The Finger Lakes region is the Tuscany Valley of New York state with its hundreds of vineyards and winding country roads. Tranquil as it seems, however, this part of New York state has bred activists throughout American history who sparked national change: Susan B. Anthony in Rochester, Elizabeth Cady Stanton in Seneca Falls, and Harriet Tubman in Auburn, among others.

There are six larger Finger Lakes and four smaller ones. The towns that border them are small and inviting. From Skaneateles Lake in the east to Conesus Lake in the west, and all the main towns in-between: Skaneateles, Auburn, Seneca Falls, Ithaca, Watkins Glen, Geneva, Syracuse and Rochester, among others, offer tourists sights of beauty, history, and just plain good taste. Whether it's the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and Cayuga Lake State Park, or the homes of Harriet Tubman and William H. Seward, or one of the hundreds of wineries, the Finger Lakes region is bursting with things to see and do, all with a backdrop of country charm and hospitality.

Gentle hills that fold upon acres of lush green pastures, winding roads overlooking sparkling water, and small country villages with a sense of intimate charm are all part of this region. Steeped in history, driving through the area gives many opportunities to see artifacts of American memorabilia along the way. The scenery throughout the region is a visual feast, and stopping at the many different vineyards to sample their ware is a savory sip of regional culture.