Autumn is a wonderful time of year to visit the Finger Lakes with warm days, cool nights, farmers markets brimming with the bounty of the region, and a multitude of fall festivals that celebrate the harvest. The landscape is breathtaking as it becomes a carpet of rich red, orange, and gold, exhibiting some of the best fall foliage in the Northeast. Whether you like to hike, bike, go fruit picking, or just relax with a glass of Finger Lakes wine, Ontario County is the ideal place for you to soak in the landscape in all its glory and enjoy the cozy season in many different ways.
Golden Landscapes
If you love witnessing the landscapes dressed in golden colors while the leaves fly with the wind, some of these places will be your perfect fall activity.
Head to Bristol Mountain (5662 NY-64, Canandaigua, NY) and experience the Fall Sky Rides. You can ride the Comet Express chairlift to the summit of the mountain and take in the view of Bristol Hills and the valley below in all their colorful fall glory. On a clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of Canandaigua Lake sparkling in the distance. Consider hiking down one of the well-marked trails to get up close and personal with fall on the mountain.
For fall foliage and scenic trails, visit High Tor Wildlife Management Area (3996-3960 Donley Rd., Naples, NY). Featuring 6,315 acres of wilderness, this family-friendly destination offers miles of trails and roads where cyclists, hikers, runners, and walkers can enjoy all the splendors of fall.
At 2,256 feet, Gannett Hill Park (6475 Gannett Hill Park Dr., Naples, NY) is a scenic spot that ranks among the highest points in Ontario County—and offers one of the best views around. Locals call it “The Jump Off,” a breathtaking panorama that becomes even more spectacular as fall deepens.
Sips and Ciders
Autumn is the gateway to cider season, and if you are looking to try different local flavors, the ROC/FLX Craft Beverage Trail has got you covered. This trail features places such as Star Cider (3365 NY-364, Canandaigua, NY), a family-run craft cidery started as a hobby before blooming into a full-blown business. By sourcing local ingredients for their recipes, Star Cider has created a taste that’s celestially sweet.
If you prefer traditional cider, don't miss the wonderful farmers markets in the area, such as Victor's Farmers Market (60 E Main St., Victor, NY) or Seeds Mill Street Farmers Market (115 Main St., Canandaigua, NY), where you'll not only find delicious cider but also fresh, locally grown seasonal produce to enjoy.
Pumpkins and Apples Please!
Is there anything more representative of fall than heading to a farm for some fruit picking? Fresh, local food is a Finger Lakes staple. To explore a variety of U-pick experiences, visit places like Pick’n Patch (2205 NY-5, Stanley, NY) to grab your own pumpkins, or Great Brook Apple Farm (1640 NY-444, Victor, NY) to lose yourself among the orchards.
Reset your Body and Mind
Connectivity to nature, relaxation and wellness go hand in hand with fall in the Finger Lakes. From massages overlooking the lake, to spin and yoga classes, to unique experiences like Alpaca Yoga at Lazy Acre Alpacas (8830 Baker Rd., Bloomfield, NY), you can immerse yourself in experiences that will restore your mind, body, and soul.
Check out The Springs Integrative Medicine Center and Spa (2 Coulter Rd., Clifton Springs, NY). This is western New York’s only mineral spa with alternative and complementary therapies including their famous mineral baths, massages, acupuncture, chiropractic and naturopathic medicine, facials, and holistic spa treatments.
Willowbrook Spa at the Lake House Canandaigua (770 S Main St., Canandaigua, NY) combines the rustic peace of its lakeside setting with the lauded healing and soothing techniques of London-based Skin Specialist Alexandra Soveral.
Sweater Season
Need some warmer clothing for the pre-winter weather? Say no more. Lazy Acre Alpacas (8830 Baker Rd., Bloomfield, NY) is a fluffy farm full of warmth and smiles—thanks to its 75 alpacas. Say hello to these furry friends and grab some high-quality alpaca clothing from the Alpaca Country Gift Shop.
Visit Belhurst Castle (4069 W Lake Rd., Geneva, NY) for a fall activity straight out of a fairytale. Much more than just a certified castle, this destination offers three hotels, two restaurants, a spa, and a salon—all in one stay. And when evening falls, head to the outdoor fire pit for some good old-fashioned castle s’mores.
Creek-N-Wood (2530 Wheeler Station Rd., Bloomfield, NY) is an authentic autumn outdoor experience. Pitch your tent and enjoy a classic campground vibe, complete with weekend bonfires at the main pavilion, where everyone is welcome.
Make sure to show us your new alpaca sweater against the golden Finger Lakes landscapes! You can share your fall adventure by tagging us @VisitFLX and using #FLXperience. Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter to stay in the know with all things FLX!
