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Glenora Wine Cellars, Finger Lakes
Arnaud Muller
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Glenora Wine Cellars, Finger Lakes
Arnaud Muller
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Corning Museum of Glass, Tiffany Glass
Arnaud Muller
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Corning Museum of Glass, NY
Arnaud Muller
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Demonstration Corning Museum of Glass
Arnaud Muller
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Stunning view of Niagara Falls State Park
Gary Hodges Photography
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  • States:
    New York

The hustle and bustle of New York City is quite different from the rest of New York State’s vast landscape.

Whether you’re looking for fall foliage, springtime flowers, the warmth of summer or the charm of winter, any season is a good time to take a road trip along the itinerary known as “Wine, Water and Wonders.” From New York City, we headed to Corning, the Finger Lakes, Rochester and Niagara Falls.

Colorful Artwork at Corning Museum of Glass

My trip began at the Corning Museum of Glass, which is the world's largest museum dedicated to glass. The oldest preserved glassware is a religious figure; the glass has become opaque due to age. The museum also has many precious treasures of modern glass art. One of the most interesting works is a dress made entirely made of glass.

The Corning Museum of Glass has live glass-making demonstrations, with two artisans creating handmade glass art. I cannot help but feel admiration for the glass production process, and after the demonstration, I think I gained a lot of knowledge.

Corning Museum of Glass shop

Corning Museum of Glass Shop
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Arnaud Muller

Wineries and Natural Beauty in the Finger Lakes

Be sure to visit the Finger Lakes region of New York, named for the thin, long lakes that resemble fingers. As it turns out, this scenic region is suited to growing grapes. Currently, there are more than 100 wineries located in various parts of the Finger Lakes, but most gathered around three: Lake Cayuga, Seneca Lake and Keuka Lake.

My favorite of New York's natural landscape is Watkins Glen State Park. Taking an autumn stroll in the park with the road covered in golden leaves feels like walking in a picture. Far into the park, you will find a bridge where you can enjoy the stunning natural beauty, faint gurgling streams flowing down the valley, and on both sides towering layers of rocks. Walk down the stone stairs to see the waterfall cave, where people can walk behind the waterfall. When you go to New York on vacation, do not miss this spectacle. 

Glenora Wine Cellars tasting room

Glenora Wine Cellars tasting room
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Rochester and the George Eastman House

Not far from the Finger Lakes, Rochester is a beautiful city that is well-known as a hub for all forms of American music. During springtime, the blooming flowers gave it the nickname "Flower City." Rochester is also home to the world-famous George Eastman House. George Eastman, founder of Kodak, is remembered here along with the history of the development and technology of photography, as well as contemporary photographs and video art. The front of the house has large living room windows so you can see the scenery outside the garden.

Exterior view of the George Eastman House

Exterior view of the George Eastman House
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Arnaud Miller

Last Stop: Spectacular Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a great ending point for my Wine, Water and Wonders road trip. Here, I can witness the spectacular Niagara Falls in person and also tour the Three Sisters Islands. If you want to get even closer to the falls, you must take the Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds tours. The autumn scenery here is very inviting.

Plan your trip to experience an unexpected side of New York's attractions: wine, water and wonders.

Maid of the Mist tour at Niagara Falls

Maid of the Mist tour at Niagara Falls
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Gary Hodges Photography