A serene lake, a state park and vineyards greet you as you arrive in the town of Cazenovia. Chittenango Falls State Park contains cascades amid charming surroundings of forests, cliffs and fields. Appreciate the town’s tranquility as you tour wineries and farms to sample local produce.
One area highlight is the state park. Spend the afternoon clambering up and down steps beside the main falls. Gaze up at the 167-foot (51-meter) waterfall, formed by glacial sculpting over 400 million years. Capture photos of the falls from the top of the cliff or from a wooden bridge at the base. The park is a scenic retreat for hikers, fishermen and picnickers.
The town’s position near the Finger Lakes region means it has slightly milder winters than the rest of the state, providing good wine-growing conditions. Enjoy a day out at a local winery. See the vineyards in spring when tiny grapes are forming and smell the aroma in the fall during harvest season. Test your palate at a wine tasting and purchase wine to bring home.
For a family-oriented outing, stop at Critz Farms to try maple syrup and home-brewed cider. In the fall, select pumpkins for carving or making pies. Bring the kids to pet goats and llamas. Visit the café, a syrup processing room and gift shop.
Southeast of the town center, find the Stone Quarry Hill Art Park. Walk around the outdoor gallery of modern art sculptures. Climb the central hill for a great view of the countryside.
The town is on the southeastern flank of a large lake of the same name in Madison County. It is just east of the Finger Lakes region, which is New York State’s wine country. Drive southeast for 20 miles (32 kilometers) to get here from the city of Syracuse.
Complete your Cazenovia trip by fishing for bass, pike and yellow perch in the town’s large lake.
