THE FINGER LAKES: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary to Ithaca, Watkins Glen, and Taughannock Falls in New York

A sunny day at Thirsty Owl Wine Company

DAY 1: EXPLORING ITHACA

Morning: Arrival and Brunch in Ithaca Start your weekend adventure by arriving in the charming town of Ithaca. Begin with a hearty brunch at the popular Ithaca Bakery, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast sandwich or a freshly baked pastry paired with a cup of locally roasted coffee.

Late Morning: Walk The Cascadilla Gorge Trail This trail is a picturesque pathway that winds through a stunning gorge, featuring a series of cascading waterfalls and lush, verdant surroundings. Spanning approximately one mile, the trail connects downtown Ithaca to Cornell University, offering hikers a serene and scenic escape within the heart of the city.

Wandering through The Cascadilla Gorge Trail

Late Morning: Discover Cornell University After brunch, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque campus of Cornell University. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Cornell Botanic Gardens, a sprawling natural area featuring themed gardens, arboretums, and scenic walking trails.

Afternoon: Ithaca Commons and Local Museums Head to Ithaca Commons, a pedestrian-only area filled with boutique shops, cafes, and street performers. Grab a light lunch at Moosewood Restaurant, famous for its vegetarian cuisine. Afterward, explore the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art on Cornell's campus, which offers a diverse collection of art and stunning views of Cayuga Lake.

Evening: Dinner and Live Music For dinner, make a reservation at The Heights, a renowned restaurant offering upscale American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, catch some live music at The Dock or enjoy a relaxed evening at one of Ithaca's cozy wine bars like The Cellar d’Or.

DAY 2: ADVENTURE IN WATKINS GLEN

Morning: Watkins Glen State Park Rise early and make your way to Watkins Glen State Park, one of the most beautiful parks in the Finger Lakes region. Spend your morning hiking the Gorge Trail, which takes you past 19 stunning waterfalls, including the iconic Rainbow Falls. The trail is relatively easy but does include some stair climbing, so wear comfortable shoes.

Admiring the waterfalls on the Gorge Trail

Midday: Lunch in Watkins Glen After your hike, head into the town of Watkins Glen for a well-deserved lunch. Grist Iron Brewing Co. offers a great selection of craft beers and a menu of tasty pub fare, all with beautiful views of Seneca Lake.

Afternoon: Seneca Lake Wine Trail Spend your afternoon exploring the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Visit a few of the renowned wineries such as Lakewood Vineyards, Glenora Wine Cellars, and Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery. Enjoy wine tastings while taking in the stunning lake views and learning about the winemaking process. Book a Crafts and Drafts pass here which encompasses a unique offering of craft beer, spirits, and cider that can be found throughout Yates and Steuben Counties.

Evening: Sunset Cruise on Seneca Lake End your day with a relaxing sunset cruise on Seneca Lake. Companies like Captain Bill's Seneca Lake Cruises offer evening cruises that provide a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region. For dinner, try Seneca Harbor Station, which offers delicious seafood with a scenic lakefront setting.

DAY 3: TAUGHANNOCK FALLS AND DEPARTURE

Morning: Taughannock Falls State Park On your final day, drive to Taughannock Falls State Park to witness the awe-inspiring Taughannock Falls, which plunges 215 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains. The park offers several hiking trails, but the Gorge Trail is a must-do, leading you directly to the base of the falls.

The stunning Taughannock Falls

Midday: Picnic and Lake Activities Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in one of the park’s designated picnic areas. After lunch, spend some time exploring the shores of Cayuga Lake. Rent a kayak or paddleboard for a peaceful paddle on the water, or simply relax on the beach and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Afternoon: Scenic Drive and Departure Before heading home, take a scenic drive along the western shore of Cayuga Lake. Stop at Thirsty Owl Tasting Company to sip on some wine, and enjoy the scenic views. If time allows, visit the quaint town of Trumansburg for a coffee at Gimme! Coffee or a sweet treat from Sweet Melissa’s Ice Cream Shop.

afternoon wine tasting

Tips for a Memorable Trip:

• Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring.

• Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

• Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

• Make reservations in advance for popular restaurants and activities.

Enjoy your weekend in the Finger Lakes, a region filled with natural beauty, delicious food and wine, and endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation!