Watkins Glen State Park

Things to do near Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park offers an array of outdoor activities, including scenic hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife observation. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through the stunning gorges and cascading waterfalls, providing a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Camping is also available, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Watkins Glen has something for everyone.

Shopping

While Watkins Glen State Park offers scenic beauty, for shopping, consider the Windmill Farm & Craft Market, located 25.7km away. If you're up for a drive, explore Ithaca Commons and Ithaca Farmers Market, both around 19 to 32.2km away, featuring vibrant local shops and crafts.

Recreation

Explore Newfield State Forest for tranquil nature walks and serene picnic spots, perfect for relaxation. Challenge yourself at Hillendale Golf Course with its scenic fairways, or unwind at Rand Avenue Park, where you can enjoy peaceful strolls and rejuvenating outdoor activities amidst beautiful surroundings.

Adventure

At Watkins Glen International, immerse yourself in the thrill of motor racing, located 4.8km from the park. For a scenic hike, explore the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, 33.8km away, offering stunning outdoor views. Alternatively, trek the Cascadilla Gorge Trail, 32.2km from the park, for an adventurous experience.

Nightlife

The nightlife near Watkins Glen State Park offers delightful options. Enjoy a performance at the State Theatre of Ithaca for a cultured evening, or unleash your adventurous spirit at Eldridge Park's arcadeAdventureZone. For a romantic film night, Regal Arnot Mall cinema awaits, just a short drive away.

Find the best attractions near Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park offers a stunning array of attractions, including picturesque lakes, breathtaking waterfalls, and the beauty of a national state park. Ideal for travellers seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences, the park provides ample opportunities to explore its natural wonders, making it a perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature's splendour.

• Seneca Harbor: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this marina, perfect for outdoor adventures and leisurely strolls by the water. With stunning views of Seneca Lake, it's an ideal spot for boating or simply soaking up the beach vibes.
• Watkins Glen Beach: This charming town neighbourhood offers a mix of city vibes and relaxation. Enjoy a day at the beach with family and friends, where you can swim, sunbathe, or indulge in local treats from nearby cafes.
• Hector Falls: Discover the romantic allure of Hector Falls, a breathtaking waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Perfect for nature lovers, this serene spot invites you to explore its scenic trails and enjoy the tranquil sound of cascading water.

Best time to go to Watkins Glen State Park

The best time to visit Watkins Glen State Park is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	24.8°F (-4.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	34.3°F (1.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	65.3°F (18.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
August	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	61.9°F (16.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High
November	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	31.6°F (-0.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Watkins Glen State Park

For a budget-friendly visit to Watkins Glen State Park, consider travelling during the off-peak months of December to February when accommodation prices drop. Tuesday is the most economical day to book your stay, while Saturday tends to be pricier. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to compare prices, explore eco-friendly lodging, and combine bookings for flights and activities to unlock additional savings. Additionally, take advantage of public transport options to navigate the area affordably and look for free activities in the park, such as hiking its stunning trails.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Watkins Glen State Park are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May, August and October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Watkins Glen State Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Watkins Glen State Park is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make use of Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation at Watkins Glen State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.