with a wood-burning fireplace and guest rooms; an event space; and a second building of guest rooms. The rooms feature exposed brick walls, huge wood-paned factory windows, and reclaimed wood beams. 

2. Catskill Mountains

The Catskill Mountains are a great destination for families and outdoor lovers. You can ride the rails with the unique Rail Explorers , swing from the treetops at the outdoor adventure course at Hunter Mountain , or go mountain biking at Windham Mountain.

This area is also known for fly fishing and hiking in places like the Minnewaska State Park Preserve and Catskill Park. Adventure junkies will enjoy white water rafting on the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River.

If you enjoy scenic drives to go leaf peeping, make a plan to check out some of the area’s covered bridges. Plan on a hike to Kaaterskill Falls, but be aware that this popular destination has limited parking so it is best to go mid-week and avoid illegal parking.

Who should go: the Catskills have been a family travel destination for generations, but couples and solo travelers will also enjoy the area.

Suggested length of time: given the proximity to NYC, it is easy to fit in a visit to the Catskills on a weekend, or you can rent a bungalow for a week and just relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Where to stay: While most of the “Borscht Belt” resorts that you see in Dirty Dancing or the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel are no longer, there are some family resorts such as Scribner’s which have reopened. Families will also enjoy the Kartrite Water Park Hotel in Monticello.

The Catskills are a perfect spot for a vacation rental on longer stays. But many families will prefer camping or glamping at the Deerpark KOA , nestled by the historic Neversink River. This KOA Holiday campground offers fun family activities including a Jumping Pillow, mining sluice, fire truck rides, slides, rock wall, and fun-bike rentals. 

For something truly unique, try a stay in a retro Airstream trailer at AutoCamp Catskills . You can read my full review of AutoCamp Cape Cod and book using my referral link and save $20 off your stay.

3. Adirondacks

If the mountains are calling and you are in the mood for hiking, canoeing, and outdoor adventures, head north to the Adirondack Mountains. For the easiest access, base yourself in downtown Lake Placid or quieter Saranac Lake. There are so many things to do in Lake Placid , from hiking and boating to riding the scenic gondola at Whiteface Mountain, taking in the waterfalls at High Falls Gorge, or driving the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway to the summit of Whiteface.

There are hikes for all levels, but it helps to plan ahead as many trailhead parking lots fill up early. Mt. Jo offers a short but steep hike, which is good for older kids and somewhat experienced hikers and rewards you with beautiful views.

If you are willing to take a longer hike, Mt. Von Hoevenberg is a 4.5-mile trail that winds past a beaver pond before it climbs to the summit. For more of a challenge, head over to St Regis Mountain near Saranac Lake. This 6.6-mile hike is quite steep at the end but offers a large bald summit with amazing views and a fire tower to climb. Just remember to Leave No Trace behind and take only pictures.

For longer stays, you can split your time between the Lake George area and Lake Placid. In Lake George, tour the lake on the Minne Ha Ha Steamship, drive to the top of Prospect Mountain, or visit the Fort William Henry museum.

If you are looking for day trips from the Lake Placid area, the Wild Center in Tupper Lake is a must-do for families, and thrill seekers will enjoy rafting or the adventure course at Ausable Chasm .

Who should go: this trip is perfect for families of school-age children and older, couples, or solo travelers.

Suggested length of time: since this is a long road trip from NYC, you will want to stay at least 3-4 nights but you will also find it easy to fill a full week if you enjoy hiking.

Where to stay: The Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort in Lake Placid is very family-friendly and offers a great location on Mirror Lake in downtown Lake Placid. For a more luxurious stay, you can choose the Mirror Lake Inn or the posh Lake Placid Lodge .

For a quieter, more private stay, you can also look at renting a cabin. We really enjoyed our stay in the Bear Cabin on Lake Colby. In Lake George, there are many hotels/motels in the southern section of the lake, but you may enjoy finding a vacation rental a bit further out of town.

4. Finger Lakes Region

There are eleven lakes that comprise the Finger Lakes region, with the three largest being Cayuga Lake, Seneca Lake, and Keuka Lake. Right in the center, the town of Watkins Glen at the southern tip of Seneca Lake is a perfect home base for exploring the region. Watkins Glen is also known for its Sports Car racing and the popular Watkins Glen State Park . There are so many things to do in the Finger Lakes that you will find something for everyone.

The park is not to be missed, with a mile-long path that passes 19 waterfalls along the Gorge Trail. Be prepared to climb some steps and wear sturdy shoes, as the path may be slippery when wet and muddy. It is also fun to explore the lake via boat. You can rent a boat but a boater’s license is required. It is easier to hop on board one of Captain Bill’s sightseeing cruises.

If you enjoy wine, you will want to explore some of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail or the Keuka Lake Wine Trail and sample some of the Rieslings that the region is famous for.

A number of wineries offer beautiful tasting rooms with sweeping views of the lake. Pick a few to taste and compare such as Lakewood Vineyards, Chateau LaFayette Reneau, Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars, or pop over to Ravines Wine Cellars on Keuka Lake. Here are my recommendations for the best wineries on Seneca Lake .

Make time to also explore some of the local farms and dairies. Reisingers has apple picking, Shtayburne Dairy offers ice cream and cheese tasting flights, and at the Lively Run Goat Farm, you can meet the goats and sample any number of goat and cow cheeses.

Don’t miss a visit to the Corning Museum of Glass , which is just 30 minutes from Watkins Glen. When we visited years ago I was expecting a tribute to Corningware, but I was blown away by the beauty of the contemporary art wing. You can also watch master glass blowers in the hot studio and even participate in glass-blowing projects.

An hour west of Watkins Glen, you can also enjoy hiking by the waterfalls in Stony Brook State Park. Adventure seekers may enjoy soaring in a glider plane in the “Soaring Capital of the World” in Elmira. And history buffs can head up to Seneca Falls and visit the Women’s Rights National Historical Park and the National Women’s Hall of Fame.

If you don’t want to go that far west, Ithaca also makes a good home base for exploring Cayuga Lake. You can do everything from sunset boat cruises to wine tastings, waterfall hikes, and even talk alpacas for a walk. See more things to do in Ithaca on a girls’ trip.

Who should go: this NY road trip is ideal for wine lovers — either couples or friend groups, but can also be a great family destination.

Suggested length of time: the Finger Lakes region is perfect for a long weekend but you could easily spend five days in the area if you are looking to do wine tasting or day trips.

W here to stay: The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel offers the best location for exploring the Seneca Lake wine trail and the east side of Keuka Lake. This lakefront hotel is also within walking distance to the famous Watkins Glen State Park and downtown Watkins Glen.

The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel was named the “Best Waterfront Hotel in the Nation” by  USA Today  and is the area’s only AAA Four Diamond property. (Note: I was hosted for a two-night stay at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel. All opinions are my own.)

The rooms are large, many offering lake views, and beautifully appointed with a fresh and bright design, utilizing natural materials and soothing colors. The hotel also offers a full-service restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining.

5. Lake Chautauqua

Lucille Ball was born in Jamestown, NY, and grew up in nearby Celoron on the shores of Lake Chautauqua. It is therefore no wonder that this area became a center for culture and comedy. Make a home base in Celoron on Lake Chautauqua, allowing you to explore the beautiful outdoors and the cultural attractions.

Don’t miss a visit to the National Comedy Center in Jamestown. This modern museum has the most engaging and interactive exhibits of practically any museum I have visited. Start off by setting up your comedy profile and then engage with the exhibits that have been personalized for your style. You can participate in comedy karaoke, try your hand at famous comedy sketches on a green screen, and explore the off-color adult comedy in the “Blue Room”. At the end, they will analyze your comedic style and even provide you with a custom joke to tell your friends.

Nearby, you can also visit the Lucy and Desi Museum , which tells the story of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, and the lasting impact Lucille Ball has had on the TV and film industry, especially for women. The museum also includes recreated sets from I Love Lucy. Culture seekers should also see what is happening at the Chautauqua Institution , which is a summer educational and cultural resort offering classes, concerts, workshops, and more.

If you would rather stay outdoors, plan an afternoon exploring Panama Rocks Scenic Park . This privately-owned, family-run park is home to lichen-covered, towering rocks and tree roots that snake over their surfaces. Families will love venturing off the path to explore the deep crevices, passageways, and small caves, like something out of a movie set.

To get out on the water, you can rent kayaks or a pontoon boat, or take a tour on the Chautauqua Belle steamship. There are many local farms to visit in the fall, or you can take a day trip to explore the Lake Erie Wine Trail. Finish up with an afternoon of live music and craft beer at Southern Tier Brewing Company , famous for its pumpkin beer.

Who should go: this NY road trip is best for a couples getaway or a family trip.

Suggested length of time : Lake Chautauqua is a 6.5 hour drive from NYC, so you will want to spend at least 2-3 days, or combine it with a visit to Niagara Falls and the 1,000 Islands.

Where to stay: The Chautauqua Harbor Hotel offers a perfect location on Chautauqua Lake in Celoron. Lakefront rooms are spacious and offer picture-perfect views from the large balconies or patios. This hotel, which opened in 2018, has 135 rooms on the former site of Celoron Amusement Park.

The hotel features classic Arts and Crafts design, highlighting the beautiful views. This is an ideal destination hotel with indoor and outdoor pools, a full-service restaurant and bar with inside and outside dining, the Carousel Bar near the pool, and “Sunset Island” offering up the best place to enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset. (Note: I was hosted for a two-night stay at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel. All opinions are my own.)

6. 1000 Islands

The 1000 Islands is an archipelago region of the St. Lawrence River, acting as a buffer between New York and Ontario, Canada. Popular with outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs, this region has a storied past shaped by trade on the river, its role in the War of 1812, and the bootleggers during Prohibition.

Make a home base for exploring the charming town of Clayton, home to shops, restaurants, and the Clayton Opera House. From here you can explore Thousand Islands Seaway Wine Trail, famous for Ice Wine and featuring eight wineries and a distillery.

History buffs will enjoy learning about the region’s fascinating boating history at the Antique Boat Museum and Rock Island Lighthouse, complete with the keeper’s quarters and museum. There are also battle sites and military fortifications, including the Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site.

A must-see with all visitors is Boldt Castle , a tribute to the Gilded Age millionaires. This turn-of-the-century castle is built on an island in the St. Lawrence River, accessible from the Canadian and U.S. sides of the border. You can also soak up the scenery with a cruise down the St. Lawrence River with Classic Island Cruises, Clayton Island Tours, or Uncle Sam Boat Tours.

The St. Lawrence River is also a popular fishing destination. While the river is teeming with fish like bass, northern pike, and trout, in the fall season, anglers hope to snare one of the elusive monster muskie fish, which can reach lengths of 60 inches or more.

Who should go: this road trip is great for families and couples.

Suggested length of trip : it takes 5.5-6 hours to drive from NYC to the Thousand Islands, so you will want to stay for at least a long weekend or combine it with a visit to the Finger Lakes or the Adirondacks.

Where to stay: The 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel is situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River just a short stroll away from the picturesque town of Clayton. It is the only AAA Four Diamond Hotel in the region, with over 100 guest rooms and adjacent to a new 40-slip transient dock.

7. Niagara Falls

Of course Niagara Falls is beautiful at any time of year but it especially glows in the fall when the autumn colors rim the thundering falls. A boat ride on the Maid of the Mist is a must-do iconic experience.

Thrill-seekers can also zipline over the water, take a Journey Behind the Falls, or ride the Whirlpool Jet Boats. There are family fun attractions like the Niagara Skywheel, historical sites like Fort George National Historic Site, and outdoor attractions like the Botanical Gardens.

Who should go: Niagara Falls used to be a honeymoon destination but today it has turned into a family vacation destination.

Suggested length of trip: Niagara Falls is a 7 hour drive from New York City so you will want to spend at least 2-3 days exploring the many attractions in the area. To make a week of it, stop in the Finger Lakes or Chautauqua Lake on the way or add on a few days in Buffalo afterwards and return home along the Upstate Eats Trail .

Where to stay: most of the major hotel brands offer hotel properties in Niagara Falls (just check if they are on the USA or Canadian side) including the Sheraton Niagara Falls and the Hyatt Place .

Looking for more road trip ideas?

Try one of these:

• 7 New England road trips to take in the fall
• 20 East Coast road trips to take with 1 week’s vacation
• New England weekend getaways to take in the fall

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: October 6, 2022

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Here's What To Know About The History & Architecture Of Downtown Ithaca In Upstate New York

• Downtown Ithaca's historic buildings reflect the city's past, with beautiful architecture and structures that showcase its history.
• Visitors can learn about the city's history through guided tours and self-guided exploration, offering new knowledge within the walls and buildings.
• The Ithaca Commons is a must-visit center, lined with incredible architecture and a celebration of the city's historical and cultural ambiance.

Exploring upstate New York reveals many historical treasures in cities like Ithaca and Albany; though the oldest town in New York may be Albany , the history of America and New York spreads into downtown Ithaca through the wondrous structures that have been standing for years.

New York is a place that holds so much history for the nation, as it was one of the original states, and Ithaca specifically is a great place to explore this background. The architecture found in the streets and walls of the city itself is what makes Downtown Ithaca provide a sampling of the beautiful history of the city. Here's what to know about the history and architecture of downtown Ithaca.

What To Know About Downtown Ithaca's Historic Buildings

The buildings in Ithaca are a direct reflection of the past . From the churches to the style of buildings, the city is known as a great place in New York that is home to many of the firsts.

The City of Ithaca Dewitt Map of 1840 can be found within The History Center which shows the original layout of the city and can offer new insider knowledge of what the city originally looked like.

Along with visiting the city's historical center, the maps provide amazing opportunities to further explore the architecture of Ithaca with guided tours. There are plenty of tours for explorers to book to find new knowledge within the walls and buildings of the city.

The public is encouraged to learn about the history of the city by looking at the buildings and structures that have been in the city for years.

Some tours that are offered in Ithaca:

• Architectural Walking Tour in Downtown
• A Downtown History of Ithaca College
• History of the Commons

These offer a great way to not only explore the city but to learn about its history from an expert who has studied it. Travelers can choose from guided tours and self-guided options.

Ithaca's Beginnings: The Upstate NY City Started WIth Cornell University

As for the history of Ithaca, it began as a small commercial city , like many others, but has now blossomed into an amazing community filled with new culture. A fun fact is that Cornell was opened before Ithaca even became a city , which is crazy to think about on a timeline.

Related: NYC To Ithaca: The Perfect Road Trip (& What To See On The Way)

What To Know About Exploring Ithaca's Historic Streets

Ithaca is one of the most officially livable cities in New York and it has a deep community of loving citizens even though it can be considered a rather small city in comparison to others in New York.

The public loves to explore the outdoors with different sports and recreational parks. Ithaca has over 150 waterfalls that may not share the same history as the architecture found in the city, but are beautiful nonetheless.

Also, Ithaca places a special emphasis on the arts and culture within the city as they hold many works of art and performances for the community to engage with.

Related: This Ithaca Trail Takes You Past 8 Stunning Waterfalls

Ithaca Commons was actually the first pedestrian street in the entire state of New York and is now an award-winning center perfect to visit on any trip. It is a four-block area for all pedestrians and shoppers to meander through the streets and explore.

There are tons of boutiques, local shops, and street vendors which allow travelers to get a good feel for the city life. Also, the dining options in Ithaca Commons range from upscale to casual, which gives a variety of choices so that everyone is sure to find something they enjoy.

All in all, the Commons is lined with incredible architecture which shows the true city's character and life. Not to mention, the historical architectural facades are what line the Commons, which show a celebration of the city's history and the public.

There is plenty of local heritage that can be found throughout the city, but the Ithaca Commons is just one center that can showcase the ambiance that the whole city can offer.

Related: This Ithaca Nature Center Gives Visitors The Best Views Of New York's Finger Lakes

Ultimately, through the history and the architecture of the downtown city, Ithaca is known as one of the most beautiful spots in New York . Not to mention, the culture and overall economy of the Downtown area have been transformed from Ithaca's lively and exuberant past.

Any city can have old buildings, but Ithaca's architectural masterpieces, which have stood for years, make it a special place to see true beauty and history, and a great location to explore via a road trip from NYC .

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Ithaca to Cooperstown (New York) drive

Ithaca to cooperstown (new york) road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Ithaca to Cooperstown (New York). If you're planning a road trip to Cooperstown (New York), you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am  start in Ithaca drive for about 42 minutes

11:42 am   Marathon (New York) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:42 pm drive for about 1 hour

1:44 pm   West Edmeston (New York) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:44 pm drive for about 30 minutes

3:14 pm   National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:14 pm drive for about 5 minutes

4:19 pm  arrive in Cooperstown (New York)

driving ≈ 2 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Marathon (New York) West Edmeston (New York) National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum   (2 mentions)

What are some things to do in Cooperstown (New York)?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Cooperstown (New York).

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Cooperstown (New York) to Ithaca drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

Looking for ideas for more destinations within driving distance of Ithaca? Try searching for places within 2 hours of Ithaca .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Ithaca to Cooperstown (New York) . Or get a full Ithaca to Cooperstown (New York) flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Ithaca well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Ithaca!

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