The Best Ways to Spend Spring in the Finger Lakes

As winter fades away, and the renewed energy of spring awakens, there's no better time to embark on an adventure to the Finger Lakes region of New York. Nestled amidst rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and shimmering lakes, the Finger Lakes offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and celestial wonders. And this spring, the region promises an extraordinary spectacle: an eclipse to remember.

This year on April 8th, the Total Eclipse will travel directly over the northern area of the Finger Lakes. A spectacle that is causing a lot excitement and some stellar events across the area. We’re excited to be hosting travelers to the Region, many of which will have a front row seat to the spectacle from their lakefront rental. Take advantage of this lifetime experience by booking one of our vacation homes with our Solar Eclipse Package.

Buzzing wineries

Each Spring the vineyards are rejuvenated with budding vines and festive sipping events. The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail does a remarkable job at captivating the essence of spring across their 10 participating wineries with this very popular event:

• April 27 – 27, and May 4-5: Wine & Herb Festival (visit for tickets)

This unique event provides delectable tastings along with a fresh sprout of herbs at each spot. Perfect for getting your own herb garden (and wine rack) ready for summer. Book one of our Cayuga Lake Wine Trail Rentals for a comfortable and convenient home to share with friends this Spring.

Cayuga Lake Wine Trail Rentals

If you’re a fan of the wine trail events, you won’t want to miss Seneca Lake Wine Trail’s lineup of festivities. These include:

• Weekly: Wine Wednesday’s at Fox Run Vineyard (where you can also at their Vineyard House)
• April 12-14: Spring Wine and Cheese
• May 6-10: Rose in May
• June 8: Smokin’ Summer Kickoff

Any of these events provide you with award-winning wine tastings and truly memorable experiences. What’s better is you can choose from any of our rentals right along the wine trail to savor your adventure in Finger Lakes wine country.

Browse Rentals Along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail

Lively Events

But the Finger Lakes isn't just about wine – it's a hub of cultural vibrancy and live events. From intimate concerts at local breweries to lively festivals celebrating art, music, and food, there's something for everyone. Here are some musical highlights coming to the are this spring:

• May 24: The Avett Brothers at CMAC in Canandaigua
• May 27: Beach Boys at Point of the Bluff Vineyard
• June 1: Finger Lakes Country Music Festival

Scenic Hikes with Gushing Falls

There’s an irresistible call to venture outdoors as the Finger Lakes thaws from winter. And there is no shortage of trails and paths to explore the diverse landscapes. From easy paved paths to steep terrains, there are ways for hikers of every skill level to enjoy even some of the most breathtaking views. Many trails go to or alongside waterfalls that are all flowing fast in the spring.

One of the area’s best apps for finding the ideal trail is Go Finger Lakes - where you can search by terrain, distance, and even a waterfall trail (because we have SO many).

Other top trails for the spring include:

• Taughannock Falls State Park – mostly paved gradual path to a 215 foot waterfall (seen above).
• Keuka Outlet Trail – This 6.8 mile route can be walked, biked, or even a beautiful equestrian ride that connects Keuka and Seneca Lakes by way of the outlet. Along the route you'll see waterfalls, historic buildings, but most of all a green canopy of peacefulness. 
• Letchworth State Park – Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East” offers 66 miles of hiking trails plus more adventures including whitewater rafting, hot air ballooning, and their Autism Nature Trail catered for accessibility and sensory stations.