Save it for your spring travel plans 📌
This itinerary takes you to one of the best regions in New York state - Finger Lakes region. You will see spectacular waterfalls, stop at beautiful towns, relax at amazing lakes and get to try some great wines 🍷
Finger Lakes 3 day itinerary ⤵️
🗓 Day 1: Chasing waterfalls
Starting point - Ithaca
✨Stop 1: Ithaca Falls
A powerful waterfall tucked within the city of Ithaca, minutes away from downtown.
✨Stop 2: Buttermilk Falls
Hike through scenic trails leading to the 165-foot Buttermilk Falls, surrounded by lush forest.
✨Stop 3: Lucifer Falls (in Robert H. Treman State Park)
A dramatic, tiered waterfall tucked in a rugged gorge setting
✨Stop 4: Watkins Glen State Park famous for its 19 waterfalls and stone pathways through a magical gorge. A must-see highlight with short, rewarding hikes.
🏠Overnight: Watkins Glen or nearby
🥘Food recs: Ithaca Bakery
⸻
🗓 Day 2: Seneca Wine Country
🚙 Stops:
✨ Stop 1: Seneca Lake
The deepest of the Finger Lakes, known for its sparkling blue water and scenic shoreline. Don’t forget to click photos with the Seneca Lake signboard in the pier.
✨Stop 2: Seneca Lake Wine Trail
Explore award-winning wineries with vineyard views, tastings, and local flavors. One of the highlights of Finger Lakes region.
✨Stop 3: Belhurst Castle
Historic 19th-century castle on the edge of Seneca Lake offering wine tasting and dining Great for a classy lunch or overnight stay.
⸻
🗓 Day 3: Chimney Bluffs + Waterfall Finale
🚙 Stops:
✨ Stop 1: Chimney Bluffs State Park
Witness the otherworldly rock formations of Chimney Bluffs, shaped by nature along the shores of Lake Ontario.
✨ Stop 2: Taughannock Falls
One of the tallest free-falling waterfalls in the Northeast, plunging 215 feet. The gorge trail offers a stunning approach view.
✨Stop 3: Cayuga Lake near Taughannock Falls
Relax by the shores of Cayuga Lake with opportunities for kayaking, picnicking, or sunset views.
✨Head home and grab dinner in Ithaca before departure
If you’re planning a spring road trip and want to experience the natural beauty and local culture of New York State, the Finger Lakes region is one of the best destinations to consider. When I explored this area, I was captivated by the diversity of experiences packed into a small region—from breathtaking waterfalls to serene lakeshores and world-renowned wineries. Day 1 is perfect for waterfall enthusiasts. Starting in Ithaca, you get easy access to several remarkable falls such as Ithaca Falls, which is stunning and just minutes from downtown. Hiking to Buttermilk Falls gave me the chance to enjoy peaceful forest trails, and Lucifer Falls in Robert H. Treman State Park offers a dramatic gorge that felt like stepping into a nature documentary. Don’t miss Watkins Glen State Park on this day—it’s famous for its 19 waterfalls along a stone trail that is both picturesque and rewarding. On Day 2, shifting gears to Seneca Wine Country is a treat. Seneca Lake, the deepest Finger Lake, is beautiful in itself, and I loved stopping at the lake’s pier for photos. The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is a must-visit for wine lovers: the vineyards offer gorgeous views and the wine tastings are exquisite. A highlight was Belhurst Castle, a historic property where you can enjoy a refined lunch or even consider an overnight stay to extend the experience. Day 3 brings a mix of unique geological features and relaxing lakeside moments. The Chimney Bluffs State Park is truly otherworldly; the eroded cliffs rising sharply from Lake Ontario’s shore are impressive sights to behold. Then, at Taughannock Falls, I was amazed by the 215-foot waterfall—a stunning finale to the waterfall chasing adventure. Finally, spending some quiet time by Cayuga Lake, with options for kayaking or just enjoying a picnic, was the perfect way to unwind before heading back. For meals, local spots such as the Ithaca Bakery are charming and offer authentic flavors that complement the day’s explorations. Planning accommodations around Watkins Glen or nearby towns works well for easy access to the key attractions. Overall, this itinerary blends active outdoor adventures with relaxing wine country visits and lakeside enjoyment—a balanced way to enjoy the Finger Lakes’ natural wonders and cultural richness. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, this itinerary offers something unique for everyone.
























































































