Looking for Finger Lakes charm with scenic views, wineries, and cultural gems? Head to Canandaigua! Nestled at the northern tip of Canandaigua Lake, this beautiful town blends lakefront fun, historic sites, and award-winning wine and food. It’s a year-round favorite for couples, families, and outdoor lovers alike.
Canandaigua, NY Highlights:
- Canandaigua Lake: Swim, boat, kayak, or enjoy lakeside relaxation at this stunning Finger Lakes gem.
- Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park: Tour a 50-acre estate with formal gardens and a Victorian mansion.
- New York Kitchen: Learn about local food and wine through classes, tastings, and a regional-focused restaurant.
- Downtown Canandaigua: Shop boutiques, browse art galleries, and dine at farm-to-table eateries along Main Street.
- CMAC (Constellation Brands–Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center): Catch concerts and big-name acts at this scenic outdoor amphitheater.
Best Time to Visit Canandaigua, NY
The best time to visit is from late spring through early fall (May–October). Summer offers ideal lake weather, concerts, and winery visits, while fall brings vibrant foliage and harvest festivals. Winter offers a quieter escape with snowy charm and cozy retreats.
How to Get to Canandaigua, NY
- If you are traveling by car: Located off Route 332, Canandaigua is about 30 minutes from Rochester and 1.5 hours from Syracuse or Buffalo.
- By Plane: Fly into Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC), then drive about 40 minutes southeast.
- By Train: The closest Amtrak station is in Rochester; from there, rent a car or take a rideshare to Canandaigua.
Where to Stay in Canandaigua, NY
- The Lake House on Canandaigua – Upscale lakeside resort with luxury rooms, spa, fine dining, and stunning views.
- Bed & Breakfast at Oliver Phelps – Historic B&B known for charming rooms and gourmet breakfast.
- Holiday Inn Express Canandaigua – Comfortable and convenient for families and those attending events at CMAC.
Best Things to Do in Canandaigua, NY
1. Stroll through the Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park
Rating: ★★★★★
Formerly the summer home of a wealthy New York City banker, the Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park is a gorgeous 50-acre property with nine formal gardens. Much of the 40-room mansion is open to visitors, as are the gardens, which range from an elaborate Japanese garden to a peaceful rock garden. During the high season, the admission ticket includes a guided tour of the estate. The park is open to visitors seven days a week between the beginning of May and the end of October, and during these months, there are often evening concerts, afternoon high teas, and other special events.
Address: 151 Charlotte St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, Phone: 585-394-4922
2. Go skiing at the Bristol Mountain Ski Resort
Only ten miles outside of Canandaigua, the Bristol Mountain Ski Resort is the place to go if you want to have some fun outdoors, particularly in the winter. The park boasts 34 trails spread out over almost 140 acres, and with the trails ranging from green to double black, there's something for skiers and riders of all ability levels. Two terrain parks and a handful of cross-country skiing trails can be found here as well. It's worth visiting the resort in the summer as well; they have a challenging high ropes course, a ziplines course, and a kids' adventure park.
Address: 5662 NY-64, Canandaigua, NY 14424
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
3. Get to a show at CMAC
Known in full as the Constellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center, the CMAC is a large amphitheater that can hold up to 15,000 people. The seating is both under the roof and on the grassy hill overlooking the stage, and the performances range from popular musicians to ballet shows.
A wide variety of food and drink trucks are usually on-site during events, and there's also a Corona-themed beer garden on the lawn. If you want to upgrade your experience, you can even get tickets for a VIP tent with a private bar and complimentary snacks.
Address: 4355 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424
4. Take a guided tour of the Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum
Originally constructed in 1816, the Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum offers a fascinating look how people in the area used to live. The elegant three-story mansion is open to visitors by guided tour, and the tour also goes through two old barns filled with antique sleighs, carriages, and farm equipment.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the beautiful grounds and gardens on their own. Carriage rides are offered between June and October, and during the winter, guests can often take a short sleigh ride around the property. Every November, the estate hosts a popular Festival of Trees and a three-day Christmas market.
Address: 295 N Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, Phone: 585-394-1472
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
5. Admire historical objects at the Ontario County Historical Society
If you want to learn about the history of Ontario County and the people who have lived here over the years, there's no better place to do so than at the Ontario County Historical Society. They have a wide collection of historical objects and photos, and there's always an interesting exhibit to see.
The staff are also happy to help you with your own genealogical research projects, although it's best to arrange an appointment in advance. If you're interested in learning even more, there's also a small bookshop with a fascinating selection of books, CDs, and DVDs.
Address: 55 N Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, Phone: 585-394-4975
6. Take the kids to Lincoln Hill Farms
Occupying 95 acres of historic farmland, Lincoln Hill Farms is a family-friendly gathering place that holds both public and private events. Live music is held Thursday through Sunday, and every Sunday, there's a special family day with free admission, children's yard games, and a small petting zoo. A farm-to-table food truck and a 'silo bar' with 36 tap beers can be found on-site as well.
Other events are held throughout the year as well; the most up-to-date information can be found on their website, but keep an eye out for extra-special seasonal events like the August Brewfest and the Halloween paintball.-
Address: 3792 NY-247, Canandaigua, NY 14424, Phone: 585-563-8846
7. Stop by the Pat Rini Rohrer Art Gallery
Owned and operated by a talented local artist, the Pat Rini Rohrer Art Gallery is a great place to see some incredible artwork made by artists who call the Finger Lakes region home.
The gallery is housed inside a gorgeous refurbished 1850s house on Main Street, and it typically features a wide range of different artistic styles, including hand-blown glass, oil and watercolor paintings, unique sculptures, and jewelry. Visitors are always welcome to stop by during opening hours, and if you have more time, the gallery also offers one-day workshops and multi-session classes taught by various professional artists from the area.
Address: 71 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, Phone: 585-394-0030
8. Have lunch at Simply Crepes Cafe - Canandaigua
Established by a French-Canadian family with a delicious crepe recipe that has been passed down for generations, the Simply Crepes Cafe - Canandaigua is a unique restaurant that serves sweet and savory crepes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
All dishes are made fresh from locally sourced ingredients, and although the menu changes with the season, there's always salads, soups, and sides as well as an incredible selection of crepes. Lactose- and gluten-free crepes are available for guests with dietary restrictions. The restaurant is open seven days a week, and on Sunday mornings, there's a special brunch buffet with a made-to-order crepe station.
Address: 101 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, Phone: 585-394-9090
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