Educate, Appreciate, Celebrate: The Finger Lakes History Tour
Day 1
Arrive and check in to Penn Yan’s Best Western Vineyard Inn & Suites. This award-winning hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the Finger Lakes- the perfect place to begin your getaway! After settling in, head over to the historic Esperanza Mansion for dinner. Take in the lake views as you savor high-end cuisine and locally-produced Finger Lakes wine.
Day 2
If it’s a Saturday, head just up the road on Route 14A to explore the friendly Windmill Farm & Craft Market. The Windmill is one of the oldest farm markets in upstate New York, and today it attracts over 200 vendors, including local Amish and Mennonite families. If it’s not a Saturday, take a short drive to the quaint village of Hammondsport to visit the Glenn H. Curtiss Aviation Museum, named after the famous aviation pioneer. Complete your time in Hammondsport by visiting Bully Hill Winery, home to the Wine and Grape Museum of Greyton H. Taylor. On your way back up Keuka Lake, visit some of the wineries along the Keuka Lake Wine Trail. Once you’re back in Penn Yan, enjoy a laid-back dinner at Seneca Farms. Seneca Farms is known for its fried chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, and over 50 varieties of homemade ice cream.
Day 3
Following another restful night, check out of the Best Western and head to Canandaigua to take in more of what the region has to offer. Learn even more about local wines by visiting the New York Wine & Culinary Center, a facility dedicated to the educating the public about the rich traditions of New York State wine and agriculture. Enjoy lunch outside on the patio after your tour. Take a bit of downtime to check into the Inn on the Lake, located right on bustling Main Street in Canandaigua. Spend a leisurely afternoon absorbing more local history by visiting the beautiful Sonnenberg Gardens and Granger Homestead, historic mansions both located conveniently in Canandaigua. In the evening, experience Canandaigua Lake aboard a Canandaigua Lady dinner cruise. Back at the hotel, kick back and relax with a drink at the Sand Bar lakeside bar & grill, located conveniently on the premises, or retire early to your luxurious room.
Day 4
Eat brunch at one of the many restaurants along Canandaigua’s Main Street, then head west to the lively city of Rochester to visit the George Eastman House. The George Eastman House is the former residence of Kodak founder George Eastman and a museum of photography and film. Have lunch at the café, located right on the premises. Then, take Route 490 West to get to Genesee Country Village and Museum, a living history museum. Stroll around the restored village and watch as costumed actors bring the 1800s to life. You can also enjoy the nature center, or sip beer from the working 19th-century style brewery.
