24-48 Hours for Families in the FLX Countrysides
Whether you live nearby or are looking to venture into Yates County from regions further out, spending a day or two in the Finger Lakes Countrysides promises adventure and a memorable experience that will ignite curiosity to see what else we have to offer.
We’ve designed a guide to get you out into Yates County’s scenic landscape and local establishments. This itinerary is mapped out for a two-day experience, but even just one will offer a full day of fun – and it’s perfect for the whole family!
In addition to the activities on the schedule we’ve built below, be sure to check our calendar to see what upcoming events may be taking place during your visit.
Day 1
Breakfast or Lunch at Oak Leaf Café | 3173 State Route 14A, Penn Yan, NY
Oak Leaf Café is serving up fresh and delicious breakfast items to fill your belly and fuel your day. Keep it casual with a breakfast panini or burrito, indulge with sausage gravy and biscuits, or keep it light with their baked oatmeal or yogurt parfait. Oak Leaf’s dishes pair deliciously with cold or hot coffee, hot chocolate (a great choice if you’re bringing little ones!) or fruit smoothies.
Pick fruit at Apple Barrel Orchards | 2673 Sand Hill Rd., Penn Yan, NY
Days and hours of operation may vary when open for the season
Be sure to make a stop at this family-owned and operated orchard and farm store that was awarded best apple orchard by FLX Finest in 2025. Spend the morning or afternoon surrounded by the season’s harvested apples and berries and explore the u-pick orchard where you can fill your container or wagon with crisp apples, grapes and cherries right off the vine – it doesn’t get any fresher than that! (Be sure to call ahead or visit their website to confirm availability.) Before heading out, stop into the farm store for additional take-home treats, such as fresh apple cider, jellies, jams, preserves, honey and maple syrup, pancake mix and more. In 2024 they opened their cidery. Adults can enjoy handcrafted hard cider that is pressed and fermented right on the farm during their visit, or purchase a reusable growler to take to go.
Reserve a lane & explore the arcade at Brock’s Bowl and Pizzeria | 201 Brown Street Ext., Penn Yan, NY
The fun continues when you bring the family to knock down some pins at Brock’s! Slip on a pair of bowling shoes, find your perfect ball and see how many strikes you can get on the scoreboard. In between rolls, enjoy Brock’s tasty dishes and snacks – like hand-tossed pizza, chicken wings, garlic knots, Brock’s Trash Plate and more! After a round or two, check out their expansive arcade.
Outdoor relaxation at Keuka Lake State Park | 3560 Pepper Rd., Keuka Park, NY
After an afternoon of fun and food, bring the family to Keuka Lake State Park and treat yourselves to the comforts of nature’s beauty. Take a stroll across the Park’s expansive lawns or sit and take in the glistening beauty of Keuka Lake. Benches and picnic tables are available at the park, in case you’d like to play a card or board game, or just stretch out and relax.
Dinner at Parker’s Grille & Tap House | 111 Main Street, Penn Yan, NY
A go-to spot in downtown Penn Yan for a relaxed, family-friendly meal. With a casual atmosphere, attentive service, and a menu that offers something for everyone like wood-fired pizzas, delicious burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. It’s an easy stop after exploring or a day on Keuka Lake.
Check into the Best Western Plus Vineyard Inn and Suites | 142 Lake Street, Penn Yan, NY
Finally, take a load off as you prepare to wind down for the day. The Best Western Plus Vineyard Inn and Suites is a great option for families – it boasts clean rooms and amenities including complimentary hot breakfast for guests and warm cookies made daily, an indoor heated pool and eight-person spa, and a fire pit with s’mores during the summer months. The hotel is also within driving distance of hiking trails, restaurants, wineries and shopping experiences.
Day 2
Breakfast at Trail’s End | 93 Main Street, Dresden, NY
Stop into this family-run spot, where you’re greeted with a big smile and a fresh cup of coffee as soon as you arrive. In addition to the restaurant’s authentic diner feel, you won’t be disappointed with their menu options – they cook everything from pancakes, French toast and waffles, to breakfast sandwiches and burritos, to omelets you can customize to your liking. Trust us – you won’t go wrong with anything you order!
Visit The Art Studio 126 Main | 126 Main St., Penn Yan, NY
Visit this unique art shop and browse creative clay sculptures, mosaics, jewelry, felt and more. You’ll find items that’ll make for great souvenirs of gifts – and you may be able to create artwork of your own: Keep an eye out on their event listings for hands-on art classes, great for families and kids alike! Past art-making classes have included creating clay gnomes, glass Mosaic coasters and fluffy blankets.
Explore the region’s agriculture
Availability varies through the seasons.
Family-run farms have always been the epicenter of the region – that’s no secret as soon as you arrive. Yates County is a part of Finger Lakes Farm Country, a centralized place where you can discover agricultural experiences in the southern part of the Finger Lakes. Explore farm experiences, u-pick, markets and more.
Check out this video for some inspiration on planning a family vacation that will create memories that will stay with them forever.
Lunch & Treats at Tabora Farm & Winery | 4978 Lakemont Himrod Rd., Dundee, NY
Located nearby Seneca Lake, this winery, bakery, and deli has delicious options for everyone. Their scratch-made soups, salads, and sandwiches are comforting – like a homemade meal from grandma’s kitchen. After lunch, let the kiddos enjoy a treat or two from the bakery while the adults sip a glass of vino from the winery. The bakery offers cookies, donuts, pies, cakes and pastries, while the winery offers a variety of reds, whites, rosés and sparkling wines. Enjoy these items on the premises or take a bottle and pastry back with you as a souvenir.
Warmer Months: Cruise the lake with Cruisin’ Keuka | Keuka Lake
Finding and renting a boat for an excursion out on the lake can be daunting, but Cruisin’ Keuka cuts down on the hassle by picking you up dockside at a location of your choice. They drive the boat and leave the fun to your family or group—they’ll even drop you back off right at your vacation rental or an area of your choosing. Just pack snacks, swimsuit and plan your playlist and you’re good to go for a day of fun!
Cooler Months: Head to a Nearby Museum & Stop at a Nostalgic Candy Store | Penn Yan
If you want to immerse yourself in Yates County history, a stop into the history center in Penn Yan is a must. Afterward, head to the Keuka Candy Emporium, which is walking distance from the museum. Take a trip down memory lane and let the kids memorize the isles of sweet indulgences. This charming shop is packed with old-fashioned candies, nostalgic treats from decades past, homemade chocolates, and fun gifts—perfect for a quick treat or a special souvenir. It’s an easy and memorable stop while strolling Main Street, guaranteed to bring smiles to the whole family.
Dinner at Nación Mezcal Reserva | 104 Liberty Street, Penn Yan, NY
Located in a cozy setting, Casa Mezcal Reserva is the perfect spot to unwind and savor the unique flavors of mezcal. Their expansive menu is filled with authentic options and tried and true favorites.
