Budget-Friendly Group Activities Await in Cayuga County, NY

Planning a group trip can be a delightful experience, but finding budget-friendly group activities can often pose a challenge. Yet here in Cayuga County, New York, we offer a fantastic array of affordable and engaging adventures perfect for groups of all sizes and interests! From historical explorations to scenic outdoor adventures, you don’t have to break the bank to create lasting memories for everyone in your party. 

Read on to discover some of Cayuga County’s top budget-friendly group activities, from historic sites, art museums and on-the-water adventures to wineries, hiking trails and much, much more.

Cultural & Historical Highlights on a Dime

From the Erie Canal to Harriet Tubman, you’ll find tons of culturally and historically immersive experiences to enjoy throughout Cayuga County, NY! And, the best part? Many of our most significant sites offer budget-friendly or even free admission, often with special rates for groups, making them one of the best budget-friendly group activities to add to your itinerary.

Consider checking out some of these neat locations during your group’s next trip:

Cayuga Museum of History and Art (Auburn): Explore local history and fascinating exhibits at this unique campus, consisting of three buildings: the Willard-Case mansion, the Case Research Lab, and the Carriage House Theater. General admission is only $12 per person (as of July 2025), making it an excellent option for an educational yet engaging afternoon – without a hefty price tag. Be sure to inquire about their group tour options and any specific exhibits on display when you visit!

Harriet Tubman National Historical Park (Auburn): Delve into the inspiring story of Harriet Tubman, the Underground Railroad and the fight for human rights and freedom. This visitor center and grounds offer a powerful experience, especially when paired with a guided tour that can be tailored for your group. Check their website for current offerings and group rates.

Fort Hill Cemetery (Auburn): A serene and historically rich site, this cemetery is the final resting place of many prominent figures, including William H. Seward and Harriet Tubman. It’s a beautiful place for a contemplative group stroll, offering stunning views and a chance to learn about local history at no cost.

NYS Equal Rights Heritage Center (Auburn): Immerse your group in the history of the equal rights movement while experiencing the vibrant culture of modern-day Auburn, NY! This destination features interactive displays, a Taste NY Market, self-guided walking tours and much, much more. All with free admission!

Affordable & Engaging Outdoor Adventures

Our natural beauty is one of Cayuga County’s greatest assets, and enjoying it is often incredibly affordable – if not free! Whether you’re traveling with a group of young professionals, active retirees or special-interest enthusiasts, you’ll find many fun outside activities to enjoy together on your next trip to the heart of the Finger Lakes. After all, you’ll find tons of unique guided experiences and DIY adventures in every direction you drive!

One great place to start? The Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway, an 87-mile driving tour offering family drivers and bus tours alike an incredible view of some of the best parts of this region, including our welcoming waterfront communities, enchanting forests, world-famous wineries and more!

Other popular outdoor destinations in Cayuga County include:

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (Seneca Falls): Both a birder’s paradise and a stunning natural area, Montezuma offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities to those bold enough to enter! Gather your friends and drive or walk along designated routes to observe a vast array of birds and other animals. Plus, don’t forget to check out the visitors center as well as the park’s various observation towers and decks, granting breathtaking views of its unique landscape! There’s no admission fee, making it a fantastic free activity for nature-loving groups.

Emerson Park (Owasco Lake, Auburn): This 135-acre lakeside gem offers plenty of space for group picnics, walks along the shore, and access to the beautiful Owasco Lake. Enjoy the playground, open fields, and scenic views – perfect for a relaxing group afternoon. Or, for a more thrilling activity, take on the park’s 18-hole disc golf course, rent some stand-up paddleboards or enjoy a performance at the Merry Go-Round Playhouse!

Sterling Nature Center (Sterling): In Northern Cayuga County, you’ll find this special 1,400-acre nature center, inviting guests to explore forests, wetlands, meadows, and nearly two miles of Lake Ontario shoreline. Gather your group and connect with the beautiful natural environment around you while exploring 10 miles of well-maintained trails, including a wheelchair-accessible trail leading to a lakeside observation deck! Visit for free year-round.

Dorothy McIlroy Bird Sanctuary (Summerhill): Last but not least, get ready to explore nature’s bounty in this unique wetland preserve! Between its rich shrub fens, peat swamps and forests, this park provides a cozy home for northern birds, as well as lots of rare and uncommon species of plants, many on the NYS protected list.

Looking for other outdoor group activities for those traveling on a budget in Cayuga County, NY? Enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk to Carpenter Falls at The Bahar Nature Preserve, paddle along the Cayuga County Blueway Trail starting at Frontenac Park, or soak in spectacular views of Lake Ontario at the West Barrier Bar Park. On the other hand, if you’re really looking to challenge your traveling companions, why not splurge for a night and book an unforgettable experience like scuba diving, bow fishing or water biking? In Cayuga County, the recreational options are endless!

More Unique Things To Do That Won’t Break the Bank

Beyond the traditional, Cayuga County offers some unique experiences that are perfect for groups on a budget.

• Dirt Motorsports Hall of Fame and Classic Car Museum (Weedsport): If you’ve got racing fans in your group, you can’t miss this unique museum! As another of Cayuga’s budget-friendly group activities, this site invites you to explore dozens of exhibits with historic race cars, memorabilia, classic autos, rare photos and more.
• Auburn Doubledays (Auburn): Celebrate America’s favorite pastime at historic Falcon Park! Experience the thrill of live baseball in an intimate, family-friendly setting, a fun and affordable way to spend an evening in the heart of Auburn! View current ticket prices.
• Finger Lakes Drive-In (Auburn): Enjoy movies under the stars at New York State’s oldest continually operating drive-in theater! Opened on July 15, 1947, this old-school outdoor movie venue remains a popular activity for people of all ages. Open daily from April to October.
• Farmers Markets: Gather your group and explore one of our vibrant local farmers markets while in-season! It’s a great way to experience local culture, sample regional produce, and perhaps pick up some ingredients for a group meal or picnic. Browsing is free, and supporting local vendors is a wonderful bonus.
• Self-Guided Walking Tours: Many of our charming towns like Auburn and Aurora offer historical walking tour brochures or online guides. Create your own personalized group tour, exploring architecture and historical markers at your own pace and for free.
• Annual Events and Festivals: Of course, if your group wants an authentic experience of the Cayuga community, then you simply must attend one of our local annual events, from the Fillmore Days & Bathtub Races to Juneteenth, the Route 90 Garage Sale and the Sterling Stage Folk Fest!

Go Beyond in Cayuga County

Whether you’re seeking an all-in-one destination or a can’t-miss detour, Cayuga County is the place to be. After all, between our incredible shopping hotspots, award-winning food and beverage scene, range of accommodations and abundant natural scenery, this part of the Finger Lakes is truly ideal for large group trips, destination weddings and professional meetings alike!

Need some help coordinating it all? Reach out to our expert local tourism team for assistance. Cayuga County is ready to welcome your group with open arms and a plethora of budget-friendly group activities. Let’s start planning your affordable and unforgettable adventure today.