Step Back in Time

Jul 29, 2025

Explore Finger Lakes

3 mins

Discover the Historic Charm of the Finger Lakes Region

The Finger Lakes region of New York is best known for its rolling vineyards, sparkling lakes, and scenic trails—but it’s also a place where history lives and breathes. From iconic landmarks to tucked-away museums, this area offers a rich tapestry of stories waiting to be explored. Whether you're a history buff or simply enjoy immersing yourself in the culture of a place, the Finger Lakes offers countless opportunities to step back in time while enjoying a truly unforgettable vacation.

To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve highlighted some must-visit historic destinations, many of which are included in this thoughtfully curated three-day historic travel itinerary.

National Women's Hall of Fame - Seneca Fals — National Women's Hall of Fame

Seneca Falls – Birthplace of Women’s Rights

Seneca Falls is a cornerstone of American history and the women’s suffrage movement. Visit the Women’s Rights National Historical Park and the National Women’s Hall of Fame, where you’ll learn about the pioneers who fought for equality and changed the nation forever. Don't miss a walk across the Seneca Falls Bridge, said to have inspired the setting for It’s a Wonderful Life.

Auburn – History and Legacy Intertwined

A short drive from Seneca Falls, Auburn offers an enriching dive into African American history and political legacy. Explore the Harriet Tubman Home and National Historical Park, where the famed abolitionist spent her later years. While in town, step inside the beautifully preserved Seward House Museum, former home of Lincoln’s Secretary of State, William H. Seward.

Geneva – A Glimpse into 19th-Century Life

The lakeside city of Geneva blends old-world architecture with engaging historical experiences. At Rose Hill Mansion, visitors can tour a Greek Revival farmhouse that reveals life on a 19th-century Finger Lakes estate. The city itself is full of historical markers and charming buildings that reflect its past prosperity.

Hammondsport – Aviation and Innovation

In Hammondsport, history takes flight—literally. Visit the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum to learn about the local aviation pioneer whose innovations helped shape modern flight. From motorcycles to early airplanes, the museum is a must-see for anyone curious about America’s age of invention.

Canandaigua – Museums and Mansions

Canandaigua offers a walk through history with stops like the Ontario County Historical Society Museum and Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park. Sonnenberg’s stunning Victorian architecture and botanical gardens provide a rare look into the luxurious life of the Gilded Age elite.

Each of these destinations adds a chapter to the broader story of the Finger Lakes—a region that helped shape the history of New York and the nation. Whether you’re touring stately homes, standing in the footsteps of social reformers, or exploring the roots of innovation, the past feels powerfully present here.

🗺️ Ready to explore? Follow this detailed three-day travel itinerary for history buffs and make your next Finger Lakes vacation a journey through time.