Uncork the Charm of Cayuga Lake: Weekend Wine Trail Itinerary
We like to consider Cayuga Lake a hidden gem of the Finger Lakes, with an abundance of wineries, breweries, and restaurants yet to be discovered by many FLX visitors. While sometimes overshadowed by its neighboring lakes like Seneca and Skaneateles, Cayuga Lake has been a longstanding pioneer of Finger Lakes wine and food with so many gems to explore. From Ithaca’s foodie scene and Taughannock Falls to its variety of craft beverage stops (most being dog-friendly!), we hope you add Cayuga Lake to your summer bucket list.
Here are our top must-try visits for your trip to Cayuga Lake:
2770 Ernsberger Road
Romulus, New York 14541
Dog-friendly
Reservations recommended
We would be remiss if we didn’t mention our home here in this list. In addition to our year-round offerings, like wine by the glass, tastings, live music, bottle sales, and more, we also take great pride in our on-site restaurant, Field & Vine.
Field & Vine offers farm-inspired, locally sourced dishes with a beautiful vineyard view. Open seasonally, it offers lunch, dinner, prix-fixe menus, and more — all meant to be accompanied by a glass of Knapp wine. Don't forget to snap a few photos of the panoramic view as you toast to the start of the day!
6861 Route 89
Ovid, New York 14521
Dog-friendly
Walk-ins only for small groups
If you’re enjoying a boat day, we especially recommend Thirsty Owl, as it’s one of the few on Cayuga Lake that offers dock parking. As a walk-in-only winery, it's the perfect place for a spontaneous glass of wine. To fill up your stomach, indulge at the on-site bistro, which offers fresh, seasonal food and a unique “wine country style” dining experience.
5986 State Route 89 Romulus, NY 14541
Dog-friendly
Reservations recommended
For anyone searching for an overnight experience (and something right down the street from us at Knapp Winery), Buttonwood Grove is for you! The cabin offerings are suitable for those who are drawn to Bed & Breakfasts but desire more privacy. Each cabin was designed with comfort at the top of mind. In the summer, you can sit on their spacious deck overlooking the vineyard while enjoying live music and a glass of award-winning wine.
7020 State Route 89
Ovid, NY 14521
Dog-friendly
Reservations recommended
During the warmer months in New York, Hosmer offers two types of tastings: outdoor self-guided and indoor staff-guided. If you’d like something more laid-back, opt for the outside flight, which includes your choice of wines, a souvenir wine glass, and sunshine (when available). Inside, a wine connoisseur will guide guests through an educational wine experience. If you and your partner consider yourselves wine aficionados, this is the place for you!
1551 Slaterville RdIthaca, NY 14850
Dog-friendly
Reservations recommended
Want to add a little extra flair to your trip? In addition to wine, Six Mile Creek has spirit tastings that feature vodka, gin, and sweet liqueurs made in a traditional copper pot still in-house. The vineyard view gives true meaning to the ‘rolling hills’ of the Finger Lakes. Choose to sit outside to take in the serene outlook beyond the lake.
3050 Swick RdOvid, NY 14521
Dog-friendly
Reservations encouraged for tastings; required for brunch
Speaking of hills, if you ever wonder how far above the lake you are while sipping wine at Six Eighty Cellars, just look at the name! According to their website, the vineyard rises 680 feet from the bottom of Cayuga Lake. Sitting in their covered outdoor area, you truly feel like you’re in the clouds. If brunch is your thing, plan to visit on a Saturday or Sunday when they offer a selection of four Pét-Nat wines paired with your choice of brunch bites.
4565 State Route 414Romulus, New York 14541
Dog-friendly
Reservations not required
For picky wine drinkers or those still figuring out what they like, Swedish Hill has something for everyone. More than 50 wines are available for tastings, as well as hard cider, wine slushies, craft beer on tap, and grape juice for the younger ones!
Expand Your Horizons With Craft Brews & Local Gems
You’ve stocked up on wine and delectable bites; now it’s time for a change of pace. Fleur de Lis Brew Works (3630 NY-414, Seneca Falls, NY 13148) takes pride in its everyday ales, popular IPAs, and ancient Wild Ales and Saisons. The brewery is tucked in a forest and farmland off the beaten path. It’s a great spot to gather with friends and family for lawn games, craft beer, and good times.
If you’re more toward the south side of Cayuga Lake after winery visits, Liquid State Brewing Company (6128 NY-89, Romulus, NY 14541) should be your next stop. In addition to high-quality beers, live music, and ciders, Liquid State is also known for its extensive, satisfying in-house food menu.
Finally, across the lake from us at Knapp Winery is Aurora Brewing (1897 State Route 90 N, King Ferry, NY 13081). The brewery and taproom are open six days a week for lunch and dinner. Relax on their outdoor patio and take in the rural atmosphere, or grab your food to-go and bring it with you for whatever you have planned next on your Cayuga Lake adventure.
Between the Lakes BBQ
Between the Lakes is a staple for some of the best BBQ you’ll find on Cayuga Lake and a local favorite slated to open next to Knapp Winery this spring! If you’re planning an outdoor picnic for a large group, definitely be sure to order house-smoked meats, sandwiches, and sides from Between the Lakes’ catering service. All menu items are crafted by two passionate Finger Lakes pitmasters dedicated to delivering the finest flavors. Give them a call at (607) 793-4591 to place an order!
Ithaca is Gorges
Ithaca is a great place to hang your hat at the end of a wine trail day. With tons of great shops, cafes, and restaurants, the charm lives on every street. For those looking for a little more adventure, there’s so many beautiful hiking spots including the famous Taughannock Falls.
Cayuga Lake offers a delightful wine trail experience, showcasing the region's laid-back charm and diverse offerings. From our scenic vineyard views at Knapp to Thirsty Owl's dockside tastings and Fleur de Lis Brew Works’ woodsy experience, each stop promises memorable flavors and hospitality.
We can’t wait to see you on Cayuga Lake soon!