Canandaigua, NY, is best recognized for its tourism resources, booming downtown business district, lovely residential areas, agricultural aids, attractive summer cottages, lakefront cottages, and vacation houses.
It is one of the most excellent locations to live in New York. Residents in Canandaigua, NY, enjoy a thick suburban vibe, and most rent their homes. There are several pubs and a park in Canandaigua.
This city also has quite a remarkable history to explore, so if you’re a history enthusiast, you’d undoubtedly feel at home in this city.
The town has many unique attractions, and this article will explore some of the best things to do in Canandaigua, New York. Let’s check them out.
Things to Do in Canandaigua, NY
1. Lincoln Hill Farms
Credit: LincolnHillFarms / Facebook
Contrary to its name, Lincoln Hill Farms is a gathering spot for families where numerous activities are held.
The Dewey family, who were the initial inhabitants of the area and ran a farm on Lincoln Hill for more than a century, is honored by the name of the attraction.
Public and private events, including weddings and entertainment, are held on the 95-acre farm.
Visitors may listen to live music on Thursday through Sunday, but from June to August, Sunday is also a special family day free.
A small petting zoo, a silo bar with 36 beers on tap, a silo entertainment area with 200 seats, a 6000 square foot tent with 400 seating options, a sunflower field, vegetable, hemp, and flower gardens, and a hops yard are all included in the attraction.
Among other attractions are children’s yard games, farm-to-table cuisine, themed pairing dinners, yoga in the sunflower, HalloweenFest, and August Fest. There is also a glamping site available.
On this exceptional farm, there is something for everyone. One of the most delicate things to do in Canandaigua, NY, is to explore Lincoln Hill Farm.
Location: 3792 NY-247, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
2. Roseland Bowl
Credit: RoselandBowl / Facebook
Visit Roseland Bowl if you’re eager for an exciting, enjoyable workout with friends and family. The destination is well-liked and entertainingly prominent in Canandaigua, NY. Roseland Bowl is a bowling alley with 34 and 8 VIP bowling lanes in a private arena.
It is 30,000 square feet in size. The bowling alley offers distinctive features, including synthetic lanes, personalized anti-gutter bumpers, and automated scoring.
The attraction also has a fantastic Fun Zone with the newest and most well-known arcade games.
A bumper car section, a prize redemption area, and a laser tag field are part of the Fun Zone. The Roseland Bowl has introduced a new venue called the “Time Freak” arena, where participants attempt to strike as many arena targets as they can in the allotted 90 seconds.
Visitors may also have some food and drinks at the spot at Annie’s Café and a Sports Bar. A separate event room is available at Roseland Bowl.
One of the enjoyable things to do in Canandaigua, NY, is having fun at this family amusement park. You must not pass up going to the Roseland Bowl.
Location: 4357 Recreation Drive, Canandaigua, New York 14424, USA
3. Canandaigua Cheshire Farms Creamery
Credit: CheshireFarmsCreamery / Facebook
Cheshire Farms Creamery in Canandaigua is another spot to sate your appetite for sweets. The region is well known for its locally produced, home-churned ice cream.
There are roughly 20 types of ice cream to choose from, but the selection changes frequently.
Purple Chip, Rolling in Dough, and Ring of Fire are just a few of the outstanding ice cream flavors that are appropriate at any time of year.
A variety of non-dairy Dole whips are also available from the Creamery if you don’t want any dairy products.
In addition to serving sandwiches, a variety of freshly baked goodies from their home-style bakery, and great locally roasted coffee, Cheshire Farms Creamery also offers a cafe.
You might get some ice cream cakes and other delicacies if you wish to host a gathering at your house.
Utilize Cheshire Farms Creamery’s handcrafted confections to commemorate special occasions involving your loved ones. Your palate will appreciate the delight!
Location: 10 Parrish St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
4. Constellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center
Credit: ConstellationBrands-MarvinSandsPerforming ArtsCenter / Facebook
A popular activity in Canandaigua, NY, is going to a show at the Premier CMAC. The Finger Lakes Performing Arts Center (FLPAC), which opened in 1883, was renamed Constellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center (CMAC) in 2006 after undergoing extensive renovations.
The winery’s founder, Marvin Sands, and the entire beverage alcohol corporation, Constellation Brands, are honored in the name of the outdoor event space.
Marvin founded CMAC after seeing the significance of the arts and culture in preserving a desirable neighborhood.
10,000 grass and 5,000 covered seats are available at the Center for various concerts and occasions.
Famous musicians and stars of well-known programs have performed at the entertainment center, including Lady Antebellum, Snoop Dogg, Kenny Chesney, The Allman Brothers, Bob Dylan, and Kid Rock.
You don’t have to worry about finding somewhere to eat at events because there are many food and beverage trucks.
Visitors may sip their beverages in the open-air area on the grass with a corona de motif. Tickets for a VIP tent with a complimentary drink and food are available.
Location: 4355 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
5. New York Kitchen
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One of the top things to do in Canandaigua, NY, is visiting New York Kitchen.
This distinctive cuisine in its restaurant and bar serves delectable meals made with fresh, in-season, and locally sourced ingredients.
The excellent restaurant features indoor and outdoor seating areas where you can enjoy the lake in a relaxed atmosphere.
Additionally, you may sample a variety of beverages, such as wines, spirits, regional breweries, and hand-crafted cocktails.
Additionally, New York Kitchen provides interactive culinary workshops where guests may learn how to make different recipes.
Kids may learn how to make pizza, pasta, and cookies from the beginning in junior chef classes designed with them in mind. Most of the materials come from a nearby farm in New York State.
Visitors can also participate in the lessons to learn more about New York wine and beer.
Location: 800 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
6. 15 BBL Microbrewery And Tasting Room
Credit: TheLakeHouseCanandaigua / lakehousecanandaigua.com
One of the most remarkable things to do when visiting this city must be to enjoy your favorite beer in a calm and relaxing setting.
To enjoy beer, you must stop by this 15 BBL microbrewery and tasting facility in Canandaigua, NY.
The Naked Dove Brewing Company was founded by three friends who are craft beer enthusiasts.
Customers may choose from six exceptional beers throughout the year, including porter, amber, and IPA.
Seven days a week, visitors may use the tasting room to sample several locally brewed draft beers, fill growlers, or choose beer kegs for parties.
Visitors can occasionally take brewery tours on weekends, demonstrating the brewing process.
The Brewing Company also welcomes canines. Do not be reluctant to include it in your schedule.
Location: 4048 State Route 5 and 20, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
7. Canandaigua Farmers
Credit: CanandaiguaFarmersMarket / Facebook
How can you visit a city if you don’t partake in its produce? About 30 local farmers and traders have formed the Canandaigua Farmers Market. From June through November, the almost 20-year-old market is often open on Saturday mornings.
The sole farmer-run market in Ontario County is the one in Canandaigua, NY.
The farmers at the market sell products, including fruits, vegetables, eggs, flowers, and meat, produced on nearby farms and gardens.
Additionally, the market is home to small-scale producers of various maple products, specialized honey and mustards, freshly baked foods, cured meats, and preserves.
Each vendor is required to sell only their goods, and since they are all fresh from the farm, every item in the market is guaranteed to be so.
Visitors may mingle with residents and sellers at the market to meet new acquaintances and learn about regional cuisine. Don’t be hesitant to include this place in your travel schedule.
Location: 7 Mill St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
8. Bristol Mountain Ski Resort
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In Canandaigua, New York, Bristol Mountain Ski Resort is the ideal spot to have fun throughout the winter.
The resort, which spans 160 acres and is located outside of Canandaigua, features 34 trails that range in difficulty from beginner to expert.
Cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, and mountain biking are all done on the routes. Skiers and riders of all ability levels have plenty to do, thanks to the variety of terrain.
Chairlifts and slopes are also present in the recreation area. The resort’s zipline course, high ropes course, and kid’s adventure park make it worthwhile to visit throughout the summer.
Visitors may now take advantage of the region’s incredible vistas, including the breathtaking perspective of the 2,220-foot mountain peak, thanks to the chairlifts’ transformation into observation platforms.
It is advised to make a reservation before visiting the resort. One of the enjoyable things to do in Canandaigua, NY, is to have an adventure at Bristol Mountain Ski Resort.
Location: 5662 NY-64, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA.
9. Rio Tomatina
Credit: FingerLakes /visitfingerlakes.com
Rio Tomatian should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for Mexican food, even in Canandaigua, NY. With its wonderful terrace and excellent design, the restaurant is particularly alluring.
The restaurant specializes in serving traditional Mexican fare and drinks made with ingredients and spices obtained from local small-scale Mexican suppliers.
The cheese they often use as an ingredient is obtained from a family in Michoacán, Mexico. Mole enchiladas, Antojitos, Hongos, Chile Rellenos, Pozole, Guacamole, Tacos, Shrimp burritos, and A la Diablo are just a few of the mouthwatering dishes served in Rio Tomatina.
Along with the meal, customers may choose from a variety of excellent Mexican tequilas and mezcals.
There are occasionally live performances, themed dinners, and other unique events. Both individuals and organizations may reserve the area for various private events.
Location: 106 Bemis St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
10. Ontario County Historical Society
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The Ontario County Historical Society, housed in a Georgian Revival structure, is one of the top things to do in Canandaigua, NY, to learn about the early lives of the city’s residents.
Claude Bragdon, a famous architect, created this Canandaigua landmark, which was constructed in 1914.
The Wood Library was a part of the Historical Society when it was built, but it was relocated to the Sibley House when it outgrew that location.
But the Historical Society and the Library are still collaborating today. The research library, the society’s archives, and occasional papers are all housed in the Ontario County Historical Society. The Society contains three exhibit galleries, a book store where people may buy publications about the area’s history, and DVDs and CDs.
A wide variety of items, including photographs, are shown at the Historical Museum’s displays on topics related to Western New York’s history.
Their staff is always available to help you if you wish to undertake research, but you must make an appointment ahead of time. The museum is open every day of the year.
A monthly educational program can be held in the Ontario County Historical Society’s Educational Room in the spring, fall, and winter. During your trip, you cannot afford to miss this place.
Location: 55 N Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
11. Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park
Credit: SonnenbergGardens&MansionStateHistoricPark / Facebook
In the entire state of New York, there are only two public gardens, and Sonnenberg Gardens is one of them.
During the 1880s, wealthy bankers Frederick Ferris and Mary Clark Thompson lived in this historical attraction, which is now run by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.
The opulent 50-acre estate is built in the Queen Anne style and has a 40-room home and nine flower gardens.
Every garden has a theme, like a rose garden, an Italian garden, or a Japanese flower garden. Other parks have color themes, like white and blue flowers.
From May to October, visitors may tour this area while admiring its vintage furniture and antiques (Thursdays till Mondays).
The attraction provides a variety of activities during the summer, including afternoon high teas and nighttime performances. I
The Finger Lakes Wine Center is located in the Sonnenberg Gardens and offers superb wines from more than 40 New York wineries for tasting and purchase.
The Greenhouse Conservatory Complex, which houses tropical plants from all over the world, is also located in the park. It is the second-oldest wooden greenhouse in America.
One of the most incredible things to do in Canandaigua, NY, is to explore this lovely Park.
Location: 151 Charlotte St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
13. Canandaigua Lake
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Canandaigua Lake, an excellent geographical feature, is a part of the Finger Lakes. Among the eleven Finger Lakes in the United States, the 26 km-long attraction is the fourth biggest. Going to Canandaigua, NY, would be impossible without seeing its renowned lake.
The lake serves as Canandaigua’s primary drinking water supply and is also utilized to irrigate the nearby agricultural areas.
The Lake has earned awards for having the most significant drinking water in all of New York State and is well renowned for its exceptional quality of water since it is very pure.
Kayaking or canoeing to sites near the city, utilizing fishing boats to reach the outer banks, and taking picturesque cruises aboard the steamer Canandaigua Lady is all options for exploring the lake.
There are many freshwater fish in Canandaigua, NY, including bass, trout, chain pickerel, and panfish. You may also go fishing in the lake.
Location: Canandaigua Lake, New York, USA.
14. Gideon Granger
Credit: GideonGrangerHomestead / Flickr
You must research the history of the place you visit as a tourist. One of the most outstanding venues to learn about the history of Canandaigua, NY, is this historical museum, which was first constructed in 1816.
The land was initially owned by Gideon Granger, a Postmaster General under Presidents Jefferson and Madison, but was later given to the Granger Homestead Society.
The Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum is a stunning three-story mansion on a 12-acre tract that showcases 19th-century agricultural techniques, furniture, and the carriage business of New York.
Over 100 vintage sleighs, carriages, and farm tools are displayed at the museum. For those who love old things, this is a terrific location. From June to October, visitors may take carriage rides through the grounds, and in the winter, they can take a quick sleigh ride.
Every November, a three-day Christmas market and a festival of trees are celebrated. You may make use of the museum’s lovely grounds and environs. One of the best things to do in Canandaigua, NY, is to tour this fascinating sight.
Location: 295 N Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
15. Roseland Wake Park
Credit: RoselandWakePark / Facebook
After visiting Roseland Wake Park, Kershaw Park is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a less intensive water activity. The 9 acres of this excellent Canandaigua park are located on the lake’s northern side.
The beautiful park has grassy areas, a brand-new beach area, sparsely spaced trees, picnic tables, a small craft launch area, a children’s playground, pavilions, a bathhouse, and a public dock with a boat pump-out station. It also has a lakefront with amazing views.
Families frequently go swimming, boating, and kayaking in the park. There is a launch if you wish to explore Lagoon Park and Canandaigua Lake’s banks by kayak.
Visitors can go swimming from Memorial Day weekend through roughly Labor Day weekend. You may simply lay on the plush sand and soak up the sun if you don’t want to visit the beach.
Location: 155 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
16. Richard P. Outhouse Memorial Park
Credit: RichardP.OuthouseMemorialPark / Facebook
On the western edge of the city lies a family park called Richard P. Outhouse Memorial Park, renowned for its tranquil surroundings. The park is a fantastic place to unwind after a demanding week.
The park seems like an excellent place for sports enthusiasts, with two sizable soccer fields, basketball courts, a pirate ship-themed section, and two bocce ball courts.
A paved walking track that goes to the picturesque woodland regions and a fitness center specifically for seniors are also available in Richard P. Outhouse Memorial Park.
There is a sizable playground specifically for children, so they are not excluded from the excitement. To prevent injuries, the playground equipment is covered in soft leather.
While their children are playing at the playground, adults may unwind on the benches dotted around the park. A sucker brook with bubbling water surrounds the park, adding to its picturesque qualities.
Even some animals and birds living nearby could be seen. The public may hire the enclosed hall and outdoor pavilion for various social activities.
Location: Memorial Park, 2550 Outhouse Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
17. Pat Rini Rohrer Art Gallery
Credit: PatRiniRohrerArtGallery / Facebook
Local artist Pat Rini Rohrer founded the Pat Rini Rohrer Art Gallery in 2003. The Interesting Gallery is housed in a gorgeously restored 1850s structure on Main Street in the heart of Canandaigua.
The Art Gallery exhibits more than 150 pieces of art created by prominent local, regional, and national artists from the Finger Lakes region.
The works of many artists in various mediums, including oil and watercolor paintings, exciting sculptures, hand-blown glass, jewelry, and ceramics, are available for viewing by visitors.
Additionally, the gallery offers top-notch oil painting supplies for sale, such as excellent brushes, Raymar painting panels, Gambian oils, and various painting mediums.
The Studio II multi-session seminars and one-day workshops offered by qualified local artists are one of the gallery’s defining characteristics. A large studio area behind the building serves as the location for the lessons.
The programs cover a variety of artistic disciplines, including pastels, multimedia, painting, and drawing. One of the best things to do in Canandaigua, NY, is to take an art class at the Pat Rini Rohrer Art Gallery.
Location: 71 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
18. Wakeboarding
Credit: RoselandWakePark / Facebook
You don’t see wakeboarding often, but Canandaigua has a wake park. Wakeboarding is challenging and revitalizing at Roseland Wake Park.
The Park spans 56 acres and is the only cable wake in this area. Along with locals, the recreational facility draws visitors from other states.
A comprehensive cable system and wakeboarding ramps are available at Roseland Wake Park. Wakeboarders at all skill levels are welcome, and 2-tower cable training systems are available to help newcomers pick up the sport fast and amateurs advance in it.
Professionals will undoubtedly experience adventure and excitement.
The systems at Wake Park can pull nine riders at once, sending them straight to the fantastic rails and ramps scattered around the Park. Visitors must, however, make reservations before coming.
It’s also advised that novice motorcyclists reserve their training sessions in advance. One of the great things to do in Canandaigua, New York, is to visit the beautiful Roseland Wake Park.
Location: 250 Eastern Boulevard, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
19. Canandaigua Lakefront Art Show
Credit: LakefrontArtShow / Facebook
The Canandaigua Lakefront Art Show, originally known as the Waterfront Art Festival, has been a popular yearly event in Canandaigua, NY, since 1973.
The show now takes place on the waterfront at Kershaw Park but was initially hosted at Canandaigua City Pier, bringing together fine artists and specialists from the Finger Lakes region.
More than 70 merchants will sell and present paintings, jewelry, handcrafted furniture, sculptures, prints, and glasswork during the event.
The unusual relics and objects specific to the city will astound you. If you don’t want to buy anything, you may stroll the walkways and take in the scenery and exhibit.
Some food vendors will sell baked goods, hot dogs, kettle corn, pizza, drinks, and wines if you want to sample the regional fare from Canandaigua. Live music will also be available for everyone to enjoy.
The Art Show is free to attend. One of the most incredible things to do in Canandaigua, NY, if you have a chance to be in town during the Show, is to go.
Location: 155 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
20. Simply Crepes Cafe
Credit: SimplyCrepes / Facebook
A French-Canadian family founded the renowned Simply Crepes Cafe, serving delectable crepes daily. Although outdoor seasonal eating is available, the restaurant offers artisanal salads, side dishes, and crepes in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Fresh ingredients from the surrounding area are used to produce every dish. The chicken is guaranteed to be free of hormones and antibiotics.
The menu is modified seasonally to highlight regional farmers and new tastes. Customers can also get crepes that are lactose- and gluten-free.
Visitors may also indulge in chai, cocktails, coffee, artisan beer, and regional wines.
The restaurant is open every week for breakfast, lunch, and supper except Sunday when only a special brunch buffet and a crepe station with made-to-order crepes are offered.
The Simply Crepes Cafe is a beautiful spot to hang out with loved ones.
Location: 101 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
21. Jeanne Beck Gallery And Studio
Credit: LifeintheFingerLakes / lifeinthefingerlakes.com
The Jeanne Beck Gallery and Studio is a must-visit location if you enjoy art. Artist Jeanne Beck privately owns this contemporary art gallery and attic studio.
Unique mixed-media masterpieces, expansive installations, and original paintings by the gallery owner are on display throughout the space.
Her visual creations communicate information about relationships, the human experience, and creativity. The good news is that some of the artwork is for sale.
The Gallery occasionally hosts free and fee-based classes covering various aspects of storytelling, painting, mixed-media production, and materials.
Jeanne offers private painting sessions if you wish to develop your artistic skills and explore your imagination.
Other degrees of artists can also take private painting courses. Call the phone listed on the gallery’s website anytime you wish to come, as the Gallery and Studio are available only by appointment.
Location: 154 Mill St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
22. Sweet Expressions
Credit: SweetExpressionsOnline / sweetexpressionsonline.com
Sweet Expressions is the place for you if you have a sweet tooth, especially for chocolate, and want to satisfy your cravings. The main emphasis of Sweet Expression, which opened its doors in 1997, specializes in exquisite chocolates.
You may smell their delightful scent before arriving because their chocolates are made to order and usually from scratch.
The chocolates are then embellished with modern forms and seasonal themes. Examples of chocolates include sea salt caramels, mint patties, and chocolate nut clusters.
Truffles, sugar-free chocolates, sweets, gift baskets, and gourmet foods are also available. The excellent gift ideas available on the website are great for any occasion.
If you need assistance, the staff at Sweet Expressions is always available. Sweet Expressions sells a variety of sweets, including Rice Crispie Pops, Spice & Licorice Jelly Beans, Bunny Corn, Easter creams, and sours. When you go to Sweet Expressions, take your kids along; they will love it.
Location: 169 South Main Street-Downtown, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
Conclusion
You will have a great time visiting this lovely city, one of the top tourist attractions. No matter your age, there is always something to do in this fantastic city.
Use this page as a helpful guide while exploring some of the city’s best areas.