A Weekend in the Finger Lakes: Wine, Views & More

Rochester's proximity to the Finger Lakes makes it the perfect base for a wine country weekend. Here's how to plan the ideal getaway with tastings, trails, and lake views.

Your Perfect Finger Lakes Itinerary

One of the greatest perks of visiting Rochester is its proximity to the Finger Lakes — one of America's premier wine regions. Just a short drive south, you'll find rolling vineyards, pristine lakes, and charming small towns that make for an unforgettable weekend escape.

Day One: Canandaigua Lake

Start your weekend at the northern tip of Canandaigua Lake, just 30 minutes from Rochester. Stroll through the charming downtown, grab brunch at a lakeside cafe, and then head south along the western shore for your first wine tastings.

Must-visit wineries:

Arbor Hill Grange Winery — Known for their award-winning Rieslings
Heron Hill Winery — Stunning lake views from their tasting room
Inspire Moore Winery — Beautiful grounds with live music on weekends

Day Two: Seneca Lake Wine Trail

Seneca Lake boasts the highest concentration of wineries in the Finger Lakes. The Seneca Lake Wine Trail features over 30 wineries, and you could easily spend an entire day exploring just a fraction of them.

Top picks:

Wagner Vineyards — A classic with an on-site brewery
Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard — World-class dry Riesling
Lakewood Vineyards — Family-owned with exceptional reds

Where to Stay

Book a lakeside cabin, a cozy B&B in one of the small towns, or head back to Rochester for the night. Check our Places to Stay for curated options that put you close to the action.