Visit Cayuga County

Located in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region, Cayuga County offers a memorable mix of scenic beauty, small-town charm, outdoor recreation, wine country experiences, and meaningful American history. From the waters of Cayuga Lake and Owasco Lake to historic Auburn, lakeside Aurora, Fair Haven, and the countryside communities in between, travelers will find plenty of ways to relax, explore, and create lasting memories.

Cayuga County is especially known for its freshwater experiences. With access to multiple lakes, the Erie Canal, waterfront parks, boating, fishing, paddling, and scenic drives, the region is ideal for travelers who love being near the water. Nature lovers can explore the Dorothy McIlroy Bird Sanctuary, while road-trippers can follow the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway for beautiful views, wineries, historic villages, and relaxing stops along the way.

History is another major reason to visit. Auburn is home to the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, Seward House Museum, the NYS Equal Rights Heritage Center, and other landmarks connected to freedom, reform, and the stories that helped shape America. Food and beverage lovers can enjoy wineries, breweries, farm markets, sweet treats, local dining, and Finger Lakes flavors throughout the county.

Whether you’re planning a wine country weekend, family vacation, outdoor adventure, romantic escape, history-focused trip, or relaxing lakeside getaway, Cayuga County is a year-round destination filled with authentic Finger Lakes experiences.

Best Places to Visit in Cayuga County

Local Wineries — Sip and savor the local wines while enjoying views of the Finger Lakes. This region was recently named the Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast.

MacKenzie-Childs - Discover whimsical design, shopping, and a one-of-a-kind Finger Lakes experience.

The REV Theatre Co. – Enjoy seeing a show at the Rev Theatre Co., referred to as “Broadway in the Finger Lakes”. Shows take place from June to October annually.

Historical Sites – Celebrate the history of our region with stops at Cayuga County’s historical sites. History that shaped the nation was made here.

Most Popular Cities and Towns in Cayuga County

Auburn — Explore museums, historic sites, restaurants, performing arts, shopping, and family-friendly attractions in this lively Finger Lakes city.

Aurora — Set along the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake, Aurora offers scenic lake views, historic charm, boutique lodging, dining, shopping, and a relaxing Finger Lakes atmosphere.

Fair Haven — Plan a waterfront escape on Lake Ontario, Fair Haven Beach State Park, boating, fishing, and seasonal outdoor fun.

Cayuga Lake Communities — Lakeside towns and villages throughout the county offer wineries, scenic drives, waterfront recreation, farm markets, and peaceful Finger Lakes escapes.

National, State, and County Parks in Cayuga County

Harriet Tubman National Historical Park — Visit the home and legacy of Harriet Tubman and learn more about her extraordinary life, work, and impact.

Fair Haven Beach State Park — Enjoy sandy beaches, swimming, camping, boating, fishing, hiking, and beautiful Lake Ontario views.

Sterling Nature Center – Walk their picturesque trails along the shore of Lake Ontario. Enjoy visiting their interpretive center open 7 days a week.

Emerson Park — Located on Owasco Lake in Auburn, this waterfront park offers lake views, walking areas, events, playgrounds, and seasonal recreation.

Fillmore Glen State Park — Explore wooded trails, waterfalls, swimming areas, camping, and scenic gorge landscapes near Moravia.

Top Tourist Attractions in Cayuga County

Case Research Lab — Come visit and learn more about the fascinating story of the Birthplace of Sound Film!

Seward House Museum — Tour the historic home of William H. Seward and learn about politics, diplomacy, abolition, and 19th-century American life.

NYS Equal Rights Heritage Center — Discover interactive exhibits and stories connected to equal rights, social justice, and New York’s reform history.

Schweinfurth Art Center - See the best in contemporary fiber arts at the Schweinfurth Art Center in a facility that is accessible to all.

The REV Theatre Company — Enjoy professional theater and musical productions on the shores of Owasco Lake.

Port Byron Old Erie Canal Heritage Park — Explore canal history, exhibits, and one of the region’s most interesting heritage stops.

Craft Beverages & Local Flavor

Cayuga Lake Wineries — Relax and enjoy the Cayuga Lake views as you sip a local wine from one of our many wineries.

Local Breweries and Cideries — Enjoy craft beverages, seasonal releases, and relaxed tasting experiences throughout the county.

Finger Lakes Sweet Treat Trail — In New York State’s top-producing agricultural county, come sample locally made desserts, farm-fresh treats, and sweet stops on this self-guided driving tour.

Farm Markets and Local Dining — Discover fresh produce, regional specialties, lakeside dining, cozy cafés, and farm-to-table flavors.

Scenic Drives & Road Trips in Cayuga County

Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway — Travel along lake roads, wineries, historic villages, farm country, and waterfront views.

Great Lakes Seaway Trail — Explore scenic routes near Lake Ontario, including Fair Haven and nearby waterfront communities.

Erie Canal Heritage Routes — Follow canal history through communities connected to New York’s iconic waterways.

Top Outdoor Adventures & Things to Do in Cayuga County

Boating, Kayaking, and Fishing — Enjoy activities on Cayuga Lake, Owasco Lake, Skaneateles Lake, Lake Ontario, the Erie Canal, and smaller waterways throughout the county.

Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing — Visit the Dorothy McIlroy Bird Sanctuary for memorable wildlife, wetlands, and photography opportunities.

Hiking and Waterfalls — Explore trails, gorges, wooded parks, and waterfall scenery at places like Fillmore Glen State Park, Carpenter Falls, and Great Gully.

Beach and Lake Days — Relax at waterfront parks, swim, picnic, camp, or enjoy a classic summer day along the water.

Best Time to Visit Cayuga County

Cayuga County is a year-round Finger Lakes destination. Summer is ideal for lake days, festivals, boating, and outdoor dining. Fall brings colorful foliage, harvest flavors, scenic drives, and wine country weekends. Spring is great for waterfalls, birdwatching, and fresh blooms, while winter offers cozy getaways, historic attractions, local dining, and peaceful Finger Lakes scenery.

Other Unique & Interesting Things to Do in Cayuga County

Finger Lakes Nut Farm — Experience a small farm dedicated to growing nut crops including pure Chinese chestnuts, Chinese hybrid trees, hybrid hazelnuts, and heartnuts

Colloca Estates Winery — On the shores of Lake Ontario lies the Finger Lakes Region’s northernmost winery, Colloca Estate, where the water meets the sun and these ancient glacial till soils nourish the vines to make award-winning wines.

Experience Local Festivals and Events — Annual Events for everyone happen here in Cayuga County. Explore events like: the NY Lavender Festival, Paella on the Bay, Crow Cawcus, Pirate Fest, Fillmore Days, and more, all in Cayuga County.