Create your own wide-open escape today in the Finger Lakes Countrysides!
The Finger Lakes Countrysides is a place teeming with lakesides and shorelines, stunning winter country views, wine, beer and craft beverages, amazing food, outdoor trails and wide-open spaces. It is a place where you can plan an active adventure or cozy up, kick back and relax. A place where you can create a vacation that is all your own, and at your own pace.
Visit and you’ll find new experiences, friendly faces, fun times, and a familiarity you just don’t get elsewhere. Feel at home in our home, in the Finger Lakes Countrysides.
Not sure where to start? Check out our overnight accommodations to begin planning your next getaway!
10 Ways to Enjoy the Finger Lakes Countrysides this Winter
#1 Take a winter walk through nearby parks and trails.
There’s beauty to be found at any time of year in Yates County. Visit a nearby park or stroll along the Keuka Outlet Trail to see frozen trees and stunning winter waterfall views. Bundle up and take advantage of an opportunity to get outside and savor the season. Check out our Guides page for more points of interest and trails.
#2 Plan a fishing expedition on Seneca Lake.
Fishing during the wintertime may not have crossed your mind, but thanks to Seneca Lake’s size and depth, it does not freeze over in the winter as fast as other bodies of water – which means you can plan a morning or afternoon of fishing any time! So, grab your gear, settle in and see what bites your hook – you may come across pan fish, perch, pickerel, pike, crappie and bass. Visit the Department for Environmental Conservation for fishing regulations that may apply, license information and more in-depth details on fishing in the Finger Lakes.
#3 Visit the wineries.
There’s got to be a reason why we were named “Best Wine Region” for multiple years by USA Today, right? Our wineries range in size, personality and style, but we guarantee there’s a wine fit for every palette. Each season brings a different experience – quiet, intimate tastings in the winter and spring, busy, bustling wineries in the summer and fall. And the views! They just can’t be beat.
#4 Grab a pint at our local breweries.
One of the best parts of winter is embracing the holiday flavors that come with it. We have all of your seasonal craft beverage flavors here, from hoppy IPAs to robust stouts and porters. Check out local favorites such as Laurentide Beer Company, Lyonsmith Brewing, or Climbing Bines Craft Ale Company. Visit our drink page for the full lineup and to see our local distillery stops!
#5 Shop local for great gifts.
You could spend hours upon hours shopping at our local merchants and markets this season. Find holiday decorations, tasty treats, souvenirs, and unique gift items. Head down to New York’s first and largest rural market, The Windmill Farm and Craft Market, (open through November and for special events) for a taste of what makes Yates County so special this time of year. Visit our shopping page to get a list of all the best little shops and fun finds in the area.
#6 Enjoy a scenic drive.
One of the best ways to take advantage of the season is by car! Stay cozy while exploring the area and driving down our stunning country roads. Our rolling hills, pristine lakes, and small-town, countryside vibes offer the ultimate winter views – places that cast a magical glow and area sure to make your Instagram followers jealous.
#7 Indulge in tasty holiday goodies.
Celebrate the season with tasty treats that will bring on the nostalgia and make you feel like a kid again. Visit our destination candy shop, The Keuka Candy Emporium, to treat yourself to homemade chocolate, vintage candy, and other sweets or local favorite Sabrina’s Bake Shoppe for cakes, cookies, pastries and more – just in time for the holidays!
#8 Enjoy a seasonal meal.
Yates County is full of variety when it comes to our food and dining scene. You’ll find many restaurants here who partner with local farms to create farm-to-table meals. One of our favorite restaurants is Sapalta Dining at Plum Point Lodge on Seneca Lake, which updates their menu seasonally to utilize seasonal produce.
#9 Explore arts, culture and history.
Plan a visit to places like the The Yates County History Center or take a workshop at Sunny Point on Keuka Lake at The Arts Center of Yates County. There is so much to do and see here. Art and culture lovers will relish in the visual bounty and structures that reside in the area. Take a look at our Arts & Culture page for places of interest.
#10 Reconnect and recharge.
The Finger Lakes Countrysides is an ideal place to get away from the day-to-day. Whether you’re planning a friends getaway, a trip with the family, or a solo self-care vacation to relax and recharge, we can offer a place for you to slow down and fill your cup. Start the planning process now and browse our site for more getaway ideas!
