Basics
- Location:
- Encircling Cayuga Lake in western New York
- Length:
- 87 miles (140 km)
Description
The Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway blazes a path of beauty and recreation along the shores of Cayuga Lake in western New York . Lush green vineyards offer sweeping views of rolling hills. Tours of the wineries leave visitors tantalized with samples of the vine. A scattering of small towns appear here and there on the scene and proudly display the wares of local artisans in their brick storefronts.
From Ithaca, travel westward on Route 89 to Auburn and take Route 90 to Route 34A. Take a right at the intersection 34 and 34A and keep going until turning right onto Route 96. Follow Route 96 to Route 20 and go east on Route 20.
Perched on a tall hill overlooking the exquisite lake, Cornell University surveys the town of Ithaca with pride. At Taughannock Falls, a bridal veil cascade draws the attention of tourists at a scenic overlook. And in the tiny town of Seneca Falls, the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House stands to remind us of the struggles faced by the brave women of the women's rights movement.
Water sports are the main focus of the area. Whether it's sailing, swimming, or observing the wildlife at the numerous preserves, there are ample opportunities for enjoying the outdoors. And, from one end of this Byway to the other, there's a serenity in the surroundings that makes the trip as relaxing at it is pleasurable.
Points of Interest
Points of Interest Along The Way
Cornell University (NY)
Frontenac Museum (NY)
Built in 1840, this former Presbyterian church is now filled with exhibits about the Finger Lakes area. It provides a walking tour of Union Springs.
Harriet Tubman's Home (NY)
Visit the last home of Harriet Tubman, a famed worker on the Underground Railroad in the 1800s, in Auburn, New York.
Directions
Go northward on SR 90 until the junction of Hwy 20. Turn right, and continue to Auburn.
Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (NY)
National Women's Hall of Fame (NY)
Directions
Head north on State Road 89. At the junction of State Road 89 and State Highway 20, turn left onto State Highway 20. Continue to the city of Seneca Falls.
Seward House (NY)
The home of William Henry Seward, who served as Governor of New York, United States Senator, and Secretary of State to Presidents Lincoln and Johnson. Guided tour includes Civil War Era memorabilia.
Directions
Heading northward on SR 90, turn right on Hwy 20. Continue to the city of Auburn.
Taughannock Falls State Park (NY)
Women's Rights National Historical Park (NY)
Directions
Head north on SR 89. At the junction of SR 89 and Hwy 20, turn right. Head west on Hwy 20 until you enter Seneca Falls.
