We all deserve a little R&R from time to time and it’s important to take a step back and treat yourself every now and then. Luckily, you can plan a great getaway that is safe, healthy, and fun! Enjoy quaint towns, delicious food, the great outdoors, and more while socially distancing with this Finger Lakes guide.
Hike Around Canandaigua Lake
With hundreds of trails winding through the Finger Lakes region, you can get outside and enjoy some fresh air without seeing any other people. Some popular trails include Grimes Glen near Naples and Onanda Park but if you want a trail all to yourself then you can find those as well. Hike the trails on Wesley Hill Nature Preserve or the network of trails within Italy Hill State Forest and listen to peaceful sounds of nature.
Rent a Kayak & Paddle The Lake
When the temperature rises, head to the lake. Nothing is more refreshing than dipping your toes in the cool water on a hot day. For a fun activity, head to Woodard Rentals at Kershaw Park and check out a kayak to explore the lake with. They offer rentals by the hour so you can choose how long you want to be out. Paddle around, soak up the sun, and maintain a safe distance while having fun! For a totally different experience, head to Canandaigua Sailboard where you can learn how to windsurf, take a SUP yoga class, or simply rent a kayak for the day
Enjoy a Romantic Picnic
While several restaurants are working to create safe spaces for dine-in, you can easily take most food to-go and embark on a romantic picnic. With the wonderful summer weather and abundance of scenic picnic areas, there’s no reason not to enjoy your food with a view! Check out our blog post The Best Picnic Spots Around Canandaigua Lake to plan your romantic picnic. Or order a cheese and fruit plate from the Sutherland House and enjoy an evening picnic snack while you watch the sunset.
Tour the Sonnenberg Gardens
Believe it or not, right now is one of the best times to visit the Sonnenberg Gardens. The estate is open only from Thursday-Sunday with reduced hours from 10 am-4 pm. To promote safety and social distancing, masks are required and group tours have been suspended. You can enjoy a DIY smartphone tour that will fill you in on all the history and stories that this mansion has seen over the years.
Visit the Canandaigua Farmers Market
Usually, Saturdays in Canandaigua are a bit hectic with a booming farmers market with vendors, artists, musicians, and shoppers. This year, things are a little different. The farmer’s market has been restructured to include added space between vendors, a one-way walking track, and required masks. You can enjoy all the best local produce, baked goodies, and specialty products made within a small radius of town. This farmer-run farmers market is the perfect place to pick up unique gifts, picnic supplies, or the perfect mid-day treat.
Rent a Boat
Want something that goes a tad bit faster than a kayak? Rent a powerboat or pontoon from Sutter’s Marina in Canandaigua. You can reserve one for a half-day, whole day, or the entire week. Bring fishing supplies and find a quiet corner to relax or rent some water skis and glide across the water. It’s all the fun of boating without any of the work!
Zipline Bristol Mountain
Get out of your comfort zone and try something new and exciting. Fly through the forest and zoom around the sky on a zipline. This 3-hour tour around Bristol Mountain includes suspension bridges, off-road rides, and 7 ziplines to give you a full summer mountain experience. You can also explore the adventure park which is filled with a variety of intellectual and physical challenges. Walk across tightropes, climb giant ladders, and unleash your inner child!
Embark on a Scenic Drive
There is no lack of scenic sights or drives in the Finger Lakes. Hop in the car and drive around for a scenic afternoon drive. You can head to some of the quaintest Finger Lakes towns for a day, circle Canandaigua Lake, or curve around one of the area’s Scenic Byways. Seneca Lake Scenic Byway is a popular spot for convertibles, motorcycles, and anyone looking for a beautiful drive. Lesser known, but just as beautiful, Country Road 12 on the western side of Canandaigua Lake is stunning and leads you to a world-class scenic overlook.
Stay at Sutherland House Victorian Bed & Breakfast
As things change all around us, there are a few things you can always count on. A clean sanitized room and a delicious breakfast from Sutherland House B&B are two things that will always remain constant. With that being said, we have updated our practices to provide an extra level of comfort, cleanliness, and safety. We have added air purifiers and hand sanitizing stations around the inn, added additional mattress and pillow covers, and increased sanitization of common areas. Our signature breakfast is still available and can be enjoyed in one of our several common areas and dining rooms. We are constantly working to ensure that our accommodations are safe and comfortable. You can read our latest and complete updates regarding COVID-19 here.
You can enjoy a peaceful getaway while socially distancing and remaining healthy. Hike trails, kayak the lake, sightsee, and relax at Sutherland House Bed & Breakfast. Stay at our Victorian Mansion in the heart of Canandaigua, New York.