**Please remember to have your face covering on hand and maintain social distance from those that aren’t in your party when visiting local businesses. It’s recommended that you contact businesses directly or check their website or social media for most accurate hours and offerings.**

Season changes are a real thing in New York, especially in the Finger Lakes! There’s no doubt we get the full experience of each of the four seasons, something we like to think we’re pretty lucky to have. As the days get cooler, leaves turn to beautiful autumn colors and the smell of crisp apples and grapes fill the air; the seasonal switch is a refreshing change we’re ready to embrace as the summer of Covid has come to an end.

When we say New York loves fall…we mean every word! Get ready to throw on your sweater and enjoy the fresh fall flavors and activities that are more than abundant here in Yates County.

Take in the Fall Foliage.

The big question we get: When is the best time to see fall foliage in the Finger Lakes? Typically, the beginning of October are peak times to experience the beautiful autumn views. I Love NY puts out a weekly report to show the emerging colors throughout the state by region. Click here to get these updates.

Visit the Wineries & See Harvest in Action

Yes, they are open! Taste new releases and stock up for the winter. Some wineries require reservations and the fall tends to be a bustling time in the tasting rooms. For more information on the local wineries, visit our wineries page, Seneca Lake Wine Trail and Keuka Lake Wine Trail.

Photo Courtesy: Finger Lakes Wine Country

U-Pick or Grab ‘n Go!

It’s no secret the Finger Lakes is home to thousands of acres of grape vineyards and apple orchards. Take an afternoon trip to pick your own apples, grapes and pumpkins or shop around for what’s in season. The family-owned farms will guide you in the right direction, oftentimes provide recipes and have homemade pies and other delicious treats available to buy. Check out our Taste of Yates guide for a complete listing of U-pick farms, roadside stands and farm markets.

Attend a Fall Themed Event (Social Distance Style)

Our local business and tourism partners have become creative in coming up with ways to put on events that still adhere to NYS Covid-19 Guidelines. Visit our Events page to check them out!

Photo Courtesy: Hunt Country Vineyards, Hunt Country Harvest Day is Sat. 10/3

Enjoy A Seasonal Beverage (Hot or Cold)

There’s no age limit on enjoying the fall flavors we all love. From hot apple cider to an autumn inspired provision or brew. Are you team pumpkin or team apple spice?! We have craft beverages that fit any taste!

Photo Courtesy: Antler Run Distilling, Fall Cocktails

Take in the Scenes on Wheels or Foot

Whether you want to play your favorite tunes as you take a drive around the lake or hike and bike local trails and routes that are lined with colorful trees and beautiful natural surroundings, we guarantee you’ll leave feeling inspired and recharged. Map out where to go here.

Bundle Up and Get on the Water

Just because summer is over doesn’t mean the lakes are closed! Rent a kayak or paddle board from Shoreline Rentals and explore the fall scenes by water instead of land.

For Those Looking to Get Spooked

Fall is the ideal time to explore the haunted history of our region! Did you know there is a Haunted History Trail of NYS? In Yates County, there are 3 stops you can make on this unique haunted trail: Miles Wine Cellars, Bishop/Gillette Headstone and Spook Hill.

Photo Courtesy: Miles Wine Cellars

Plan A Fall Staycation

Many travel plans have become restrictive for many over the last 6 months. The big family vacation may have not been in the cards this summer. How about a fall staycation? You don’t need to go far to get away. Explore places you’ve never been that aren’t too far for you to travel to or maybe a quiet weekend getaway in the Finger Lakes Countrysides is just what you need. Explore all sorts of accommodations that are available right here.

We hope to see you soon! Share your fall stories and adventures with us by using the hashtags #NYLovesFall and #FLXcountrysides