Trifter

Leaf Driving 

Central New York is famous for its autumn foliage, and a peaceful drive along one of the several state Routes running through the area (examples include Routes 5 and 20,) will reveal spectacular vistas of orange, red, and gold.  You’ll drive through some gorgeous country bordering the famous Finger Lakes, including Skaneateles, Cayuga, and Seneca.  Drive along any one of the lakes for a view of the quaint farms and countryside surrounding them.  Peak leaf times vary, but usually fall in the first two weeks of October.

Produce Stands and Orchards 

Central New York is famous for its vegetable stands and orchards.  Of particular note are the many orchards offering a wonderful opportunity to pick your own apples.  Abbot Farms in Baldwinsville, Emmi & Sons, and Leubner Apple Farm all allow you to pick your own apples.  They also offer a variety of other entertainment opportunities for those who don’t want to pick the apples, including hay rides, gift shops, cinnamon donuts, and apple cider.  Central New York is also home to a number of farmer’s markets, including the Skaneateles, Cortland, and Cazenovia farmer’s markets.  

Shops and Restaurants 

After a morning spent visiting produce stands and picking your own apples, go on a shopping spree in one of the many small towns and villages.  Skaneateles is home to a number of unique shops and boutiques, including Brown Dog Antiques, the Skaneateles Antique Center, and the Rhubarb Kitchen and Gardnen Shop.  Central New York is also home to numerous fine eating establishments, including the Inn Between (located in Camillus,) What’s Your Beef (located in Manlius,) and Lock 24 (located beside the Erie Canal in Baldwinsville.)

Parks 

After filling up on some fine dining, go for a hike in one of the many state parks located in the area.  There are numerous parks located near the Old Erie Canal.  Of especial note is the Camillus Erie Canal Park, which features several miles of hiking paths along the old towpath, as well as the Sims Store Museum.  The small towns of Rome, Jordan, and Canastota also feature museums and walking trails along the former canal.  Also stop by one of the many state parks in the region, including Clark Reservation State Park (featuring rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops,) Fillmore Glen State Park (featuring five waterfalls and numerous walking trails,) and Verona Beach State Park (located on the eastern shore of Oneida Lake.)

Festivals 

While you’re in the area, stop by one of the many festivals occurring throughout the Autumn months.  October features the Lafayette Apple Festival, usually held in the first two weeks of the month, as well as the Great Zoo Boo, held at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo.  November, on the other hand, features Dickens’ Christmas in Skaneateles, which allows visitors to interact with Dickens characters, including Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens himself, as well as the Syracuse Thanksgiving Antiques Show, which has been a Thanksgiving tradition for over 30 years.   

Whatever your tastes or preferences, whatever you like to do, Central New York can accommodate you.  So stop by for a week or two.  The fun awaits you.