I’ve been to Watkins Glen countless times over the years, and it’s easily one of my favorite places to visit in the Finger Lakes.
I’m from New York and have lived here for more than 30 years, so I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the state. And Watkins Glen is one of those places I keep coming back to.
Most people come to Watkins Glen for one thing: Watkins Glen State Park and its incredible Gorge Trail. And honestly, that’s a very good reason to visit.
The gorge is packed with waterfalls, stone bridges, and dramatic rock formations, and it’s one of my favorite hikes in New York.
But there’s much more to do here than hike. You can spend time on Seneca Lake, visit Finger Lakes wineries and breweries, explore the town’s racing history, discover nearby waterfalls, eat your way through the local food scene, or use Watkins Glen as a base for exploring more of the Finger Lakes.
So, whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a weekend in the Finger Lakes, these are my picks for the best things to do in Watkins Glen, NY.
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Best Things to Do in Watkins Glen at a Glance
Where Is Watkins Glen, NY?
Watkins Glen is a small village at the southern end of Seneca Lake in New York’s Finger Lakes region. It’s in Schuyler County and is best known for Watkins Glen State Park, the gorge, and its long history of auto racing.
If you’re planning a Finger Lakes road trip, Watkins Glen makes a great base because you can easily combine the village with wineries, waterfalls, hiking trails, and other towns around Seneca Lake.
It’s also relatively close to several popular Finger Lakes attractions:
Corning: about 25 miles southwest
Ithaca: about 25 miles east
Hammondsport: about 25 miles west
Geneva: about 40 miles north
Rochester: about 75 miles northwest
One thing to keep in mind is that “Watkins Glen” can mean two slightly different things in travel guides.
There’s the village itself, where you’ll find Watkins Glen State Park, Franklin Street, restaurants, and Seneca Lake, and then there’s the surrounding Finger Lakes area. Some of the attractions on this list are in nearby towns and require a car.
Is Watkins Glen worth visiting?
Absolutely. If you’re visiting the Finger Lakes and love hiking, waterfalls, wine, scenic drives, or small towns, Watkins Glen is one of the places I’d put near the top of your list.
Watkins Glen State Park alone is worth the trip, but I recommend staying at least one night if you have the time so you can explore more of the area instead of rushing through the gorge and leaving.
How to Get Around Watkins Glen
If you’re staying in Watkins Glen village, you can easily get around without a car. Franklin Street, Watkins Glen State Park, Seneca Lake, and many of the village’s restaurants are close enough to walk between.
However, I’d strongly recommend having a car if you want to explore the wider Finger Lakes region. The wineries, breweries, waterfalls, farms, and other attractions around Seneca Lake are spread out, and public transportation is limited.
Driving
Driving is the easiest option if you’re planning to explore beyond the village. It gives you the freedom to visit several attractions in one day and makes it much easier to reach places like the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, Montour Falls, Finger Lakes National Forest, and nearby wineries.
Just remember that if you’re doing a wine or brewery tour, don’t drink and drive. Consider booking a tour or hiring a driver instead.
Walking
Walking is perfect for exploring the village itself. You can easily combine Watkins Glen State Park with Franklin Street, Seneca Lake, local restaurants, and shops without getting back in your car.
Rideshares and tours
Uber and Lyft availability can be limited compared with larger cities. So, I wouldn’t rely on rideshares for an entire Finger Lakes itinerary. If you don’t want to drive, a private driver or organized wine tour is a much better option for visiting multiple wineries.
My tip: If you’re visiting Watkins Glen for a weekend, I’d stay in or near the village and use your car for day trips.
That gives you the best of both worlds. This way you can walk to the main attractions in town while still having the flexibility to explore the surrounding Finger Lakes.
Best Things to Do in Watkins Glen, NY
Watkins Glen, NY, is full of fun things to do on your trip to Upstate New York, from outdoor adventures to exciting day trips and great food and drink.
Whether you want to stay in the village or explore the local area, there’s something to suit your tastes in this list of fantastic things to do in Watkins Glen, NY.
1. Hike Watkins Glen State Park
If you only have time to do one thing in Watkins Glen, make it Watkins Glen State Park.
I’ve visited the park multiple times, and the Gorge Trail is one of those hikes that never really gets old. Instead of simply walking through a forest, you’re following a narrow gorge filled with waterfalls, stone bridges, cliffs, and winding paths.
The Gorge Trail is the star of the show. It takes you through the heart of the gorge and past 19 waterfalls, including the impressive Cavern Cascade. There are also trails above the gorge if you want a longer hike or a different perspective.
How long do you need at Watkins Glen State Park?
I’d allow at least 2–3 hours if you want to properly experience the gorge without rushing. You can spend longer here if you want to hike additional trails, take photos, or explore the park beyond the main gorge.
The trail includes a lot of stairs, so this isn’t a completely flat or easy walk. Wear shoes with good traction, particularly if the rocks and steps are wet.
When is the Gorge Trail open?
This is important if you’re planning a winter or early-spring visit: the Gorge Trail is seasonal. The park’s trails and facilities don’t operate on the same schedule year-round, so check the official New York State Parks website before your trip rather than assuming the gorge will be open.
The park itself is beautiful outside the main hiking season too, but I would plan a trip specifically around the Gorge Trail if this is your main reason for visiting Watkins Glen.
Travel tip: Go early if you can, especially during summer weekends. The gorge is narrow and can get crowded, which makes it much harder to enjoy the waterfalls and take photos.
2. Watkins Glen International
Watkins Glen has a serious racing history. Motor racing began here in 1948 with races held on the streets of the village before moving to the permanent Watkins Glen International road course, which opened in 1956.
Today, Watkins Glen International, commonly called “The Glen,” is one of the most famous road courses in the United States. The track hosts major racing events throughout the year, including NASCAR, IMSA, Trans Am, and vintage racing.
If you’re a racing fan, there’s nothing quite like watching cars take on the twists and turns of the circuit in person. But you don’t necessarily have to visit during a major race weekend to experience the track.
Drive The Glen
One of the coolest things you can do is Drive The Glen, which lets you take your own street-legal car around the 3.45-mile Grand Prix circuit behind an official pace car.
You get three laps around the track, so you aren’t racing or driving at full speed, but it’s a fun way to experience the same course used by professional drivers.
The experience is currently offered seasonally. Drivers must be at least 18 and have a valid driver’s license, and reservations are recommended. Check the official schedule before planning your visit since dates and times vary.
Visit the International Motor Racing Research Center
If you love racing history, don’t skip the International Motor Racing Research Center in downtown Watkins Glen. This is a particularly easy addition to your itinerary because you can visit it even when there isn’t a race happening at the track.
The center has an extensive collection documenting the history of motor racing, including photographs, books, films, memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and information about the races and drivers connected to Watkins Glen.
There’s even an iRacing simulator where you can try your hand at virtual racing. Best of all, admission is free.
Travel tip: If you’re not visiting during a race weekend, I’d combine the Research Center with Watkins Glen State Park and downtown Watkins Glen.
That gives you a nice mix of hiking, local history, and racing without needing to spend an entire day at the track.
3. Seneca Lake Wine Trail
The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is one of my favorite things to do around Watkins Glen and one of the best ways to experience the wider Finger Lakes region.
The cool climate and rolling hills around Seneca Lake are particularly well suited to grape growing, and the region is especially known for Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc.
You’ll find wineries ranging from small, family-run vineyards to larger properties with tasting rooms, lake views, food pairings, and seasonal events.
One of my favorite things about wine tasting around Seneca Lake is that the experience isn’t just about the wine. Many of the wineries have beautiful views over the lake, outdoor seating, live music, food trucks, and other events throughout the year.
My Favorite Seneca Lake Wineries: I’ve visited quite a few wineries in the Finger Lakes, and Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, Fox Run Vineyards, and Ventosa Vineyards are some of my favorites.
All three have friendly staff, good wine, and beautiful Seneca Lake views. I wouldn’t try to visit every winery in one day. Pick a handful that appeal to you and give yourself enough time to actually enjoy each stop.
How to Explore the Seneca Lake Wine Trail: You’ll definitely want transportation. The wineries are spread out around Seneca Lake, so this isn’t a wine region where you can simply walk from one tasting room to the next.
And if you’re planning to taste at several wineries, don’t drive yourself. You can hire a private driver, book a guided wine tour, or arrange transportation through a local company such as Main Street Drivers.
A tour can also be a good option if you don’t want to spend your trip figuring out which wineries to visit and how to get between them.
Local tip: Don’t try to cram too many wineries into one day. I’d rather visit three or four places and actually enjoy them than spend the entire day rushing from tasting room to tasting room.
4. Sample Local Finger Lakes Cheese
Of course, nothing goes better with Finger Lakes wine than local cheese. If you’re already planning a wine-tasting day around Seneca Lake, adding a stop at a local creamery or farm is an easy way to experience another part of the region’s food scene.
The Finger Lakes is home to small farms and cheesemakers producing everything from aged cheddar and gouda to chèvre and other artisan cheeses.
You can pick up cheese to take with you, visit a farm or creamery, or look for local cheese boards at restaurants and wineries.
Some places to look into include Shtayburne Farm and Sunset View Creamery, both of which are outside Watkins Glen and work well as stops on a broader Finger Lakes road trip.
If you don’t want to leave Watkins Glen, Seneca Cheese Company is an easier option in town. It’s a good place to pick up local cheeses and put together your own picnic or snack for the day.
Local tip: If you’re visiting several wineries, don’t overlook the cheese. Picking up some local cheese, crackers, and other Finger Lakes products makes for a great picnic between stops—especially on a sunny summer day.
5. Enjoy Seneca Lake Water Activities
If you love being on the water, Watkins Glen is an ideal place to spend some time on Seneca Lake. Since the village sits at the southern end of the lake, you have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water during the warmer months.
Depending on the season, you can go kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or swimming. Clute Park in Watkins Glen is one of the easiest places to access the lake, while there are additional swimming and recreation areas around Seneca Lake if you’re exploring beyond the village.
You can also rent a boat if you’d rather spend a few hours cruising around the lake. This is a particularly fun option if you’re traveling with a group and want to make a day of it.
Take a Boat Tour of Seneca Lake: If you don’t want to captain your own boat, look into a Seneca Lake sightseeing or dinner cruise.
It’s a much more relaxing way to see the Finger Lakes landscape, and you get a completely different perspective of the vineyards and hills surrounding the lake.
Boat tours are seasonal, so check the current schedule before your trip. Availability varies depending on the time of year and weather.
Local tip: If you’re visiting Watkins Glen in summer and the weather is good, I’d absolutely try to spend at least a couple of hours on Seneca Lake. It’s easy to focus so much on the Gorge Trail that you forget the lake is right there.
6. Get Some Local Ice Cream
There’s nothing quite like stopping for ice cream after a day of hiking, exploring, and driving around the Finger Lakes.
One of the fun things about visiting this part of New York is that you can find ice cream made with local milk and cream, rather than just stopping at a generic chain.
If you’re driving around the area, Shtayburne Farm Creamery is a great place to look for homemade ice cream, milkshakes, and seasonal treats.
If you’d rather stay in Watkins Glen, you can also grab a cone or sundae right in town. Glen Dairy Bar and The Great Escape are both options to check out on or near Franklin Street.
Local tip: This is one of those stops I’d save for later in the day. After hiking Watkins Glen State Park or spending the afternoon exploring Seneca Lake, an ice cream cone makes the perfect reward.
And yes, you may find yourself wondering why grocery store ice cream suddenly tastes so boring. 😋
7. Go Apple Picking at a Local Farm
If you’re visiting Watkins Glen in the fall, apple picking is a great way to experience another side of the Finger Lakes. The countryside around Seneca Lake is beautiful in autumn, and several farms offer seasonal U-pick experiences.
Depending on the time of your visit, you may be able to pick apples, raspberries, pumpkins, and other seasonal produce.
It’s a fun activity if you’re traveling with kids, but honestly, it’s also a great excuse for adults to spend a few hours enjoying the countryside and picking up some fresh fruit and local products.
Some farms to look into include Apples and Moore, which grows a wide variety of apples, and Wickham’s Tango Oaks Farm in nearby Hector.
Just keep in mind that U-pick availability is highly seasonal, and farms can have different opening dates, hours, and picking conditions from year to year. Check directly with the farm before making the drive.
Best time to go: September and October are generally your best bets for fall apple picking, although the exact timing depends on the crop and weather that year.
Local tip: Even if you’re not interested in picking fruit, farm stands are worth checking out during a Finger Lakes road trip. They’re a great place to find local apples, cider, baked goods, and other regional products.
8. Finger Lakes National Forest
If you want to get away from the crowds and explore more of the countryside around Watkins Glen, Finger Lakes National Forest is a great option.
It’s about 20 miles north of Watkins Glen, between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, and is the only national forest in New York State.
The forest has more than 30 miles of trails winding through woodlands, grasslands, ravines, and other scenic landscapes. You can go hiking, horseback riding, fishing, wildlife watching, or simply spend a few hours enjoying the quieter side of the Finger Lakes.
It’s particularly appealing if you’re visiting Watkins Glen during the busy summer season and want to trade the crowds around the village and state park for a more peaceful outdoor experience.
The scenery also changes dramatically throughout the year. Fall is especially beautiful, while winter brings opportunities for activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing when conditions allow.
There are also several campgrounds within the national forest if you want to spend the night surrounded by nature.
Local tip: You don’t need to spend an entire day here unless you’re specifically coming to hike or camp. If you’re short on time, choose a trail that fits your schedule and combine it with other attractions around Seneca Lake.
Good to know: Finger Lakes National Forest is free to visit, but individual recreation areas and campgrounds may have their own rules or fees. Check current conditions before heading out.
9. Explore Downtown Watkins Glen & Franklin Street
Franklin Street runs through the heart of Watkins Glen, making it a great place to wander when you want a break from hiking and outdoor activities.
You’ll find independent restaurants, cafés, shops, galleries, and places to pick up local food and souvenirs.
It’s also an easy area to explore on foot, so you can grab lunch or coffee, browse the shops, and get a feel for the village without having to get back in your car.
If you’re looking for New York souvenirs or local treats, keep an eye out for chocolate, wine, cheese, and other Finger Lakes products.
And if you realize you’ve forgotten something for your hike—like warm layers or outdoor gear—there are also stores in town where you can pick up the basics.
One of my favorite little details about downtown Watkins Glen is the checkerboard crosswalks. They’re designed to resemble the starting and finishing lines of a motor-racing circuit, which is a fun nod to the village’s long connection with racing.
Local tip: Franklin Street is an easy stop to add before or after Watkins Glen State Park. Park once, explore on foot, grab something to eat, and then continue on with your itinerary rather than making multiple short drives around town.
10. Watkins Glen Farmers’ Market
If you’re visiting Watkins Glen during the warmer months, the Watkins Glen Farmers’ Market is a nice way to experience the local food scene and support farmers and small producers from the Finger Lakes.
The market has been around since 2005 and features seasonal produce along with locally made foods and other products.
Depending on the time of year, you may find fresh fruit and vegetables, baked goods, cheeses, meats, prepared foods, and other local specialties.
It’s also a good place to pick up something for a picnic if you’re spending the day around Seneca Lake or looking for snacks to take on a hike.
The market is seasonal, generally running from spring into fall, and its schedule and location can change, so check the current market information before visiting.
Local tip: Friday afternoon is a particularly nice time to visit if the market is running—you can grab some local food and then spend the evening exploring downtown Watkins Glen or watching the sunset over Seneca Lake.
11. Explore the Finger Lakes Craft Beer Scene
The Finger Lakes might be famous for its wineries, but the craft beer scene is worth exploring too. Around Watkins Glen and Seneca Lake, you’ll find breweries serving everything from traditional ales and crisp lagers to IPAs, stouts, and seasonal beers.
A few Seneca Lake breweries I’d put on your radar include:
Seneca Lake Brewing Company – This is a particularly fun stop if you like British beer. Located just north of Watkins Glen in Rock Stream, the brewery has a Tudor-style English pub called The Beerocracy and specializes in traditional cask ales. You can also order British food, including fish and chips on select days. Seneca Lake Brewing
Two Goats Brewing – Housed in a renovated 19th-century barn overlooking Seneca Lake, Two Goats is known for its beer, live music, and fantastic lake views. It’s a laid-back place to spend an afternoon, particularly when you can sit outside and enjoy the scenery.
Grist Iron Brewing Company – Located in Burdett, this brewery combines craft beer with food, live music, and beautiful views over Seneca Lake. They brew a wide range of beers on-site and have pizzas and other pub food, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Scale House Brewery – If you’re exploring the broader Finger Lakes beer scene, Scale House is another brewery to consider, although it’s in nearby Ithaca rather than Watkins Glen itself.
Local tip: Don’t try to visit every brewery in one day. Pick two or three that fit naturally into your itinerary, especially if you’re also planning to visit wineries.
And, just like with wine tasting, have a designated driver or book transportation rather than driving between multiple breweries after drinking.
12. Dine at Local Restaurants in Watkins Glen
You’ll definitely get hungry after spending the day exploring Watkins Glen. Luckily, the village has a surprisingly good selection of restaurants, cafés, and casual spots, so you don’t have to go far for a good meal.
A few places I’d put on your radar include:
Glen Mountain Market Bakery & Deli – A good choice for breakfast, coffee, pastries, sandwiches, or something quick to take with you for a day of exploring.
3812 Bistro at Lakeside Resort – A nice option for a sit-down meal featuring Finger Lakes ingredients, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served daily.
Nickel’s Pit BBQ – If you’re craving barbecue, this is one of the local standouts. The Watkins Glen location serves smoked meats and casual BBQ fare, and they don’t take reservations, so be prepared to wait during busy periods.
Blue Pointe Grille – Located at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, this is a good choice if you want a more traditional sit-down meal with Seneca Lake views. The menu includes American dishes, seafood, steaks, salads, and local wines.
Curly’s Family Restaurant – A longtime local institution serving straightforward American breakfast and lunch. It’s been a Watkins Glen staple since 1955 and is a good option when you want an unfussy, home-style meal.
There are plenty of other restaurants around town too, including Italian, Thai, Mexican, and wine-and-cider-focused options, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding something that suits you.
Local tip: One of my favorite things to do when I’m in the Finger Lakes is to have a light meal or snack at one of the local wineries or breweries.
It saves you from having to squeeze a formal restaurant meal into an already busy day, and you get to enjoy the scenery at the same time.
13. Visit Montour Falls and Shequaga Falls
Just 3 miles south of Watkins Glen, the small village of Montour Falls makes an easy addition to a Watkins Glen itinerary.
The main attraction is Shequaga Falls, a beautiful 165-foot waterfall right in the center of the village. You can see the falls from the road as you arrive, and there’s a small park and viewing area where you can stop and take in the view.
The waterfall is also known as Montour Falls and takes its name from Queen Catharine Montour, an important figure in the history of the Seneca people who lived in this region.
After seeing the waterfall, take some time to explore the village. You can visit the Brick Tavern Museum, which focuses on the local history of Montour Falls and the surrounding area, or check out the local farmers’ market if you’re visiting during market season.
How long do you need? You can see Shequaga Falls in about 20–30 minutes, so this is an easy stop to combine with other attractions around Watkins Glen rather than planning an entire day around it.
Local tip: If you’re already driving south from Watkins Glen, definitely make the detour. It’s one of the easiest waterfalls to add to your Finger Lakes itinerary because you don’t have to hike to see it.
14. Go Horseback Riding at Painted Bar Stables
Want to experience the Finger Lakes from a completely different perspective? Painted Bar Stables is a great option for getting out into the countryside on horseback.
Located just outside Watkins Glen in nearby Burdett, this community-focused stable offers trail rides, riding lessons, and horse experiences for different experience levels.
You don’t need to be an experienced rider to participate, making this a fun option if you’ve always wanted to try horseback riding.
They also offer Horse Encounters, where you can spend time getting to know and interacting with the horses without necessarily going on a trail ride.
Trail rides take you through the beautiful countryside surrounding Watkins Glen, making this particularly appealing in the warmer months when the Finger Lakes landscape is at its best.
Good to know: Reservations are required, and availability can vary by season. Book ahead rather than showing up expecting to get on a horse that day.
Local tip: This is a particularly good choice if you’re traveling with someone who isn’t interested in hiking. You still get to experience the Finger Lakes outdoors, but in a completely different way.
15. The Farm Sanctuary
If you’re an animal lover, Farm Sanctuary is one of the most unique things you can do near Watkins Glen.
The sanctuary sits on a large property in the Finger Lakes and provides a home for hundreds of rescued farm animals, including cows, pigs, turkeys, and other animals.
I’ve always thought this was a particularly meaningful addition to a Watkins Glen trip because you’re not just visiting a place to see animals—you can learn about farm-animal rescue, animal welfare, and the individual stories of the animals who live there.
During the visitor season, Farm Sanctuary offers guided experiences where you can explore the property and learn more about the animals from the people who care for them.
Tours and programs vary throughout the year, so check the current schedule when planning your visit.
You can also make your visit into an overnight experience by staying in one of the sanctuary’s accommodations, which is a fun option if you want a quieter Finger Lakes getaway.
Good to know: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for visiting the sanctuary, and dress appropriately for spending time outdoors. Reservations are recommended for guided experiences.
Local tip: I’d allow a few hours rather than trying to squeeze this in between a bunch of other attractions. It’s the kind of place that’s much more enjoyable when you aren’t rushing through it.
16. See Hector Falls
If you love waterfalls, add Hector Falls to your Watkins Glen itinerary. Located along Route 414 just north of the village of Hector, this impressive waterfall drops down the hillside toward Seneca Lake and is particularly beautiful after a good rainfall.
The best part? You don’t need to hike for hours to see it. Hector Falls is visible from the roadside, making it an easy stop while you’re driving along the eastern side of Seneca Lake.
It’s a great waterfall to combine with a day of wine tasting because several wineries are located nearby. You can pull over, take a few photos, enjoy the view, and continue on to your next Finger Lakes stop.
Just be careful when stopping along the road and don’t attempt to climb down to the falls. This isn’t a developed waterfall park with trails and visitor facilities, so treat it as a scenic roadside stop rather than a hiking destination.
Local tip: Hector Falls is especially impressive after rain, when the water is flowing more heavily. If you’re already driving Route 414 between Watkins Glen and the wineries around Hector, it’s an easy addition to your day.
Best for: Waterfall lovers, photographers, and anyone who wants a quick scenic stop without a long hike.
17. Check Out the Finger Lakes Waterfalls
Watkins Glen State Park gets most of the attention—and deservedly so—but there are plenty of other waterfalls worth seeking out around the southern Finger Lakes.
If you’re a waterfall lover, a few good ones to add to your itinerary include:
Eagles Cliff Falls in Havana Glen Park in Montour Falls — a beautiful waterfall tucked into a small gorge just south of Watkins Glen.
Deckertown Falls near Montour Falls — a quieter waterfall that’s worth adding if you’re exploring the area by car.
Taughannock Falls near Ithaca — a much bigger day-trip option and one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Finger Lakes.
Waterfalls are generally at their most powerful in spring, particularly after snowmelt and periods of heavy rain. That said, they’re worth visiting throughout the year, and fall adds beautiful foliage to the scenery.
Local tip: Don’t try to cram every waterfall into one day. Pick a couple that fit naturally into your route, and save Taughannock Falls for a separate Ithaca day trip if you have the time.
Best Day Trips from Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen is a great base for exploring the Finger Lakes, and if you’re staying for more than a weekend, there are several worthwhile places you can reach by car.
18. Take a Day Trip to Letchworth State Park
If you have an extra day in the Finger Lakes, Letchworth State Park is absolutely worth the drive. It’s about 75 miles northwest of Watkins Glen, so you’re looking at roughly 1½ hours each way by car, but the scenery makes the trip worthwhile.
Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth is one of the most spectacular state parks in New York. The Genesee River cuts through a dramatic gorge surrounded by cliffs, forests, and waterfalls, and there are plenty of viewpoints where you can stop and take in the scenery without doing a long hike.
If you want to get active, the park has more than 60 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to longer, more challenging routes. You can also go biking, horseback riding, kayaking, and fishing, depending on the season.
There are plenty of things to do here in winter too, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling when conditions allow.
Is Letchworth worth visiting from Watkins Glen? Yes, if you have the time. I wouldn’t try to squeeze Letchworth into a short Watkins Glen weekend because you’ll spend a significant portion of the day driving.
But if you’re spending several days in the Finger Lakes, it’s one of the best day trips you can take.
Local tip: Start early if you’re visiting on a summer weekend or during peak fall foliage. You’ll have a better chance of finding parking at the most popular viewpoints and can enjoy the park before the busiest part of the day.
Good to know: New York State Parks may charge a seasonal vehicle-use fee, and fees, hours, and facilities can vary throughout the year. Check the current park information before you go.
19. Take a Day Trip to the Corning Museum of Glass
If you have extra time in your Watkins Glen itinerary, the Corning Museum of Glass is one of my favorite nearby day trips.
Corning is about 20–25 miles southwest of Watkins Glen, so it’s an easy drive and a great way to add something completely different to your Finger Lakes trip.
The museum houses an enormous collection of glass spanning more than 3,500 years of history, with everything from ancient glass and historic objects to contemporary sculptures and cutting-edge glasswork.
But honestly, my favorite part of visiting is the live glassblowing demonstrations. I’ve been to the Corning Museum of Glass many times, and I’m still blown away (yes, I had to make that joke) every time I visit.
Watching the glass artists work is fascinating, and the live demonstrations are included with admission.
You can also try making glass yourself through one of the museum’s hands-on experiences. These are an especially fun option if you’re traveling with kids or simply want to do more than walk around a museum.
And don’t skip the gift shop. It’s huge and filled with genuinely beautiful and unusual glass pieces, so it’s a great place to find a memorable New York souvenir.
How long do you need? I’d give yourself at least 3–4 hours here. There’s a lot to see, and you’ll want enough time to explore the galleries, watch a demonstration, and potentially do one of the hands-on experiences.
Local tip: If you’re hungry while you’re in Corning, I’ve eaten at Nine Elephants and really enjoyed the Thai food. It’s a good option if you want to grab lunch or dinner before heading back to Watkins Glen.
20. Take a Day Trip to Ithaca
Just under an hour east of Watkins Glen, Ithaca makes one of the easiest and most worthwhile day trips.
The city sits at the southern end of Cayuga Lake and has a completely different feel from small-town Watkins Glen, thanks in part to Cornell University and Ithaca College.
You can spend the day exploring Cornell Botanic Gardens, browsing the Ithaca Farmers Market, or hiking at one of the nearby state parks.
And if you love waterfalls, Ithaca is especially worth the trip. Taughannock Falls State Park is home to one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, while Buttermilk Falls State Park has a beautiful gorge and waterfall hike.
I’d allow a full day if you want to combine Ithaca with one or two waterfalls rather than trying to rush through everything.
Local tip: If waterfalls are your main reason for visiting Ithaca, go early and check trail conditions before you leave Watkins Glen. Some trails can be slippery or affected by seasonal closures.
Annual Events in Watkins Glen
Despite being a small village, Watkins Glen has a surprisingly busy events calendar, particularly from spring through fall.
If you’re planning your trip around a specific event, book your accommodations early, since major race weekends can bring a lot of visitors to town.
Here are a few of the biggest annual events worth knowing about:
NASCAR and Racing Events at Watkins Glen International
Racing is a huge part of Watkins Glen’s identity, and Watkins Glen International hosts major events throughout the spring and summer. The schedule includes NASCAR, IMSA, Trans Am, vintage racing, and other motorsports events.
The exact race schedule changes from year to year, so check the current Watkins Glen International calendar before planning your trip.
Finger Lakes Wine Festival
The Finger Lakes Wine Festival is another major summer event and a great choice if you’re visiting specifically for the region’s wine scene.
It brings together New York wineries, food vendors, live entertainment, and wine-related activities at Watkins Glen International.
If you want to attend, plan ahead and arrange transportation if you’re planning to drink.
Watkins Glen Grand Prix Festival
If you’re interested in the history behind Watkins Glen’s racing culture, don’t miss the Watkins Glen Grand Prix Festival.
Held in September, the festival celebrates the village’s early street-racing history, with classic cars, vendors, and racing-related activities taking over downtown Watkins Glen.
The festival coincides with the vintage racing action at Watkins Glen International, making September an especially fun time to visit if you’re a motorsports fan.
Local tip: Don’t plan your Watkins Glen trip around an event unless you’re actually interested in it.
Race weekends can be exciting, but they’re also much busier than a normal weekend. For a quieter Finger Lakes getaway, choose a date outside the major events.
Map of the Best Things to do in Watkins Glen NY
Where to Stay in Watkins Glen
If you’re planning to spend a night or two in Watkins Glen, staying close to the village is the most convenient option.
You’ll be within walking distance of Watkins Glen State Park, Franklin Street, restaurants, and Seneca Lake, while still being able to drive out to the surrounding wineries and attractions.
Downtown Watkins Glen – Best if you want to walk to restaurants, shops, the state park, and the lake. This is my first choice for a short visit because you can park your car and explore the village on foot.
Along Seneca Lake – Best if you want lake views and a more relaxing getaway. There are several accommodations around the southern end of the lake, including resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds.
Hector and the eastern shore of Seneca Lake – A good choice if wineries are the main reason you’re visiting. You’ll be closer to many of the vineyards and breweries along the lake, although you’ll definitely want a car.
Montour Falls – Just a few miles south of Watkins Glen, Montour Falls can be a quieter alternative if you want to stay outside the main tourist area.
My Tip for Choosing Where to Stay: For a first visit, I’d stay in or very close to Watkins Glen village. It makes the trip much easier because you can walk to the main attractions and restaurants, then use your car for wineries, waterfalls, and other day trips.
Frequently Asked Questions About Watkins Glen
What is Watkins Glen best known for?
Watkins Glen is best known for Watkins Glen State Park, Seneca Lake, and its long history of motor racing. It’s also a popular base for exploring Finger Lakes wineries, breweries, waterfalls, and nearby towns.
Is Watkins Glen worth visiting?
Absolutely. Watkins Glen is one of my favorite places in the Finger Lakes, particularly if you enjoy hiking, waterfalls, wine, scenic drives, and small towns.
The gorge at Watkins Glen State Park alone is worth the trip, but there’s enough to do nearby to easily fill a weekend.
How many days do you need in Watkins Glen?
I’d recommend at least two days for a first visit. One day gives you enough time for Watkins Glen State Park, downtown, and some time around Seneca Lake.
With two or three days, you can add wineries, breweries, waterfalls, and nearby attractions without rushing.
What is the best time of year to visit Watkins Glen?
Summer and early fall are the most popular times to visit, thanks to warm weather and outdoor activities. Fall is particularly beautiful because of the foliage around the Finger Lakes.
Spring is also a good time for waterfalls, while winter is much quieter but comes with seasonal closures and colder weather.
Can you visit Watkins Glen without a car?
You can explore the village itself without a car, but I’d recommend having one if you want to explore the wider Finger Lakes region. The wineries, waterfalls, breweries, and other attractions are spread out, and public transportation is limited.
How far is Watkins Glen from Ithaca?
Watkins Glen is roughly 25 miles west of Ithaca, making Ithaca an easy day trip if you have extra time. You can combine the city with nearby attractions like Taughannock Falls or Buttermilk Falls State Park.
Is Watkins Glen State Park worth visiting?
Yes! If you only have time for one attraction in Watkins Glen, I’d make it the state park. The Gorge Trail takes you through a dramatic gorge filled with waterfalls, stone bridges, and rock formations, and it’s one of the most memorable hikes in the Finger Lakes.
Conclusion
Watkins Glen may be best known for its spectacular state park and famous race track, but there’s a lot more to this little Finger Lakes village than those two attractions.
Whether you spend your days hiking through waterfalls, tasting your way around Seneca Lake, getting out on the water, exploring local farms and breweries, or taking a day trip to places like Ithaca or Corning, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
I’ve visited Watkins Glen many times over the years, and it’s one of those places I never get tired of returning to. If you love the outdoors, small towns, good food, wine, and beautiful scenery, I’d definitely add Watkins Glen to your New York travel itinerary.
And if you can, give yourself at least a couple of days. There’s no reason to rush through the Finger Lakes just to check Watkins Glen off your list—you’ll enjoy it much more if you slow down and actually experience the area.
