Oh My Gourd! Here’s What We Love About Fall in the Finger Lakes
As summer turns to fall in the Finger Lakes, temperatures begin to cool and leaves transform into beautiful shades of yellow, orange, and red. During this time of year, locals and visitors alike explore all the best attractions that autumn has to offer. From scenic sky rides to trails peppered with fallen leaves, there are so many ways to enjoy this beautiful season in the Finger Lakes region of New York state.
When you’re ready to start planning your trip, get your free copy of our Hammondsport Destination Guide. This planning tool contains local insight into the best activities for fall on Keuka Lake and beyond!
Top 5 Things to Do During Fall in the Finger Lakes
1. Fall Sky Rides
Fall Sky Rides at Bristol Mountain are one of the best ways to take in the beautiful fall colors. These scenic sky rides feature a chairlift that suspends guests hundreds of feet in the air en-route to the summit of Bristol Mountain. Along the way, get a bird’s eye view of the fall foliage that covers Bristol Hills. Fall Sky Rides are available starting September 11 and range in price from $12-$15 per person.
2. Corning Museum of Glass
Corning Museum of Glass is one of our favorite museums near Hammondsport. This art museum is home to more than 50,000 works of glass that date back thousands of years. During this time of year, the museum hosts one of our favorite fall events, the Fall Glass Harvest celebration, where you view the world’s largest glass pumpkin. Weighing in at 70 pounds at more than 8 feet in circumference, it’s sure to impress any visitor!
3. Hike at Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous New York state park in our region. Each year, more than a million visitors come to the park to hike the famous Gorge Trail. Watkins Glen State Park is especially beautiful during this time of year when the fall foliage is in full swing!
4. Drive the Keuka Lake Wine Trail
The harvest season in Finger Lakes Wine Country takes place between August and November of each year. By the end of the season, most wineries on the Keuka Lake Wine Trail offer new blends for guests to try. Even better, you can take in views of the fall foliage as you drive along the circuit from winery to winery. It’s the perfect way to explore fall on Keuka Lake!
5. Hike the Finger Lakes Trail
The Finger Lakes Trail system contains 1,000 miles of hiking trails. Step onto any of the network’s trails in the fall to soak up the beautiful foliage. Even better, there’s a trail entrance about a mile from our hotel. It’s the perfect place to take a morning stroll with your favorite fall-inspired coffee creation!
Stay at The Hammondsport Hotel
Enjoy the best of fall in the Finger Lakes with a stay at The Hammondsport Hotel. Our hotel is conveniently located on the southern tip of Keuka Lake just a short drive from all the best fall activities. After a day of autumn adventures, return to The Hammondsport Hotel for a cozy night by one of our outdoor firepits before turning into your room or suite.
Check our availability to start planning your trip to the Finger Lakes in the fall!
