Top Dog-Friendly Spots In NY’s Finger Lakes Region
If you are looking for a weekend getaway and don’t want to leave your furriest family member behind, consider a visit to the Finger Lakes Countrysides! Our local establishments welcome pets of many shapes and sizes, allowing the entire family to experience what our area has to offer. From wineries welcoming four-legged friends to outdoor trails, swimming spots and even hotels, let us guide you on all of the best dog-friendly places to visit.
Craft Beverages
If you’re looking to enjoy the craft beverage scene, make a stop at our local wineries, breweries and cideries. Many businesses in the area allow pets at their establishments and even in their tasting rooms! Sample new beers, wines and ciders while taking in the beautiful views.
Be sure to call and check policies beforehand. While most of our wineries and breweries accept pets, some do not.
Purchase a “Paws & Pours” Passport for Pup-Friendly Fun
For truly dog-friendly experience, purchase the Keuka Lake Wine Trail’s “Paws & Pours Passport“ and explore the six wineries found along the shores of Keuka Lake. This passport gives the human passholders $2 off a glass of wine or wine flight at each winery, while the pups get complimentary goodies at every stop! And the best part? A portion of the proceeds benefits the Humane Society of Yates County, so you and your pup can wine for a cause.
Hikes & Outdoor Spaces
The Finger Lakes Region is home to some of the most stunning natural views in New York State! Take to the trails with your pup or visit one of our lakeside parks. The Keuka Lake Outlet Trail is an area favorite—seven miles of wooded trail running from Keuka Lake to Seneca Lake, taking visitors past waterfalls, creek and canal beds, and the Village of Penn Yan.
Keuka Lake State Park, near Branchport, NY, offers camping, picnic spots, hiking trails and plenty of space to roam with your pup. Local to Penn Yan, both Red Jacket Park and Indian Pines Park offer picnic areas, green space and lakeside views in their day use areas. All welcome pets, when leashed.
Unique Area Activities
At the Windmill Farm & Craft Market in Penn Yan, NY, you and your pet can both benefit from a little shopping! Browse over 175 vendors in indoor and outdoor spaces, and select from handcrafted goods (including pet items!) while you get some exercise. Open every Saturday, from the third Saturday in April through the last Saturday in November.
The Saunders Finger Lakes Museum in Branchport, NY, is another pet-friendly location that you can venture to. This is an outdoor-style museum that showcases the beauty of Yates County and the Finger Lakes Region. Here, you can get acquainted with the wildlife native to our area, as well as learn about the history of the Finger Lakes. Pets are always welcome, and you can even browse around to learn more about their events and programs.
Dining with the Dogs
Built in a refurbished hay barn not far from the shores of Seneca Lake, Seneca Stag Brewery honors the heritage and culture of traditional German biergartens. Enjoy a menu that brings you everything from Bavarian pretzels to seafood dip, pork schnitzel to fried Oreos, all while listening to live music and vibing with your four-legged best friend.
Seneca Farms opened its doors in 1950, as a creamery making homemade ice cream as well as bottling milk. It soon opened the first ever drive-thru in the Finger Lakes, in the original building where it still operates today. Bring the whole family for familiar favorites like fried chicken and fish, sandwiches, burgers, salads, plates and more—there’s plenty of seating for everyone in their outdoor pavilion. End the meal with a sweet treat (and puppy cones!) and wander down to the lake for a nice after-dinner walk.
Established in the region in 1996, Parker’s Grille is an area staple! Browse their large selection of homemade dishes—soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, entrees, desserts and more—while you take in the sights and sounds of Main Street, Penn Yan. Pups are welcome outdoors, but seating can be limited and is weather dependent.
BONUS! A stop at the pet-friendly, family-run Shtayburne Farm Creamery is the perfect place for any dairy lover. Take a peek at how the farm’s products are made and then settle in for a sweet or savory reward. Their cheese or ice cream flights allow you to sample 4, 8, or 12 flavors and all products are available for purchase in the store. Outdoor seating offers great views and a grassy area to run off some extra energy after your treat!
Pet-Friendly Lodging
If you are looking to stay overnight with your furry friend, there are many pet-friendly lodging options at our Hotels, Inns, & B&B’s!
Some of the most popular stays for pet owners include the following:
- Best Western Plus Vineyard Inn & Suites
- Hampton Inn
- Microtel Inn & Suites
- Yurts at Plum Point Lodge
- Carriage House Loft at Laurentide Inn
- Universal Friend Bed & Breakfast
- The Savannah House Wine Country Cottages on Seneca Lake
If you are looking to rent a space for you and your pet, Finger Lakes Premier Properties or Linger Hospitality can help. Whether you want to stay lakeside or near historic downtown areas, you are sure to find something that fits your needs.