If a "weekend away" is music to your ears, consider making a visit to Watkins Glen. There are lots of ways to spend a weekend with us, but to get your started, consider these ideas!

 

Friday

Arrive in mid-afternoon. Make your first stop at the Great Escape Ice Cream Parlor and ask for a slice of grape pie or a hot fudge sundae made with coffee ice cream. The coffee ice cream is made with beans freshly roasted right here in Watkins Glen by Seneca Sunrise Coffee. For our Phish fans, rest easy … there’s a Ben and Jerry’s waiting for you with homemade waffle cone bowls!

 

Check in at your weekend home away from home and check out the amenities. Is there an indoor pool? A bar? Are you in walking distance of downtown? What’s the view like? Would it make sense to grab a bottle of wine and some glasses for an hour on the porch overlooking the lake or is hot cocoa around a campfire more appropriate? Still need to make a reservation? Check out all of your options here.

 

Next up: Dinner. Lots of options in Watkins Glen. If you’re looking for a view of the lake, consider Seneca Harbor. Want farm to table fare with local adult beverages? Check out 3812 Bistro or the Graft wine+cider bar. Or if you’re in the mood for traditional pub fare, we have options for that too. Bleacher’s Sprots Bar and Grill (in Watkins) and the Bucket Bar & Grill (in Odessa) come to mind! These are just examples. Check out the full list of eateries here and please remember to call ahead to confirm hours.

 

Saturday

Enjoy breakfast at Curly’s Family Restaurant, Glen Mountain Market, Classic Chef’s, Paradiso's, Grandma's Kitchen (vegan only), or Dunkin, all easily accessible on Franklin Street/Route 14.

Sip your way through the day with stops at properties on either side of Seneca Lake. Lots of wineries from which to choose, yet not just wineries. For those who favor craft beers, cider, or spirits, we have options for you, too. Find your tasting room options here and here. If you need a designated driver, please consider one of our excellent transportation options.

 

After dinner, make plans to visit the Finger Lakes Festival of Lights, located behind Grist Iron Brewing in Burdett. Larger-than-life Chinese lanterns. Thousands of LED lights. Find the details and tickets online.

 

Sunday

Lace up your hiking boots and head for the Finger Lakes National Forest for some fresh air, peace, and reflection time. The Ravine Trail is a great short hike, right off of Picnic Area road (Route 2) and then if it’s a nice day go up to Teeter Pond and hike the Interloken Trail (North), for a great view of the northern part of Seneca Lake. While the office is not staffed currently (due to COVID) the foyer is open and stocked with trail guides and maps.

 

Have questions? Give us a call! 607-535-4300