Summer is quickly approaching and it's time to start planning your next vacation. A trip to the Finger Lakes will give you everything from outdoor concerts to thrilling amusement parks. With plenty to see and do, we’ve gathered a list of the top attractions so you can keep the guesswork out of it. So pack your bags and head to the Finger Lakes, where you can create lasting memories during your summer of fun in the sun.
CMAC Summer Concerts
Take advantage of the long days and warm nights by going to an outdoor concert. CMAC Summer Concerts are planned to resume starting August 5th with headliner Luke Combs. Grab a chair for lawn seating, or upgrade your ticket to the Corona Cabana or Headliner Lounge. The gates open 1.5 hours ahead of time, leaving plenty of time to enjoy food from local vendors, as well as beer, wine, and craft cocktails. If dancing and singing to the music sounds like the perfect night, make sure you grab your tickets before they’re sold out!
Harris Hill Soaring
See the Finger Lakes at a whole new level - in the sky! You and your pilot will be towed by a sky-bound airplane until you reach an altitude of approximately 4,000 feet. Once released, you will experience a silent flight as you soar through the sky. Your pilot will point out noteworthy sights, like Watkins Glen State Park, as you gracefully sail over. The flight will last about 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to marvel at the picturesque views. Step out of your comfort zone and head out on an adventure of a lifetime.
Seabreeze Amusement Park
Spend the day enjoying thrilling rides or cooling off in the waterpark. Located right by Lake Ontario and Irondequoit Bay, Seabreeze Amusement Park offers a wide variety of land and water attractions. Satisfy your inner daredevil and speed through 2,150 feet of track on legendary coaster, Jack Rabbit. Later, head to the waterpark to continue the adrenaline rush by tubing down Helix. Start your plunge barreling down 4 stories of a pitch-dark tunnel which opens up to the Helix, before finally descending through a hole into a pool. Finish the day relaxing in the Lazy River, basking in the warm, summer sun. Fill your day with excitement, and possibly get a tan, when you visit Seabreeze Amusement Park.
Grimes Glen in Naples
Immerse yourself in nature and visit Grimes Glen. Located in Naples, NY, this local gem offers stunning views, and a chance to cool off on a hot, summer day. The trail is a 1.1-mile out-and-back excursion which takes you past two waterfalls. About 0.2 miles into your journey, the trail will end leaving the only pathway a running creek. This is a great chance to kick off your shoes and trek through the ankle deep water. The first waterfall you encounter is a sight to behold. Hidden in a canopy of trees, this is a great spot to whip out your camera and take some amazing shots. After continuing your hike, you’ll stumble upon the second waterfall which features a small, swimmable pool. Spend the day there soaking in the refreshing water as you appreciate the 60-foot falls.
Beer and Wine Tours
Embark on a tour of local breweries, wineries, distilleries, or a little bit of everything with Crush Beer & Wine Tours. Pick-ups and drop-offs are at designated locations, or arrangements can be made at your local B&B. Each tour includes a guide, transportation, tastings, as well as an assortment of snacks. Reservations can be made for parties as small as two people and up to as many people as you would like. If you want to just rent a car and driver, check out Quality Wine and Brew Tours. Luxury cars can be rented for two people and up to eight. Book your tour for 5 to 8 hours, and your driver will take you all around the Finger Lakes to any destination of your choosing. Explore the Finger Lakes the right way - with a drink in your hand.
After a day flying though the sky or hitting the local swimming hole, spend the night at Sutherland House Victorian Bed and Breakfast, located in Canandaigua, NY. Enjoy the summer weather on the outdoor patio under a 200-year-old copper beech tree. Or cuddle up by the outdoor firepit and listen to the relaxing crackling of the fire. A stay at Sutherland House will ensure your vacation is perfect from start to finish.