Grab your telescope, blanket and bug spray because it’s time get ready for the total solar eclipse coming to a sky near you April 8 … 2024?! That’s right! We’re aware that’s about a lightyear away, but we already can’t wait.

And we’re not the only ones. There’s already been some media hype orbiting around 2024’s total eclipse. Amazingly, 2017’s eclipse was viewed by more than 150 million people! And 2024’s eclipse will last even longer than usual, taking the moon four minutes to move in front of the sun.

The best part—New York is one of 15 states in the U.S. located in the path of totality and the Upstate NY region is considered a prime viewing location!

So even though you have time to prepare, why not use the impending total eclipse as an excuse to scope out your perfect skygazing spot in the Finger Lakes? There’s no better (or more beautiful) place to navigate your way through stellar parks, celestial lakeside views and starry overlooks before the big day. To help, here’s a list of spots that shine bright in our eyes.

I was on my way home from a family reunion a while ago and came over a small hill and literally stopped.  I looked across the expansive fields of hay bales, into the white clouds, blue skies, and green, green, green. I knew that just about 18 miles away was Canandaigua – bustling with tourists and waterfront activity. Beyond that in another 20 miles is Rochester with nearly 350,000 people. Right now though, in my world over that hill, there were no people – and that’s the kind of moment that is just as precious in our tourism world.  Real, authentic, fresh air in the country! I was in Gorham, New York.

Taking a trip to the Finger Lakes means fun times, relaxing stays and an oasis from the rigors of

As we continue to trade plane tickets for Zoom calls and glimmering outfits for loungewear as we stick close to home, there is so much that remains out of our control. One thing we can control? Enjoying a delicious Finger Lakes meal! 

During this time of social distancing and shift to finding new outdoor adventures, I see some gorgeous Finger Lakes photography happening on Instagram! With all of the region's breathtaking vistas, it is such a remarkable experience watching visitors see our backyard in their own individual ways. 

Bring the Finger Lakes to you with our winter Zoom backgrounds! Add a bit of the snow-covered magic that comes with a Finger Lakes winter to your next meeting - wherever you are in the world. 

Igloo brunches to sleigh rides, and spa days to sunsets - these are just a few ways you can spend your Valentine’s Day in the Finger Lakes.

Whether virtually or in-person, here are 9 ways to spend your holiday weekend.

Before you look ahead and plan your next vacation to the Finger Lakes, we must look back. COVID-19 changed us all, behaviors big and small seemed to shift – and that certainly applied to how Americans traveled in 2020!

33%. The percentage of paid time off left on the table last year by American workers. 6.8. The number of days off used for travel, compared to 11.6 in 2019. 63%. The percentage of people who feel they desperately need a vacation.

If you follow us on Instagram, we know you’ll agree with us that there is just something magical about a Finger Lakes winter. From the snow-covered trees and hills to the breathtaking vistas around our lakes, winter sports enthusiasts and cottage core fans alike will find their place in our region.

Looking for something different this winter? How about taking advantage of the expansive vistas and wide-open spaces of the Finger Lakes region – by snowshoe!