With so many popular vacation destinations close to home, there’s no need to leave the Rochester/Finger Lakes Region when you’re in the mood for a quick getaway. Here are a few places you may want to add to your list of local getaway possibilities.
Watkins Glen
Located on the southern tip of Seneca Lake, this quaint village has everything you need for a jam-packed spring getaway. Explore the shops in downtown Watkins Glen, sample the cuisine at a few of the local restaurants, or set off on an exploration of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.
You’ll want to make time for a visit to Watkins Glen State Park on the edge of town. Known for its 400-foot-deep gorge and 19 stunning waterfalls, the park is a must-see during any trip to Watkins Glen. Will you be visiting the area in April? Make plans to attend opening weekend at Watkins Glen International on April 10 – 11. Visitors can drive their own cars on the racetrack during a special opening promotion that benefits the Racing and Community Enrichment Foundation.
The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is the perfect place to call home while you’re in town. Overlooking Seneca Lake, the hotel offers spacious guest rooms and suites designed with your comfort in mind.
Hammondsport
This Keuka Lake town is the home of the Finger Lakes wine industry. In fact, the first winery in the region opened in Hammondsport in 1860. While you’re in town, sample a few of the local wines and craft beers, pick up an antique for your home, or catch up on history with a visit to a museum. The Finger Lakes Boating Museum explores Hammondsport’s boat-building heritage, while the Glen H. Curtiss Museum offers displays on vintage aircraft, automobiles, and motorcycles.
A ride on the Keuka Water Taxi gives you the ideal vantage point to view the spring landscape from the lake. If you prefer, rent a kayak or boat instead or take a walk on one of the local trails. You’ll find an interesting selection of inns and bed and breakfasts in the area, including The Blushing Rose and The Park Inn Hammondsport.
Aurora
This charming village retains much of its early American charm, thanks to an extensive revitalization project that turned historic homes into inns, restaurants, and shops. While you’re in Aurora, travel the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, take a lake tour, or pack a picnic and visit Long Point State Park. You certainly can’t return home from a getaway empty-handed. Luckily, the MacKenzie-Childs home furnishings company offers home accessories, furniture, handmade ceramics, enamelware, and glassware from their Victorian Farm in Aurora.
The Aurora Inn overlooks the lake and offers classic 19th-century charm with all of the modern comforts. Built in 1833, the inn has just 10 rooms, some of which have fireplaces and private porches. Guests of the inn are encouraged to borrow kayaks, canoes, bicycles, and stand-up paddleboards and explore the lake and the area.
Is your home just as luxurious as the hotels you visit on vacation? If not, a remodel can help you feel like you’re on a getaway even if you haven’t left your own property. Contact us to explore the possibilities.
.png "NY Custom Home Floorplans (1)")
