Mini Adventure Day in Watkins Glen, NY

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Sometimes you just need a break.

A couple of weeks ago, I’d gotten to that point. After lots of work and busyness, I wanted to do something fun.

Time for an adventure day!

Better yet, my dear friend Jeanne was going to join me for some much-needed catching up.

We decided to spend a day checking out new places and old favorites on our adventure day in Watkins Glen. Close enough for an easy, 45-minute drive and far enough away to feel a little outside of our everyday life.

Over the course of just half a day, we managed to hike behind a waterfall, float in pure tranquility, and eat delightful food.

Here’s how it went.

First stop: Watkins Glen State Park

We knew we wanted to start the day with some movement and had picked out a couple of options: the lesser-known Deckertown Falls near Montour Falls or the famous Watkins Glen State Park. 

That morning, the weather was pleasant and we felt like a little challenge, so we headed to the state park. Plus, it had been a long time since either of us had been to the Watkins Glen waterfalls.

Having an Empire Pass also made the decision easy, because it saved us the $10 entrance fee. (Use this guide to decide whether the Empire Pass is right for you, or maybe even the Lifetime Empire Pass. There are also a few ways to use the Empire Pass for free.)

We pretty randomly chose the South Entrance (there are three: main, south, and upper), right next to the Olympic sized swimming pool and the South Pavillion, where you’ll find ample bathrooms. 

The South Rim Trail took us through a park-like area with shady trees and past the Lily Pond (with some very vocal toads and frogs) to the Gorge Trail.

The Gorge Trail in its entirety is 1.5 mi (2.4 km) long and takes you right along the narrow gorge from the main entrance to the upper entrance. We didn’t have a specific plan for our Watkins Glen hike, so the paper map we received at the entrance kiosk was helpful in identifying our path and what we were looking at.

It can get quite crowded on the trail on popular weekends and holidays, but we were lucky that we only had to wait for or squeeze by people a few times.

One of the most spectacular falls — and experiences — is the Cavern Cascade, where the trail takes you behind the waterfall. It was hot, so we really enjoyed the spray. And we were glad we had on proper shoes (I adore these comfortable and long-lasting sandals!) to navigate the wet stone path.

It was also interesting to see the main entrance area that looks very nice after a major renovation a few years ago. There are ecology and creek paths and educational signs.

We turned around and hiked back up the trail to Rainbow Falls. At that point we decided we’d done plenty to earn our lunch and returned to the car.

Second stop: Holy Cow Meat Market & Deli

We decided to try out the Holy Cow Meat Market & Deli, which someone had recommended to us. Don’t you just love the logo?

“Holy cow” is right! Jeanne and I both agreed that our Reuben and Rachel sandwiches were the best we’d had in a long time. Nicely toasted on the outside, with a generous pile of meat, and juicy.

Other items on the straightforward menu include hot and cold subs and sandwiches, fries, and salads.

The shop had outdoor seating available, but the air-conditioned indoor dining room wasn’t too crowded, so we opted for that.

You can also buy seafood, meat, and deli items like chicken and potato salads, olives, etc.

I’d definitely go back.

Third stop: Inner Peace Floats

After a little break, we headed over to Inner Peace Floats for the day’s main event: floating.

If you’ve never heard of floating, you’re not alone. It seems like it’s still pretty niche, but I’ve really enjoyed the experience the three or so times I’ve done it.

Basically, you’re trying to create as much sensory deprivation as possible to experience supreme relaxation. Traditionally, people have gotten into dark, very claustrophobic-sounding pill-shaped containers filled with water. 

Inner Peace Floats has a much more beginner-friendly version, where you enter a small tub room with a sloped ceiling. The shallow water contains 1,000 lbs of epsom salt (magnesium sulfate), which makes you float and has medicinal properties as well. You have full control over the music and lights, which can be completely off or very dim.

This was Jeanne’s first-ever float. She said it felt like she’d just gone through a whole experience — luckily, a good one! 

If you’re curious, check out my post about everything you need to know about floating and Inner Peace Floats.

Fourth stop: Scuteri’s Cannoli Connection

Jeanne had heard about a fantastic cannoli shop, so we stopped into Scuteri’s Cannoli Connection as a bonus to finish our day on a sweet note.

It’s a bit of a hole in the wall and is said to have great pizza, too. The shop is family-owned and has been around since 1971.

It was our first visit, so we got to sample some cannoli cream. Oh yum!

We left with a bunch of cookies (I love the three-layer rainbow cookies!) and several freshly filled cannoli for our families.

In German we call this “Drachenfutter” (dragon food) — treats you bring back to placate the loved ones you left at home while you were out having fun without them.

More ideas for an adventure day in Watkins Glen

That’s where our ways parted. If we hadn’t had to pick up our respective kids from daycare, we might have considered relaxing on into the evening. 

For a future trip to Watkins Glen, I’m definitely eyeing a sunset tour on the True Love schooner. And I may have dinner at Thai Elephants, which was great the one time I visited. For a longer stay, I’ve heard good things about the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.

There are definitely lots of things to do in Watkins Glen. Attractions include Watkins Glen International (the speedway is also nicknamed “The Glen”), the Watkins Glen Farm Sanctuary, nearby wineries…

The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce has been helpful when I’ve called for information.

Create your own adventure day!

Maybe I’ve inspired you for your own mini adventure day.

You don’t have to travel far in the Finger Lakes to (re)discover beautiful nature, great food, and interesting ways to relax!

Check my archives for lots more ideas.

And I’d love to hear your tips! Where should I go for my next adventure day?

You may also enjoy:

• Fun facts about Schuyler County
• Chocolate shops in the FLX (there’s one listed right in Watkins Glen)