Where Brave Women Autumn
As the weather cools down and the air refreshes with the change of the season, an experience filled with culture, nourishment and exploration awaits you in the Finger Lakes. Rest your head, delight your taste buds, and become fascinated with the legacies created by the trailblazers who paved the way for growth and change.
DAY ONE
Lucas Vineyards- Interlaken, NY
Partake in the treasures of the region at Lucas Vineyards, one of the first female-owned wineries in the region and co-founder of the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, America’s oldest organized wine trail. Three generations of women produce its award-winning wines, including the nautically-inspired “Tug Boat” and “Nautie” lines.
Deer Haven Park – Romulus, NY
Take a guided bus tour of the historic Deer Haven Park. At one time, this location was the US Army’s main East Coast munitions storage facility, serving the needs of the brave men and women in our military. After 70 years of locked gates and a quiet existence, Deer Haven Park now offers a glimpse into this magical destination. You will learn about the rich military history and possibly see white deer from the unique white deer herd that lives in the park.
Seneca Lake State Park – Geneva, NY
Now that you’ve explored the woods, go for a hike or a walk alongside water. Take in the autumn lakeside scenery at Seneca Lake State Park and enjoy the sparkles of the water against the brilliant colors of the season. It’s an excellent way to find your own moment of peace and serenity.
Elizabeth Blackwell Statue – Geneva, NY
Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell made history when she became the first woman to ever graduate medical school in the United States. She applied to Geneva Medical College in honor of a close friend who died, and was accepted as a joke. Ultimately, the joke was on the admissions team because Elizabeth graduated at the top of her class in 1849. Now, a statue of Elizabeth Blackwell sits on the quad of the renamed Hobart College in Geneva and you can visit it to pay your respects to her legacy.
Kindred Fare – Geneva, NY
Venture over to Kindred Fare for a delicious farm-to-table meal. Have dinner at this woman-owned restaurant and enjoy delectable selections of flavorful dishes that run the gamut: comfort food, lighter fare, burgers and sandwiches, charcuterie boards, salads, shareable plates, and more! A three-course prix fixe classic dinner menu is available, with an option to pair with wine. Reservations are highly recommended, so you know this local eatery is a hit!
Belhurst Castle & Winery – Geneva, NY
Settle in for a restful night’s sleep at one of the more unique places to stay in the Finger Lakes. Most well known for its winery, Belhurst Castle also boasts a restaurant, spa, and hotel. Set along a gorgeous stretch of Seneca Lake, guests can enjoy dinner and a glass of wine on the sprawling patio. And for those interested in a different kind of spirit, the hotel is rumored to be haunted. The ghost of Isabella Robinson is said to be seen roaming the grounds. Now that’s a different kind of brave woman, indeed!
DAY TWO
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation or local fave, Bagels and Cakes, which offers a combination of traditional kettle boiled bagels and signature sandwiches. If you want to indulge in the tastes of the season, Captain’s Cafe is the place for you. This family-owned and operated gem gives you plenty of traditional plates and fall favorites to choose from, including pumpkin rolls, pumpkin French toast, and carrot cake.
Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park – Canandaigua, NY
Enjoy a scenic autumn drive through the Finger Lakes on your way to your next location. Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion features nine formal gardens, inspired by the international trips of Mary Clark Thompson. The Queen Anne-style mansion was once the summer home of Thompson and her husband, Frederick Ferris Thompson. After Mr. Thompson’s passing, Mary began redesigning, renovating, and building the diverse gardens surrounding the mansion as a living memorial to her husband – a creation that spanned 17 years, starting in 1902. Find the tranquility you seek as you walk through their gardens during your seasonal escape at this New York State Historic Park.
Star Cider – Canandaigua, NY
Wet your whistle and satisfy your appetite at Star Cider. This woman-owned establishment offers the perfect setting to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. From their regular ciders to unique seasonal ciders, you will want to check out their tasting room for amazing seasonal releases. If wine or cocktails are your preference, no worries – there’s plenty to choose from! While you’re there, you can enjoy delicious Mexican street food from Neno’s, their on-premises restaurant.
Explore Canandaigua
Take some free time to explore the city affectionately called “The Jewel of the Finger Lakes.” See the Ontario County Courthouse where Susan B. Anthony was tried on the charge of voting illegally. Stop by the Seneca Family Statue, which depicts a family from the Seneca nation — father, mother, son and daughter, a tribute to the Haudenosaunee (hoe-dee-no-SHOW-nee), who first inhabited this region. Explore locally owned shops, galleries, and restaurants, and before heading home, pick a spot outside and near Canandaigua Lake to find one more moment of calm and peace of mind.
Ganondagan State Historic Site – Victor, NY
The astonishing women’s rights movement, centered in the Finger Lakes region, would not have been possible without the generations of people who lived here before us. At Ganondagan State Historic Site, visitors can learn all about the indigenous people who originally inhabited the area. Ganondagan, a Seneca name meaning “White Town” or “Town of Peace”, is a living history museum showcasing the 17th century town constructed by the Haudenosaunee people. Visitors can also learn about brave woman Jikonsaseh, the “Mother of Nations”, who created the mold for women’s equality.
