Map Of Ontario County Ny

Introduction

Ontario County in New York is a beautiful destination that offers a plethora of activities for travelers. From exploring historic landmarks to hiking in the mountains, there is something for everyone in this picturesque county. This comprehensive travel guide aims to cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Ontario County.

Top Attractions

Finger Lakes Wine Country

Ontario County is part of the Finger Lakes wine country, home to some of the best wineries in the world. The region is known for its Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and Chardonnay wines. Visitors can take a wine tour and enjoy tastings at several wineries along the way.

Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” The park spans over 14,000 acres and features three major waterfalls, hiking trails, campsites, and picnic areas. Visitors can also enjoy hot air balloon rides over the park.

Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion

The Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion is a historic landmark in Canandaigua, Ontario County. The mansion was built in 1887 and is surrounded by nine formal gardens. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and gardens and learn about the history of the property.

Hidden Gems

Grimes Glen Park

Grimes Glen Park is a hidden gem in Naples, Ontario County. The park features a stunning waterfall and a series of natural pools that visitors can swim in during the summer months. The park also has hiking trails and picnic areas.

Canadice Lake

Canadice Lake is a hidden gem in Ontario County that offers visitors a peaceful retreat. The lake is surrounded by forested hills and is perfect for kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives around the lake.

Ontario County Historical Society and Museum

The Ontario County Historical Society and Museum is a hidden gem in Canandaigua, Ontario County. The museum features exhibits on local history, including the Seneca Nation, the Underground Railroad, and the Women’s Suffrage Movement. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the museum.

Food Scene

Mac’s Philly Steaks

Mac’s Philly Steaks is a popular restaurant in Canandaigua that serves up authentic Philly cheesesteaks. The restaurant also offers a variety of other sandwiches, salads, and sides.

The Red Dove Tavern

The Red Dove Tavern is a farm-to-table restaurant in Geneva, Ontario County. The restaurant features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and offers a variety of dishes, including seafood, steak, and pasta.

F.L.X. Table

F.L.X. Table is a unique dining experience in Geneva, Ontario County. The restaurant only has 12 seats and serves a multi-course tasting menu. Reservations are required, and the menu changes frequently based on seasonal ingredients.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Visit State Parks

Visiting state parks in Ontario County is a budget-friendly way to explore the outdoors. Most state parks have low admission fees, and visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, and picnicking for free.

Take a Walking Tour

Taking a walking tour of a town or city in Ontario County is a budget-friendly way to learn about local history and architecture. Many walking tours are free or have a low admission fee.

Visit Local Markets

Visiting local markets in Ontario County is a budget-friendly way to sample local produce, baked goods, and crafts. Many markets have free admission, and visitors can find unique souvenirs to take home.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking

Ontario County has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some popular trails include the Ontario Pathways Trail, the Bristol Hills Branch Trail, and the Keuka Outlet Trail.

Kayaking

Kayaking is a popular activity in Ontario County, thanks to its numerous lakes and waterways. Visitors can rent kayaks and explore Canandaigua Lake, Keuka Lake, and Seneca Lake.

Fishing

Fishing is another popular activity in Ontario County, thanks to its abundance of lakes and streams. Visitors can fish for trout, bass, and other species in Canandaigua Lake, Keuka Lake, and Seneca Lake.

Family-Friendly Activities

Roseland Waterpark

Roseland Waterpark is a family-friendly destination in Canandaigua, Ontario County. The waterpark features a variety of water slides, pools, and attractions, including a lazy river and a wave pool.

The Strong National Museum of Play

The Strong National Museum of Play is a family-friendly museum in Rochester, just a short drive from Ontario County. The museum features interactive exhibits and displays on toys, games, and play.

The New York Museum of Transportation

The New York Museum of Transportation is a family-friendly museum in Rush, just a short drive from Ontario County. The museum features exhibits on the history of transportation in New York, including trains, trolleys, and buses.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Naples Grape Festival

The Naples Grape Festival is an off-the-beaten-path experience in Ontario County that takes place in late September. The festival celebrates the harvest season with grape stomping, wine tasting, and live music.

The Purple Painted Lady Festival

The Purple Painted Lady Festival is an off-the-beaten-path experience in Macedon, Ontario County. The festival celebrates the art of painting furniture and features vendors, workshops, and demonstrations.

The Clifton Springs Sanitarium

The Clifton Springs Sanitarium is an off-the-beaten-path experience in Clifton Springs, Ontario County. The sanitarium was a popular destination for people seeking a cure for various ailments in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanitarium and learn about its history.

Natural Wonders

Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park is a natural wonder in Schuyler County, just a short drive from Ontario County. The park features a series of waterfalls and hiking trails that wind through the gorge.

Hi Tor Wildlife Management Area

Hi Tor Wildlife Management Area is a natural wonder in Yates County, just a short drive from Ontario County. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, and offers hiking and hunting opportunities.

The Canandaigua Outlet Trail

The Canandaigua Outlet Trail is a natural wonder in Ontario County that follows the path of the Canandaigua Outlet, a small stream that flows into Canandaigua Lake. The trail offers hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Smith Opera House

The Smith Opera House is a historic theater in Geneva, Ontario County, that hosts a variety of live performances, including music, theater, and comedy. The theater also has a bar and lounge area.

The Lake House on Canandaigua

The Lake House on Canandaigua is a hotel in Canandaigua that features a rooftop bar with stunning views of Canandaigua Lake. The bar serves a variety of cocktails, wine, and beer.

The Clubhouse at Ravines Wine Cellars

The Clubhouse at Ravines Wine Cellars is a restaurant and event venue in Geneva, Ontario County. The venue hosts live music events throughout the year and features a variety of wines and craft beers.

Local Markets

The Canandaigua Farmers Market

The Canandaigua Farmers Market is a local market in Canandaigua that features fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local vendors. The market is open on Saturdays from May through October.

The Geneva Farmers Market

The Geneva Farmers Market is a local market in Geneva that features fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local vendors. The market is open on Thursdays from June through October.

The Naples Open-Air Market

The Naples Open-Air Market is a local market in Naples that features fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local vendors. The market is open on Saturdays from Memorial Day through October.