Things to Do in Auburn, New York

Auburn, New York is located in the Finger Lakes region and is about 30 miles west of Syracuse and the New York State Fairgrounds. It is home to Auburn Correctional Facility, a maximum security prison that was made famous by the execution of President McKinley's assassin in 1901. Auburn, New York also ranked number 18 on Forbes' list of "The Best Small Cities to Raise a Family." Come to Auburn, New York and check out some of these places of interest:

Cayuga Wine Trail

Less than 10 miles down the road from Auburn on Route 20 starts the oldest wine trail of the Finger Lakes, the Cayuga Wine Trail. There are currently 16 wineries along the trail and 21 places to get something to eat. At the opposite end of the lake is Corning Museum of Glass. For a map of the trail and to see what events are scheduled, please visit the Cayuga Wine Trail website.

Harriet Tubman Home

Harriet Tubman is known for her activities as a soldier, spy, and nurse during the Civil War and for her activities with the Underground Railroad. Her home in Auburn, which was sold to her by New York Senator William Seward, is located on South Street, and can be toured Tuesdays through Fridays from 11-4, and by appointment on Saturdays. To see current events going on in connection with the Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn, please visit the home's website.

Seward House

William Seward (1801-1872) served as New York's Governor, US Senator, and Secretary of the State for two Presidents. His house, which features many antique collectibles, art and books, is located at 33 South Street in Auburn, New York. Tours are given on the hour. For exact hours, admission price, and special exhibit information, please visit the museum's website. It is suggested that you plan to stay at least two hours.

Finger Lakes Mall

Another thing to do while in Auburn, New York is shopping. The Finger Lakes Mall is located on Route 5 & 20 in Auburn, New York. It features anchor stores like Sears and J C Penney's, and a huge Bass Pro Shop. For a complete list of stores and dining options, and to see what's playing at the cinema, visit the mall's website.

Finger Lakes Drive-In

The Finger Lakes Drive-In, located on Routes 5 and 20 in Auburn, New York, is one of the few drive-ins left in the area. They even still have the old speakers left, but they advise you to tune your radio in to FM 90.7 for best sound quality. The Finger Lakes Drive-In in Auburn is open in spring and summer, so please visit their website for exact times of shows.

Sunset Adventures Balloon Rides

What better way to get a view of the entire Finger Lakes Region and city of Auburn than from the sky? Take an hour long hot air balloon ride, complete with champagne, with the folks at Sunset Adventures Balloon Rides. Sunset Adventures can be found on Beech Tree Road in Auburn, New York. Rates and times of flights can be found on their website.

Owasco Lake

Emerson Park has the only public beach on Owasco Lake. It is located on the northern tip of the lake in Auburn, New York. In addition to swimming, the park offers boat launch areas, baseball, golfing, and walking trails. It hosts events such as the Finger Lakes Car Show and The Great Race Triathlon. Bicycling is also a favorite activity around the lake.

Merry Go Round Playhouse

The Merry Go Round Playhouse in Auburn, New York has such quality performances that it has earned the nickname, "Broadway in the Finger Lakes." It is located in Emerson Park (along Owasco Lake), East Lake Road in Auburn. In 2004, it underwent a $2.5 million dollar renovation. Check out the Playhouse's website for current shows.

Springside Inn

Springside Inn, along Owasco Lake in Auburn, was built in 1851 as a boarding house. In the 1940s it was renovated into a year-round hotel and restaurant. The grounds surrounding Springside Inn are perfect for wedding pictures or any other special occasion. Springside Inn is located at 6141 West Lake Road, Auburn, New York. To see what's currently featured on the fine dining menu, or for information regarding the rental of facilities, please visit the Springside's website.

Sunset Restaurant

The Sunset Restaurant is located at 93 North Division Street in Auburn, New York. It offers lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday, and dinner only on Sunday. This Auburn, NY restaurant, operating since 1933, also offers catering services, and has a room that can seat up to 200 guests. For hours and to see what's on the menu, visit their website.

Sources:

City of Auburn