Road trip from NYC

NYC to Finger Lakes

Wineries, waterfalls and lakes in central New York.

~4.5 hours · ~250 miles from New York City

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The Finger Lakes region is wine country with a side of waterfalls — about 4.5 hours upstate. With dozens of wineries, gorges like Watkins Glen, and 11 lakes, it's a road trip best explored over a long weekend with a car as your base.

Trip highlights

  • Wineries along Seneca and Cayuga Lakes
  • Watkins Glen State Park gorge trail
  • Ithaca, Corning Museum of Glass and more
  • Full-size or SUV for the distance and the region

Driving tips

Plan a designated driver

Wine touring and driving don't mix. Plan tastings around a designated driver, or build in time between stops.

NYC to Finger Lakes FAQs

About 250 miles and 4.5 hours. It's a long-weekend destination; a car is essential to move between the lakes, wineries and waterfalls.

Renting a car for the trip

Compare deals for your dates in the search below. For longer hauls, consider an SUV or full-size car, and if you're flying back rather than returning to the city, check out a one-way rental.

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