Top 10 Things to Do in Canandaigua NY for a Stellar Girls Getaway

When I look back on my adventures over the past few years, so many of them have been girls trips. I’m fortunate to have a number of gal pals that I travel well with and when Visit Finger Lakes reached out to have myself and Kathryn head to their neck of the woods for a weekend, you know I immediately said yes. With a mix of adventure, relaxation and good eats while surrounded by beautiful wine country, the Finger Lakes needs to be on your radar.

As Canadians, we often forget the beauty that resides just a short drive across the border. Luckily I was reminded that Canandaigua Lake is just 2.5 hours from Niagara which makes it a perfect weekend getaway destination. I think that you’ll be planning your own trip once you hear about these amazing things to do in Canandaigua NY!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links where I may receive a kickback at no extra cost to you. It helps keep IBB alive so thank you! I also worked with Visit Finger Lakes to provide you with this content, though all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

Along South Main Street in the Canandaigua Historic District

Things to Do in Canandaigua NY

Canandaigua Lake is the fourth largest of the Finger Lakes and is home to the city of the same name, Canandaigua. Located at the northern tip of this body of water, it’s a popular destination for waterfront getaways. You can easily find a great mix of tranquility and excitement which makes it a favourite for locals and visitors alike. 

Wander the Canandaigua Historic District

Address: Around Main Street & Ontario Street, Canandaigua [map]

There’s no better spot to start than the heart of Canandaigua! Stroll along North Main Street as you admire a menagerie of architectural styles including Colonial Revival, Greek Revival and Italianate. Prominent landmarks include Canandaigua City Hall, the Village Square building and the Step Back in Time mural. Restaurants and shops dot each side of this charming street. This is also where you’ll find the Canandaigua Farmers Market at the Mill Street Pavilion. Ontario County’s only farmer-run market, check it out every Saturday from June to October and every other Saturday from November to May.

On the outskirts, you’ll find the Ontario County Court House which has witnessed a number of pivotal events such as the last general council meeting of the United States with the Iroquois Confederacy that was held in 1794. More recently in 1873, this is where Susan B Anthony was tried in federal court for voting illegally as women couldn’t in those days. A driving force of the women’s suffrage movement in the United States, she was found guilty and fined $100. It’s one of over 2400 sites included in the National Votes for Women Trail which highlights important places and people who worked to ensure women had the right to vote with the implementation of the 19th Amendment. 

Inside the Blue Door Boutique Women’s Clothing Store

Support Local with Some Shopping

Address: South Main Street, Canandaigua [map]

Along South Main Street, you’ll find a number of local shops from fashion to kitschy decor. First stop at North Star Coffee and grab a cup made from locally roasted coffee right here in the Finger Lakes. You’ll also be supporting folks with disabilities as they are an inclusive employer of folks with all abilities meaning your coffee is helping to change the lives of others! With your cup of joe in hand, stop by the following shops as you never know what treasures you might uncover.

Blue Door Boutique – Ladies, you have to pop in to see what cute styles Blue Door Boutique has in stock! They have new arrivals every day so it’s always worth a visit because you never know what adorable finds you’ll uncover. 

Sweet Expressions – If you’re a choc-o-holic then Sweet Expressions is a must as they’ve been specializing in fine chocolates since 1997. Many of their treats are made fresh daily in-house but you’ll also find award-winning products from the Finger lakes as well as New York state.

Good Life Tea – With the motto “relax, refresh, rejuvenate”, every sip will soothe you at Good Life Tea. You’ll find over 125 different premium loose leaf teas as well as a variety of tea ware to enjoy this calming beverage. 

Wildflowers – This is a great spot for locally sourced gifts as Wildflowers offers small batch, handmade items sourced from artisans from the Finger Lakes and New York state.

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich with Tater Tots

Grab a Bite at the Bee Hive Brew Pub

Address: 20 Pleasant Street, Canandaigua [map]

If you’re a fan of hearty eats that warm you up from the inside out, the Bee Hive Brew Pub is a must. Owned by Kim and Tracy, these two ladies came together to renovate this old train station into the buzz of activity it is today! You’ll find 32 beers on tap, many of which are right from the Finger Lakes! If you’re looking for a refreshing pint, I was a fan of the Apricot Wheat Ale from the Ithaca Beer Company. 

For over a decade, this restaurant in Canandaigua features fantastic pub eats and some distinctive plates that you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. Classics like wings and burgers are guaranteed to satisfy any craving, however there are some unique dishes that will pique the interest of adventurous eaters.

I was tempted to try their crab cake grilled cheese and the worker bee plate, I opted for something a little more toasty since it was a chilly fall day. Their Nashville hot sandwich is delicious and you can get it with either chicken or haddock. I would have loved the fish but alas, they ran out the day before! Though I quickly forgot about this minor detail when I found out that you could have tater tots instead of fries. It was a no brainer for me!

Lindz Climbing Through One of the Obstacles

Explore the Treetops at Bristol Mountain

Address: 5589 South Hill Road, Canandaigua [map]

I don’t know about you, but I love when trips have a good mix of relaxation along with adventure and you’ll certainly find the latter in Canandaigua! Head to Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures to tackle their exhilarating ropes course. Tackle over 125 unique obstacles as you zig and zag your way through the treetops as you experience one of the most unique things to do in Canandaigua!

After getting the lowdown on the basics of the harness and how the equipment works, you’ll begin with a beginner course marked in yellow. We opted for the Hemlock course which was an absolute hoot and certainly had us stepping outside our comfort zone! Hop across platforms, scurry along chains and dash on ziplines as your balance is tested. There were certainly a few screams on my end but we had a blast conquering all of the obstacles thrown our way!

Upon completing a course from each level, you can move up in difficulty – i.e. complete a yellow course to move to green, complete green to move to blue and complete blue to take a stab at the hardest course marked in black. Some of the obstructions will force you to stop and think so make sure you take that time and don’t rush. It’s not a race so just enjoy each course to the fullest!

SOMETHING TO NOTE: These courses will require some level of fitness to complete them. While everyone should be able to tackle the beginner level courses, anyone who has had a previous injury or weakness (shoulder, ankle, etc) should proceed with caution when completing the higher level routes as some of the obstacles are a bit more strenuous. 

As this is a fair-weather activity, Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures is open from early May until early November. Passes cost $58 USD plus tax per adult and $28 USD plus tax for children and you can enjoy the courses for a total of 3 hours with each pass. You can book online anytime here.

Sip Some Wine at the Heron Hill Tasting Room

Address: 5323 Seneca Point Road, Canandaigua [map]

This 100-year old barn was once the South Bristol Cultural Center but is now home to the gorgeous Heron Hill Tasting Room! It’s located on their original vineyard known as the Ingle Vineyard which spans 20 acres. Enjoy the stunning views of their Cabernet Franc and Riesling vines from their massive windows as you sip on a flight of their wines. This is the smaller of their two locations as their main winery is in Hammondsport located approximately an hour from Canandaigua Lake. 

INSIDER TIP: If you’re a wine lover, Heron Hill is part of the Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail. By downloading the passport, you’ll receive discounts and complimentary tastings! While it’s one of the smaller wine routes in the Finger Lakes, there are still seven stops which might be of interest to those looking to enjoy more of this Finger Lakes wine region. Click here to learn more!

Heron Hill is a practicing organic winery so while they don’t have organic certifications, they follow organic practices. No pesticides nor insecticides will be found as only herbicides and natural prevention measures are used to protect the grapes. Visitors can sample over 30 of their vintages from clean, crisp Chardonnays to silky Pinot Noirs.

I highly recommend sampling a style of wine from their main vineyard and the Ingle Vineyard as they will have unique characteristics and different flavours despite only being about 50 kilometres apart! The Finger Lakes Region is often referred to as “Riesling Country” since the climate lends so well to this type of grape so be sure to try at least one of theirs. Lastly, I recommend trying the Lady of the Lakes bubbly red, especially if you’re a fan of sangria like me. It’s a bit sweet but honestly tastes exactly like a freshly made sangria. Just throw some fruit in and you’re all set!

A tasting experience will take approximately 90 minutes and costs $12 USD.

Does It Get Any More Relaxing Than This?!

Rest & Relax at the Willowbrook Spa

Address: 770 South Main Street, Canandaigua [map]

Perched on the north shore of Canandaigua Lake, the Willowbrook Spa at the Lake House is one of the most serene destinations in Canandaigua. Here you can book their barrel sauna ritual which is an absolute must for any weekend getaway in Canandaigua – especially if you tackled the ropes course I mentioned earlier! 

Cozy up in one of their plush bathrobes and sip on a refreshing glass of citrus water as you head to the waterfront to begin your barrel sauna ritual. Following the thermotherapy cycle of hot, cold, rest and repeat, settle into your private sauna with impeccable views of the lake from within your barrel. Each reservation entitles you to one hour which is enough time to do at least three cycles.

Included in your package is a all natural face scrub which you’re welcome to use once you’ve done at least one cycle to open up your pores and get the sweat started. Rub the mixture onto our face before re-entering and let it melt into your skin. After 10-15 minutes, step outside for a cold shower to rinse off or use the iced face cloths provided to wipe away the mixture. Your skin will be so soft and smooth as any stress melts away with all these zen vibes!

The barrel sauna experience costs $95 USD and then another $65 USD for each additional person. Each barrel can accommodate up to four people.

Pan-Roasted Faroe Island Salmon

Grab a Bite at the Lake House on Canandaigua’s Rose Tavern

Address: 770 South Main Street, Canandaigua [map]

Between the exploring, shopping and the other fantastic things to do in Canandaigua, chances are you’ve worked up an appetite. After you’ve freshened up from your sauna ritual, make your way next door to the Lake House’s Rose Tavern. Here you’ll find new American dishes focusing on local ingredients as well as classic cooking techniques. You’ll only find the best ingredients here as they work directly with local growers to ensure everything is fresh and flavourful!

SOMETHING TO NOTE: Reservations are required, however you can reserve right on the spot if you don’t plan ahead and they have availability. However, if you want to make sure you’re able to snag a spot for dinner here, I’d recommend booking in advance as it can be busy during the peak season. Click here to make a reservation.

Kat and I always love sharing at least an appetizer and when we both spied the beef carpaccio on the menu, we couldn’t say no. The peppercorn crusted beef practically melted in my mouth as the tang from the pickled mustard seeds, radish, fried capers and shallots gave the dish a bit of a kick. Partnered with JB’s buttery focaccia, I could have eaten three plates of it easily. For my main, I opted for the pan-roasted Faroe Island salmon alongside sweet and savoury brussel sprouts and a zesty summer citrus mizuna salad. While the salmon was great, the brussel sprouts stole the show for me as they still had a slight crunch to them which I love.

Between the carpaccio and the salmon, I was absolutely stuffed. Luckily it was a short drive back to our accommodation for the night as food coma had me crawling right into bed!

Where to Stay in Canandaigua

While there are a number of options in town like the gorgeous Lake House on Canandaigua, I’m always a fan of secluded, tranquil accommodations – which is exactly what you’ll find at the Chalet of Canandaigua. 

Sitting atop a sheltered hillside, the Chalet of Canandaigua offers luxurious accommodation surrounded by serenity. This gorgeous log cabin was originally built in 1966 and converted 40 years later into the bed and breakfast you see today. It offers three suites, all of which feature a cozy king size bed, personal coffee makers, fireplaces and more.

I had the pleasure of staying in the Lee Suite, the largest of the three rooms. It’s incredibly spacious with a basic kitchenette, work area with desk, small nook with pull out couch and a comfy seating area right next to the electric fireplace. However, my favourite part had to be the bathroom as it features heated floors as well as a large Victorian-style soaking tub. Nothing beats a nice long bath after a long day of adventuring! 

Another great perk of staying at the Chalet of Canandaigua is that you not only get to enjoy a three course breakfast every morning of your stay, but you can also add an incredible five course dinner experience. Trust me when I say this is something you don’t want to miss out on! Executed by Chef Keith Hillock, executive chef for the Rochester Red Wings, he’ll whip up an incredible menu that will tantalize your taste buds. From pan seared scallops to braised beef to pumpkin crème brûlée, let’s just say you’ll want to wear a pair of stretchy pants for this meal. Each course was also paired with a wine or cider from the Finger Lakes Region, allowing us to enjoy even more of this beautiful area!

While the amenities alone should entice you to book this incredible spot, the unmatched hospitality is what really sets the Chalet of Canandaigua apart. The innkeeper Lisa is an absolute delight and will have you feeling spoiled from the moment you step foot in the door. Kat and I were greeted with fresh apple turnovers upon arrival and later in our stay, chocolate covered strawberries which were the perfect snack as I nibbled on them while wrapped up in my robe on the final night of our stay. Any questions or issues that arose, Lisa was immediately responsive and helped us with additional recommendations of things to do in Canandaigua. 

Click here to book your getaway with the Chalet of Canandaigua or take a look to see what others guests have to say about their experience. If the Chalet is unavailable for your dates, take a look at these other options for hotels in Canandaigua.

Things to Do Near Canandaigua NY

While you can certainly stick to just exploring the city of Canandaigua during your weekend visit, I can’t help but recommend some of these amazing stops that are 30 minutes away or less by car. These unique attractions are guaranteed to make your trip to the Finger Lakes a memorable one.

Learn About the Seneca at Ganondagan State Historic Site

Address: 7000 County Road 41 (Boughton Hill Road), Victor [map]

If you’ve been following me for any length of time, you know how I feel about learning about the true history of the lands we live on and visit. It’s such an important aspect to know when we have the privilege of travelling and so I try to learn as much as I can and share about it to hopefully inspire you to do so as well. And when I found out that New York State is where you’ll find the only Seneca town that’s been developed and interpreted in the entire country, you know I wasn’t going to miss visiting it! Not to mention you’ll practically pass by it when driving to Canandaigua from Niagara or Toronto so there’s no reason not to stop in for a visit.

The Ganondagan State Historic Site is the only state historic site in New York dedicated entirely to sharing Indigenous knowledge. These 600 acres include the original site of the 17th Century Seneca (Onöndowa’ga:’) town that once stood here over 350 years ago. It’s also home to the Seneca Art & Culture Center where you’ll learn about the Haudenosaunee Confederacy (which the Seneca are one of the six members) as well as their culture, traditions and way of life. There is also a theatre which shares a film illustrating the Haudenosaunee creation story along with a gift shop.

Behind the building, you’ll find a full-size Seneca Bark Longhouse with items inside that a Seneca family would have typically used in the late 1600s/early 1700s. There will often be an interpreter to help you understand the day to day practice of the Seneca people as well as their community structure. As they were a matriarchal society, it makes Ganondagan a must stop for a girls trip as it’s empowering to hear about the work women did in leading their people. You’ll also find a variety of hiking trails including the Earth is Our Mother trail which has interpretive signage highlighting local plants and the Trail of Peace which will take you to the original townsite of Ganondagan.

Admission costs $8 USD to enter the Ganondagan State Historic Site and it’s open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Wednesday through Saturday.

Autumn Views from the Ontario County Park Lookout at Gannett Hill (Source: Visit Finger Lakes)

Check Out Some of the Gorgeous Lookouts

One of the reasons why many plan getaways to the Finger Lakes is because of the abundant natural beauty in the area. While you’ll certainly enjoy glimpses of it from the waterfront in Canandaigua as well as the views from Heron Hill, these lookouts should also be on your radar so you can soak up even more of the area’s stunning countryside.

Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill – [map] Enjoy the incredible panoramic views from Ontario County’s highest point! Located in the Bristol Hills, you’ll be in awe of the sights as you sit 2246 feet above sea level. The park features 16 kilometres of trails that weaves up and down the hills of the Bristol Valley. Follow the path which the Finger Lakes Trail and ADA Trail share which will take you right to this epic lookout platform.

Carolabarb Park Scenic Overlook – [map] If you find yourself heading south towards Naples from Canandaigua, don’t miss the incredible views along County Road 12. This spot is perfect for a picnic as you soak up the views since you can see all the way down to the lake’s north end! Be sure to take a peek through the two viewfinders on-site while you’re there.

Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area – [map]  Enjoy brilliant views of Honeoye Lake from Overlook Road in this state park. On a clear day, you might even see as far as Rochester and Lake Ontario! The park offers over 32 kilometres in trails making it a great spot to get out for a hike. If you’re visiting in the winter, this is a must-stop as it receives some of the most snow cover in the Finger Lakes, making it great for snowshoeing. 

We Couldn’t Help but Smile on This Epic Girls Trip in the Finger Lakes!

Grab a Flight at the New York Beer Project

Address: 300 High St, Victor [map]

While the New York Beer Project originally began in Lockport, they have expanded to have four locations with one of them being in Victor. It opened in 2019 and is inspired by the rich stories of New York’s brewing history. Replicating one of New York City’s most famous beer halls, The Atlantic Garden, NYBP Victor sets quite the ambiance with gorgeous crystal chandeliers, a towering chestnut tree and an elegant grand staircase. 

They have a wide range of beers and you know I’m always having a flight over a pint because four is always better than just one! Honestly, you’ll want to have a flight because they have so many great concoctions you’ll be itching to try. As I’m a big fan of fruity and sour beers, it probably comes as no surprise that the favourite of my flight was their “Trix R 4 Kids” Sour. A menagerie of fruity flavours like lemon, orange, raspberry, lime and wild berry certainly make you reminisce about that colourful cereal! However it’s not as sour as some I’ve tasted so I think even those who aren’t the biggest fans of sours will enjoy this brew.

As for their eats, the menu is extensive with a variety of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pastas and more. As you’d expect, many dishes are inspired by the Big Apple alongside dishes iconic to Western New York like beef on weck and of course, buffalo wings. What caught my eye though was their Hometown Hero sandwich. Cherry BBQ pulled pork is topped with creamy mac and cheese along with house made coleslaw and squeezed between two pieces of grilled jalapeno cornbread. It’s the perfect mix of sweet, spicy and savoury, especially with their sweet potato fries.

Things to Know For Visiting Canandaigua

As you can see, there are so many reasons why Canandaigua is a fantastic destination for a girls trip. Whether you’re looking for a variety of outdoor adventures, sipping wine while admiring stunning views, treating yourself to some relaxation or eating so well it feeds your body, mind and soul, Ontario County checks all the boxes. I already can’t wait to return and explore more of what the Finger Lakes has to offer!

For Canadians visiting, here are a few things to know in preparation of your visit. Of course if you have any additional questions, please leave them in a comment below and I’ll answer them as best as I can!

How Far is Canandaigua from Toronto?

Toronto is approximately 300 kilometres from Canandaigua and on a good day, should take about 3 hours to drive there. However, it’s always important to budget some extra time for the border crossing as there can be delays if it’s very busy. Also, the quickest route is always following the NY State toll roads which will have you receiving a bill in the mail about a month after your trip. 

Is It Possible to Dodge the Tolls When Travelling to Canandaigua?

For the most part, yes! There are often alternative routes you can take, though they will add some travel time. If you don’t mind driving for a bit longer, you can easily save some cash. The only toll you can’t dodge is at the border when you’re crossing back into Canada which will cost you $6.50 CDN as of 2024.

Is It Necessary to Have a Car When Exploring Canandaigua?

While you may be able to ditch your car if you plan on staying within the core of Canandaigua, you will need a vehicle to access some of the further destinations like the Ganondagan State Historic Site, the three lookouts listed above, Bristol Mountain and more. 

If you’d like your trip to focus more on wine tasting, you can do so responsibly by booking this guided wine experience at the BoatHouse Club! They’ll bring a variety of the Finger Lakes wines to you as you enjoy the views of Canandaigua Lake and nibble on light snacks for an afternoon of fun.

Disclaimer:
This article was crafted in partnership with Visit Finger Lakes & the Travel Alliance Partnership but all of the content and opinions outlined here are honest and speak to my personal experience, as always.

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