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Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in New York’s Finger Lakes to Honor Women
Here here to female trailblazers.
Hear the words Upstate New York and you might conjure scenes of sprawling forests, summer days by glinting water bodies, or heavy snowfall and cozy cabins. Naturally, those images also apply to the Finger Lakes, a subregion of Upstate New York that’s centered around 11 long and narrow lakes. It’s a sight to behold, sure, but there’s a lot more to the Finger Lakes than beautiful landscapes.
The Finger Lakes has a long history of backdropping important historical movements — specifically, those led by important women. Long before American women won the right to vote in 1920, Susan B. Anthony fought for suffrage in Rochester, New York. Meanwhile, Harriet Tubman guided enslaved people to freedom from her home in Auburn, New York, not long after escaping from slavery herself in 1849. Their fearless activism shaped both history and the region, and the women of today’s Finger Lakes continue to make a lasting impact.
For a visit that embraces not just the beauty of the Finger Lakes but also its significance in women’s history, here’s a closer look at the historical sites you have to see, the woman-owned businesses you’ll love to support, and the dining you won’t want to miss, from Rochester to Auburn and the must-see places in between.
Rochester
Photo: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock
Things to do
Memorial Art Gallery
Photos: Mion Edwards
Rochester’s Memorial Art Gallery (MAG) is the kind of museum that encourages you to take your time, with a simple layout that keeps the focus on the artworks on display. Its permanent collection — an accumulation of 13,000-plus artworks spanning prehistory to today — celebrates a wide range of artistry. That includes cross-continental Indigenous creations, works from antiquity, contributions from the European and American traditions, and a growing body of work from contemporary artists the world over.
One highlight if you’re visiting with women’s history in mind is an exhibition titled Composing Color: Paintings by Alma Thomas, which will be on display through May 2025. Thomas was the first Black woman to graduate from Howard University with a fine arts degree. Her abstract artwork is inspired by “nature, the cosmos, and music,” according to MAG.
My recommendation: Try to visit on a day when the gallery is hosting a special community event to get a better sense of the Finger Lakes community while you’re there.
Memorial Art Gallery: 500 University Ave, Rochester, NY 14607
National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
Photos: Karlsson Photo/Shutterstock and Mion Edwards
In Rochester, tour the home of Susan B. Anthony (a key figure in the women’s suffrage movement) to learn about her upbringing, her arrest for voting illegally in the 1872 presidential election, her role in starting the Revolution newspaper that ran between 1868 and 1872, and her connections with other abolitionists. This home — now a National Historic Landmark — was her residence for 40 years and the place she lived until her death. After my tour, I had a deeper understanding of how truly brave Anthony was during her time.
National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House: 17 Madison St, Rochester, NY 14608
Let’s Have Tea Sculpture
Photo: Mion Edwards
Directly across from Susan B. Anthony’s home is a sculpture called Let’s Have Tea that memorializes Anthony alongside her friend, fellow civil rights leader, and Rochester native Frederick Douglass. What moved me the most was seeing previous visitors honor Anthony’s fight for women’s right to vote by placing “I Voted” stickers on the statue.
Let’s Have Tea Sculpture: 31 Madison St, Rochester, NY 14608
Mount Hope Cemetery
Photo: Steven Bodnar/Shutterstock
Tucked away in a park-like setting, America’s first municipally owned Victorian cemetery spans over 190 acres. Not only is Mount Hope Cemetery a peaceful spot to visit, but it’s also the final resting place of notable Rochester natives including Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass. Their walking graves and within walking distance of one another — standing by either (or both) is a humbling experience that gives weight to the great impact they had on history.
Mount Hope Cemetery: 1133 Mt Hope Ave, Rochester, NY 14620
Where to eat
Brown Hound Downtown
Photo: Mion Edwards
Brown Hound Downtown is located within the Memorial Art Gallery, which not only makes it a convenient place to grab a bite on a busy sightseeing day but also like you’ve stumbled upon a real in-the-know spot. The bistro, bakery, and full bar is known for its all-American menu — one standout dish is the crispy fried chicken and waffle (and don’t be shy with the sriracha syrup).
Brown Hound Downtown: 500 University Ave, Rochester, NY 14607
La Bola
Located inside Mercantile on Main, Rochester’s food hall, La Bola serves a fusion of Spanish and Mediterranean flavors. Menu items include patatas bravas with spicy bravas sauce, sherry-glazed pork belly, and a deconstructed flatbread featuring boneless romesco chicken thigh accompanied by hummus, basmati rice, spiced yogurt, pickled onions, and more.
La Bola: 240 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14604
Canandaigua
Photo: Real Window Creative/Shutterstock
Things to do
Ontario County Courthouse
Photo: Mion Edwards
Check out the exterior of the Ontario County Courthouse, a historical building where Susan B. Anthony was tried in 1873 for “illegal voting” in the federal election. She was found guilty and fined $100. Her trial became a pivotal movement in the fight for women’s rights, which was ultimately realized 48 years later. Standing on those steps reminded me that every protest, no matter how small it may seem in the moment, can be a catalyst for real change.
Ontario County Courthouse: 27 North Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424
New York Kitchen
Photos: Mion Edwards
My wine tasting here was like none other I’ve done (and trust me, I’ve been to plenty). Not only did I learn about wine notes and pairings — tasting crisp whites, full-bodied reds, and local cheeses — but New York Kitchen also took it to the next level by hosting a panel of women winemakers and industry leaders from the Finger Lakes community.
The afternoon was spent sharing personal stories about the love of wine-making and the need to continue uplifting the next generation of winemakers. It wasn’t that long ago that female winemakers were rare in the Finger Lakes and beyond, but today, more and more women are making their mark on the wine industry. I learned how each woman there carved out a space in a traditionally male-dominated field and how the region is evolving to become more inclusive.
New York Kitchen: 800 South Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424
Where to eat
Patty’s Place
Photos: Mion Edwards
Although it hasn’t always been Patty’s Place, this is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Canandaigua, with eateries serving the city from this site for more than 130 years. Patty’s Place is a great choice for breakfast for the whole family or anyone passing through town, with a hometown-diner-like atmosphere and a come-as-you-are vibe. I got the Patty’s Special, featuring two eggs, crispy home fries, and bacon — a classic American way to start the day. Adding a piece of blueberry muffin bread french toast enhances the experience.
Patty’s Place: 33 South Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424
Simply Crepes
Photo: Mion Edwards
This cozy spot in Canandaigua is known for its sweet and savory crepes made with fresh ingredients (and an aroma that’ll have you salivating as soon as you enter). My recommendation: Get the chai latte paired with the Boston crème crepe, filled with chocolate mousse, crème brûlée custard, bananas, crushed shortbread cookies, and drizzled with chocolate sauce.
Simply Crepes: 101 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
Bloomfield
Photo: Mion Edwards
Things to do
Green Riding Retreats
Photos: Mion Edwards
In a word, I’d describe my horseback riding experience with Green Riding Retreats as therapeutic — a chance to reconnect with both myself and nature. The instructor, Jessica Green, has over 40 years of experience working with horses — and you can tell. While riding, Jessica fostered a safe, enjoyable, and educational experience. After a few first-time jitters, I felt at ease as we ventured through the terrain and forest, spotting deer along the way.
Green Riding Retreats: Liberty Stables, 4318 Buckelew Road, Bloomfield, NY 14469
Geneva
Photo: Jay Yuan/Shutterstock
Things to do
Trestle 31
Founded by Nova and Brian Cadanatre, Trestle 31 is a family-run vineyard in the Finger Lakes region. Nova, a Master of Wine, brings her extensive knowledge and experience in the Finger Lakes and Napa to the winery, which produces a range of whites from rieslings to chardonnays, as well as select rosés and reds. But wine isn’t the only talent the family brings to Trestle 31 — the family’s creativity also shines through the intricate artwork Nova’s mother, artist Linda Wiliams McCune, creates.
Trestle 31: 436 Exchange St, Geneva, NY 14456
Three Brothers Wineries & Estates
With not one but four tasting rooms — as well as an on-site brewery and cafe — this winery has something for everyone. Sip on your favorite wine or sample your way through them all. Whether you’re looking to try hand-crafted wines, brews, hard ciders, or craft sodas, a visit to Three Brothers promises a fun, laid-back spot for a tasting with friends or a day on the town.
Three Brothers Wineries & Estates: 623 Lerch Rd, Geneva, NY 14456
Where to eat
Kindred Fare
This casual, woman-owned restaurant embraces the shared meal experience, blending big portions and bold flavors. Favorites include crispy honey hot cauliflower wings with creamy dill dipping sauce; flavorful friendship fries topped with pickled red onions, buttermilk dressing, spicy aioli, feta cheese, hot sauce, and scallions; and the pork belly rice bowl featuring turmeric rice, miso-glazed pork belly, a fried egg, pickled onions, spicy mayo, peanuts, and sesame seeds. If you still have room for dessert, the peanut butter mousse pie with a chocolate cookie crust and house-made chocolate sauce is a great sweet treat.
Kindred Fare: 512 Hamilton St., Geneva, NY 14456
Where to stay
One standout experience during my visit to the Finger Lakes was my stay at The William Smith Inn, which offers a cozy and historic retreat in a beautifully restored 19th-century home. Each room is thoughtfully decorated with antique furnishings and modern amenities, and guests get a delicious homemade breakfast served each morning.
When you’re not enjoying the property, the inn is conveniently located near the Finger Lakes Wine Country where you can explore over 100 wineries.
William Smith Inn: 600 Castle Street, Geneva, NY 14456
Seneca Falls
Photo: Dennis MacDonald/Shutterstock
Things to do
Women’s Rights National Historical Park
Photo: NPS
In 1848, the small Finger Lakes hamlet of Seneca Falls became the backdrop for a big historical moment: the nation’s first official women’s rights convention, aptly named the Seneca Falls Convention. This is widely considered the event that formally started the women’s suffrage movement — in part thanks to a rallying cry called the “Declaration of Sentiments” that was written and delivered by activist Elizabeth Cady Stanton, mirroring the language of the Declaration of Independence. The Women’s Rights National Historical Park commemorates this significant event during which 300 women and men gathered to declare that “all men and women are created equal.”
A couple of doors down, do your part to support a woman-owned Seneca Falls boutique by browsing for souvenirs at Blush by CVDesigns. The shop carries trendy clothing, charming home decor, and unique jewelry.
Women’s Rights National Historical Park: 136 Fall St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
National Women’s Hall of Fame
A short walk across the It’s a Wonderful Life Bridge spanning Seneca Falls’ Van Cleef Lake will take you from the Women’s Rights National Historical Park to the National Women’s Hall of Fame, which is located in a repurposed knitting mill. The site bills itself as “the nation’s first and oldest nonprofit organization and museum dedicated to honoring and celebrating the achievements of distinguished American women.” Exhibits and events range from educational showcases of little-known female illustrators during the early 20th century to meet-the-author opportunities that celebrate the female creatives of today.
National Women’s Hall of Fame: 1 Canal St., Seneca Falls, NY 13148
Muranda Cheese Company
Photo: Mion Edwards
Muranda Cheese is technically in Waterloo, not Seneca Falls, but it’s worth the drive for a cheese-tasting experience (regardless of the fact that that drive takes less than 10 minutes). This was my first-ever cheese tasting, and it didn’t disappoint — it featured a fun variety of interesting cheeses, ranging from dill and scallion to spicy jalapeno, all of which is produced using high-quality milk from Finger Lakes farms.
Once acclaimed dairy farmers themselves, the family behind Muranda Cheese Company now uses its farm to produce more than 20 artisan cheeses, which you can sample on-site and are also likely to see on winery menus around the Finger Lakes.
Muranda Cheese Company: 3075 NY-96, Waterloo, NY 13165
Where to eat
Flint and Stave
Photo: Mion Edwards
Perfect for a date night or an otherwise cozy evening meal, Flint and Stave is a chef-owned establishment specializing in American-style tapas and heartier entrees. The restaurant is proud to use fresh and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible to whip up standout dishes like seafood risotto, which comes with seared scallops and grilled shrimp.
Flint and Stave: 84 Fall Street, Seneca Falls NY 13148
Where to stay
The Gould Hotel
Located next to the Women’s Rights National Historical Park, the Gould Hotel combines history with a modern twist, having originally opened in 1920 and having since seen all the necessary updates to both the boutique building and the hotel’s amenities. The rooms are cozy with a contemporary feel, providing travelers with a sleek, stylish, and convenient place to rest. Even if you don’t book a room, swing by on Saturday night for live music.
The Gould Hotel: 108 Fall St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
Auburn
Photo: WirestockCreators/Shutterstock
Things to do
Equal Rights Heritage Center
Photos: Mion Edwards
If you’re looking to be inspired by past Civil Rights leaders, this interactive exhibit showcases the important role New Yorkers played in advancing equal rights through the abolition of slavery, the women’s rights movement, and more. Be sure to check out the statue of Harriet Tubman — she’s holding a lantern, symbolizing the light she used to guide enslaved individuals to freedom.
Equal Rights Heritage Center: 25 South St., Auburn, NY 13021
Harriet Tubman National Historical Park
Photo: Zack Frank/Shutterstock
Central to the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park is the Thompson Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church where Harriet Tubman’s funeral was held. After years of restoration, the landmark has been brought back to how it looked in 1913 when she died. Tubman helped raise money to build the church and was a member for over 20 years. The nearby parsonage now serves as the park’s welcome center when it’s open.
Harriet Tubman National Historical Park: 47 Parker St, Auburn, NY 13021
Harriet Tubman Home
Photo: Zack Frank/Shutterstock
Visiting Harriet Tubman’s home in Auburn was one of the most moving experiences of my trip to the Finger Lakes. Earlier that day, I attended the Harriet Tubman Proclamation ceremony, during which a proclamation was made in honor of Harriet Tubman Day. It made being on the porch and steps where she used to be an honor. The white building, known as the Tubman Home for the Aged, was established by Harriet Tubman to care for elderly and poor community members. Harriet spent her final days there. Past the driveway, there is a brick house where Harriet lived.
Harriet Tubman Home Property: 181 South St., Auburn, NY 13021
Fort Hill Cemetery
At Fort Hill Cemetery, you can visit Harriet Tubman’s burial site, which is marked by a headstone engraved with the dedication “Servant of God, Well Done.” Being at the cemetery filled me with a profound sense of emotion and gratitude. The site, which is often adorned with mementos from visitors, is a quiet reflective space — the kind that invites you to pause and feel gratitude.
Fort Hill Cemetery: 19 Fort St Cemetery, Auburn, NY 13021
Where to eat
At Long Last Restaurant
This woman-owned restaurant serves an elevated brunch and breakfast in a bright and inviting setting. The natural sunlight that shines into this place in the morning creates a sunny and welcoming atmosphere. Notable dishes include fried pickles, crispy hash browns, and a steak, egg, and cheese bagel. Tip: Get there early because this place is popular and tends to fill up the later it gets.
At Long Last: Restaurant, 3193 E Genesee St, Auburn, NY 13021
Prison City Brewing
Photo: Mion Edwards
Prison City Brewing is a popular local brewery known for its craft beers and vibrant atmosphere. Try the beer-braised steak nachos topped with yellow corn tortilla chips topped with black bean salsa, pickled onions, queso, guacamole, and beer-braised shredded beef. The fish and chips is another winner, consisting of lightly breaded cod and served with house fries and caper dill tartar sauce.
Prison City Brewing: 28 Ovid Street, Auburn, NY 13021 
