As Seen in WESTERN NY FAMILY MAGAZINE, JUNE 2020 WNY Family Magazine  and FORBES, July 2021 Forbes Online

Boasting natural wonders and a rich cultural heritage, New York is an ideal destination for a fun-filled road trip. The Empire State Road Trip is designed to showcase three of New York's most diverse and popular regions. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind getaway with an itinerary that includes stays at our Four Diamond caliber properties in spectacular waterfront destinations, including the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, on the shores of Seneca Lake in Watkins Glen, and Chautauqua Harbor Hotel on Chautauqua Lake in the Southern Tier.

You may choose to start your Empire State Road Trip from any of our hotels.  A three-hour ride separates 1000 Islands from Watkins Glen and from Watkins Glen to Chautauqua – with many interesting stops, natural wonders and cultural attractions in between.

1000 Islands

Begin your road trip at our hotel and get ready to explore the historic sites and attractions along the St. Lawrence riverfront. Be sure to visit the Antique Boat Museum and Rock Island Lighthouse, complete with keeper's quarters and museum. Check out Boldt Castle, a turn-of-the-century marvel on the mighty St. Lawrence. Sample the local spirits and craft beers at one of the many distilleries or breweries. Or kick back and relax while you enjoy a river cruise with never-ending panoramic views.

Finger Lakes Region

Continue your adventure as you head off to Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, approx. 3.25 hours away and located in the picturesque town of Watkins Glen on the shores of Seneca Lake. Interesting stops along the way include the Women's Rights National Historical Park, site of the first Women's Rights Convention held in Seneca Falls; South Main Street in Geneva, offering boutique shopping, charming cafes and stunning historic architecture; and Waterloo Designer Outlets, featuring 100 stores with great buys.

Settle in at the hotel, nestled on Seneca Lake in the heart of the Finger Lakes Region. Taste your way through the 34 wineries on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, take a boat tour on the pristine waters of the lake, or go for a hike in Watkins Glen State Park, which has recently undergone a $6.5 million renovation and is home to myriad waterfalls. Other buzz-worthy attractions include Watkins Glen International and the Farm Sanctuary.

Chautauqua Lake

Put the pedal to the metal and drive to charming Celoron where the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel awaits on the southeastern shores of Chautauqua Lake. Travel to nearby Jamestown, Lucille Ball's childhood home, to take a tour of the state-of-the art National Comedy Center, home to more than 50 immersive exhibits, and visit to the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, where costumes, photographs and memorabilia are on display. Make time to tour the grounds of the venerable Chautauqua Institution, visit Frank Lloyd Wright's Graycliff Estate, perched high on a bluff overlooking Lake Erie, and take a foliage boat cruise on Chautauqua Lake.

Empire State Road Trip PDF

Make a reservation or call 607-535-3759 for more information.