Home to the legendary Watkins Glen International race track, Watkins Glen is a small village at the southern end of Seneca Lake. It was first settled by Europeans at the turn of the 19th century and flourished as the northern terminus of the Chemung Canal before becoming home to one of the leading spas in the United States in the early-20th century.
Wander through the historic streets of Watkins Glen to admire the Heritage-listed Schuyler County Courthouse Complex and the First Baptist Church, as well as the Gothic Revival-style A. F. Chapman House. Pick up locally-grown produce at the weekly farmers market or head to one of the nearby creameries where fresh cheese is produced.
Follow the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail between the rocky cliffs and waterfalls of Watkins Glen State Park. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic drive along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail to sample the region’s renowned Riesling, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Getting there
Watkins Glen is 1.5 hours’ drive from Rochester or Syracuse, with the closest Greyhound bus station half an hour away in Ithaca. Elmira-Corning Regional Airport is a 35-minute drive from Watkins Glen.