Spotlight: Finger Lakes

Monday

Start your trip in Syracuse and take a tour of the industrial district's Armory Square, a popular hangout for restaurants and nightlife. While you're in the area, stop by the Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), for hands-on exhibits and special programs. For melt-in-your-mouth BBQ served among funky wall art and a weekly lineup of blues musicians, grab yourself a table at the award-winning Dinosaur Bar-B-Que.

Navigate your way through Destiny USA, one of the largest malls in the country. A shopping center combined with an entertainment complex, you’ll find fun and adventure around every corner, including go-kart tracks, mirror mazes, the Canyon Climb Adventure ropes course, and more.

Tuesday

Head to Auburn and visit the historic home of Harriet Tubman, the abolitionist leader known as the "Moses of Her People" who helped hundreds of enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad. Located within the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, explore the exterior of the Harriet Tubman Home, as well as the church that Tubman fundraised to build. Just outside of the park lies the Fort Hill Cemetery where Tubman is buried.

Take a short drive to the quaint lakeside town of Skaneateles and experience next-level relaxation at the Mirbeau Inn & Spa. Located on the cool blue shores of Skaneateles Lake, Skaneateles is surrounded by rolling farmlands, boutiques and welcoming farm-to-table restaurants.

Wednesday

Travel south-east to Cortland's Greek Peak Mountain Resort, the ultimate family destination offering year-round fun. Head to the Greek Peak Adventure Center and ride the mountain coaster through the forests, or climb through the canopy along a high-ropes course.

For those who want to go higher, glide along on a tandem zip line. In winter, Greek Peak transforms into a winter wonderland ski resort, with 56 ski trails, six aerial lifts, two surface lifts, a beginners slope, and four terrain parks. But the snow-filled activities don't stop there. The resort also provides snowshoeing and cross country skiing rentals, and a tubing center with up to 20 lanes. Take a splash in the Cascades Indoor Waterpark at Hope Lake Lodge for summer fun at any time.

Thursday

Head to Ithaca for spectacular waterfalls and panoramic views of lakes, wineries, and orchards. Located at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca draws visitors year-round with its nature trails, arts and music community, and relaxing atmosphere. Stop by the Ithaca Farmers Market on weekends and take your pick of fresh locally-grown produce and homemade meals from more than 150 vendors.

Venture north of town to Taughannock Falls State Park and hike the trail to one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies, measuring 33 feet higher than Niagara Falls! Try an award-winning winery along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, and grab an ice cream sundae at Purity Ice Cream.

Friday

Follow the Seneca Lake Wine Trail from Ithaca through to Seneca Falls, and take a tasting tour of award-winning wines from 29 wineries dotted throughout the trail. Relax and unwind as you take in breathtaking vineyard lakeside views. Circling the second-largest glacial lake in the region, the trail is home to farm stores, creameries, markets, and more.

If you're not relaxed enough, stop in at North Shore Wellness Club in Geneva for a refreshing and rejuvenating spa and wellness experience.

Saturday

Continue your exploration of groundbreaking moments in equal rights history at Seneca Falls, also known as the birthplace of the women's rights movement. Home to the first Womens’ Rights Convention in 1848, Seneca Falls was where influential leaders including Susan B. Anthony, Matilda Joslyn Gage, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton championed women's rights initiatives. Visit the National Women's Hall of Fame in the heart of the downtown Historic District and learn about the contributions of American women that shaped history today. The Women's Rights National Historical Park (pictured) features exhibits, an inspirational film, and restored historical buildings. 

Sunday

Take a tour of Rochester's unique museums, including the National Museum of Play at The Strong featuring the largest collection of toys and play-related objects in the world, and the George Eastman Museum, home to the world's oldest photography museum. Watch a chef demonstration, take a cooking class, or taste delicious cuisine, wine, beer, and spirits at the New York Kitchen beside Canandaigua Lake.

Take in views of High Falls, a waterfall found in the middle of the city, and surround yourself in fragrant flowers with a stroll through Highland Park and the Lamberton Conservatory. Head to Radio Social for delicious Middle Eastern food plus a variety of indoor and outdoor games, including a bowling alley!