Trip to Geneva! Nope, not that Geneva. I went to the other Geneva. The charming sleepy city that sits at the top of Seneca Lake in upstate New York.
Seneca Lake, Geneva, NY
Mini guide from my mini getaway to the Finger Lakes
We made Geneva, NY our landing pad for exploring the area. It’s surrounded by rural land with creative people making interesting things to eat & drink. The glaciers have sculpted clues to a much icier past. Leaving behind peaceful lake views and gorgeous gorges. Driving around reimagining the frozen history is oddly comforting when the temperature is climbing into the 90s!
*This is not an art post…just sharing the places I enjoyed in case you are visiting the Figer Lakes…Enjoy!
Mini guide from my mini getaway to the Finger Lakes
Below are snaps and links from the trip but really there is so much more to do in the area. I definitely recommend planning ahead to check hours and to make reservations. This part of the Finger Lakes is tourist friendly but kind of sleepy. Many places have limited hours…but in away, that kind of makes it even more fun to seek out.
Go to a historic landing pad
Park Place Geneva: https://www.parkhousegeneva.com
Loved staying in this 1800’s charmer that’s walkable to the lake and shops! Arriving to a bouquet of fresh flowers really sets the summer getaway mood.
Go rock OUT
Taughannock Falls: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/taughannockfalls
Even with the falls just a trickle due to the dry summer…it was worth the very steep hike. We went off trail and walked over the dry stone riverbed leading into the 250 feet deep gorge. Every step was like walking on the very skull of the earth. Probably just what my root chakra needed to recharge! I still don’t really know how to pronounce…Taughannocks…but I really want to go back when the rain comes.
Go in search of cider
Eve’s Cidery: https://www.evescidery.com/
I know it’s not very popular but I’m a fan of hard cider. The dryer the better. This tiny cidery way off the beaten path is putting its soul into the art of apple farming. With Eve as its name, I knew I would love it. Their cider house is covered in the most delightful wild graffiti. If you go…know it’s very much a working farm and reservation only. You will probably lose your GPS & get lost…and still absolutely enjoy the surprisingly elegant sparkling cider.
GO Eat Like a Local
Finger Lakes Cider House: https://www.fingerlakesciderhouse.com
Another Cider House. This one is very accessible with maybe the best farm-fresh salad I’ve ever had. Very “grown-up hippie vibe” place with lots of local yummies and interesting non-alcoholic shrub mocktails. It even has a yurt if you are on the lookout for a unique farm stay.
a few more FAVORITES
FLX Table: https://flxtable.com
“Once a year, go somewhere you have never been before.” - Dalai Lama
This was like eating art. An intimate experience of being almost in the kitchen with the chefs. Not for everyone…but if flavors can take you to another world this is the place.
Spotted Duck: https://spottedduck.com/flavors
I had no idea duck egg custard was a thing…It is, and you can taste all the flavors here. It’s delicious and you can even meet the ducks.
Kindred Fare: https://kindredfare.com/menu
A fresh new farm-to-table place with a big menu. Something for everyone…meat, seafood, kids & yes, even vegans.
Morgan Laurent: https://www.morganlaurent.com
It’s very possible to walk down the streets of Geneva carrying vintage chairs from this fun shop. Just saying…it can be done:)
Geneva Lakefront Trail: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-york/geneva-lakefront-trail
Paved path running along the lake edge. Beautiful skies and lake breezes. Almost makes me want to move here…but then again it wasn’t winter;)
It was sooo good to getaway. I hope you have had time to GO away this summer too…even if just in your mind!
If you’ve been and have any favorites please let me know! Say Hello & Send me an email below.
“ Once a year, go somewhere you have never been before.”
PS…
Side Stop in Seneca Falls
This was a quick stop on our way home. It’s a tiny town with forgotten storefronts trying to make a comeback. I felt like I fit right in with my hat in the Birthplace of Woman’s Rights and the inspiration for the movie It’s a Wonderful Life. Also, got a little wink here from my hometown in Pennsylvania, The Phoenixville Foundry steel workers built the bridge!
Women’s Rights National Historical Park https://www.nps.gov/wori/index.htm
Worth the pause to reflect on the Declaration of Sentiments. I’m ashamed to admit I have benefitted from it more than I can say…but had not read it!!! Interesting educational exhibits that begin with the Haudenosaunee women of this land. Lots of conversation starters!
Also, the new home of the Woman’s Hall of Fame is just across the river…I didn’t have time to visit but it’s inspiring to know it’s there. There is always next time.
Wonderful Life Museum: https://www.wonderfullifemuseum.com
This place is a work in progress trying to raise funds for a “real” museum for my favorite Christmas movie. I know I’m dorky and I don’t care;)…maybe it’s because my last name is Bedford, or maybe because it’s just such a corny movie it makes me cry…every time.
🔔 if you go bring a little bell to attach to the George Bailly Bridge…sweet to see all the little bells & a way to remember life can be really hard sometimes 🔔
“We hold these truths to be self-evident; that all men and women are created equal”
Dear Adam, Try the apples. Love, Eve