Nestled in the hills at the southern end of Canandaigua Lake and one hour south of Rochester, Naples is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, which have inspired many artists and farmers to create and work here. With its strong connection to the grape industry, Naples is home to several wineries and grape-themed events, such as the celebrated Naples Grape Festival.
The drive between Rochester and Naples is breathtaking during fall. For a scenic drive, take one route into Naples and a different one back. County Roads 12, 21, 33, 34, and 64 each offer stunning views, especially in the fall. Stop at Carolabarb Park on CR-12 for a panoramic view of Canandaigua Lake, Bare Hill, South Hill, and Great Hill Nature Preserve.
Plan Your Day Trip to Naples
Breakfast
Savor a delicious meal at the Old School Cafe, a renovated 1870s schoolhouse that crafts a deliciously creative brunch menu. For a quick bite, visit Caruso’s Cafe for a breakfast sandwich and a refreshing beverage. Enjoy a delightful Sunday brunch at Hollerhorn Distilling or Roots Cafe. Or, if you’re driving into town along New York State Route 64, choose a tasty pastry from Plenty the Bakery next to Arbor Hill Winery.
Morning
Grimes Glen is open to the public and free to enjoy. To reach the two 60-foot waterfalls, you will need to walk through the creek. If visiting on a busy day (weekends, holidays, or hot August afternoons), the small parking lot may fill up quickly. Additional parking is available in a public lot on Main Street, a short walk from the glen. Water shoes or sturdy sandals and a walking stick are recommended for navigating the rocky stream bed.
Lunch
Take a delicious break at Luigi’s, Grove Barbecue Company, or Naples Wood Fired Pizza & Smokehouse BBQ. Or savor a farm-to-table meal at Roots Cafe.
Afternoon
Stop into Artizanns to browse handmade crafts, music, and locally produced food from over 200 Finger Lakes artisans. Drive a few minutes south on New York State Route 21 to Lynnie Lou’s Homemade Ice Cream—look for their harvest-inspired grape custard in September. Then, head to Joseph’s Wayside Market to browse their selection of local and regional products, including grape pie. You can also purchase a variety of local grapes or pick your own at Jerome’s, just a few minutes south on New York State Route 53. Or, go for a hike at Cumming Nature Center, where you’ll find marked trails, including one that passes through a beautiful stand of tall red pines.
Experience local wine, beer, and spirits from Hazlitt Red Cat Cellars, Inspire Moore Winery, Arbor Hill Winery, Naples Brewing Company, Engine 14 Brewery, and Hollerhorn Distilling.
If you head out of Naples before dinner, consider stopping into the Cheshire Union south of Canandaigua on New York State Route 21 to explore more local art. Located in an old four-room schoolhouse, it serves as a gift shop, artist studio space, gallery, and classroom for over 120 regional artists.
Dinner
Unwind at Hollerhorn Distilling, where globally inspired cuisine pairs perfectly with house-made spirits. Indulge in comfort food at Redwood Restaurant or dine on the shore of Canandaigua Lake at the seasonal Sawmill Restaurant.
Evening
Look at Bristol Valley Theater’s upcoming shows so your day trip coincides with one of their outstanding live performances. You can also watch the sunset from The Jump Off Overlook on Gannett Hill, where you may glimpse the Rochester city skyline.
Signature Events
Bristol Mountain Fall Sky Rides
mid-September
Enjoy a 20-minute round-trip ride on the Comet Express chairlift on weekend afternoons from mid-September through October. Absorb the rich fall colors while facing Stid Hill on the ride back down. Admission fee. 5662 New York State Route 64, (585) 374-6000
Naples Grape Festival
late September
The two-day grape festival celebrates local music, art, and food. The wine-tasting tent is a popular destination featuring the finest regional wines, craft brewers, and distilleries. The World’s Greatest Grape Pie Contest is a must-see event. Unique to the Finger Lakes region, grape pies were created in the 1950s by Naples resident Irene Bouchard. Since traffic through the village can back up quickly, arriving before 11 a.m. is the best way to avoid delays. Parking is available at Hazlitt Red Cat Cellars, with a free shuttle bus to take attendees directly to the festival grounds at the Memorial Town Hall and Naples High School. 154 N. Main Street, (585) 374-2240
Google Map of Locations
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Where are your favorite places to visit in Naples?
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You should visit PLENTY the Bakery next time you’re in Naples. It’s next door to Arbor Hill winery. Located at 6469 NY-64 Naples Ny 14512. Open Fri-Sun. 8 am till 3pm. It’s fabulous!
Wonderful recommendation, Margaret, thank you!