Our third day of activities in the Finger Lakes took us to Yates County. After visiting Steuben and Chemung counties, we were excited about exploring another fabulous Finger Lakes destination.
Saunders Finger Lakes Museum
Saunders Finger Lakes Museum is celebration of the beauty and majesty of the Finger Lakes Region. As their website describes the museum:
“Nestled in the heart of it all on the north end of Keuka Lake, the Saunders Finger Lakes Museum stirs the imagination, educates the mind, and inspires visitors of all ages. Our mission is to inspire appreciation and celebrate the cultures and ecology of the vast Finger Lakes Region.”
Construction is underway on the brand-new building serving as the centerpiece of the museum. Director Natalie Payne, a native of the Finger Lakes Area, explained the progress on the new construction project and plans for the museum. We walked the Gnome Trail of the wildlife preserve on the north side of Keuka Lake, through flaming goldenrod and other natural vegetation. Boat launches are available for kayaks and canoes.
The exciting new Saunders Finger Lakes Museum project will ensure the enjoyment and preservation of the beautiful Finger Lakes Region by residents and visitors for generations to come.
Fox Run Vineyards on Seneca Lake
Fox Run Vineyards, on the west side of Seneca Lake, is owned by Scott Osborn, an amiabe man who encourages visitors to “Drink wine, be happy.” This family winery has been making estate wines since 1989. According to Scott, Fox Run strives to create wines and experiences approachable and enjoyable regardless of where they are on the wine spectrum. Novices and experts, and everyone in between, can enjoy the wines and beautiful area of the vineyard overlooking Seneca Lake.
For 27 years Scott worked closely with longtime winemaker Peter Bell. Now he works with talented newcome Craig Hosbach, the current winemaker at Fox Run. Craig brings a science-based, rationalist approach to winemaking. We sampled several wines, including the crisp and vibrant Chardonnay, perfect on this warm September afternoon. Another favorite was a Dry Riesling with an intense flavor and acidity, and we finished up with a sweet and velvety sweet Fine Old Tawny Finger Lakes Port.
The beautiful, unique entrance to Fox Run Vineyards has attracted a lot of attention since its installation. With a length of 70 feet and 20 feet in height, this fabricated iron artwork by local artist Sam Castner features 13 foxes made of rust patina and stainless steel. We thoroughly enjoyed our time at Fox Run Vineyards. We heartily agree with Scott’s comment that, “There is nothing better than drinking good wine, with good food, alongside good people.”
Keuka Outlet Trail
Keuka Outlet Trail in Yates County is in the heart of New York State’s Finger Lakes you can fish, hike, bike, horseback ride, snowmobile, or cross-country ski seven miles of wooded trail. This trail between Keuka and Seneca Lakes connects Penn Yan to Dresden. Keuka Outlet is a peaceful trail featuring waterfalls, stone cliffs, mills, and picnic areas along the way. From the western point at the Ballfield Access to the easternmost point at the Dresden Trailhead are numerous sights and attractions through this natural area celebrating its 40thbirthday.
Main Deck Restaurant on Keuka Lake in Penn Yan
We were treated to a fantastic dinner at the Main Deck Restaurant in Penn Yan. Overlooking the west side of Keuka Lake, Chef Brian Broadwater personally brought out several delicious dishes for our group to try. A graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburg, Brian is now the Executive Chef at Main Deck. He brings his innovative, fun approach to his inventive dishes at Main Deck. Our delightful server, Ace, didn’t miss a beat and took great care of us with his efficiency and friendly personality.
Chef Brian started us with a flavorful appetizer of bbq potato served with smoked potato puree, bulls blood (a micro green), chive oil, and trout roe. Then out came the Roasted Halibut with beef tallow potatoes, chorizo, fermented pepper beurre blanc, carrot, elderberry, chive, and trout roe. Next was a delicious dish of tender Pan Seared scallops, compressed apple, celery root, apple ponzu, candied bacon, pecans, and chives. The final entrée was the Pork Tenderloin, a fantastic bacon-wrapped tenderloin with sweet potato, wild rice, and pork jus – a flavorful bonanza.
We finished off with several tasty desserts. I tried the Apple Crumble Cheesecake, while others at my table ordered the Crème Brulee and the Panna Cotta. Each was delicious. Chef Brian Broadwater created a magical night at Main Deck with his imaginative and flavorful creations – Bravissimo!
Beekman House Bed and Breakfast in Dundee
The Beekman House is a beautiful Bed n Breakfast in Dundee, just a few miles west of Seneca Lake. Main Deck Restaurant in Penn Yan and Fox Run Vineyards are just 20 minutes away, and numerous wineries and attractions are also in the area. Built in 1897, the historic Beekman House is owned and operated by Greg and Lilly DeForest-Campbell, somelliers with many years in the hospitality industry.
Greg and Lilly met in New York City, where they both worked as restaurant managers and sommeliers. When Covid hit, they reassessed their situation and followed through on a long-time dream of starting their own BnB in the Finger Lakes where Lilly and her family called home. Both are accomplished chefs, with Lilly focusing on home baked pastries and Greg on the three course breakfasts and fresh bread made each morning for their lucky guests.
Five elegant suites upstairs await visitors. I stayed in the lovely Empress Room, described as:
An exquisitely appointed room fit for a queen, the Empress Room reflects the Victorian-era fascination with East Asian motifs.
-Queen-size four-poster canopy bed with embroidered silk detailing
-Painted porcelain lamps with gold-leaf accents
-Antique hand-painted armoire
-Private bath with separate walk-in shower, antique vanity, and original marble sink
I thoroughly enjoyed my night in this beautiful room. There were even three homemade chocolates made by Lilly waiting in the room upon my arrival. Other rooms include the The Cottage, The French, Isadora’s, and Royal rooms. Greg and Lilly were delightful hosts, and were very helpful and hospitable, making our stay very special.
LaBarr Farms U-Pick Flower Field
We took an unexpected stop at the U-Pick Flower Fields at LaBarr Farms. With a beautiful view overlooking Seneca Lake, the four us grabbed cups and snips and walked the short distance to the flower fields. Careful to only cut the blooms we wanted for our bouquets, each of us snipped half a dozen or so flowers to add to our collection. Zinnias, sunflowers, dahlias, and other flowers covered row after row of colorful delights. We all enjoyed the process of choosing and cutting our choices, and each of us left with a nice bouquet of fresh, colorful, fragrant flowers.
All visitors are encouraged to treat the flowers and plants with respect and to return the snips and materials. Payment is on the honor system.
Yates County, Another Fun Finger Lakes Destination
From our base at the amazing Beekman Bed & Breakfast, we had so much fun exploring Yates County. Fabulous wines at Fox Run Vineyards, awesome food with a view at Main Deck, and outdoor beauty at Saunders Museum of the Finger Lakes, Outlet Trail and Pick Your Own Flowers made for a memorable vacation.
Thanks to the wonderful folks at Yates County for hosting us.
Read more about special places in the Finger Lakes: Steuben County (Corning Glass), Schuyler County (Watkins Glen State Park), Chemung County (Elmira), and Livingston County (Letchworth State Park).
