Wayland New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wayland, New York.
1. New York State Yoga Fest
SERENE OUTDOOR YOGA EXPERIENCE
New York State Yoga Fest takes place at the beautiful Letchworth State Park's Highbanks Recreation Area. Visitors can enjoy various yoga sessions in a stunning natural setting, connecting mind and body with the surrounding landscape. The festival is scheduled for June 14, 2025, with tickets starting at $32.75.
2. Letchworth State Park
GRAND CANYON OF THE EAST
Letchworth State Park offers breathtaking views of dramatic gorges and spectacular waterfalls along the Genesee River. Visitors can explore over 66 miles of hiking trails, enjoy picnic areas, and participate in various recreational activities throughout the year. The park's Great Bend Overlook provides one of the most stunning panoramic views in the Finger Lakes region.
3. Buried Barrel Hard Cider
REFRESHING LOCAL CIDER DESTINATION
Buried Barrel Hard Cider offers a delightful tasting experience featuring locally crafted hard ciders in Wayland. The establishment hosts special events throughout the year, including Mother's Day Hike & Lunch, combining outdoor activities with culinary delights. Visitors can sample various cider varieties while enjoying the charming atmosphere of this Finger Lakes gem.
4. Watkins Glen State Park
MAGICAL GORGE AND WATERFALLS
Watkins Glen State Park features a magnificent gorge with 19 waterfalls cascading through a picturesque landscape. Visitors can wander along the stone pathways that wind through the gorge, passing under and behind waterfalls while surrounded by 200-foot cliffs. The park offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and geological wonder that makes it one of the most renowned destinations in the Finger Lakes region.
5. Corning Museum of Glass
WORLD-CLASS GLASS ART SHOWCASE
The Corning Museum of Glass houses the world's most comprehensive collection of glass with more than 50,000 objects spanning 3,500 years of glass history. Visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations, create their own glass souvenirs, and explore interactive exhibits that explain the science and art of glassmaking. The museum's contemporary wing features spectacular large-scale installations by today's leading glass artists in a stunning architectural space filled with natural light.
6. Finger Lakes Wine Trails
EXQUISITE VINEYARD EXPERIENCES
The Finger Lakes Wine Trails offer a delightful journey through the region's renowned vineyards and wineries. Visitors can sample award-winning Rieslings, Chardonnays, and other varieties while taking in spectacular views of rolling hills and shimmering lakes. Many wineries host seasonal events combining wine tastings with local cuisine, music, and art for a complete cultural experience.
7. Smitty's Pop and Hops Shop
CRAFT BEVERAGE WONDERLAND
Smitty's Pop and Hops Shop offers a curated selection of craft beers, sodas, and specialty beverages in the heart of Wayland. Visitors can explore an impressive variety of local and regional brews, with knowledgeable staff providing recommendations based on individual preferences. The shop creates a warm, community-focused atmosphere that celebrates the rich beverage culture of the Finger Lakes region.
8. Women's Rights National Historical Park
BIRTHPLACE OF WOMEN'S SUFFRAGE
The Women's Rights National Historical Park commemorates the first Women's Rights Convention held in 1848, a pivotal moment in American history. Visitors can tour the Wesleyan Chapel where the convention took place, explore exhibits chronicling the women's suffrage movement, and visit the homes of prominent suffragists Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Mary Ann M'Clintock. The park preserves the story of the struggle for equality and serves as an inspiring reminder of the ongoing journey toward social justice.
9. Glenn H. Curtiss Museum
AVIATION AND LOCAL HISTORY
The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum celebrates the life and innovations of aviation pioneer Glenn Curtiss, known as the 'Father of Naval Aviation.' Visitors can view a fascinating collection of vintage aircraft, motorcycles, boats, and local artifacts spanning the early 20th century. The museum offers an engaging look at how Curtiss's groundbreaking work in transportation transformed American mobility and contributed to the development of modern aviation.
10. Strong National Museum of Play
INTERACTIVE CHILDHOOD WONDERLAND
The Strong National Museum of Play is America's second-largest children's museum dedicated to the exploration of play and its critical role in learning and human development. Visitors of all ages can enjoy interactive exhibits including a butterfly garden, video game history gallery, and recreations of beloved television show sets. The museum houses the world's largest collection of toys, dolls, games, and other artifacts of play, making it a nostalgic experience for adults and an adventure for children.
11. Shopping
RETAIL THERAPY DESTINATIONS
Shopping in Wayland and the surrounding Finger Lakes region offers everything from quaint canalside village boutiques to large outlet centers in nearby Syracuse and Waterloo. B & D Depot provides locals and visitors with essential items and unique finds in a charming small-town setting. Travelers seeking more extensive retail options can venture to the nearby communities for artisanal crafts, local produce markets, and specialty shops featuring regional products.
12. Dining
LOCAL CULINARY DELIGHTS
Dining in Wayland features several charming eateries including Laf a Lot Restaurant, Palmer's Last Stop, and Simply Autumn Cafe and Restaurant. These local establishments serve up homestyle cooking, fresh ingredients, and seasonal specialties that showcase the flavors of the Finger Lakes region. Visitors can enjoy everything from hearty breakfasts to comfort food dinners in welcoming atmospheres that reflect the community's warm hospitality.
13. Hiking
SCENIC NATURAL TRAIL SYSTEMS
Hiking around Wayland offers nature enthusiasts access to spectacular trails through the rolling hills and forests of the Finger Lakes region. Nearby Letchworth State Park provides over 66 miles of hiking paths with varying difficulty levels, allowing explorers to witness stunning gorges, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. The Mother's Day Hike at Buried Barrel Hard Cider combines outdoor adventure with refreshing rewards, exemplifying the area's blend of natural beauty and local culture.
14. Fishing
SERENE ANGLING OPPORTUNITIES
Fishing near Wayland provides anglers with diverse opportunities on the pristine waters of the Finger Lakes and nearby Lake Ontario. Enthusiasts can cast for a variety of species including bass, trout, salmon, and panfish in settings ranging from quiet streams to expansive lakes. The region's commitment to conservation ensures healthy fish populations and clean waters, creating memorable experiences for both novice and experienced fishermen throughout the seasons.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR OVERNIGHT ADVENTURES
Camping near Wayland allows outdoor enthusiasts to experience the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region under starlit skies. Letchworth State Park offers traditional campsites as well as cabin accommodations surrounded by magnificent forest scenery and the sounds of wildlife. For those seeking a more luxurious outdoor experience, Firelight Camps at La Tourelle provides glamping options with comfortable amenities while maintaining a connection to nature.