Just 30 minutes south of Trumansburg, there are so many great things to do in Watkins Glen, NY, offers one of the most unforgettable summer day trips in the Finger Lakes. Known for its dramatic gorge and cascading waterfalls, Watkins Glen State Park is the centerpiece. Couples and solo travelers alike come to explore the park’s scenic trails, where 19 waterfalls spill through a deep gorge carved by ancient glaciers. The Gorge Trail is the star, with stone steps, tunnels, and breathtaking overlooks that make the experience feel like something out of another world.
But there’s more to Watkins Glen than just the park. The downtown area is lively with restaurants, tasting rooms, and boutique shops, perfect for browsing after a morning hike. You can take a walk along Seneca Lake at the waterfront marina, enjoy a craft beer at a local brewery, or visit the historic Watkins Glen International racetrack. There are plenty of things to do in Watkins Glen on a weekend getaway to Upstate NY!
From natural beauty to local flavor, it’s the kind of place that balances adventure with laid-back charm. After your exploration, return to the Inn at Gothic Eves, one of the top-rated Finger Lakes bed and breakfasts, which gives you the perfect opportunity to unwind and reflect on the day. Our welcoming hospitality, elegant accommodations, wholesome breakfast, and on-site spa come together for a weekend getaway in Upstate NY you won’t soon forget. Book your lodging today!
The Best Things to do in Watkins Glen, NY, this Summer
Summer is the best time to explore Watkins Glen and its surrounding gems. Whether chasing waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park, sipping wine on the lakefront, or catching a sunset from a cruise on the water, there’s something here for everyone. It’s easy to craft a full and meaningful day, then return to a restful, luxurious experience in Trumansburg at our bed and breakfast.
Here are the best things to do in Watkins Glen, aside from the popular state park, this summer:
- The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is the second biggest draw to this area; it’s by far one of the best things to do in Watkins Glen if you’re a wine lover. Watkins Glen is the southern anchor of this famous wine trail. Visit nearby favorites like Lakewood Vineyards and Castel Grisch Winery.
- Our guests love to shop at local boutiques, grab lunch at a café, or enjoy an ice cream cone while people-watching along Franklin Street. The charming downtown area of Watkins Glen is a lovely stop on your weekend getaways to Upstate NY.
- On summer weekends, enjoy the Watkins Glen Farmers Market for a seasonal market filled with fresh produce, flowers, and handmade goods.
- Watkins Glen International, also known as “The Glen,” is a legendary road racing track in Watkins Glen, NY, with a rich history dating back to 1948. It hosts major events like NASCAR, IMSA, and vintage car races, drawing motorsports fans nationwide. Visitors can tour the facility, attend thrilling races, or even drive their own car around the iconic 3.4-mile course on select days.
- Take a scenic boat tour of the lake with Captain Bill on Seneca Lake and learn about the area’s geology and history from a new perspective. These romantic cruises are one of the best things to do in Watkins Glen for couples!
Don’t Miss Watkins Glen State Park:
If you only have time to explore one of the best things to do in Watkins Glen, then you must go chasing waterfalls at this iconic state park. The 19 cascades are all unique, flowing over stunning rock formations, misty caves, and stone staircases weaving around this beautiful gorge. You have to see it for yourself, and it’s a fantastic outing for your weekend getaways in Upstate New York.
One of the Best Weekend Getaways in Upstate NY
After a full day of exploring all of the best things to do in Watkins Glen, you’ll love retreating to our peaceful bed and breakfast in Trumansburg. The Inn at Gothic Eves is perfectly located between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, offering a quiet retreat within easy reach of the region’s top attractions. Guests enjoy the spacious comfort of our luxurious rooms and suites, farm-fresh breakfasts each morning, and beautiful gardens that invite you to slow down.
Each immaculate guest room features thoughtfully curated decor, plush beds with fine linens, and private bathrooms—some with jetted tubs or walk-in showers. Large windows fill the spaces with natural light, while hardwood floors, antique furnishings, and contemporary touches add warmth and comfort. Several suites offer sitting areas, gas fireplaces, or private entrances, making them ideal for more extended stays or romantic getaways.
Many of our guests spend the morning adventuring, then return for an afternoon spa service or a soak in the hot tub. Whether you’re here for the waterfalls, the wine, or the sense of calm that defines the Finger Lakes, our inn is the ideal home base. Let your summer escape be both vibrant and restful with a stay at one of the top-rated bed and breakfasts in the Finger Lakes. Book your lodging today!
