Go Beyond in the Winter
Winter in Cayuga County is a special kind of magic, presenting the opportunity to experience peaceful trails, quiet lakes, cozy meals, and clear night skies. This itinerary invites you to go beyond the noise, embrace the season, and reconnect with nature at a slower, more intentional pace.
Bundle up and get ready for a winter getaway in Cayuga County’s great outdoors!
Day One
Your winter getaway begins on the shores of Lake Ontario at the Sterling Nature Center, a 1,400-acre preserve that feels even more serene when blanketed in fresh snow. Whether you choose a winter walk or bring out the snowshoes, you’ll be surrounded by evergreens, wildlife, and the calming quiet of winter.
Before you head out, check out Tour Cayuga’s 10 Winter Hiking Tips blog to help you stay safe, warm, and ready for the trail.
Warm Up with a Winter Lunch
Continue into the charming village of Fair Haven with a stop at Hardware Café & General Store for lunch. Their menu features cozy, seasonal favorites, including homemade soups, hearty chili, grilled paninis, and fresh-baked treats.
Take the Scenic Winter Drive to a Frozen Wonderland
From Fair Haven, enjoy an hour-long scenic winter drive down to Carpenter Falls. The route winds through quiet farmland and rolling hills, making the journey itself part of the experience.
At Carpenter Falls, your reward awaits: A stunning frozen waterfall framed by snow-dusted cliffs and forest. It’s a peaceful, awe-inspiring sight that truly takes you beyond the ordinary. Depending on the weather, you can take your experience even further with a trek down the stairs to the base of the Upper Falls, or keep things easy by staying on the elevated boardwalk and observation platform.
Check In & Cozy Up for the Evening
By now, you will be ready to check into your hotel and get warm. Settle in at the Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa, a charming resort offering a variety of immersive activities and wellness experiences that perfectly complement a slow-paced winter trip, including Guided Morning Nature Hikes, Guided Lantern Starlight Hikes and Silent Night Yoga.
After your travels, cozy up by the fire, enjoy the quiet lake views or treat yourself to a peaceful moment at their world-class spa.
Once you are all settled, grab dinner at 1833 Kitchen & Bar, located right at your hotel. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty winter entrée or something lighter, this historic lakeside restaurant is the perfect cozy dinner spot.
Winter’s crisp, clear nights make Cayuga County one of the best places to stargaze. Step outside for a lakeside view or join one of the Inns of Aurora’s guided starlight activities to end your first day with a little celestial magic.
To learn more about after-dark experiences in the region, explore Tour Cayuga’s guide to stargazing and nighttime adventures.
Day Two
Start with a Cozy Breakfast at Café 108
Begin your day in downtown Auburn at Café 108, where warm breakfast dishes and fresh ingredients set the tone for a slow and satisfying winter morning. This community-focused café is the perfect spot to fuel up before heading into the cold.
Winter Walk at Emerson Park
Just minutes from breakfast, make your way to Emerson Park, where Owasco Lake shines in winter. Stroll the lakefront paths, enjoy peaceful views, and keep an eye out for winter birds.
Go Beyond with Winter Fishing
Stay at Emerson Park for the morning and try your hand at winter fishing on Owasco Lake. Shoreline access here makes it beginner-friendly, and winter often brings surprisingly good fishing opportunities.
For tips, techniques, and seasonal insights, check out Tour Cayuga’s guide to winter fishing.
Lunch at Potters Farm to Fork
Warm up with a comforting midday meal at Potters Farm to Fork in Port Byron. Their menu features hearty favorites made with fresh, local ingredients — the perfect winter pick-me-up after time outside.
Enjoy a Slow Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the shops in one of our local towns like Auburn, Moravia or Aurora, or take a relaxing break back at the Inns of Aurora. Treat yourself to a spa treatment, enjoy a quiet afternoon by the fire, or take a snowy lakeside stroll.
Dinner at Fargo Bar & Grill
End your day with a cozy dinner at Fargo Bar & Grill, located directly across from your hotel. The warm atmosphere, comforting menu, and crackling fireplace make this the perfect spot to settle in and savor a winter evening in Aurora.
Day Three
Breakfast at Dugan’s Country Grill
Before you hit the road, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Dugan’s Country Grill in Aurora. You won’t leave hungry after visiting this classic breakfast spot.
Hike at Great Gully Falls
End your visit with a winter hike at Great Gully Falls in Union Springs. Take in the stunning view of a frozen waterfall and enjoy a peaceful walk on the snow-covered trails before heading home.
You will leave Cayuga County feeling rested, recharged and looking at the winter season in a whole new light. You may be tempted to stay inside this winter, but don’t be afraid to go beyond your comfort zone and enjoy all that Cayuga County has to offer during this underrated season!
