Autumn is upon us. The area’s hard-working residents and proud small-business owners always go above and beyond to make each fall season special with unique events. Autumn is a particularly great time to visit, as the beautiful fall foliage, incredible hiking trails, and wine country-related events are unparalleled in New York and abroad. We are […]
Autumn is upon us. The area’s hard-working residents and proud small-business owners always go above and beyond to make each fall season special with unique events. Autumn is a particularly great time to visit, as the beautiful fall foliage, incredible hiking trails, and wine country-related events are unparalleled in New York and abroad.
We are blessed to have a natural landscape that is second-to-none right outside our door. The natural resources of the Finger Lakes region contribute directly to our quality of life and our economy. A recent report from the New York State Comptroller notes that the Finger Lakes region, thanks to its “pristine, glacially created lakes” and wine industry, is positioned to enjoy substantial tourism-related jobs and income.
Abundance of autumn opportunities
The transition into fall brings many recreational traditions. For those inclined to enjoy the changing leaves, updates on peak times and locations can be found in this foliage report (https://www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/fall/foliage-report/#.WAjIXfkrK1s). For those interested in learning about the types of trees in the area, be sure to keep a copy of this New York Leaf Identifier (https://www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/fall/leaf-identifier/#.WAjsQ0b09Rc) with you as you travel. Leaf peeping is a great way to help children practice their reading, research, and observation skills. It’s never a bad time to encourage young New Yorkers to appreciate the relationship between science and nature.
Our region has exploded into a world-class producer of high-quality wine, beer, and cider. The fertile farmland and dedicated craftsmen and women in our region have helped the area pace the nation. I am proud of all the hard work and dedication our farmers, viticulture experts, and supporting workers have put into making the Finger Lakes so special. This fall is a great time to experience a taste of these remarkable products for both visitors as well as natives.
For a calendar listing of wine-country events and information, visit fingerlakeswinecountry.com. The Bristol Mountain Fall Festival celebrates the region’s foliage featuring games, food, and drink; and a chair lift offers a spectacular view of the changing leaves. The festival is located between Canandaigua Lake and Honeoye Lake.
Visiting the Finger Lakes helps our local businesses
By indulging in the many experiences our region offers, visitors and residents show their support for our local economy and businesses. The Finger Lakes region offers countless events and attractions for all to enjoy. Visiting the farms and retailers that sell them is both an endorsement of their efforts and helps strengthen our region. Whether you are leaf peeping, apple picking, or pumpkin patching, I hope each of you have a chance to explore our magnificent region this fall.
Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C–Canandaigua), a former small-business owner, is the New York Assembly Minority Leader and represents the 131st Assembly District, which encompasses all of Ontario County and parts of Seneca County. Contact him at kolbb@nyassembly.gov