Nestled in upper New York state, the Finger Lakes region is a premier destination for group travelers seeking to transform simple sightseeing into more active and immersive engagement with attractions.
Begin at the Corning Museum of Glass. The world’s most comprehensive glass collection spans 35 centuries, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern masterpieces. Groups witness the mesmerizing dance of molten glass taking shape during live, narrated hot glass demonstrations. Get a close-up look at the glassblowing process, courtesy of cameras located inside the 2,100-degree furnace. Groups will witness master glassmakers take glowing gobs of molten glass on the end of a pipe and skillfully blow, twist, and sculpt them into vases, bowls, and more. Groups can even create their own glass keepsakes through hands-on studio workshops, creating memories as tangible as the artwork found all around them.
No visit to the Finger Lakes would be complete without experiencing its renowned wine country—the largest wine-producing region in the U.S. outside California. Family-run wineries welcome groups with intimate tastings of celebrated rieslings, often complemented by seasonal events ranging from festivals to painting classes. The experience becomes even more memorable aboard Captain Bill’s Cruises, where groups can savor local vintages while gliding across pristine waters on the Seneca Legacy, accompanied by themed musical entertainment—from blues to vintage rock.
Nature enthusiasts find their paradise at Watkins Glen State Park, where 19 waterfalls create nature’s own symphony. Rainbow Falls presents a captivating show on sunny afternoons, while guided group tours reveal the park’s geological wonders.
Nearby, Cornell Botanic Gardens offers visitors year-round botanical beauty. Consider arranging a walking tour through the 35 acres of gardens at the Nevin Welcome Center, or a step-on guide through the F.R. Newman Arboretum’s 100 acres of majestic trees and shrubs. On a bus tour, expert volunteer guides will share information about the collections, history, and mission of Cornell Botanic Gardens as travelers sit back and enjoy the scenic landscapes and woody plants. Walking tours of the main gardens provide a closer look at the beautiful and diverse horticultural collections.
“There really is something for everyone here, all year long,” says Kevin Moss, student and public engagement coordinator for the gardens, “whether it’s spring bulbs, summer blooms, fall colors, or even the diversity of evergreens in winter.”
Credit: Cornell Botanic Gardens
Continue to cultivate an appreciation of nature at Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, one of only two public gardens in the New York State Parks system. This magnificent 54-acre estate captures the grandeur of a bygone era through nine formal gardens, including a Japanese Garden and Teahouse. Whether opting for a tranquil walk or a whistle-stop tram tour, guides are with guests throughout the entire park for an in-depth, two-hour visit of the property that includes the two-story mansion, gardens, greenhouses, and a gift shop. An optional wine tasting of a selection of Finger Lakes wines lets groups savor sights and tastes found only in this unique region.
For those seeking a different kind of excitement, Watkins Glen International, “The Glen,” delivers high-octane thrills from some of the best motorsports series in the world. Groups can experience the electric atmosphere of race day, complete with driver meet-and-greets, or arrange for the ultimate fan experience: driving their own vehicles for three escorted laps around the legendary track.
At the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, groups step back into the golden age of aviation. Guided tours showcase remarkable aircraft and vehicles that tell the story of early flight, while the museum’s working restoration shop offers a fascinating glimpse of skilled craftsmen keeping aviation history alive. Stop in and have a chat—staff members are all incredibly passionate and love to share their knowledge of aircraft—or arrange for an hour-long guided tour of the collection.
History comes alive at the Women’s Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls, where visitors walk in the footsteps of pioneers who changed America with the beginning of the women’s rights movement. Groups can explore the Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, where the first women’s rights convention was held in 1848, and step into the world of Elizabeth Cady Stanton at her home, known as the “Center of the Rebellion.” In addition to the historic structures, the National Park Service maintains a visitor center and museum space in downtown Seneca Falls. View two floors of interactive and informative museum exhibits that celebrate the history of women’s rights in America, including the “First Wave” statue installation. Ranger talks place this vital story in context. A lunch stop at the themed Cafe XIX provides sustenance and an homage to the 19th Amendment while surrounded by portraits of influential suffragists. Conclude the visit at the Declaration Park and Waterwall, a space to gather and reflect on the powerful words of the Declaration of Sentiments.
With a myriad of opportunities to create, taste, explore, and discover at every turn, the Finger Lakes region delivers.
By Michael McLaughlin
Main Image: Corning Museum of Glass, Corning; Credit: Corning Museum of Glass
