After our trip to Rochester, we were treated to some time in the beautiful Finger Lakes region of New York, which I’ve gotta say, is some of the most beautiful landscape I’ve ever seen. Gentle rolling hills, fantastic lakes for recreation and a variety of activities and entertainment for families make the Finger Lakes a great place to vacation as a family. Here are some of my favorite family-friendly places for families in and around Watkins Glen, Schuyler County & Seneca Lake.
Located just blocks from downtown Watkins Glen is the trailhead for the Watkins Glen Gorge hike and the current gift shop ofWatkins Glen State Park. The new visitors center is currently under construction and will be a great spot for those in your group to hang out who want to see the sights, but can’t handle the 2.5 moderate hike. The trail has been fortified over the years with local stone from within the gorge to make it a big safer for the people who traverse up and down each year by adding stairs along the entire trail. The trail winds up along Glen Creek behind waterfalls, over bridges and along some of the most beautiful scenery you’ll find. We passed folks of all ages from grandparents down to the earliest of walkers so while it is labeled a moderate trail, it’s doable by all ages. There is a trolley service available to either take you to the top of the 800+ step hike or to bring you from the top back down to the parking lot if you don’t want to do the round trip.
With Watkins Glen situated on the southern tip of Seneca Lake, a voyage out the vintage Stroller IV, which was christened way back in 1934 is a must-do. It’s a fantastic way to see the southern sights on Seneca Lake and to hear some of the fascinating history of graffiti done incorrectly, the salt mine, the gorgeous waterfall and more. During our trip, we found out that the first mate is the grandson of the captain and the son and nephew of two guys who work on sister boats but who have also worked on this same exact boat. Tours usually run mid-May through mid-October and leave exactly when scheduled so don’t be late!
Dinner on the patio at Blue Pointe Grill offered not only fantastic food, drinks & dessert but beautiful views of Seneca Lake and the pier. Our waitress described our dessert as one that “changed her mouth”, and she wasn’t wrong. All of us ordered something different and all of us loved our food and left stuffed. I was especially impressed with the attention to detail that went into making sure the dairy and gluten allergies in our group were taken care of with special suggestions from the chef. The restaurant has a more upscale feel to it but was comfortable and easy to get to from our rooms upstairs at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.
You won’t want to miss stopping at Berta’s Cafe for breakfast, lunch or their amazing baked goods. Berta’s has a true down home feel to it where even the tables have a story to it. They’re all from different places and homes and each come with their own unique story and aesthetic. As you’re eating your meal you can just taste the delicious flavors, local ingredients, and the quality. As much as possible Berta’s Cafe makes everything from scratch, including the bread and condiments. I can’t wait to go back to enjoy more pastries off of Berta’s menu.
The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel was an amazing hotel that I would love to go back to stay at. Walking into the hotel was like walking into paradise, the rooms were spacious and featured a tile & stone walk-in shower, generous counter space in the bathroom, a separate vanity, hardwood floors, a four person table and one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever slept in. The bed was the kind you just want to jump into and curl up. There was nothing I could have asked more of in this room, bathrobes, super soft soap, plenty of room to unpack our laptops, hanging clothes, snacks, clothing & toiletries without feeling cramped. The quality of the hotel and grounds were simply amazing and was in great proximity to all of the fun of Seneca Lake and Watkins Glen.
A big thank you goes to Brittany with Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce for hosting and planning our trip to Watkins Glen and Schuyler County. CLICK HERE to request a visitors travel guide for the area to help you plan the best vacation for your family.
Other articles you may love:
Visit the Southern Finger Lakes: Corning, Hammondsport, Keuka Lake
Visit the Southern Finger Lakes: Elmira, Mark Twain Country, Harris Hill
Visit Rochester: Indoor Family Fun
Visit Rochester: Outdoor Family Fun
Visit Rochester: Where to eat & drink
