Unique Summer Fun in New York's Southern Finger Lakes

With events and attractions ranging from spectacular to pristine to astonishing, New York State's diverse and beautiful Finger Lakes Region is the perfect spot for a summer getaway.

Watkins Glen

For the 14th year in a row, the beautiful shores of Seneca Lake will play host to an amazing array of activities during this summer's Waterfront Festival & Cardboard Boat Regatta at the Seneca Harbor Park, June 15 and 16. Visitors will delight in music performances, a great selection of food, a fishing derby, a parade and the highlight of the festival - the Cardboard Boat Regatta, in which boaters literally navigate handmade cardboard boats around a race course on the lake. It is a sight that truly must be seen to be believed! http://watkinsglen.com/festival/

Perhaps the regatta will inspire you to take a cruise on the 38-mile long Seneca Lake, the largest lake in the region. Check out Captain Bill's Cruises for sightseeing tours. www.senecaharborstation.com.

Within a few minutes drive from the Seneca Lake Harbor is a natural wonder that has been captivating visitors since its discovery. The gorge at Watkins Glen State Park is the perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy Mother Nature at her finest. After your hike along the gorge's meandering trails that take you over and under waterfalls, kick back and enjoy the park's Olympic sized-pool. Picnickers and campers are always welcome. www.nysparks.com.

Corning

For a museum experience unlike any other, visit the Corning Museum of Glass, just a few miles from Watkins Glen in neighboring Corning. Watch the professionals practice their craft during daily narrated glassblowing demonstrations; you can even experience the profession firsthand during the try-it-yourself glassmaking program. You will also marvel at the Museum's collection of over 45,000 objects that trace 3,500 years of glassmaking history, in addition to enjoying many other hands-on exhibits. www.cmog.org

Elmira

See the southern Finger Lakes Region from a bird's-eye view when you take off on a motorless sailplane ride from Elmira's Harris Hill. You'll be piloted on a serene, gentle flight that will take you thousands of feet in the air. If flying isn't your thing, the view of the Chemung River Valley from Harris Hill Park, the site of the National Soaring Museum, will take your breath away. Be sure to enjoy the fun and games at Harris Hill Park including, miniature golf, go-cart rides, a driving range, batting cages, family picnic areas and a small amusement park! www.soaringmuseum.org.

Wine Trails

With over 100 wineries turning out award-winning sparkling wines, Rieslings, Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays and ice wines, it's no wonder that the Finger Lakes Region developed wine trails to ensure that your visit is as convenient as possible. Canandaigua, Cayuga, Keuka and Seneca Lakes all have organized wine trails and many businesses offer chauffeur services so that you can enjoy the trails safely. New York State encourages all winery/vineyard guests to drink responsibly. www.canandaiguawinetrail.com www.cayugawinetrail.com www.keukawinetrail.com www.senecalakewine.com

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ABOUT I LOVE NEW YORK

I LOVE NEW YORK is a campaign administered by Empire State Development's Division of Tourism. First launched in 1977, I LOVE NEW YORK remains one of the most successful international tourism campaigns ever created and continues to promote the beauty and attractions of New York State's eleven geographic regions: Adirondacks, Capital - Saratoga, Catskills, Central Leatherstocking, Chautauqua-Allegheny, Finger Lakes, Greater Niagara, Hudson Valley, Long Island, New York City and Thousand Island- Seaway.

With 168 state parks, 35 state historic sites, major metropolitan centers and quaint small towns, New York State offers exciting year-round travel possibilities for visitors of all ages.

To learn more, or for details on upcoming events and lodging, dial 1/800- CALL-NYS or visit the I LOVE NEW YORK Web site at www.iloveny.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Scott Flaherty

Empire State Development

sflaherty@empire.state.ny.us

518/292-5131