Things to Do in Canandaigua, NY & the Finger Lakes
Discover the Best of the Finger Lakes
There is no shortage of things to do in Canandaigua, NY when you stay at The Chalet. From the beauty of Canandaigua Lake to Finger Lakes wineries, outdoor recreation, dining, shopping, arts, history, and seasonal activities, the region offers something to experience throughout the year.
The Chalet of Canandaigua provides a peaceful home base for exploring the Finger Lakes. Spend your days discovering local attractions and return to the comfort and privacy of our Canandaigua bed and breakfast when you’re ready to relax.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, wine-country getaway, outdoor adventure, or relaxing Finger Lakes vacation, use our guide below to discover some of the area’s many experiences.
Explore Finger Lakes Wineries & Craft Beverages
Wine country is one of the Finger Lakes region’s best-known attractions. Guests staying in Canandaigua can spend a day discovering wineries, tasting rooms, breweries, and other craft beverage destinations throughout the surrounding region.
From relaxing tastings and scenic vineyard views to discovering locally produced wines and beverages, exploring Finger Lakes wine country is an easy addition to a romantic getaway or weekend escape.
Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail — A scenic route connecting boutique wineries along the shores of Canandaigua Lake, showcasing the region’s best cool-climate varietals.
Finger Lakes Wine Country — The gateway to over 100 wineries across the region, with trail maps, event listings, and tasting itineraries to plan your perfect wine country day.
Arbor Hill Grapery & Winery — A family-owned winery and grapery offering tastings, gourmet grape products, and a charming country shop just a short drive from The Chalet.
Finger Lakes Cheese Trail — A curated trail of artisan creameries throughout the Finger Lakes, offering tastings and farm visits that pair beautifully with a day on the wine trail.
NY Kitchen — A hands-on culinary experience center in Canandaigua celebrating New York’s food and beverage culture, with cooking classes, tastings, and a craft beverage bar.
Finger Lakes Beer Trail — A growing collection of craft breweries across the region for those who prefer hops to grapes — follow them on Facebook for the latest stops and events.
Outdoor Activities in Canandaigua & the Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes provides plenty of opportunities to get outside throughout the year. Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, boating, fishing, golf, parks, scenic drives, and other outdoor experiences throughout Canandaigua and the surrounding region.
The changing seasons also create different reasons to return—from warm-weather adventures near Canandaigua Lake to colorful fall scenery and winter recreation.
For guests who enjoy balancing relaxation with adventure, Canandaigua provides an excellent starting point for exploring the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes.
Liberty Balloon Company — Take to the skies for a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the rolling hills and vineyards of the Finger Lakes. An unforgettable experience and one of our guests’ most popular adventures.
Letchworth State Park — Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth offers dramatic gorge views, towering waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails. A must-visit day trip.
Grimes Glen Park — A scenic creek-walk hike through a dramatic gorge to a stunning two-tiered waterfall. A hidden gem right in nearby Naples — bring water shoes!
Cumming Nature Center — Over 900 acres of forests, wetlands, and trails offering year-round nature programs, guided hikes, and cross-country skiing in winter.
Canandaigua Lady — Enjoy a relaxing cruise on Canandaigua Lake aboard this charming paddlewheel-style vessel. Sightseeing, dinner, and private event cruises available.
Bristol Mountain — The region’s premier mountain destination, offering skiing and snowboarding in winter, plus an aerial adventure park and zip line course in warmer months.
Hunt Hollow Ski Club — A family-friendly private ski club near Bristol Mountain with well-groomed slopes and a welcoming lodge atmosphere.
Roseland Waterpark — A summertime favorite for families, with water slides, a wave pool, and plenty of fun right on the shores of Canandaigua Lake.
Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack — Gaming, dining, and live harness racing in nearby Farmington. A fun evening out with slots, table games, and entertainment.
Restaurants & Dining in Canandaigua, NY
Exploring Canandaigua also means discovering the area’s food and dining scene. Visitors can choose from casual local favorites, restaurants for a special evening out, and dining experiences that complement a day spent exploring the Finger Lakes.
After starting your morning with breakfast at The Chalet, head out to discover Canandaigua and the surrounding area’s restaurants before returning for a peaceful evening at the property.
Bon Ami Bistro — A cozy French-inspired bistro offering a seasonally rotating menu, craft cocktails, and an intimate dining experience in the heart of the village.
Nicks Chop House — A refined chophouse in Canandaigua offering expertly prepared steaks, fresh seafood, and an impressive wine list in an upscale atmosphere.
Nolan’s on the Lake — Lakeside dining at its best, with beautiful views of Canandaigua Lake and a menu that blends classic American fare with seasonal specials.
Casa de Pasta — A beloved Canandaigua institution serving generous portions of classic Italian dishes in a warm, family-friendly setting for over four decades.
Eric’s Office — An upscale yet welcoming spot offering creative American cuisine, craft cocktails, and a lively atmosphere just minutes from The Chalet.
Kindred Fare — Farm-driven, seasonal cuisine in a warm and inviting space. A Geneva favorite known for its creative dishes and locally sourced ingredients.
NY Kitchen — Beyond its cooking classes, NY Kitchen’s restaurant and tasting bar showcase the best of New York State’s culinary artistry.
Ports Cafe — An eclectic gem in nearby Geneva featuring globally inspired dishes, a well-curated wine list, and one of the region’s most creative menus.
Prosecco Italian Restaurant & Jazz Bar — Authentic Italian cuisine paired with live jazz in a sophisticated setting.
Rheinblick German Restaurant — A unique German dining experience right in Canandaigua, offering traditional dishes and a convivial atmosphere. Check their Facebook page for hours and specials.
Rio Tomatlan — Vibrant, authentic Mexican cuisine with fresh ingredients and generous portions — a local go-to for a flavorful and relaxed meal.
Stonecat Cafe — Regional organic cuisine in the scenic Hector countryside, combining farm-fresh ingredients with creative preparations in a rustic, welcoming setting.
The Rose Tavern at The Lakehouse — Lakefront dining centered around a wood-fired hearth, serving a seasonal rustic American menu crafted from locally sourced Finger Lakes ingredients. A Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner with stunning views of Canandaigua Lake.
Laguna Grande — Authentic Mexican cuisine and a fully stocked tequila bar on Lakeshore Drive, offering a lively, flavorful alternative to the Finger Lakes’ farm-to-table scene.
Arts, History & Cultural Attractions
Beyond its lakes and wineries, the Canandaigua area offers opportunities to experience the history, arts, and culture of the Finger Lakes.
Museums, historic destinations, gardens, live entertainment, and cultural attractions provide plenty to explore when you want to take a break from outdoor activities or add something different to your itinerary.
These experiences can also make excellent additions to a couples’ getaway or longer Finger Lakes vacation.
Arts & Entertainment
CMAC (Constellation Brands–Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center) — A premier outdoor amphitheater in Canandaigua hosting nationally touring concerts, comedy shows, and festivals all summer long. Check their schedule when planning your stay.
Bristol Valley Theater — Professional Equity theater productions in the charming village of Naples, offering an intimate live theater experience with outstanding performances throughout the summer season.
Rochester Broadway Theatre League — Broadway touring productions in Rochester’s beautifully restored theaters — a wonderful evening out, just 30 minutes from The Chalet.
Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra — One of the nation’s premier orchestras performing classical, pops, and special event concerts at Rochester’s historic Eastman Theatre.
Watkins Glen International — Legendary motorsports venue hosting NASCAR, IMSA, and vintage racing events. An exciting day trip for racing enthusiasts, about an hour south of The Chalet.
History & Culture
Ganondagan State Historic Site — The site of a 17th-century Seneca town, now a living cultural center with exhibits, a full-size bark longhouse, and seasonal events that honor Seneca heritage and history.
Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park — A stunning Victorian estate in Canandaigua featuring nine formal gardens, a mansion tour, and beautifully landscaped grounds that are magnificent from spring through autumn.
Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum — The 1816 Federal-style home of Gideon Granger (Postmaster General under Jefferson) with an impressive collection of horse-drawn carriages and period furnishings.
Genesee Country Village & Museum — The largest living history museum in New York State, with 68 restored 19th-century buildings, costumed interpreters, a nature center, and a gallery of wildlife art.
Ontario County Historical Society — Local history exhibits and archives chronicling the rich heritage of Ontario County, housed in a beautiful building in downtown Canandaigua.
Shopping in Canandaigua & the Finger Lakes
Set aside some time during your stay to explore local shopping throughout Canandaigua and nearby Finger Lakes communities. Visitors can discover locally owned shops, specialty stores, gifts, and other unique finds while exploring the region.
Shopping can easily be combined with a day of dining, sightseeing, and exploring Canandaigua’s local attractions.
Downtown Canandaigua — A vibrant Main Street district with locally owned shops, restaurants, galleries, and seasonal events. Stroll the sidewalks and discover why this lakeside village is the heart of the Finger Lakes.
The Cheshire Union — A beautifully curated gift shop in Canandaigua featuring handcrafted goods, home décor, artisan food products, and unique finds from local makers.
F. Oliver’s Oils & Vinegars — A tasting emporium offering an extraordinary selection of premium olive oils, aged balsamic vinegars, and specialty ingredients. A must-visit for food lovers.
Wick-edly Sent — A local candle and scent shop offering hand-poured candles, soaps, and home fragrance products crafted with care.
Ontario Mall Antiques — A large multi-dealer antiques mall with a wide variety of vintage finds, collectibles, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
Plan a Romantic Finger Lakes Getaway
The variety of experiences surrounding Canandaigua makes the area an inviting destination for couples. Spend a day exploring Finger Lakes wineries, take in the scenery around Canandaigua Lake, enjoy dinner together, or simply leave part of your itinerary open to relax.
At the end of the day, return to the peaceful surroundings of The Chalet and your private guest suite.
With comfortable accommodations, fireplaces, gourmet breakfast, and easy access to Canandaigua attractions, The Chalet provides a relaxing home base for experiencing the Finger Lakes together.
Things to Do in the Finger Lakes Throughout the Year
Every season brings a different way to experience Canandaigua and the Finger Lakes.
Spring brings warmer weather, blooming landscapes, and opportunities to get back outside and explore.
Summer is ideal for enjoying Canandaigua Lake, outdoor recreation, wineries, dining, and long days exploring the region.
Fall transforms the Finger Lakes with colorful scenery, making it a beautiful time for scenic drives, winery visits, hiking, and romantic getaways.
Winter offers a quieter side of the region, with seasonal recreation and cozy opportunities to relax and enjoy a Finger Lakes escape.
No matter when you visit, Canandaigua offers plenty of ways to build a memorable itinerary around your stay.
Things to Do in the Finger Lakes Throughout the Year
Make The Chalet of Canandaigua your home base for discovering Canandaigua Lake and the surrounding Finger Lakes.
Our intimate bed and breakfast offers three distinctive guest suites in a peaceful wooded setting, giving you a comfortable place to return after a day of wineries, outdoor adventures, dining, shopping, and sightseeing.
Explore our accommodations and start planning your Canandaigua getaway.
Canandaigua & Finger Lakes FAQs
What are some of the best things to do in Canandaigua, NY?
Visitors to Canandaigua can enjoy Canandaigua Lake, Finger Lakes wineries and craft beverage destinations, outdoor recreation, restaurants, shopping, arts, historic attractions, and seasonal activities.
What can you do at Canandaigua Lake?
Activities vary by season but can include boating, paddling, fishing, parks, sightseeing, and simply enjoying the lake’s scenery and surrounding attractions.
Are there wineries near Canandaigua?
Yes. Canandaigua provides access to wineries, tasting rooms, and other craft beverage destinations throughout the Finger Lakes region.
Is Canandaigua a good destination for a romantic getaway?
Canandaigua is well suited for couples looking to combine lake scenery, wineries, dining, outdoor activities, and relaxing accommodations during a Finger Lakes getaway.
Where can I stay while exploring Canandaigua and the Finger Lakes?
The Chalet of Canandaigua offers three private guest suites in a peaceful setting near Canandaigua Lake, providing a comfortable home base for exploring the surrounding Finger Lakes.
Start Planning Your Canandaigua Getaway
From Canandaigua Lake and Finger Lakes wineries to outdoor recreation, dining, shopping, and local attractions, there’s plenty to discover during your stay. Choose your suite at The Chalet of Canandaigua and start planning your Finger Lakes getaway.
The Chalet of Canandaigua
A luxury boutique bed & breakfast tucked into the wooded hills of Canandaigua, in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York.
- Phone: (585) 394-9080
- Email: staychalet@chaletbandb.com
- 3770 State Route 21 South, Canandaigua, NY 14424
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