Canandaigua, New York, is a charming city located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and a rich history, Canandaigua offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring the outdoors, immersing yourself in culture and history, or indulging in delicious food and wine, Canandaigua has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Canandaigua:
1. Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park
This magnificent 50-acre estate features beautifully manicured gardens, a historic mansion, and a greenhouse complex. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, explore the mansion’s opulent rooms, and learn about the rich history of the property.
Nestled along the shores of Canandaigua Lake, Kershaw Park is a lovely waterfront park with ample green space, a sandy beach, and a playground. It’s an ideal spot for a family outing, a picnic, or a relaxing day by the water.
Located at the northern end of Canandaigua Lake, the City Pier is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Take a leisurely walk along the pier, enjoy a picnic with a view, or rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the lake up close.
Step back in time at the Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum. Explore the beautifully restored 19th-century mansion, which showcases period furnishings and artifacts. The Carriage Museum houses an impressive collection of horse-drawn carriages and offers a fascinating glimpse into transportation history.
For some fun and excitement, head to Roseland Waterpark. This family-friendly water park offers thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and other water attractions, perfect for a day of splashing around and cooling off.
The park provides convenient access to Canandaigua Lake, allowing visitors to enjoy various water activities. Whether you prefer swimming, fishing, kayaking, or boating, you can easily launch your watercraft from the park’s boat launch ramp or utilize the fishing pier. Canandaigua Lake State Marine Park offers scenic picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy a meal with family and friends. Picnic tables and grills are available, providing a perfect setting for a lakeside cookout or a peaceful picnic.
Atwater Park, located in Canandaigua, is a small waterfront park that offers scenic views of Canandaigua Lake. It is known for its peaceful ambiance and serene surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakefront or sit on the benches to take in the picturesque views. Although the park may not have extensive facilities or amenities, its location makes it an ideal spot for relaxation, reflection, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. It’s a great place to unwind, have a picnic, or simply soak up the tranquil atmosphere.
Onanda Park provides public access to Canandaigua Lake, allowing visitors to enjoy various water activities. You can swim in the designated swimming area, launch your boat from the boat launch, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. The park features several scenic hiking trails that wind through wooded areas and along the lakeshore. These trails offer opportunities for nature walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the park.
Blue Heron Park is described as a small park located in Canandaigua, within the Finger Lakes region of New York. According to the review, it appears to be a neighborhood park that offers a peaceful and natural setting. The park may feature walking paths or trails where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a short hike. It’s mentioned that the park offers an opportunity to observe wildlife, particularly blue herons, which are known to frequent the area. This makes Blue Heron Park an excellent spot for birdwatching or wildlife enthusiasts.
These are just a few of the best places and things to do in Canandaigua, New York. With its natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Canandaigua is a destination that will leave you with lasting memories.
