Splash into summer with a visit to the Finger Lakes Countrysides
As the sun climbs high and the days stretch out before us, the essence of summer in Yates County, NY, begins to reveal itself across this playground of natural beauty, delicious eats, and family-friendly activities.
This 2-day, weekend itinerary will be your guide through the hidden treasures and sun-dappled moments of one of New York’s most serene destinations. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a lover of the outdoors, or someone seeking the quiet nostalgia of summer days gone by, join us as we explore the seasonal delights of the Finger Lakes’ Countrysides best-kept secrets. Our summers offer days of exploration in store! Consider booking a full week vacation to make the most of this sunny season.
Day 1
Start with Breakfast: The Classic Café
1 Main Street, Dundee, NY
Kick off your experience with breakfast in Dundee, a small village on the most southeastern part of Yates County nestled in between Seneca and Keuka Lake. The Classic Café is a true hometown treat that will make you feel like a local. Enjoy a home cooked meal and don’t skip out on their homemade breads.
Outdoor Adventures: Keuka Lake State Park
3560 Pepper Rd, Keuka Park, NY 14478
Make the most out of your summer vacation with a trip to Keuka Lake State Park! Located on the glimmering waters of wine country, the park offers hiking trails, modern/rustic campsites, and plenty of ways to beat the heat. With fishing areas, boat launches and beaches, there’s summer fun for the entire family!
Lunch: Seneca Farms Ice Cream
2485 NY-54A, Penn Yan, NY
Looking for a quick bite to eat? Visit Seneca Farms Ice Cream! This family-owned and operated establishment has been a Yates County staple for over 70 years, providing homemade ice cream and eventually adding fried chicken, salads, and the other delicious offerings it has today. Enjoy your meal indoors or at their spacious outdoor dining area, top it off with dessert, and then take a walk down the block and admire nearby Keuka Lake.
Shopping: Gifts & Souvenirs
Take some time to cool off and enjoy the many shops that downtown Penn Yan and the surrounding area have to offer! Visit The Corner Coop, Seneca Farm’s gift shop, The Windmill Farm & Craft Market (Saturdays and select holidays only) as well as Crooked Lake Mercantile in Branchport. Enjoy the summer sun as you wander small shops, galleries, and markets.
Outdoor Activities: Boat Cruise
Now that you’ve cooled off and picked up your souvenirs, it’s time to go back and explore the great outdoors! Hit the water and book a late afternoon or sunset tour with Cruisin’ Keuka or Keuka Boat Cruise exploring the beauty of Keuka Lake on a pontoon boat with your family and friends promises a memorable and relaxing experience to wind down your day. It’s recommended to book this experience ahead of time to guarantee your preferred day and time.
Dinner: Main Deck
301 Lake St, Penn Yan, NY
Enjoy a delicious meal at one of Keuka Lake’s finest farm-to-table eateries! In addition to the classy dining experience, Main Deck also offers a bar rich in cocktail culture, craft beer and the best wine of the Finger Lakes Region. If you don’t feel like sitting down, Main Deck also provides a seasonal quick service window option for sandwiches, burgers, wraps and fries.
Stay the Night: Camping at Keuka Lake State Park or Overnight at Aubergine Bed & Breakfast
Set up camp at Keuka Lake State Park for a classic summer vacation experience. If you’d like to put a cozy spin on your stay, consider the Aubergine Bed & Breakfast, a stately Victorian home adorned with period furniture and gorgeous antiquities displayed throughout. Aubergine is only a short walk from Penn Yan’s downtown area, making it an ideal location for a relaxing getaway.
For longer stays or larger groups, consider booking a lakefront vacation rental with Finger Lakes Premier Properties or Linger Hospitality. Read more about vacation rentals in our Q&A Blog.
Day 2:
Brunch: Burnt Rose Wine Bar (brunch Sundays only)
13 Main Street, Penn Yan, NY
Sleep in a little later while still being able to enjoy your breakfast favorites! Head over to this boutique eatery on Main Street Penn Yan and indulge in a Champagne brunch. Locals love their huevos rancheros or monte cristo! Be sure to make a reservation for groups larger than four.
Pedal off your breakfast: rent a bike or kayak!
If you’re feeling the need to move your body after a filling meal, Shoreline Rentals is your place to get your wheels or paddle. Located centrally in the village of Penn Yan, you can launch right into the Keuka Outlet or take off to the Keuka Outlet trail right from the rental location. Talk about convenience!
Sips in the Sunshine: Keuka Lake Wine Trail
Embark on a wine tasting journey and savor the flavors of Keuka Lake, regarded as the birthplace of Finger Lakes wine. Six area wineries craft some of the most beautifully balanced and vibrant wines you’ll taste, with hospitality like none other. The trail also provides a digital tasting passport to allow for a seamless experience. All of our wineries are family-friendly and welcome children into their tasting rooms.
Dinner: Veraison’s at Glenora Wine Cellars
5435 NY-14, Dundee, NY
For an amazing dining experience overlooking Seneca Lake, look no further than Veraisons. This from-scratch kitchen brings in locally-sourced produce and meat to create fresh creations that are sure to satisfy. Located at Glenora Wine Cellars, you can pair an amazing glass of local wine with any meal on the menu. Indoor and outdoor (balcony) seating are available.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: Spotted Duck Creamery
999 State Route 54, Penn Yan, NY
Hailed as the “Best Dessert in New York State,” Spotted Duck Creamery is the perfect way to cool off after a day full of sunny activities. Offering fresh local ingredients and frozen custard made from duck eggs, Spotted Duck strives to set themselves apart from your usual frozen treat experience.
This is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to summer in the Finger Lakes Countrysides! For more experiences and summer vacation getaway tips, visit:
