A Reflective Fall Day in Harriet Tubman’s Hometown
As the air gets crisper, the lakes shimmer with quiet stillness, and the season invites us to slow down, there’s no better place to spend a reflective fall day than in Cayuga County, NY – Harriet Tubman’s chosen hometown. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, natural beauty or a cozy weekend getaway, Cayuga County offers the perfect blend of history, heart and hospitality – perfect for reflecting, giving thanks and reconnecting with what matters most.
Start with Local Flavors and Fresh Air
Begin your day at New Hope Mills Café, a local favorite that’s been part of Cayuga County’s story for generations. Founded in the early 1800s, New Hope Mills is known for its historic charm and hearty breakfast menu of fluffy pancakes, golden waffles and warm maple syrup made from their signature mixes. If you prefer a lighter start, grab a latte from Simple Roast Coffee for a cozy morning moment before heading out to explore.
After breakfast, take a quick drive toward Emerson Park or along the shores of Owasco Lake. The gentle trails and lakeside paths are ideal for a quiet walk or a moment of mindfulness. As the leaves crunch underfoot and sunlight filters through the trees, it’s easy to imagine how Harriet Tubman, a woman who found deep peace and purpose in the natural world, might have felt renewed by this same landscape.
Walking in Harriet Tubman’s Footsteps
No trip to Cayuga County is complete without visiting the sites that tell the remarkable story of Harriet Tubman’s later life. Begin at the Harriet Tubman Home, where she lived for more than 50 years after escaping slavery and leading dozens to freedom. Continue on to the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, home to the AME Zion Church, where her funeral was held in 1913. The experience is an excellent opportunity to stand in the places where Tubman’s faith and determination shaped her enduring legacy. Note: Please be sure to visit the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park website for seasonal hours and potential delays.
When lunchtime arrives, make your way to the charming village of Aurora for a meal at the Fargo Bar and Grill. Built in 1834, this cozy restaurant pairs classic comfort food with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and has been recognized as having the “best burger in the Finger Lakes.” While you’re in Aurora, stop by the Howland Stone Store Museum in the Sherwood Equal Rights Historic District to learn more about the area’s remarkable legacy of social reform and activism. The museum highlights the stories of Quaker families like the Howlands, who were leaders in the abolition, women’s suffrage, and education movements. Note: Please be sure to visit the Howland Stone Store Museum’s website for seasonal hours and potential delays.
History, Heritage and Gratitude
Spend your afternoon exploring Auburn’s historic core. At the Seward House Museum, you’ll discover the story of Frances Seward and her husband, William H. Seward – who served as U.S. Secretary of State under Abraham Lincoln – both of whom were close friends to Harriet Tubman. The Seward family’s commitment to the abolitionist movement and their friendship with Tubman helped shape both local and national history. Touring the house offers a fascinating glimpse into the people and politics that surrounded Tubman’s life here in upstate New York.
Next, visit Fort Hill Cemetery, where Harriet Tubman was laid to rest. The cemetery includes the sites of other notable figures such as William and Frances Seward, and Martha Coffin Wright. Take a few moments to stand beneath the trees, read the tributes left by visitors, or simply pause in gratitude for a life lived with courage, conviction and heart.
Warmth, Comfort and Connection
As evening approaches, head downtown for dinner at one of Auburn’s favorite local restaurants. At Prison City Pub & Brewery, enjoy craft beer brewed on-site, and a menu filled with hearty, seasonal dishes. The welcoming atmosphere and local pride make it a gathering place for both visitors and residents alike.
For a more refined dinner experience, 1833 Kitchen and Bar at the Inns of Aurora offers modern cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Set in a beautiful, historic setting, it’s an ideal spot for a elevated meal that celebrates the flavors of the Finger Lakes.
After dinner, settle in for the night at one of Cayuga County’s charming accommodations. The Rowland House, part of the Inns of Aurora, offers lakeside tranquility with beautifully designed rooms that blend comfort and history. If you prefer to stay closer to downtown, the Springside Inn is a charming bed and breakfast that was believed to be a part of the Underground Railroad.
Reflection Beyond the Day
A fall day in Harriet Tubman’s hometown is a perfect reminder that courage can take root in the quietest places, and that gratitude often grows strong in moments of reflection. As you wrap up your visit in Cayuga County, take a moment to carry Tubman’s spirit of resilience, faith and enduring belief in the power of freedom and community forward.