The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is best known for its award-winning wines, but visitors quickly discover there’s so much more to enjoy than what’s in the glass.
Seneca Lake is more than a destination—it’s a community built around wine, beauty, and unforgettable experiences. Here, award-winning wineries welcome you with warmth and personality, each offering something unique to discover. Beyond the glass, you’ll find breathtaking lake views, rolling vineyards, and endless opportunities for adventure, from scenic hikes to lakeside dining. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning your journey, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail offers a one-of-a-kind blend of incredible wines, stunning natural beauty, and activities that make every visit extraordinary.”
From hands-on food pairings to a variety of experiences, here are five unforgettable experiences that make your trip one of a kind.
Yes, it works! Some wineries get creative with unexpected pairings. Toast Winery offers Wine and Pickle Pairings on weekends (Friday-Sunday) seasonally throughout the year.
Other more traditional pairings include chocolate and wine, cheese and wine, and more at wineries including:
You can find details on those experiences here.
As always, confirm winery offerings before you visit.
See where the grapes are grown and learn about sustainable viticulture.
A vineyard tour is the perfect way to go beyond the tasting glass and truly understand what makes Seneca Lake wines so special.
Walking the rows of vines, you’ll see firsthand how the grapes are grown, learn about the unique soil and climate that shape their flavor, and discover the sustainable practices that protect the land for future generations. It’s a chance to connect with the winemaking process from ground to glass—an experience that makes every sip more meaningful.”
Here are a handful to explore:
Several wineries showcase local artists with rotating gallery spaces including:
Wine and art share a deep connection—they’re both expressions of creativity, craftsmanship, and passion. Just as an artist uses color, texture, and form to create a painting, a winemaker uses grapes, soil, and time to craft a wine. Each is shaped by inspiration, skill, and a sense of place.
When you experience them together, the parallels come alive. A glass of wine can heighten your appreciation of artwork, drawing out details and emotions you may have otherwise missed. Likewise, viewing art while tasting wine invites you to slow down, savor, and engage all your senses. Both ask you to pause, reflect, and connect with something beautiful.
Pair your wine trip with a hike in Watkins Glen State Park, a kayak paddle on the lake, or a scenic drive along the rolling hills.
There are a few wine destinations in the world where you can find such fantastic wines set against a stunning natural backdrop of vineyard landscapes and dozens of waterfalls.
Hiking Trails We Recommend:
Kayaking Opportunities:
From summer evenings with acoustic guitar to larger events with local bands, wine pairs perfectly with music under the stars. Find live music at the following wineries:
Live music at a winery combines two of life’s greatest pleasures—great wine and great atmosphere.
Surrounded by vineyard views and the beauty of Seneca Lake, you can relax with a glass in hand while talented local musicians set the mood. It’s more than just entertainment; it’s a chance to slow down, connect with friends, and savor the Finger Lakes vibe in a way that feels effortless and fun.
As always, you should check winery websites before visiting to confirm music dates and availability.
These experiences make the Wine Trail a destination where every visit feels different.
