One-Day Road Trip in the Beautiful Finger Lakes Region, New York

Day 1: Scenic Adventure

Ithaca, NY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Iris

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Iris, where you can savor their famous brioche French toast topped with fresh fruit and maple syrup.
Head out from Iris towards Watkins Glen via NY-13 N, a scenic drive alongside beautiful waterways.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Watkins Glen State Park

Explore the stunning waterfalls and winding trails of Watkins Glen State Park, where you can hike the Gorge Trail for breathtaking views.
Drive approximately 30 minutes via NY-13 to reach the park entrance.
USD10 (Parking Fee), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Wildflower Cafe

Enjoy fresh, local ingredients at The Wildflower Cafe, with their homemade soup and a fresh salad providing a perfect midday boost.
It's a short 10-minute drive from the park to the cafe.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Geneva's Seneca Lake

Stroll along the picturesque shoreline of Seneca Lake in Geneva, where charming parks and views of the water await you.
Take NY-414 N, a 30-minute drive along the lakeshore.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Rose Hill Mansion

Tour the historic Rose Hill Mansion, a beautifully preserved estate that provides insight into 19th-century life.
A quick 5-minute drive from Seneca Lake will get you there.
USD12, 1 hour

3:30PM

Drive to Canandaigua

Enjoy a scenic drive to Canandaigua, often referred to as the crown jewel of the Finger Lakes.
Take NY-332 N for about 30 minutes to reach Canandaigua.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Relax at Canandaigua Lake

Take a peaceful walk along the Canandaigua Lake Pier to soak up the serene atmosphere before dinner.
Head to the pier, located conveniently near the downtown area.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The NY Kitchen

Indulge in a farm-to-table dining experience at The NY Kitchen, featuring locally sourced dishes and an extensive wine list from Finger Lakes wineries.
It's a short 10-minute drive from the lake to the restaurant.
USD40, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Drive to Rochester

Make your way to Rochester to conclude your road trip, enjoying the beautiful sunset along the way.
The drive will take you around 45 minutes via NY- Rochester City Line.
Free, 45 minutes

7:15PM

End at the High Falls

Visit the scenic High Falls in Rochester, a beautiful spot to close your day with dramatic views of the waterfall.
Arrive at High Falls in Rochester for the perfect end to your adventure.
Free, 1 hour
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