- How long is the Finger Lakes Wine & Waterfalls Loop route?
- This route takes 7 days taking in 7 stops.
- Where does this route start and end?
- The route runs from Ithaca to Ithaca in Finger Lakes, New York, United States.
- When is the best time to travel this route?
- The best time to travel this route is May to October: September for harvest.
- How active is this route?
- Activity level: Easy-going. Easy-going and accessible for most fitness levels.
- What transport do I need for this route?
- Any self-driven vehicle works well for this route.
- What budget do I need for this route?
- Mid-range spending — expect comfortable accommodation and a mix of dining options.
- What type of accommodation suits this route?
- Mixed accommodation works well along this route.
- What is the pace of this trip?
- Relaxed — plenty of time to linger at each stop.
- What type of trip is this?
- This route is well-suited to: Scenic, Food & drink, Nature, Culture, Classic road trip.
- Are there any practical tips for this route?
- Gorge trails get busy on summer weekends. Start Taughannock or Buttermilk early, and check NY State Parks for seasonal trail closures. The Gorge Trail is one-way uphill with about 800 steps and is seasonal (roughly mid-May to early November). Wear grippy shoes; it gets slick. The Glass Museum needs at least half a day. Buy tickets online, and note the free shuttle to the Rockwell Museum runs May to October. Always use a designated driver or a winery tour shuttle for tasting days. Keuka's wineries are spread along both arms of the lake. Sonnenberg Gardens is seasonal (roughly May to October). Park in the village and walk the pier for the best lake views. Book a lakeside dinner ahead in summer. Geneva is a handy base for north-Seneca wineries if you want to taste before leaving. Time the final 55-minute leg from Geneva so you reach Ithaca before any evening bus or flight from the regional airport.