2 Day Self-Guided Finger Lakes Wine Tour from Watkins Glen with Interactive Map

New York | Finger Lakes


About Finger Lakes Riesling

Finger Lakes Riesling stands out as the region's flagship grape, celebrated for its aromatic qualities and versatility. It boasts vibrant acidity and can be crafted in styles ranging from bone dry to very sweet. Its fruit profile spans from tart citrus to tropical fruit, and can develop complex flavors like dried fruit, honey, and petrol over time. Touring Finger Lakes wineries and focusing on Riesling can enhance a person's knowledge of how small changes in soil, vineyard site, vintage, climate, harvest time, and other factors can influence a wine and help it create its own distinct profile. Enjoy wine tasting flights where you can try each of a winery's Rieslings side by side to begin to understand the differences in each of these unique wines.

While this self-guided wine tour of Finger Lakes Riesling is presented as a two-day wine tasting itinerary, it could easily be extended to a three- or four-day tour by slowing down to not only try tasting flights but also to enjoy a glass or share a bottle while taking in the amazing lake views. Additionally, many of these wineries offer upgraded VIP library tastings or vineyard tours, which normally take 60 minutes or more. Use this guide to make your experience what you have time for, and what you want it to be. There is no wrong way to taste and enjoy wine.

Read more about Finger Lakes resiling and other popular grape varieties

This site contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we believe in.


How to Use Guided Wino’s New York Wine Travel Guide

Our New York Wine Travel Guide is designed to be user-friendly, whether you’re planning your trip on a desktop or on the go. Here’s how to make the most of this powerful tool:

  1. Pinterest Integration: If you’re a Pinterest user, save this post to a board for easy access during your trip. Use the Pinterest icon below.

  2. Mobile Phone Convenience: For quick access, create a Guided Wino shortcut on your phone’s home screen. Though Guided Wino doesn’t have a dedicated mobile app, our website is fully optimized for mobile use. By adding a shortcut, you can operate it as a mobile app. If you’re visiting the Finger Lakes wine region, we suggest creating a shortcut to the Guided Wino New York Wine Travel Guide for easy reference.


Finger Lakes Wine Region Education

Preparing for your visit to the Finger Lakes wine region with a little research can greatly enhance your wine-tasting experience. By educating yourself about the area’s unique climate, wine styles, and history, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the wines you’ll taste and the stories behind them. The Finger Lakes is renowned for its cool-climate varietals like Riesling and Cabernet Franc, but there’s so much more to discover. Dive into Finger Lakes wine education at Guided Wino, where you can learn about the region's distinct terroir, emerging grape varieties, and award-winning wineries. A bit of background knowledge will help you engage more meaningfully with winemakers, understand the nuances of their craft, and make the most of your trip to this world-class wine destination.


Featured Finger Lakes Wine Education


How to get to The Finger Lakes

Getting to the Finger Lakes offers a variety of travel options depending on where you're coming from. Driving is the most flexible option, especially if you're within a few hours of the region. Major cities like New York City, Philadelphia, and Boston are about 5-6 hours away by car, allowing you to explore the wineries and transport your wine purchases with ease.

For those coming from farther away, flying is a convenient choice, with airports in Ithaca, Rochester, and Syracuse providing access to the region. Once you land, renting a car is recommended for flexibility, but you can also hire a driver or book a wine tour to visit the wineries. Amtrak trains also run to Rochester and Syracuse, from which you can rent a car to reach the wine region. However you choose to travel, having a car is the best way to fully explore the scenic beauty and world-class wineries of the Finger Lakes.

Read a Complete Guide on How to Get to the Finger Lakes


Best Time to Visit The Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region of New York is a year-round destination offering breathtaking landscapes, world-class wineries, and vibrant events. Each season brings its own charm, from spring’s peaceful beauty to summer’s lively energy, fall’s stunning foliage, and winter’s cozy serenity. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, nature lover, or festivalgoer, there’s always something special to experience in the Finger Lakes.

Spring in the Finger Lakes

Spring offers a peaceful and refreshing escape as vineyards awaken and temperatures rise. The off-season means fewer crowds, affordable accommodations, and quiet, personalized wine tastings. Ideal for hiking trails and chasing waterfalls, spring is also perfect for exploring the region without the peak-season hustle.

Summer in the Finger Lakes

Summer is the peak season, brimming with lake activities, outdoor music nights, and bustling wineries. With warm, sunny days averaging 80°F, visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and festivals like the Finger Lakes Wine Festival and GrassRoots Music Festival. Advance reservations for accommodations and wineries are recommended.

Fall in the Finger Lakes

Fall is the most picturesque season, with vibrant foliage and the buzz of harvest festivals like the Naples Grape Festival. Crisp temperatures make it perfect for outdoor adventures like leaf-peeping, pumpkin patches, and apple picking. It’s also an ideal time for wine tasting during the region’s bustling harvest season.

Winter in the Finger Lakes

Winter transforms the Finger Lakes into a snowy wonderland with cozy winery visits, festive events like the Watkins Glen Village Christmas, and seasonal wine pairings. Perfect for intimate tastings, skiing, and holiday celebrations, it’s a serene escape with fewer crowds and affordable stays.

Read a complete guide to best Finger Lakes Events by season


What to pack when visiting The Finger Lakes

New York Wine Tasting Journal

New York Wine Tasting Journal

Packing the right essentials can elevate your wine-tasting trip, ensuring comfort, convenience, and preparedness. Key items include picnic essentials like a wine cooler bag, waterproof blanket, folding chair, and portable table for enjoying outdoor meals in scenic vineyards. For hydration, pack a refillable water bottle and electrolyte hydration packets. Stay comfortable with layered clothing like a denim jacket and a foldable straw hat, and don’t forget a compact umbrella for unexpected rain. Capture memories with a wine tasting journal and a selfie stick, and handle emergencies with items like a Tide-to-Go pen, portable charger, medicine kit, bug spray, and sunscreen.

To transport your wine safely, invest in a wine tote carrier for road trips, Wine Skins or Jetbags for flying, or a dedicated wine suitcase for larger purchases. These Wine Travel Tips and Best Wine Travel Products will ensure you’re fully prepared, whether it’s a casual day trip or a full wine-tasting weekend.

Read a Complete Guide on What to Pack for a Wine Tasting Trip


Featured Finger Lakes Wine Travel Tips


Why Stay in Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen, situated at the southern tip of Seneca Lake, is one of the best places to stay in the Finger Lakes for wine tasting. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for a self-guided Finger Lakes wine tour, particularly along the famous Seneca Lake Wine Trail, known for its exceptional Rieslings and cool-climate wines. This charming town offers close proximity to renowned wineries, including those in the celebrated "Banana Belt" on the southeast side of Seneca Lake, a region prized for its superior vineyards and some of the finest dry Rieslings in the Finger Lakes.

Beyond wine tasting, Watkins Glen offers a variety of activities that make it a well-rounded destination. Attend the annual Finger Lakes Wine Festival at Watkins Glen International Raceway, or explore the breathtaking waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park, Hector Falls, and Montour Falls. For water enthusiasts, kayaking and sunset sailing on Seneca Lake add a touch of adventure to your stay.

Watkins Glen also has a diverse range of accommodations, from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels, ensuring something for every travel style. As the southern gateway to the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, it provides convenient access to top wineries and tasting rooms. Pair your wine-tasting excursions with a stroll through town, where you'll find delightful restaurants, ice cream shops, and boutique shopping.

For wine lovers seeking a convenient base in the Finger Lakes, Watkins Glen offers a perfect blend of charm, accessibility, and activities, making it an unbeatable choice for a wine-tasting getaway.

Read a complete guide on the best Finger Lakes towns to stay in for wine tasting trips


Where to Stay in Watkins Glen

When planning a visit to the Finger Lakes wine region for a Seneca Lake Wine Tour, choosing the right accommodation can enhance the experience. Watkins Glen offers a variety of places to stay, each catering to different preferences, from lakeside luxury to cozy Bed and Breakfasts. Here are five unique options to consider, each providing the perfect base for exploring the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.

Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel - Lakefront Hotel

Click To Check Rate and Availability

Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is the ideal choice for those seeking a luxurious lakeside stay with stunning Seneca Lake views. As a lakefront property, this hotel offers guests easy access to local restaurants, bars, and the scenic beauty of Watkins Glen. With amenities like a gym, indoor pool, and room service, it's a perfect retreat for travelers who want to relax in comfort after a day of wine tasting. The onsite restaurant and bar make dining convenient, and the elegant surroundings are perfect for a romantic Finger Lakes weekend getaway. For visitors wondering where to stay in Watkins Glen with breathtaking Seneca Lake views, this hotel stands out as one of the best places to stay near Finger Lakes wineries.

Idlwilde Inn Bed and Breakfast - Romantic Bed and Breakfast

Click To Check Rate and Availability

For those seeking a historic and romantic setting, Idlwilde Inn Bed and Breakfast provides a charming, adults-only escape. This Victorian-era B&B offers a quintessential Finger Lakes Bed and Breakfast experience, complete with a wraparound porch and beautifully landscaped gardens. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Seneca Lake while savoring breakfast, and the historic ambiance adds to the charm of this property. With housekeeping services included, Idlwilde Inn is a top choice for couples looking to enjoy a Finger Lakes romantic weekend while exploring the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.

Naturluxe & Stars - Luxury Glamping

Click To Check Rate and Availability

For an adventurous yet luxurious experience, Naturluxe & Stars offers a Finger Lakes glamping getaway. Situated on 42 private wooded acres, this glamping destination is perfect for outdoor lovers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region without sacrificing comfort. Guests stay in luxury tents equipped with private bathrooms and electric, and can explore the property’s hiking trails, enjoy fire pits, or take advantage of bundled packages offering spa treatments and excursions. This unique outdoor experience is perfect for those looking to combine a Seneca Lake wine tour with a peaceful retreat in nature.

Watkins Glen Lakeview Cottage - Perfect for Groups and Family

Click To Check Rates and Availability

Watkins Glen Lakeview Cottage with Waterfall is an excellent option for groups or families exploring the Finger Lakes. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath house sleeps seven and features a private waterfall, large deck with gorgeous Seneca Lake views, and ample parking for four cars. The outdoor grill and dining area are perfect for gathering after a day of wine tasting. With its stunning lake views and serene setting, this cottage is ideal for those seeking where to stay in Watkins Glen with a group, offering both comfort and privacy during your Seneca Lake Wine Trail adventure.


How to get around The Finger Lakes

Having a car is essential when visiting the Finger Lakes for wine tasting. While wineries may appear close together on a map, many are located on steep hills or require crossing busy roads without crosswalks, making walking between them impractical. Driving allows you to fully explore the region and visit multiple areas for the best experience. Rideshare options like Uber are limited and not a reliable choice for visiting wineries. For those who prefer not to drive, several wine tour companies and private car services offer safe and convenient transportation. Consider staying in walkable towns like Watkins Glen, where you can easily access restaurants, parks, and hotels on foot.

Read a complete guide on Finger Lakes Wine Tour Companies and Drivers


Where to eat In Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen, NY, a great place to stay to explore the Finger Lakes wine region—it’s also home to a diverse and thriving culinary scene. Whether you're craving a quiet lakeside dinner with breathtaking views of Seneca Lake, a lively BBQ experience on Franklin Street, or a cozy wine bar to sample local vintages, Watkins Glen has something for every palate. After a full day of wine tasting, unwind with a delicious meal at one of these best restaurants in Watkins Glen, each offering its own unique charm and flavors. From elevated American fare to authentic Thai dishes and craft beer with sunset views, these dining spots are perfect for rounding out your Finger Lakes adventure. Wonder where to eat in Watkins Glen, try one of these.

Blue Pointe Grille at Glen Harbor Hotel: Quiet Lakeside Dining

After a full day of wine tasting, unwind with a serene dining experience at the Blue Pointe Grille. Located in the Glen Harbor Hotel, this lakeside restaurant offers standard American fare with dishes like Filet Mignon, Grilled Salmon, and their Seafood Pasta. The full bar includes a wine list featuring Finger Lakes wines, perfect for pairing with your meal. Dine inside their elegant dining room or enjoy the views on the patio overlooking Seneca Lake. Stay a bit longer to savor a nightcap by the outdoor fire pit, completing your Finger Lakes getaway.

16 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 | (607) 535-6116

Nickel's Pit BBQ: Lively Franklin Street

For a vibrant and flavorful meal, head to Nickel's Pit BBQ, located on Watkins Glen’s bustling Franklin Street. This casual eatery specializes in BBQ favorites like Pulled Pork, Brisket, and their signature Burnt Ends, all served with their house-made sauces. Pair your meal with a selection from their rotating craft beer list. With both indoor and outdoor seating, plus frequent live music, it’s a lively spot to enjoy a fun meal. After dinner, stroll along Franklin Street to soak in the local nightlife.

207 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 | (607) 210-4646

Graft Wine + Cider Bar

For a cozy, intimate evening, visit Graft Wine + Cider Bar. This hidden gem offers a curated selection of Finger Lakes wines, ciders, and craft beers, complemented by small plates made with locally sourced ingredients. Must-try dishes include their Charcuterie Board, Burrata Salad, and Duck Confit Sliders. With its laid-back atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, Graft is the perfect place to unwind with friends or loved ones.

204 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 | (607) 210-4324

Thai Elephants: Authentic Thai Cuisine

For a change of pace, try Thai Elephants, a small, family-run restaurant offering authentic Thai cuisine. Popular dishes include their flavorful Pad Thai, Green Curry, and the spicy, tangy Tom Yum Soup. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available, making it a great choice for diverse dietary preferences. The casual setting and friendly service make it a welcoming spot for a relaxed meal.

212 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 | (607) 210-4505

Grist Iron Brewing Company: Craft Beer with Lake Views

Just outside Watkins Glen, Grist Iron Brewing Company combines exceptional craft beer with stunning Seneca Lake views. The diverse menu features elevated pub fare like Wood-Fired Pizzas, BBQ Platters, and Fish Tacos, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options. Sip on a pint of their house-made beer or a local wine or cider while enjoying the sunset over the lake from their outdoor seating area. This laid-back spot is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and scenic dining fans alike.

4880 NY-414, Burdett, NY 14818 | (607) 882-2739


2 Day Wine Tour Itinerary of the Best Finger Lakes Riesling

Day 1 – West Side of the Seneca Lake Wine TraiL

Anthony Road Wine Company

Anthony Road Wine Company

Anthony Road Wine Company - Art Gallery and Wine Dinners

The first day of tasting your way through Finger Lakes Rieslings, starts on the west side of Seneca Lake at Anthony Road Winery where you can try several different styles of their Riesling with a standard tasting flight or consider upgrading to their Owner Guided Tour & Tasting where you will not only taste wine but also go behind the scenes in their production facility, cellar, and art gallery. And if you are in the area on the first Sundays of the month, reserve a space for their monthly Sunday Supper, an intimate, three-course, family-style meal paired with Anthony Road wines.

1020 Anthony Rd, Penn Yan, NY 14527 | (315) 536-2182

Kemmeter Wines

Kemmeter Wines

Kemmeter Wines: Intimate Tasting Experience and Sans Dumplings

Then head across the street to Kemmeter Wines for a one-hour intimate tasting experience with the owner Johannes Reinhardt. They only have tastings a few days a week and are limited to six people at a time, so book in advance. Kemmeter Wines produces exceptional Rieslings, considered among the finest in the region. These Rieslings are produced in limited quantities and can only be purchased through their website or at the winery. Johannes will engage you on a lovely discussion of his wines, including the SanSan labeled wine, which is only given to very special wines that represent the perfection of a season for that grape and wine style. If you are ready for a snack, check out Sans Dumplings located on the Kemmeter Wines estate and enjoy while sitting at their picnic tables overlooking the vineyard.

1030 Larzelere Rd, Penn Yan, NY 14527 | (315) 521-3897

Fox Run Vineyards

Fox Run Vineyards

Fox Run Vineyards: Wide Selection of Rieslings and Bistro

Next, head up to Fox Run Vineyards to enjoy their wide selection of Rieslings, including their refreshing Sparkling Riesling. You can opt for their standard tasting experience or upgrade to their VIP Tour where one of the owners will take you on a tour of the estate and a private tasting in their barrel room where the wine will be paired with a cheese and charcuterie board. The VIP spots are limited and book up fast, so reserve in advance. If you are not ready for lunch at Sans Dumplings, you can grab a bite from the Fox Run Bistro and enjoy it on their deck with beautiful views of Seneca Lake.

670 NY-14, Penn Yan, NY 14527 | (315) 536-4616

Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard

Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard

Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard: Award-Winning Wines and Historic Past

Your next stop will be the award-winning Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard. They have a wide selection of different styles of Riesling grown throughout their many vineyard sites. They are renowned for being one of the very best Finger Lakes wineries, so do not skip this stop. You can either enjoy their standard tasting or upgrade to their Riesling Deep Dive Flight to try 5 of their vintage wines.

Read more about HErman J. Wiemer in the History of the Finger Lakes Wine Country

3962 NY-14, Dundee, NY 14837 | (607) 243-7971

Barnstormer Winery

BarnStormer Winery: Rustic Barn with Wine and Music

If you still have time, stop by Barnstormer Winery which is often open later some nights and hosts live music either outside in the warmer months or inside by their cozy fire. They also have a great selection of Rieslings to try, including a Late Harvest Riesling Dessert Wine. Check their calendar to see what nights they have events.

4184 NY-14, Rock Stream, NY 14878 | (607) 243-4008


Day 2 – East Side of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail

Boundary Breaks Vineyard

Boundary Breaks Vineyard

Boundary Breaks Vineyard: Riesling Haven and Sunset Views

Start your day two journey at Boundary Breaks Vineyard situated on a hillside with vast views of Seneca Lake. Enjoy a wide selection of Rieslings that range from sparkling to dry to dessert wine. Make sure to try their Riesling Ice Wine. It is a great place to taste but also to sit back in their Adirondack chairs overlooking the lake to have a glass or share a bottle. During the summer, on select nights, they stay open late for guest to enjoy their wine while taking in the Seneca Lake sunset.

1568 Porter Covert Rd, Lodi, NY 14860 |  (607) 474-5030



Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery: Wine, Dine, and Sunset Views

Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery

Next, head down the lake to Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery. They have something for everyone, including the Ginny Lee Café and the Wagner Brewing Company all in one location. For a great experience, you can either enjoy a standard tasting or upgrade to the Library Wine Tastings to taste a limited selection wines from multiple vintages to see how they change over time. Take in the beautiful views of Seneca Lake and the vineyards from their Vantage Point deck. If you are ready for lunch, The Ginny Lee Café is a great option, offering outdoor seating with amazing views. If you are there on a Friday in the summer, maybe move this stop to later in the day, as they stay open late, and host live music, wine, beer, and food that can be enjoyed while watching sunset views of Seneca Lake.

9322 NY-414, Lodi, NY 14860 |  (607) 582-6450



Silver Thread Vineyard

Silver Thread Vineyard

Silver Thread Vineyard: Boutique Winery with upgraded wine tasting experiances

The next stop is Silver Thread Vineyard. Drive down a private road through the vineyards toward the lake to find this enchanting, cozy tasting room hidden in the vineyards. With an array of tasting experience options, those looking to taste and learn more about Riesling may consider the upgraded VIP tasting experience in their cellar for a Library Tasting. Or try the Riesling Experience Flight for a sample of their current vintages. Consider reserving the flight to be enjoyed on their charming deck overlooking the vineyard and lake for an intimate experience.

1401 Caywood Rd, Lodi, NY 14860 | (607) 582-6116

Forge Cellars

Forge Cellars

Forge Cellars: Upscale Riesling Experience with Seneca Lake Views

Forge Cellars offers an upscale vibe while still maintaining the down-to-earth, rustic aesthetic of the Finger Lakes. They have a few options for tasting, including small group tastings of pre-selected flights in the Summer House, or choose your own flights or a glass in The Salon, with open-air spaces offering views of Seneca Lake. Forge focuses on Dry Rieslings and has several to offer from different vineyard sites along the southeast shores of Seneca Lake. If you are ready for a snack, try one of their artisanal tinned fish that pair perfectly with Dry Riesling.

3775 Mathews Rd, Burdett, NY 14818 |  (607) 622-8020

Hector Falls: Waterfall Photo Opportunity

As you drive back down 414 to your next destination, you'll encounter the upper section of Hector Falls. Should you wish to pause for a photograph, there's a small pull-off area capable of accommodating around five cars. Exercise caution as there isn't much space between the pull-off and the road. Following periods of rainfall, these falls can exhibit a stunning and dynamic display of natural beauty.

3835 NY-414, Burdett, NY 14818

Hillick and Hobbs

Hillick & Hobbs Estate

Hillick & Hobbs Estate: Small Batch Excellence in a modern tasting room setting

The final wine tasting stop for the day will be at Hillick & Hobbs Estate, which only produces small batches of estate-grown Dry Riesling. Their beautiful modern tasting room is the perfect backdrop to enjoy their Estate Riesling Wine Tasting flight.  Or you can sip on a glass or bottle outside on their gorgeous patio and take in the views of Seneca Lake. While being a relatively newer winery in the region, they are gaining notoriety for their high-quality Dry Rieslings.

3539 NY-79, Burdett, NY 14818 | (607) 703-5999


Other things to do in Watkins Glen

Outdoor Adventure Near Watkins Glen

If you can prolong your stay in the Finger Lakes region, incorporating outdoor adventures can greatly enrich your experience. Extend your itinerary for an unforgettable journey through Finger Lakes Wine County by including these activities. Enjoy a sunset boat tour, kayaking expedition, hiking adventure, and waterfall exploration to elevate your visit. Who doesn’t enjoy wine and waterfalls?

Watkins Glen Sunset Sailing Excursion True Love Schooner Seneca Lake

True Love Schooner Seneca Lake

True Love Schooner: Watkins Glen Sunset Sailing Excursion

Experience the magic of sunset sailing aboard the True Love Schooner departing from the Seneca Harbor Park Pier in Watkins Glen. Embark on the WINE & WIND ON THE WATER tour, a two-hour excursion offering the perfect blend of local Finger Lakes wine, beer, and breathtaking views aboard a nearly 100-year-old sailboat. Indulge in a selection of Finger Lakes cheeses and hors d'oeuvres as you soak in the beauty of the sunset over the waters of Seneca Lake.

Harbor Park Pier, 214 N Franklin Street Seneca, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 | (607) 535-5253

Gorge Trail Watkins Glen State Park

Gorge Trail Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park: Explore the Gorge Trail Waterfalls

Discover one of the most well-known and photographed attractions in Watkins Glen: the Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen State Park. The trail consists of 800 steps made from rock, covering about 500 feet of elevation over a 1.5-mile trail. To make the trail easier, consider parking at the bottom and taking a shuttle to the top for an easier experience. The moderate hike offers multiple opportunities to photograph the 19 waterfalls, making it an ideal morning activity before heading out to the wineries.

Lower Parking Lot, 913 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 | (607) 535-4511

Base of Hector Falls

Base of Hector Falls

Hector Falls Kayaking Adventure from Watkins Glen

Book a morning kayaking tour from Watkins Glen to the base of Hector Falls, located about 2 miles north of Watkins Glen. The base of the falls can only be viewed by boat or kayak, as the property around the base is privately owned. After kayaking to the base, explore and take pictures (be cautious of slippery rocks), then paddle back to Watkins Glen. This moderately challenging tour is accessible to most who are in reasonable physical condition. Alternatively, rent a kayak and explore Seneca Lake or paddle to the falls at your own pace.



SheQuaGa Falls

SheQuaGa Falls

Exploring Nearby Finger Lakes Waterfalls: SheQuaGa Falls and Aunt Sarah’s Falls

If you're interested in exploring additional waterfalls near Watkins Glen, consider these two accessible stops. In the Village of Montour Falls, you'll find SheQuaGa Falls, which can be viewed from the road or accessed by nearby parking and walking into the park. Standing at 156 feet in height, it passes under the Mill Street bridge and flows north, eventually emptying into the Seneca Lake inlet. A paved walkway from the street to the park's end ensures accessibility for most visitors. Another nearby waterfall is Aunt Sarah’s Falls, visible from the road with a parking lot conveniently located across from it. Best viewed in the spring after heavy rainfall, Aunt Sarah’s Falls boasts a height of several hundred feet, although only the bottom 90 feet are visible from the viewing point. Both waterfalls are easily accessible and require only a few minutes to visit, making them a convenient addition to your Finger Lakes winery tour itinerary.

SheQuaGa Falls, 109 S Genesee St, Montour Falls, NY 14865

Aunt Sarah’s Falls, NY-14, Montour Falls, NY 14865


Transporting Wine Home

Bringing wine home from the Finger Lakes requires planning to keep your bottles safe during transit. If you're driving, use wine-specific carriers like padded totes or wine case boxes to prevent bottles from breaking. For air travel, pack bottles securely in your checked luggage using wine skins or specialized wine suitcases that protect against impact and leaks. Always check airline regulations regarding alcohol transport, as limits can vary. Many wineries also offer shipping services, allowing you to have your wine sent directly to your home for convenience.

Another great option to avoid transporting too much wine yourself is joining a winery’s wine club. Many Finger Lakes wineries offer wine clubs that ship bottles to your home on a regular schedule, giving you access to exclusive releases, discounts, and the ability to enjoy your favorite wines year-round. Whether you’re flying, driving, or shipping, taking precautions—and perhaps joining a wine club—will ensure your Finger Lakes wine arrives safely and ready to enjoy.

For more tips, read a complete guide on How to Transport Wine Home After a Wine Tasting Vacation


Featured Finger Lakes Self-Guided Wine Tours


Featured Finger Lakes Wine Trail Maps


Featured Finger Lakes Accommodations


Featured Finger Lakes Wineries


Have you been to the Finger Lakes? Tell us about your favorite things to do in the comments.

Previous
Previous

Finger Lakes Dry Rosé Tour