If you’re craving a quick escape filled with scenic lake views, unique experiences, insta-worthy moments and plenty of good sips, the Finger Lakes delivers every time. Lucky for you, we’ve created the perfect itinerary featuring four of our tasting rooms plus the perfect place to call home during your stay. This guide is a great way to plan an extended weekend full of fun things to do along Seneca and Cayuga Lake.
Whether you’re planning a couples’ retreat or a fun trip with friends, this plan keeps things relaxed, social, and full of great flavors!
Day 1: Arrival + Settle In at Idol Ridge
Plan to arrive Friday afternoon and check-in to your home base for the weekend: our private Airbnb cabin next to Idol Ridge Winery. Book Here.
Check-In + Unwind
Drop your bags, take a deep breath, and soak in those Seneca Lake views. You made it – and now it’s time to kick back and enjoy your sweet escape!
Start the weekend with Happy Hour at Either Oar Wine, Whiskey, & Cheese Bar – After you’ve settled into your private cabin, make your way to Either Oar – just a 5 minute drive south of Idol Ridge. In the spring through the fall season, Either Oar has Hook & Sip happy hour drink specials and is open late until 7pm. Sip away and enjoy some pre-dinner munchies with local cheeses from Family Farms Creamery.
Insider tip: Don’t forget to ask about our MF Wine Explorer Pass to enjoy a wine tasting at every Martin Family tasting room during your trip. That’s four wine tastings for just $35!
Pizza + Chill Night In
Once happy hour is wrapped up at Either Oar, hop over to Scale House Brewery just a few minutes down the road. They have some of the best pizza in the area! After dinner, make your way back the Airbnb for a chill night in before a big day out in the Finger Lakes!
Day 2: Time to Explore
Wake up slow—coffee with a lake view is non-negotiable.
Get some fresh air: Just under 15 minutes down the road in Burdett is the Finger Lakes National Forest, full of easy-medium level hiking trails. Breathe in the fresh air, take in the beauty of the forest, and get moving before a day of exploring Finger Lakes wine country.
Lunch time at Montezuma Winery – After you’ve finished your hike and freshen up at the Airbnb, make your way to Montezuma Winery in Seneca Falls located 30 minutes north of Idol Ridge. Try our selection of wines and spirits with a tasting, mix it up with draft beer, or cool off with our popular wine slushies! Get a seat and grab a bite to eat from our kitchen; enjoy a full lunch with one of our panini’s or munch on something light like our brie & jam dip.
Afternoon tasting at Swedish Hill Winery + Cider Co. – Post lunch, travel down to Swedish Hill, just 10 minutes from Montezuma Winery. Sample our selection of wines and hard ciders with a tasting or flight – you won’t regret it! Afterwards, enjoy a glass of wine and take in the scenic country landscape and vineyards surrounding our tasting room.
Finish your day back at Idol Ridge Winery
Wrap up your day back at Idol Ridge to soak in the late afternoon sun and panoramic views. Grab a flight to enjoy outside on the deck or check out their selection of cocktails and mocktails from Alder Creek Distillery. End your day with great sips, gorgeous views, and zero travel time back to your cabin.
Insider tip: Plan to bring back a few bottles from your visits throughout the day to enjoy back at the Airbnb. You’ll also want some to take back home!
Golden Hour + Cabin Hangout
Head back to your cabin to unwind after a big day. Cook dinner or grill out right at the Airbnb for a relaxing night in as you take in golden hour. Pop open the wine, mix up a cocktail, get a bonfire going, and enjoy a chill night on Seneca Lake.
Day 3: Sunday Brunch + Pack Up
All good things must come to an end…but not before some delicious french toast and coffee!
But First, Brunch!
Just 2 minutes up the road you’ll find a hidden gem, Johnny’s Kitchen. On Sunday’s they have their special brunch menu full of everything you need after a big day. Fuel up before your trip back home with sweet and savory bites.
Still in brunch mode? Sip on a mimosa back at Idol Ridge before packing up to head home. You can’t have brunch without mimosas, so treat yourself one last time before heading out. Cheers to a great weekend in the Finger Lakes!
Tips for the Perfect Stay
- Book cabins early—our private cabins can fill up quickly especially during peak season (May-October)
- Use your Explorer Pass at each stop to get the most out of your visit. You can purchase a pass at any of our Martin Family tasting rooms. This is a great way to taste at each stop while saving some money!
- Designate a driver for Day 2 or consider a local car service. Main Street Drivers is a great and affordable option!
- Bring your furry friend! Our Airbnb cabins and each of the Martin Family tasting rooms are pet-friendly. No need for your pup to miss out on the fun!
Final Thoughts
A weekend in the Finger Lakes is all about embracing the moment—whether that’s sipping on something new, taking in the views, or simply unwinding back at your cabin after a full day of exploring.
We hope this itinerary makes it easy to plan your weekend getaway in the Finger Lakes. From your first happy hour to your final mimosa, every moment will create an unforgettable trip.
