In the heart of New York’s scenic Finger Lakes region on the northern rim of Seneca Lake rests the historic, picturesque small city of Geneva, an easy 50-60 minute drive from Syracuse and Rochester. There are many reasons to visit during the warmer months – gorgeous lakes, wine and culinary highlights, exceptional hiking, biking, and golf in our great outdoors. Imagine yourself kayaking, boating, or swimming in the lake or hiking the trails through the surrounding hills. There are nearby wine trails on Cayuga and Seneca Lake and while the Finger Lakes are known for wine, they are also home to many craft breweries. When it comes time for a meal, look for Finger Lakes specialties at local food stores, restaurants, and farm stands. Come to a Geneva Music Festival concert and be sure to make time to experience the cultural attractions, outdoor recreation, and local food and craft beverage scene.
If you are arriving by car on the New York State Thruway, take Exit 42 and then Rt. 14 South to downtown Geneva. If you are arriving from the south, take Rt. 96A North from Ithaca or Rt. 14 North from Corning or Watkins Glen. Geneva is approximately an hour’s driving time from either the Greater Rochester International Airport or the Syracuse Hancock International Airport. There are several public parking lots within walking distance of the Smith Opera House, including one parking lot immediately across the street from the theater. On site parking is available at both Geneva on the Lake and The Cracker Factory.
Geneva has a well-deserved reputation for its restaurant scene: exceptional, nationally recognized fine dining and innovative “farm to table” establishments, campus and neighborhood favorites, international cuisines, and a fine selection of bars and grills serving local beers and wines in a convivial atmosphere. Geneva’s Italian heritage is evident, as well as the bounty of its local farms and fields, wineries and breweries. Linden Street and its surrounds host a wealth of establishments within walking distance of The Smith and hotels, or wander a little further afield in the city and its surrounds. The following is a selection of the possibilities.
If you are coming for a concert, why not plan to make a day of it and enjoy Geneva and the surrounding Finger Lakes?
Visit the NYS Finger Lakes Visitors’ Center on Geneva’s lakefront for tourist information, and sample local products and beverages.
Take a walk along the Seneca Lake shoreline from the Visitors’ Center.
Take a short drive to Seneca Falls to visit the National Women’s Rights Museum and National Women’s Hall of Fame.
Follow a Finger Lake wine trail
Spend a day in nature
Finger Lakes National Forest (hiking)
Watkins Glen State Park (waterfalls)
Taughannock State Park (waterfalls)
These sites have suggestions, listings, and an events calendar to help you plan your stay:
