Autumn in Seneca County is a breathtaking season of vibrant leaves, scenic drives, and family-friendly farm fun. Here’s a fresh 2025 guide to savoring all that fall has to offer—right here in the Finger Lakes.

leaves on a lake

Leaf-Peeping Along Route 89 — Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway

Take the iconic drive along Route 89, which traces the western shore of Cayuga Lake. This scenic byway offers stunning mirrored vistas of red, gold, and orange foliage, especially pronounced in mid-October. Be sure to stop at Cayuga Lake State Park near Seneca Falls to stretch your legs, explore the lakeside beach, or enjoy a peaceful picnic under a canopy of colorful leaves.

various pumpkins and gourds set up on tables at a pumpkin patch

Family Fun at The Pumpkin Stand

Nothing says fall like a day spent among pumpkins and hay bales. The Pumpkin Stand in Ovid brings the season to life with 8 acres of U-pick pumpkins, a corn maze, hayrides, edible ornaments, gourds, mums, and fresh cider—open daily from Labor Day through Halloween.

wooden man holding bow and arrow in front of pond in field of grass and dirt under blue sky

Sip & Stroll at Finger Lakes Cider House

Nestled right on Route 89 in Interlaken, Finger Lakes Cider House at Good Life Farm is a farm-forward cider destination that’s also a great stop during your foliage drive. Taste artisan hard ciders made from heirloom apples and experience the working-farm atmosphere—with seasonal U-pick fruit and food pairings also available.

white deer standing in a wooded area

Watch the White Deer

Discover one of Seneca County’s most unique outdoor experiences at Deer Haven Park. Nestled within the former Seneca Army Depot, the park is home to the world’s largest herd of white deer, along with incredible wildlife and historic military remnants. Guided bus tours and self-drive safari experiences offer unforgettable encounters with these rare creatures, all against the backdrop of the Finger Lakes’ natural beauty.

A Quick Detour to Taughannock Falls

Only a few miles beyond the county border, Taughannock Falls State Park is well worth the detour. The towering gorge and waterfalls framed by blazing fall colors are a sight to behold—and only a short drive from Seneca County’s eastern edge.

Why Seneca County Shines in the Fall:

  • Iconic drives with foliage mirrored in Cayuga Lake’s glassy surface.

  • Seasonal delights for families—pumpkin picking, hayrides, cider, and more.

  • Farm-to-table charm that tastes as good as it looks.

  • Waterfall drama just minutes beyond the border.

  • Historic ambiance tucked into autumn’s warm palette.