*The “Rainbow Falls” of Watkins Glen State Park.*

I have lived in Mystic, Connecticut for years but I still visit my hometown in Upstate New York to see family. Always a good time seeing my family and friends. Luckily the Finger Lakes is only about 6 hours drive from New England.

While growing up, I spent a lot of time up at Seneca Lake, which is one of the 11 that make up the Finger Lakes. The story behind the name (Finger Lakes) came from a Native American story, that the great Spirit blessed the land with his hands leaving an imprint of fingers. Cool, huh?

The Finger Lakes (FLX) is also known for many, many vineyards and breweries. I might be biased with growing up here, but I haven’t found any wine to beat FLX wine!

Watkins Glen State Park often comes highly recommended. I can concur with that! Hiking through the gorges with as many as 15+ waterfalls to see. It’s absolutely stunning. There are several trails but the popular trail is the gorge trail, which is 2.5 miles long. It’s also the most scenic route on which you see most of the landmarks often photographed on social media. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you will trek up some stairs and some wet/slippery spots. There’s a couple spots where you will walk under a waterfall!

*The Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen State Park.*

The park is located right in the heart of downtown Watkins Glen. There are many boutique shops, antique shops, restaurants and gift shops. If you walk over to Harbor Hotel there’s a beautiful waterfront park with a pier. The Seneca Lake Station (the red building that sits on the pier often photographed on social media) is located there. The pier is at the mouth of Seneca Lake, beautiful views there!

I grew up religiously going to Jerlandos Pizza. They have the best pizza and garlic knots in FLX region! I think of their garlic knots pretty often… it’s THAT good.

A hidden gem in Watkins Glen is Scuteri's Cannoli Connection. Lemme tell you, the BEST cannoli ever. I never knew what they were until my Uncle stopped there on the way to the lake one day. I was hooked since then.

*The racing mural in downtown Watkins Glen.*

Watkins Glen is also known for racing. I grew up going to the Watkins Glen International every summer. One year I was lucky enough to get a ride in an Indy Car! One of most memorable times at WGI beside that one other time when I met Patrick Dempsey. Yes, for real! Patrick Dempsey known as Dr. McDreamy from Grey’s Anatomy was there for one of his races. NASCAR also comes to Watkins Glen every year so that is typically the busiest week in Watkins Glen.

*My IndyCar experience at Watkins Glen International.*

*Patrick Dempsey and I at Watkins Glen International.*

There’s plenty to do, things to see, lots of choices where to eat and drink in Watkins Glen.