Located in Ontario County, Canandaigua is considered one of the best places to live in New York. It’s also a fantastic tourist destination.
Canandaigua, New York, is famous for its numerous tourism assets, such as its beautiful downtown business district and various residential neighborhoods.
It also has multiple summer homes and agricultural properties.
Due to its location, the town’s residents enjoy several local activities, such as parks and bars. This article covers all the interesting, best things to do in Canandaigua, NY, for couples, kids, and on holidays.
Where is Canandaigua, New York?
Canandaigua is a city in Ontario County, New York. At the 2010 census, its population was 10,545.
The town of Canandaigua is the county seat of Ontario County. There are also administrative offices in the neighboring town of Hopewell.
The town’s name can be traced back to the Seneca village of Kanandarque, which was established long before European settlers arrived.
According to the US Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 4.8 square miles.
Of this, 4.6 square miles are land, while the remaining 0.2 square miles are covered by water.
Fun Things to Do in Canandaigua, NY
There are several things to do in Canandaigua, New York, for kids, for couples, for the weekend, etc. The city has plenty of fun places to visit, such as ski resorts, art galleries, museums, et cetera.
Below are the best things to do in Canandaigua, New York;
1. Bristol Mountain Ski Resort
The Bristol Mountain Ski resort is only a few miles away from Canandaigua. It’s a great place to get away and have fun in the winter.
The park features over 30 trails that are spread out over 140 acres.
There’s something for everyone. With varying green and black lines, there’s something for everyone.
There are also two terrain parks and several cross-country skiing trails.
During the summer season, the resort features various activities and facilities. Some of these include a ziplines course and an adventure park for kids.
Address: The Bristol Mountain Ski resort is located at 5662 NY-64, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
2. Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park
The Sonnenberg Mansion State Historic Park was once the summer home of a wealthy New York banker. It has nine formal gardens.
The mansion, which has 40 rooms, is open to the public. The gardens are also designed to varying levels.
For example, some gardens feature an elaborate Japanese garden, while others are peaceful.
An admission ticket for the mansion includes a guided tour. During the high season, the park is open from May to October.
It also features various events and activities. Some of these include afternoon tea and evening concerts.
Address: The Sonnenberg Mansion State Historic Park is located at 151 Charlotte St, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
3. Ontario County Historical Society
The Ontario County Historical Society is a great place to learn about the county’s history.
This organization also offers tours that explore the various facets of Ontario County’s past.
The historical society also has a wide variety of artifacts and photos. This organization is additionally known for its fascinating exhibits.
The staff members are also available to help individuals with their research in the field of history.
Finally, if you’re interested in learning more, the historical society has a small bookstore with a wide selection of books and DVDs.
Address: The Ontario County Historical Society is located at 55 N Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
4. Young Lion Brewing Company
The Young Lion Brewing Company was founded in 2017 in Canandaigua. It features a 10,000-barrel brewing facility and an events center.
The company’s facility is located at Canandaigua Lake’s northern shore. It brews various types of beer characterized by its unique blend of malt.
The company’s flagship product is the Young Lion Double IPA. The company’s other popular beers include the Young Lion Pilsner and the Young Lion Imperial Salt Caramel Porter.
In addition, small batch special cans of their products include the Blueberry Coconut Sour, the Cranberry Berliner, and the Imperial Salted Caramel Porter.
Address: The Young Lion Brewing Company is located at 24 Lakeshore Drive, Canandaigua, New York 14424.
5. Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum
The Granger and the Carriage Museum was initially built in 1816 and featured a variety of exciting exhibits.
This historical site gives a glimpse into how people lived in the area.
The mansion is also open to the public through a guided tour. During the tour, the visitors are guided through two barns filled with farm equipment and old carriages.
During the summer season, carriage rides are available to the public. During the winter season, the park is open for short sleigh rides.
Address: This museum is located at 295 N Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
Do you plan to visit other parts of New York? Endeavor to check out the best things to do in Finger Lakes and fun things to do in Ithaca.
6. CMAC, Canandaigua
The CMAC is a large performing arts center that can seat 15,000 people. It’s known for hosting various events.
The park also features various performances. Some of these include ballet shows and music performances. The seating area is located under the roof.
Food trucks are usually on-site during certain events, and a beer garden is also on the lawn. This area features Corona-themed drinks.
VIP packages are also available for events. These packages can additionally upgrade your experience.
Address: The CMAC is located at 4355 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
7. Pat Rini Rohrer Art Gallery
The Pat Rini Rohrer Art Gallery is owned and operated by a local artist with the same name.
It’s a great place to see the work of local artists who call the area home.
The gallery is located in a historic building on Main Street in Canandaigua. It features various art styles, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and glass.
Some of the other notable works that can be found in the gallery include oil and watercolor paintings.
The gallery is open during regular business hours. In addition to its regular exhibits, the gallery also hosts one-day workshops and classes for various artists.
Address: The Pat Rini Rohrer Art Gallery is located at 71 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
8. Lincoln Hill Farms
Situated on a beautiful farm, Lincoln Hill Farms is an ideal venue for events. It can accommodate up to 200 people for various private and public events.
The farm hosts live music every Thursday through Sunday. It also hosts a variety of activities for the kids. Free admission is additionally given on special family days.
Address: The Lincoln Hill Farms is located at 3792 NY-247, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
9. Rio Tomatlan
Rio Tomatlan is a local restaurant that focuses on serving authentic Mexican food.
It features a beautiful outdoor dining area and a variety of drinks and food.
The restaurant’s ingredients are either imported or locally sourced. Its house specialties include chicken tacos, mole enchiladas, and Rellenos.
Various events are held at this restaurant, such as themed dinners and live music. It can also accommodate private events, such as cooking classes.
Address: This restaurant is located at 106 Bemis St, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
10. New York Kitchen
The New York Kitchen is a must-visit area for anyone who enjoys drinking and eating food.
It offers a variety of classes that teach people how to make various types of food and drink.
These classes also cover the ins and outs of New York’s local beer and wine.
If you’re craving a relaxing and delicious meal, there’s a local restaurant that serves a wide variety of food and drinks.
It’s also dedicated to using local and seasonal ingredients.
Address: The New York Kitchen is located at 800 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
11. Simply Crepes Cafe
Simply Crepes Cafe was founded by a French-Canadian family. It serves a variety of sweet and savory crepes.
This establishment has been around for generations and was able to pass down a delicious recipe.
All the food at Simply Crepes Cafe is made from locally sourced ingredients.
Although the menu changes throughout the season, it still features various food options.
Address: The Simply Crepes Cafe is located at 101 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
12. Jeanne Beck Gallery & Studio
The gallery features various art pieces, including mixed media and paintings. Many of these are also available for sale.
The gallery also hosts free and paid classes that cover various subjects, such as mixed media and storytelling. These classes are usually held in the gallery’s private studio.
Address: The Jeanne Beck Gallery & Studio is located at 154 Mill St, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
13. Naked Dove Brewing Company
The company’s six different beers are available year-round. Some of these include amber ale, an imperial stout, and a porter. There’s also a rotating selection of seasonal drinks.
The company’s tasting room is open seven days per week. It’s also open for private events. On weekends, the facility can be visited for a behind-the-scenes look.
Address: The Naked Dove Brewing Company is located at 4048 State Route 5 and 20, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
14. Sweet Expressions
Since 1997, Sweet Expressions has been creating some of the most delicious and unique chocolates in the area.
Their products are known for their creamy and flavorful creations. This business has something for everyone, from their signature homemade fudge to new creations.
In addition to their signature products, such as homemade fudge, Sweet Expressions also produces various other types of chocolates.
These include chocolate mint patties, sea salt caramels, and chocolate nut clusters.
Address: Sweet Expressions is located at 169 South Main Street-Downtown, Canandaigua, New York 14424.
15. Roseland Bowl
The Roseland Bowl features a sizable 34-lane bowling alley equipped with automatic scoring and optional bumpers.
It also has an arcade called the Fun Zone. This facility is known for its various games and features the latest arcade equipment.
The Roseland Bowl is great for families to gather and have a full day of fun. It’s also equipped with various games and features the latest arcade equipment.
Address: The Roseland Bowl is located at 4357 Recreation Drive, Canandaigua, New York 14424.
16. Roseland Wake Park
The Roseland Wake Park is a full-sized cable wake park ideal for water sports enthusiasts.
It’s located in Canandaigua, New York, and is the first of its kind in the region. People from all around the country frequently visit it.
The park features a training system to help beginner wakeboarders improve their skills.
It also has a large wakeboard tower that’s ideal for advanced riders.
Address: The Roseland Wake Park is located at 250 Eastern Boulevard, Canandaigua, New York 14424.
17. Thai by Night
One of the best restaurants in the area is Thai by Night. It’s owned and operated by a Thai woman and her American husband.
The restaurant uses local ingredients and serves various types of Thai food. The staff is also able to accommodate different dietary needs.
They additionally have a variety of local beers, wine, and ciders on their menu.
The food at Thai by Night is just like the dishes that you would find in Thailand.
Some popular options they serve in the restaurant include pad Thai, tom yum soup, and the Massaman curry.
Address: Thai by Night is located at 123 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
18. Cheshire Farms Creamery
Cheshire Farms Creamery is a local business inspired by the old-time farm atmosphere.
This establishment serves a variety of sweet treats and light lunch options.
If you’re not a dairy-eater, you can also enjoy their non-dairy products, such as the Dole whip.
They additionally have a cafe that’s equipped with a variety of sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.
Address: Cheshire Farms Creamery is located at 10 Parrish St, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
19. Canandaigua Lake
The Lake of Canandaigua is the primary source of drinking water for the residents of Canandaigua.
Aside from being used for drinking water, it also provides farmlands with irrigation.
Due to its high-quality water, it has been regarded as the best drinking water in New York.
You can do various activities on the Lake, such as kayaking or canoeing. You can also take a boat trip to explore the area.
The Canandaigua Lady is additionally known to offer scenic cruises.
20. Kershaw Park
The park features a beautiful lakefront and several facilities. These include a children’s playground, pavilions, a boat pump-out station, and a public beach.
The park is a popular spot for families to gather and enjoy various activities, such as swimming and kayaking.
The park is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day during the summer. If you’re not planning on visiting the beach, you can still enjoy the park’s soft sand.
Address: The Kershaw Park is located at 155 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
21. Rheinblick German Restaurant
If you’re craving authentic German food, head to the Rheinblick German Restaurant.
The Klemens family originally owned this establishment. The current owners are the sons of the previous owners.
The restaurant serves various German drinks, such as beer on tap, wine on the rocks, and German desserts.
It’s also open from Thursday to Sunday. For more information about the restaurant’s hours, please visit its website.
Having a meal at the restaurant is one of the best local activities in Canandaigua.
Address: The Rheinblick German Restaurant is located at 224 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424.