Celebrating July 4th in the Finger Lakes – 2020 Edition

Most of the annual July 4th celebrations including large events, parades, and firework displays have been canceled in the Finger Lakes region due to the COVID-19 restrictions. But that doesn’t mean we can’t still celebrate our pride for the USA.

For those seeking greater experiences, we’ve provided our recommendations for creating new patriotic traditions in the Finger Lakes.

Booking the Perfect Lake House

The dates surrounding the July 4th weekend are the most popular of the year for booking a lakefront vacation rental. With family travel plans being diverted this year because of COVID-19, you may still have a chance to secure the perfect home to enjoy a Finger Lakes Independence Day, but book soon!

The key to creating the perfect lakeside getaway is finding the home that checks all your boxes. Unlike hotels, vacation rental homes are not all created equal, but that is also part of the fun. Some families require open layouts with bedrooms on the first floor or level lakefronts for easy access for children. Many of our homes also offer virtual tours allowing you to tour the home before you book, ensuring it fits your vacation style. Identifying these needs will be key for an enjoyable getaway for everyone in your group and will also help our local vacation planners find the right home for you.

It’s all about the amenities

Get more out of your vacation by taking advantages of the additional amenities that come with most vacation homes. Many of our homes come with perks such as kayaks (non-motorized watercraft) and hot tubs. These are searchable features on our website. Some other key features include game rooms, lawn games, fire pits, and bonus lake houses. These amenities can be found in the property descriptions or the amenities section on the property pages.

More ways to get on the lake

Motorized boats are not included with any of our rentals. However, local marinas can help you get out on the lakes during your stay with rentals of boats, kayaks, and any accessory you need to enjoy the water during your stay. Like our rentals, these will also be reserved well in advance for the busy holiday weekend so please plan accordingly.

Click Here for Marinas and Boat Rentals

For expert help on creating the perfect Independence Day getaway, contact our local vacation planners who are familiar with all of our 280+ homes across the Finger Lakes.

Plan Ahead for Easy, Delicious, and Festive Meals

One of the best advantages of staying in a vacation home is you have a fully equipped kitchen and grill for making your favorite meals throughout your stay. But again, planning ahead is key especially with new COVID-19 guidelines in place for shopping.

In today’s digital world it is easier than ever to order groceries online and have them ready for curbside pick-up. Reduce the need to go into stores by using these methods to pick up all of the items you need for a delicious getaway. Search your route to your rental beforehand then see what options are offered or check out the list below:

Conesus Lake: West’s Surfine Food Mart,
Honeoye Lake: West Wise Honeoye
Canandaigua Lake: (North) Canandaigua Wegmans, Tops, Aldi’s, Walmart; (South) Rennoldson’s Market
Keuka Lake: (North) Tops, Morgan’s, Aldi’s, Oak Hill Bulk Goods; (East Lake) Olney Place; (South) Hammondsport Grocery
Seneca Lake: (North) Geneva Wegmans, Walmart, Sauder’s; (South) Top’s, Walmart
Cayuga Lake: (North) Waterloo Tops, Waterloo Walmart, Cayuga Corner, Sauder’s, Auburn Wegmans, Auburn Walmart; (East side) Union Springs Shurfine Supermarket, the Produce Place; (South) Ithaca Wegmans, Tops, Target, Aldi’s, Anabel’s Grocery, Green Star Food Co+op

Need some festive inspiration for what to serve through the July 4th weekend? Check out our Pinterest Board while you are creating your shopping list!

Creative Ways for a Memorable Lakeside Holiday

There is no doubt this will be one of the most memorable Independence Day’s in our Nation’s history. Make the most of social distancing by celebrating with a small group of your closest family and friends at your lake rental. Here are some of our guest’s favorite ways to celebrate at their lakefront vacation rentals:

Bring your favorite (most competitive) lawn game and plan a tournament
Create a Patriotic Picnic
Decorate your boat/kayak in red, white, and blue and create your own water parade
Patriotic Kid Crafts and Games
Watch a patriotic movie (Have a projector? Make an outdoor theater)
Create your own Finger Lakes wine/beer tasting by picking up similar styles from different tasting rooms (see below)
Spark up the sparklers at night
Lakeside campfire with s’mores

Explore the Finger Lakes Responsibly

If you choose to leave your lakeside rental this July 4th weekend and explore some of the natural wonders of our region, please plan ahead.

Parks, Trails and Waterfalls

Be aware that without the annual festivals and events, our popular parks will likely be busier than usual with locals and travelers all seeking a memorable holiday weekend. If you are staying through the week, planning on visiting these locations during a week day may be an option for less traffic. And although most parks have reopened, there are restrictions and new guidelines. Always research the venue prior to getting into the car to avoid closures.

For resources on finding trails and parks, visit:

Beverage Experience Seekers

Our region is hoping to be in Phase 3 of New York State’s reopening plan by July 4th, which includes tasting rooms across our wine trails and craft brew trail. However, each day is different and we cannot guarantee the availability of visiting tasting rooms. One thing is certain, tasting room policies, procedures and experiences will be much different this year with new protocols in place to keep staff and patrons safe.

As of right now, most tasting rooms are offering pick up and delivery options of your favorite craft drinks. While we understand it isn’t the same experience, perhaps picking up bottles of fresh vintages and enjoying them lake side may not be the worst way to savor the flavors of the Finger Lakes.

Below are links to the beverage trails for you to get the most current information on what will be available during your visit to the Finger Lakes.

Plan a Lakeside Celebration for Another Time

Without the organized parades and fireworks this year, who says you can’t create your own festive vacation on a different weekend of the summer. This will also provide you with more flexible dates with possible lower rates to get more out of your next vacation.

Don’t forget to take a peak at our specials page which includes Mini-week specials (stays of 6 days or less depending on the property) or deeper discounts on select lake homes.

Find Summer Specials Now

If your reason for visiting the Finger Lakes includes must-have experiences such as wine tasting, museum touring, or sitting down at your favorite restaurant, stay up to date on the New York State’s Phases for reopening by visiting our COVID page.

9 Shamrockin’ Events in the FLX

St. Patrick’s Day is upon us once again, and we’ve picked the region’s 9 shamrockin’ events in the FLX for you to paint green this month and on March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day itself. So, dust off your lucky leprechaun hat, grab your gold jewelry and let your inner Emerald Islander run loose for a week of legendary events.

Whatever your ancestry, get into the Irish spirit for St. Patrick’s Day this month. From live bands and food pairings to beer releases and charcuterie, here are some ways to celebrate the Emerald Isle.

Get One Night Free when you stay this march! Click below to browse over 20 vacation rentals offering this discount.

Get One Night Free!

Winery Celebrations

Varick Winery – March 14th 9:30 am to 6:00 pm
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Varick Winery! Play along in their coin game and drink their green wine! Enjoy Irish fare, Corned Beef & Cabbage!

Sheldrake Point Winery – March 14th 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Grab your friends, and spend the afternoon with Sheldrake Point Winery. They’ll be getting in the St. Paddy’s Day spirit with a lively performance by local Celtic band Doolin O’Dey. Enjoy wine by the glass and local cheese and charcuterie in their Garden Room.

Treleaven Wines – March 14th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day a little early with the Treleaven crew! Throw on something green and head on out to Treleaven for great food, drinks, and live music by The Ampersand Project beginning at 6:00 pm.

Irish or not, they will have something for everyone to enjoy – including a delicious St. Patrick’s Day menu from Simply Cookie.

Brewery Celebrations

GAEL Brewing – March 15th 11:00 am to 6:00 pm Celebrate St Patrick’s Day at the only Irish-American microbrewery in Upstate NY. Come for the craic. Brand New Beer Release!!! – NY Kitchen Kolsch brewed especially for our beer pairing dinner at NY Kitchen on Thursday March 19th. Live music with the Party Nuts Lite in the Brewing Area from 1:00 pm -4:00 pm. Free food by Pete Weaver with Corned Beef, Cabbage, Potatoes and More!!! They will also be open on St. Patrick’s Day Tuesday March 17th from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm. Slainte.

Steuben Brewing – March 17th 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm The perfect setting for St. Patrick’s Day- Traditional Irish music & food, special beer releases and lots of good company.

Events

St Patrick’s Day at Monk’s! – Monks on the Commons – March 14th 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Get your Irish on!! Enjoy rousing Irish jigs, reels, hornpipes, and songs along with a cold pint!

Smith Opera House – March 20th – 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm It’s the annual ST PAT’S PARTY at The Smith Opera House in Geneva NY! One of the Town Pants favorite regions in the world, and the best place to dust off those green suits and party like the Irish! Slainte!

Seneca Cheese Company – March 13th 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm Check out The Seneca Cheese Company for a unique St. Patrick’s Celebration semi-acoustic Rock show.

Premier local rock bands An Artist’s Depiction, The Season, and The Variables will rock the house with special semi-acoustic versions of their songs. Expect this show to have an unusually entertaining balance as they combine the infamous lore of Friday the 13th with the lucky holiday weekend of St. Patrick’s Day – and all the while, mingling the energy of upbeat rock music with the classy cheese and drink pairings of the only artisan cheese tavern in the area.

Seneca Cheese Company – March 14th from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm Enjoy a special St. Patrick’s Celebration Performance with the Smoking Loons, live at the Seneca Cheese Company!

Plan your itinerary with these 9 shamrockin’ events in the FLX this March.

Book a getaway to the Finger Lakes for this March and get ONE NIGHT FREE! Click Book Now to secure your free night by using promo code “3for2020” at check out.

Book Now!

Plan the Perfect Finger Lakes Proposal

Planning a proposal in 2020? Arrange a romantic getaway to the Finger Lakes and make it an engagement to remember! Our lakeside vacation rentals have hosted hundreds of bridal parties, bachelorettes, and wedding guests, but there’s nothing quite as special as hosting the beginning of it all.

We especially love when our brides-and-grooms-to-be share photos of the big moment with us! Here are some of the happy couples we hosted this year and the homes where they popped the question:

Stowaway

Love is in the air at this secluded chalet! Drive right through a vineyard on your way down to the Seneca Lake shoreline where this cottage sits. Modern updates blend with old world charm to make Stowaway the ultimate setting for your Finger Lakes proposal!

We couldn’t ask for a better photo!

This home has 300 ft. of lake frontage and a newly rebuilt dock to ensure everything goes according to plan!

This home is perfectly situated for a romantic hike in Finger Lakes National Forrest or nearby Watkins Glen State Park. Plus, you’re surrounded by award-winning wineries and breweries!

Book Stowaway

The Boat House

Located midway between historical Seneca Falls, and “gorges” Ithaca, The Boat House is the ideal couple’s retreat. Here, comfort meets minimalist, millennial design, from the chic open concept kitchen to the airy loft bedroom. Even the dock was made for two, with Adirondack chairs and plenty of space to get down on one knee.

This is the kind of place you’ll want to return to for anniversaries and honeymoons for years to come.

We imagine this will be the first of many proposals at this modern retreat!

Enjoy an evening of live music and dancing within walking distance at The Boathouse Beer Garden!

Book The Boat House

Paradise Found

This beautifully remodeled lake house looks like it was taken from the pages of a magazine. Clean, cozy, and comfortable, you’ll love cooking together in the gourmet kitchen and snuggling up next to fireplace.

A light snow made this proposal picture perfect!

For a more intimate experience, stay in the off-season. You’ll take advantage of lower rates, 3 for 2 specials, and fewer crowds at area attractions.

This home is right on the Keuka Lake Wine Trail and only a short drive from the charming village of Hammondsport.

Book Paradise Found

Seneca Shores

This luxurious Seneca Lake home is the perfect spot to celebrate your engagement with family and friends! Enjoy over 4,000 sq. ft. of living space, including a finished basement with a bar, game room, and gas fireplace. The lake view deck spans the entire backside of the home, offering front row seats and a hot tub to enjoy to sunset from.

The lawn at Seneca Shores offers so many different locations to pop the question. We love that this group captured beautiful, blue Seneca Lake in the background of this special moment. Plus, they had plenty of room to celebrate!

To earmark the special occasion, we suggest a champagne toast at nearby Glenora Wine Cellars.

Book Seneca Shores

Stone Crest

The perfect escape for your engagement! This sizable rental offers two master suites, one with its own entry separate from the rest of the home, so you can include the whole family, while still having a little privacy.

Cheers to the newly engaged couple!

Stone Crest offers multiple decks overlooking the water and a 30 ft. dock with rolling hills in the background. Why not schedule an engagement photo shoot during your stay?

This upscale home sits on the shores of Keuka Lake, only minutes from downtown Penn Yan. Break bread at nearby Union Block Bistro to celebrate your engagement!

Book Stone Crest

Our Picks For Your Proposal

Here are some of our favorite romantic retreats to book for your Finger Lakes proposal:

Sunset Point

Sunset Point let’s you truly get away from it all! This serene location features an extra large lot with 175 ft. of Keuka Lake frontage and a completely updated look, inside and out. Light a fire by the water at sunset for the perfect lakefront proposal.

Lakeside Getaway

This adorable cottage stays true to the lake house theme, from the wall decor to the rugs on the floor. This home has ample dock and deck space for the big moment, but for a more creative proposal, consider a snowy evening in festive Seneca Falls.

Glen Hollow Guest Cottage

Glen Hollow offers the privacy of a vacation rental with the amenities of a wine country inn. This historic landmark features naturally beautiful grounds, a waterfall, and one-of-a-kind rustic charm. The guest cottage is an old carriage house full of modern amenities and original features, like sliding barn doors and a bedroom in the hayloft!

Plan your Finger Lakes proposal with our local reservation agents! We can help you choose the best house and coordinate all of the little touches to make your engagement extra special. Call us today! (877) 269-7621

The Best Ways to Experience Lakewood Vineyards

Wine lovers travel from all over the country to explore the wine trails in the Finger Lakes. One of the best vineyards in the Finger Lakes region of New York is Lakewood Vineyards in Watkins Glen. It’s an experience you have to try for yourself! If you’re planning your Finger Lakes vacation, make sure to access our complimentary Vacation Guide. Find all the best restaurants, attractions, outdoor recreation, and entertainment around the lakes in your handy guide.

The Finger Lakes is one of the best vacation destinations for wine connoisseurs. There are several fantastic wine trails to travel including the Seneca Lake Wine Trail and the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. There is even a cheese trail that runs through the wine trails!

Lakewood Vineyards, a Family Legacy

Zoom into the map of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and find Lakewood Vineyards. Three generations of the Stamp family run this family-oriented vineyard. They’ve been growing grapes along the Seneca Lake since 1952. There are several ways to experience the family’s hard work. Take a trip to the Finger Lakes and see the magic for yourself.

Guided Wine Tour and Tasting and Lakewood Vineyards

See the winemaking process from start to finish with a guided wine tour. It’s $10 per person, and you can see precisely how grapes become wine as an expert tour guide shows you around the vineyard. End the tour on a great note and try a selection of wines, chosen by your tour guide!

Experience the Tasting Room at Lakewood Vineyards

Visit the tasting room and hear fascinating stories about the vineyard, the grapes, and the entire winemaking process. Then, toast to an amazing day in the Finger Lakes with featured flights of dry and semi-dry and sweet or semi-sweet wines! Wine tasting is $4 per person.

Cellar Room Tasting at Lakewood Vineyards

If you’re coming with a large group, the Cellar Room tasting option is the best experience for you. Winemaking experts will guide you through the vineyard’s history, fruit, and fascinating information, all from the Cellar Room. Throughout the experience, you can enjoy flights of delicious wine.

The Cellar Room is $5 per person and is perfect for bridal parties, group outings, and family reunions!

Enjoy the View at Lakewood Vineyards

There’s nothing more perfect than a glass of wine accompanied by a stunning view. Sit on the shady deck and enjoy views of the 80-acre vineyard. You can also enjoy lunch at one of the picnic tables or enjoy local cheeses and charcuterie.

Unwind in a luxury Finger Lakes Premier Properties Vacation Rental

Feeling a buzz after all that delicious wine tasting? Un-wined (pun intended!) in a gorgeous Finger Lakes Premier Properties vacation home on the lake.

Stay in Dean Lake House, a unique, historic home on Seneca Lake. This cozy vacation rental is conveniently located near Lakewood Vineyards, so you can easily head out for a day of wine tasting. Make the Dean Lake House your home away from home because it can accommodate the whole family. The four-bedroom lake home sleeps 10 people and is perfect for your next wine lovers’ getaway. Check our availability and book your dream vacation in the Finger Lakes today!

What You Need to Know About the Garlic Festival at Fox Run Vineyards

Attention all garlic fans! Experience the most flavorful Finger Lakes event when you come to the glorious Garlic Festival at Fox Run Vineyards. Enjoy live music, cooking demonstrations, and food and wine from around 40 vendors! Before you head out the door, make sure to check out our complimentary Vacation Guide. It’s jam-packed with fantastic restaurants, outdoor recreation, and things to do in the Finger Lakes region of New York.

Experience the Garlic Festival at Fox Run Vineyards

Garlic lovers from all over come to Penn Yann, New York, for this aromatic event. The two-day celebration of flavor usually takes place at the beginning of August and is the perfect way to enjoy the last bits of summer. The festival is free, so you can’t miss it! We hear it’s the best thing since sliced garlic bread.

Live Music

You’ll use all of your senses at this pungent party, and that includes listening to some great, toe-tapping music. The fest features some of the best live music in the Finger Lakes. Bring your dancing shoes because you’ll be doing a happy dance all day long, whether it’s from the catchy tunes or the great food!

Learn How to Cook With Garlic

Become a pro when you attend cooking demonstrations at the Garlic Festival. Talented chefs from all over the Finger Lakes teach you how to master a number of garlic-inspired recipes. You can also explore varieties of freshly harvested garlic and speak with the experts. They’ll show you how to go from novice garlic grower to ace garlic grower in no time!

Then, taste all the different types of garlic before choosing which ones you’d like to take home with you. This powerful herb has fantastic health benefits, so you might as well stock up on the good stuff!

Food and Wine at the Garlic Fest

Indulge all day long with more than 40 local vendors. Some of the vendors specialize in garlic-infused dishes, while other options include local ice cream, cheese, jerky, vegetable, and popcorn businesses!

You can’t indulge in local cuisine without pairing your food with Fox Run wine! Grab a bottle of wine to take home, or experience a Fox Run wine tasting and tour. Their delicious wines are a big deal, and USA Today recognized Fox Run Vineyards as the third-best winery and seventh-best tasting room in the country in 2018!

Stay with Finger Lakes Premier Properties

Enjoy luxurious amenities when you stay with Finger Lakes Premier Properties. Our properties are conveniently spread out across the region so you’ll always be near the best Finger Lakes attractions.

Now that you have fresh garlic and wine, you can cook a delicious meal at our Merlot Bungalow vacation rental. It’s just minutes from Fox Run Vineyards and offers an amazing view of Seneca Lake. This coastal cottage has two bedrooms, a kitchen, and a living room. Enjoy some fresh air when you lounge on the back deck with your family and friends. Just below the deck is a patio with a grill and stone fireplace, the perfect setting for entertaining at the end of a fun day on the lake.

Don’t wait any longer! Check our availability and book your dream vacation on the Finger Lakes today!

3 Finger Lakes Day Trips You Need to Take This Year

The Finger Lakes are full of exciting activities for everyone, with so many nearby day trips you can take. Whether you’re looking to spend the day outdoors, entertaining the kids, or wining and dining, you’ll find everything you need to know below. Before you head out for the day, take a look at our complimentary Vacation Guide. This nifty tool will give you a helping hand when it comes to planning your trip to the Finger Lakes region of New York! Download the guide for all the best restaurants, sights, and attractions in the area.

Download the Guide!

There are 11 lakes in the area. With that being said, imagine how many activities there are to do around here! It’s impossible to squeeze everything into one day or even one week, so you should definitely make a Finger Lakes vacation an annual tradition. Take a look at some of our favorite things to do and start planning your getaway today!

Explore Rochester, New York

Rochester is the perfect place to take the kids. Let your imagination run wild at the Strong National Museum of Play. The little ones can explore history and artifacts through interactive exhibits. The museum encourages families to get a fun, hands-on learning experience.

Who knew your trip to Rochester, New York. could bring you face-to-face with a lion? Visit the Seneca Park Zoo and you’ll feel like you’re on an African safari, in a Brazilian rainforest, or wherever your imagination takes you! You can experience this zoo year-round.

Explore the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

No matter where you’re staying in the Finger Lakes, it’s worth it for wine lovers to head over to Cayuga to explore the wine trail. The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is America’s first wine trail! Travel through 14 wineries, tasting some of the best wines in the country! Along the way, you’ll find fantastic restaurants, museums, shops, and theatres! We should also mention the Finger Lakes Cheese Trail. Nothing goes better with wine than cheese! Plus, it conveniently runs along the Cayuga and Seneca Lakes so you can travel both of the trails at the same time.

Hike Around Beautiful Waterfalls in the Finger Lakes Region

Take a break from all the crowds and trek some hiking trails to magnificent waterfalls. These flowing masterpieces can be found all over Ontario County. Fun fact: the Finger Lakes were carved out by glaciers millions of years ago. The waterfalls flow into streams and rivers, eventually leading to some of the Finger Lakes. Some standout waterfalls are Grimes Glen in Naples, High Falls in Rochester, Taughannock Falls near Ithaca, and Letchworth State Park near Conesus Lake.

Return to a Luxury Vacation Home with Finger Lakes Premier Properties

After a day of exploring the Finger Lakes region, unwind in a beautiful lake house! You can choose from seven of the lakes including Canandaigua Lake, Honeoye Lake, and Keuka Lake. Create memories at Good Times on Conesus Lake. It can accommodate you and 13 of your loved ones. Lay out on the dock or play some water sports and paddle away in one of our complimentary kayaks! Make sure to check out all of our vacation rentals and book your vacation today! We can’t wait to have you!

Book Your Vacation!

Why You Should Visit the Award-Winning Fox Run Vineyards

With so many wineries scattered across the Finger Lakes region, it can seem impossible to select just a few to visit. You could tour one of the local wine trails, or you could pick and choose to create your custom adventure. No matter which you choose, though, make sure that Fox Run Vineyards is part of your itinerary. This family-owned vineyard and winery is a cornerstone of the Finger Lakes wine region. Learn all about it below, as well as where to purchase a rental home to stay close to the action!

Finger Lakes – #1 Wine Region in the Nation

Whether you live in or have visited the Finger Lakes, you probably agree with most everyone that it is a breathtaking part of the country. However, not only is it beautiful, it has also been nominated as the #1 wine region in the United States, according to a 2018 poll conducted by USA Today’s 10 Best. Check out some of the wineries that contributed to the Finger Lakes nomination as #1 wine region in the nation.

Winery Restaurants

F.L.X. Table / Element Winery – Geneva, N.Y.

As the leading restaurant in the Finger Lakes, F.L.X. Table at Element Winery provides an intimate and interactive dining experience. With only fourteen seats available, slots fill quickly. So plan ahead and make your reservation early.

Fox Run Cafe at Fox Run Vineyards – Penn Yan, N.Y.

Careful to serve high-quality foods that are in season, the Fox Run Café strives to represent the Finger Lakes region whenever they can. With several menu items, Fox Run staff pair wines with each menu item, carefully focusing on how the flavors complement each other. The café is open seasonally April-December.

Veraisons Restaurant at Glenora Wine Cellars – Dundee, N.Y.

At Veraisons, everything is made from scratch and sourced locally. From the meats, cheese, fruits, vegetables, sauces, bread, and desserts—everything is homegrown in the Finger Lakes region. Veraisons also pays particular attention to diners with food allergies and dietary restrictions, serving vegan and gluten-free dishes.

Winery Tasting Rooms

Fox Run Vineyards – Penn Yan, N.Y.

Taking seventh place for the best wine tasting room is Fox Run Vineyards, according to 10 Best, an affiliate of USA Today. Open year-round, Fox Run invites guests to visit their tasting room and explore all the different wines they have to offer.

Dr. Konstantin Frank – Hammondsport, N.Y.

While guests enjoy complimentary tasting of curated wines, the Dr. Konstantin Frank tasting room offers a beautiful view of Keuka Lake. In addition, guests will be led through five wines as wine educators relay the story of Dr. Konstantin. The tasting room is open year round.

Wine Festival

Finger Lakes Wine Festival – Watkins Glen, N.Y.

Dedicated to showing off what New York has to offer for the wine industry, the Finger Lakes Wine Festival was ranked as the fifth best in America, according to 10 Best. The festival takes place annually between July 13-15, offering numerous opportunities to learn about and taste the best wine and culinary in the state.

Winery Tour

Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard – Dundee, N.Y.

In the heart of the Finger Lakes, Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard overlooks the largest of the lakes in the region—Seneca Lake. Known particularly for their Riesling wine, Wiemer employs meticulous viticulture and strict ecological standards to produce high-quality wines. Take a tour the next time you are in the area.

Learn About 14 of the Wineries on the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

Explore the first organized and longest-running wine trail in the United States! Established in 1983, the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail features a total of 16 member wineries, all of which are dog-friendly! This list includes cideries, a meadery, four distilleries, and a taproom, so there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy. Add to that the incredible views of Cayuga Lake and you’ll have a wonderful vacation! Get a preview of the wineries on the trail below. If you’re interested in learning about more wineries in the area, download our free Vacation Guide!

Explore the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

Americana Vineyards

Can you think of a better combination than fudge and wine? Americana Vineyards can’t! Visit to enjoy their award-winning wines, homemade fudge, and even local beers in their onsite taproom and beer garden. While you’re there, dine at the Cyrstal Lake Cafe, which is serving up expertly prepared meals that use local and seasonal ingredients.

Buttonwood Grove Winery

Speaking of award-winning wines, visit the winner of the 2017 Governor’s Cup! Buttonwood Grove Winery has some of the best views in the region, which you can enjoy from their multi-level deck.

Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery

There’s no better place for a picnic than Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery! Sip their delicious wines and visit their gift shop, which offers local and handmade products. Enjoy artisan cheeses and picnic snacks, including wood-fired pizzas from The Copper Oen.

Goose Watch Winery

Goose Watch Winery has been making unique and specialty wines for over 20 years. The winemakers of Goose Watch Winery were awarded “Winemakers of the Year” in 2017 at the San Francisco International Wine Competition, which is the largest contest held in California.

Hosmer Winery

Home to some of the oldest vineyards along Cayuga Lake, Hosmer Winery is focused on making wines in a sustainable way with little impact on the environment.

Knapp Winery

Knapp Winery and Vineyard Restaurant has been around for 35 years, making robust wines and unique varietals. The onsite restaurant complements the wines perfectly, serving an equally eclectic menu.

Long Point Winery

A family-owned establishment, Long Point Winery is serving friendly smiles, delicious wines, and gorgeous views of the lake.

Lucas Vineyards

Lucas Vineyards, owned by the Lucas family, features one of the first female winemakers of the Finger Lakes! They are known for their Tug Boat Sangria and Raspberry Blue Splash, both refreshing drinks on a hot day!

Montezuma Winery

With fruit, grape, and honey wines, you’ll find more than enough to enjoy at Montezuma Winery. The attached onsite distillery offers spirits which were crafted from locally grown products. Their gift shop is another must.

Six Mile Creek Vineyard

If you’re planning on touring downtown Ithaca, stop by Six Mile Creek Vineyard. This is another great spot for a picnic or special event. They also carry a line of specialty spirits that have also been distilled from local grapes.

Swedish Hill Winery

Three-time winners of the Governor Cup, Swedish Hill Winery is one of the most prestigious establishments with one of the widest selections of drinks in the region. Be sure to visit their famous miniature donkey and their miniature horse!

Thirsty Owl Wine Company

One of the best lunchtime spots in Cayuga Lake, Thirsty Owl Wine Company is a fantastic business to visit by land or by boat!

Toro Run Winery

Located on a glacier-carved hillside, Toro Run Winery boasts the best view in the region! Explore their scenic hiking trail and sample the award-winning varieties.

Varick Winery & Vineyard

Varick Winery & Vineyard has the feel of an old country store. You’ll be able to shop among jellies, preserves, mustards, and so much more at their gift shop. Sit for a while in one of the rocking chairs facing the lake or pick cherries from their orchard in June or July.

Stay with Finger Lakes Premier Properties

Are you ready to explore the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail? Then book a rental home with Finger Lakes Premier Properties! You won’t be able to find such an incredible selection of vacation houses anywhere else in the region. Enjoy top-notch accommodations surrounding by gorgeous vistas.

Check out our full selection of properties and book today! We look forward to having you.