Finger Lakes Region
Outdoor Activities
High Falls, Rochester
In the early 1800’s, the 96 foot High Falls were the center of Rochester’s burgeoning economy as their power was harnessed to run wheat mills which eventually earned Rochester the nickname, the Flour City. As time passed, the High Falls area became the home to the Genesee Brewing Company, was the scene of the tragic death of Daredevil Sam Patch who’s attempt to dive from the top of the falls in 1829 failed, and is still an area that people can see the natural beauty and power of the Genesee River that starts 160 miles away in central Pennsylvania and ends at the mouth of Lake Ontario. The view of the falls from the 114 foot high Pont De Rennes bridge is the best vantage point to see the size and power of the falls. You can also have a Beer and a bite at the Genesee Brewhouse on the east end of the bridge that has an equally beautiful view of the falls.
Captain Bill’s Cruises, Watkins Glen
At the southern end of Seneca Lake you can take an hour long cruise on the 618 foot deep lake that never freezes over due to it’s depth. The lake also provides you with great scenery and history that you learn about during the tour. One fact that you learn as you pass a restricted area in the middle of the Lake, is that the U.S. Navy still has a Sonar testing station there. Who knew? The boat cruise includes options for a dinner or sightseeing cruise and it is definitely something that should be part of your Seneca Lake trip.
Bristol Mountain, Canandaigua
At 1200 feet, Bristol Mountain has the highest vertical rise between the Adirondacks and the Rocky Mountains. With 38 trails that range from beginner to Expert, skiers of all ages and ability level can enjoy hitting the slopes. The restaurant/bar is perfect for the Apres ski libations where you can talk about the powder that you carved and/or faceplanted into. In the summer they also have Zip Lining, Hiking, and hard core mountain biking trails.
Erie Canal Adventures, Macedon
If you have a Captain’s hat tucked away in the dark recesses of a closet somewhere, but you never have a reason to wear it - we have an opportunity for you! Imagine being the Captain of your own vessel with over 350 miles of a tranquil sea (well, canal) to navigate over 7 days with numerous stops and day trips along the way. The best part of the adventure is that the boat that you rent has a kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and a great top-side vantage point for your aquatic stroll through history one a waterway that is close to 200 years old.
Seneca Park Zoo, Rochester
Lions and Tigers and Bears - Oh my! Sorry about the cheesy intro there, but it seemed like a good starter. Since 1893, the zoo has been entertaining kids and adults with the widest variety of animals in the area. The “Step Into Africa” exhibit features numerous animals from the African plains, and you will find everything from Elephants to walrus’s within the boundaries of the zoo. Over 90 different types of animals are on display. Kids and adults will both find things here to enjoy.
Colonial Belle - Fairport
If you want to have a relaxing summer afternoon on the water, one of the best things to do in the Rochester area is to take a relaxing trip on the Colonial Belle. Starting from the beautiful Packett’s Landing in Fairport, the standard trip takes you on a scenic journey through a lock in the neighboring town of Pittsford. Along the way you will see historic buildings and pastoral scenery that will take you back in time to a simpler era. This is a great 2 to 2 1/2 hour tour in the summer. There are also dinner cruises if you want to fill your stomach while you are clearing your mind!
Finger Lakes Rail Riders - Penn Yan
We’ve all hiked, biked, ridden on a boat, or in a car. But here is a “way to travel” that you’ve never done before - pedaled on a railroad track. This 5 mile tour near Keuka Lake takes you through working farmland, beautiful scenery, and a Mennonite schoolhouse. It is very easy pedaling and if you or your partner decide to rest for a while, the other person can keep you moving. This is one of those cool things that you have to do just to say that you did it!
Seabreeze Park, Irondequoit
Founded in 1879, Seabreeze is the oldest continuously running amusement park in Upstate NY, with 5 generations of family owned history. Much has changed in almost 150 years, but the original mission of providing families in the Rochester area with a fun venue to get away from it all despite being right in their backyard has been constant throughout it’s history. Even though the Jack Rabbit roller coaster is over 100 years old, it has been renovated so that it can still provide its riders with the thrills and stomach dropping descents that children and teens crave. With over 70 attractions that include rollercoasters and six waterpark rides, there are plenty of thrills and opportunities to cool off there on a hot summer day.
East Bluff Harbor Boat Rentals, Penn Yan
Don’t own a boat or want to trailer yours up to the Finger Lakes? No problem. You can rent a boat for a day or a week at East Bluff Harbor. Whether you want to fish for Atlantic salmon, go tubing, waterski, cruise the lake slowly on a Pontoon Boat or just see the sights of the lake, they make it quick and easy to get out on the water.