Watkins Glen Weekend Getaway

Watkins Glen, NY is a great destination to hit when you’re looking for a much-needed break from work, school, and just everyday stress. Located in upstate new york near the finger lakes, Watkins Glenn is a perfect weekend getaway. They offer everything from hiking and sightseeing, to Shopping and relaxation. Checkout our blog on the entire Northeast!

Where to stay in Watkins Glen State Park?

Most places will have tons of hotels/motels around but they can be pricy. We try to stay away from hotels because we go places for the experience and want to get the best experience possible, this is why we try to us Airbnb over hotels. We went for valentines weekend and a got a cute Bungelow right on the bay. The place was super clean, and the host was really nice and was always available if we needed anything.

Our Airbnb was located right infront of a lake which was frozen when we went , so we got to ice skate on it and take some pretty cool drone shots on the ice.

What to do in Watkins Glen State Park?

Whether you like the outdoors and hiking, or just wanna go shopping and walk around the town Watkins Glen has it all for a weekend getaway.

Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most popular parks located in the finger lakes. The main attractions are the gorge, and the waterfalls. There are three different trails to hike, The Gorge Trail, The Indian Trail, and The Finger Lakes Trail. All the trails EXCEPT the gorge trail are pet friendly so you can bring your pup on the hike with you.

The Gorge Trail

The Gorge Trail is 3 miles there and back (1.5 mile each way) But you can make it a loop by taking the Indian Trail back. This trail is rated as moderate to difficult and will be marked with signs and walkways.

The Indian Trail

The Indian trail 3 miles there and back (1.5 mile each way) But can be made a 3 mile loop by taking the Gorge Trail on the way back. This trail is rated as easy and will be marked with signs and walkways.

The Finger Lakes Trail

The Finger Lakes Trail is the longest of all three trails, it’s 4.5 miles one way and can’t be made a loop. This trail is rated as easy to moderate and will be marked with white blazes.

Taughannock Falls

The Trail leading to Taughannock Falls is only 3/4 of a mile. The trail is super easy and good for all ages since it’s a flat gravel trail. The whole time you are walking along the creek so there’s always a view. If you wanna see the falls but don’t wanna walk the small hike leading to it, you can drive up to the overlook and still be able to take it all in.

The Crossings Premium Outlets

The crossings premium outlets aren’t located in Watkins Glenn, but they are something to stop by on the way home to break up the car ride. With over 100 designer stores to choose from, theres something for everybody. They are located in Tannersville,PA about an hour or so away from Watkins Glen.