You are missing out if you have never been to Watkins Glen International for a race! It is a fun, super fan-friendly track, and the racing action is a bonus. There is a reason it was voted best racetrack by USA Today readers multiple times. Additionally, it is surrounded by a beautiful area with no shortage of things to do or experience.
Close Activities
- First, located just minutes from WGI is Watkins Glen State Park. The most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks, this is the place to go if you like the great outdoors. It is a favorite among drivers and crew members.
While there are 19 waterfalls to be found throughout the park and many hiking trails, don’t miss out on the Gorge Trail. This path will take you under, around, and over waterfalls. Be prepared with good walking shoes and know ahead of time that you will probably get wet!
- If you are a wine aficionado, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is for you. With 27 wineries along the trail, there is no shortage of places for you to visit. Additionally, you will have some fantastic views of Seneca Lake. Find more information on their official website.
Day Trips
- Looking for a nice way to spend a day? Head 20 minutes south of the track to Corning. Located along the Chemung River, this is a fun, small town to explore.
Known as Crystal City, Corning is all about glass and is the home of Corning Incorporated. (If you don’t know what Corningware is, ask your wife. You might have some in your kitchen cabinets!)
You can tour the Corning Museum of Glass, the largest museum dedicated to contemporary art and design in glass. There are also glassblowing demos throughout the day. You can even pay to make your own piece of art with the help of experienced glassworkers. How neat is that?
While in town, make sure to check out Market Street. Here, you can find numerous shopping and dining options as well as the throwback Palace Theatre.
Finally, if you need an activity for the kids, check out Centennial Park. They can play in a huge fountain and traverse a maze painted along the Centerway Pedestrian Bridge that crosses the river.
Passport Needed
- If you are looking for a real day trip, drive three hours west to Niagra Falls! If you have never been, it is a must-see. Make sure to take your passport because the Canadian side is cleaner and has the best view of the falls. You will not be disappointed!
Restaurants
- Nickel’s Pit BBQ
With locations in Watkins Glen and Corning, this is the place to go for BBQ. Both locations come recommended, but the Watkins Glen location has indoor and outdoor seating. It also boasts live music on the weekends. - Jerlando’s Ristorante & Pizza Co.
If you are an Italian food lover like I am, don’t skip Jerlando’s! Located in downtown Watkins Glen, they have a plentiful menu that will leave everyone satisfied. The Veal Marsala and Chicken Cantonese are highly recommended. - Thai Elephants
If you are looking for an international flair, Thai Elephants is the place to go for traditional Thai dishes. I was told the curries and dumplings are delicious! - Beartown Peaches ‘N Cream Market
Lastly, located about 25 minutes from the track in Painted Post, this market features local foods and produce. The big draw is the walk-up ice cream window where you can snag cones, sundaes, milkshakes, and sometimes Dole Whip. You do not want to miss this place!
Chime in! If you are a Watkins Glen native or regular race attendee, let us know your favorite local spots to visit and dine!
