Area Attractions

Discover the Best of the Finger Lakes

Your Guide to the Finger Lakes

The Chalet is nestled in the heart of one of New York’s most celebrated destinations. From world-class wineries and farm-to-table dining to scenic trails and living history, the Finger Lakes region offers something for every guest. We’ve put together a curated guide to our favorite local attractions and trusted partners — the places we send our own friends and family when they visit.

Wine, Beer, & Cheese Trails

The Finger Lakes region is renowned for its award-winning wines, craft beverages, and artisan cheese. Whether you prefer a leisurely afternoon sampling Rieslings along a lakeside trail or hopping between craft breweries and creameries, there’s a trail for every palate.

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.

Dining

After a day of exploring, the Finger Lakes dining scene won’t disappoint. From refined farm-to-table fare to beloved local favorites, these are the restaurants we recommend to our guests — each one a destination in its own right.

Kindred Fare — Farm-driven, seasonal cuisine in a warm and inviting space. A Canandaigua favorite known for its creative dishes and locally sourced ingredients.

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.

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.

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.

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 — worth the short drive to Rochester for a special evening out.

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.

Outdoor Recreation & Adventure

From gorge hikes and state parks to lake cruises and hot air balloon rides, the Finger Lakes region is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Many of these adventures are just minutes from The Chalet’s doorstep.

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.

Golf

The Finger Lakes offers outstanding golf with courses that wind through rolling hills, mature forests, and stunning lakeside terrain. Tee times are a short drive from The Chalet.

Ravenwood Golf Club — A premier Robert Trent Jones Jr. championship course in Victor, consistently rated among the best public courses in New York State.

CenterPointe Golf Club — A well-maintained public course offering a challenging and scenic 18-hole layout amidst the rolling terrain of the Finger Lakes.

Reservoir Creek Golf Club — A beautifully designed course set among the hills of Naples, offering a peaceful round with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

History & Culture

The Finger Lakes region is steeped in history — from the homeland of the Seneca Nation to the grand estates of the 19th century. These destinations bring the area’s rich heritage to life.

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.

Arts & Entertainment

From intimate summer theater to world-class concert venues, the region’s arts scene punches well above its weight. These are our favorites for a memorable evening out.

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.

Shopping

Downtown Canandaigua is a walkable gem with locally owned boutiques, specialty shops, and artisan goods. A perfect way to spend an afternoon between tastings.

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.

Tours & Transportation

Want to enjoy the wineries and breweries without worrying about driving? These local tour companies offer private and group excursions so you can sit back, sip, and enjoy.

Crush Beer & Wine Tours — Private, customizable wine and beer tours throughout the Finger Lakes with personalized itineraries and door-to-door service.

Grapevine Country Tours — Guided wine and beer tours with knowledgeable, friendly drivers who know the region inside and out. They pick up strangers and bring back friends!

Quality Wine & Brew Tours — Professional guided tours of the Finger Lakes wine trails with flexible itineraries for couples, groups, and special occasions.

Stompin’ Good Times — Fun, laid-back wine and brewery tours with an emphasis on great vibes, great stops, and a truly good time exploring the Finger Lakes.

Plan Your Finger Lakes Getaway

Ready to explore? Book your stay at The Chalet and let us be your home base for discovering the best of the Finger Lakes.

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.

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