Anna & Abe

Things to do in the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes are some of the deepest lakes in the United States--the bottom of Cayuga and Seneca extend below sea level!  These eleven slender lakes in Central New York were created by glaciers about two million years ago.  In addition to carving the finger-like lakes, these glaciers created countless breathtaking waterfalls. The lake effect weather produced by the lakes' depths contributes to the fabulous wine produced throughout the region.   From hiking to swimming, wine tasting to fine dining, fascinating museums to an amazing farmer's market, there is plenty to do in the Finger Lakes! 

 

Wine

There are over 100 wineries and vineyards in the Finger Lakes Wine Country, the largest wine growing region in New York State. We recommend the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail  and Seneca Lake Wineries.  

 

Waterfalls & Hikes

Ten meters taller than Niagara Falls, Taughannock Falls (pronounced tuh-GA-nick), is one of the largest "single-drop" falls east of the Rockies! It is just 36 miles from Aurora, about a 50 minute drive. For a spectacular view, you can access an outlook point from your car, or to stand at Taughannock's base you can hike in by foot. This majestic waterfall is located in Ulysses NY, on the west side of Cayuga Lake. 

 

One of the most gorgeous cascading waterfalls in the region is Ithaca's Buttermilk Falls.  Entering the lower entrance of the park you will find a natural swimming pool (with lifeguard on duty) at the base of the falls.  Hiking along the gorge trail you will see several waterfalls. Be sure to wear proper footwear as the rocks may be slippery or uneven, and the steps are steep in some locations. 

 

You also could check out Ithaca Falls, located in the city of Ithaca. The walk might be a bit uneven, but is very short distance from the road.

  

These are just a few!  There are many more parks and waterfalls in the region

 

Restaurants

Recommended in Aurora:

Fargo Bar & Grill - Please come for welcomes drinks on Saturday night if you don't want to venture too far (it is right across the street from Aurora, although no obligation! You can also enjoy a casual dinner here. However, if you want to explore the area, here are some recommendations:

Aurora Inn Dining Room 

Pumpkin Hill - Farm fresh delicisious food. 2051 State Route 90, Aurora, NY - just a 5 minute drive from Aurora Inn

Dorie's (Breakfast/Lunch) - 283 Main Street, Aurora, NY - 7 minutes walking distance from Aurora Inn, or 1 minute driving. 

 

Recommended in Ithaca:

Moosewood Restaurant - Vegetarian

Just A Taste - Tapas

The State Diner 

 

Ithaca, NY:

The city of Ithaca is about 43 miles south of Aurora, about a 45 minute drive. If a city atmosphere is more your cup of tea, you could spend the day there. The heart of Ithaca is the Commons, an area of shops and restaurants that are only accessible by foot. You'll find independent bookstores, coffee shops and theaters.  Heading up the East Hill, you may want to explore the gorgeous campus at Cornell University.  While at Cornell, you can check out the Johnson Museum of Art, the stunning gardens and natural areas at Cornell Plantations and the amazing birds at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology!  

 

You could also take a trip to the Ithaca's Farmers Market. Overlooking Cayuga Lake at 545 Third Street, the farmer’s market has fresh produce and flowers, local wines and artwork. The market is open from 9AM – 3PM on Saturdays, 10AM - 3PM on Sundays (don't miss the wedding!). It is not held on Mondays.