Watkins Glen State Park Tours and Activities

Things to do near Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking along breathtaking waterfalls and enjoying pleasant walks through scenic trails. For those seeking a more structured experience, organized tours and gorge hikes provide an excellent way to explore the park’s natural beauty and wildlife. Camping is also available, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning landscape of Watkins Glen.

Shopping

For shopping near Watkins Glen State Park, visit The Windmill Farm & Craft Market, located 25.7km away, offering unique crafts and local goods. If you're up for a drive, explore Ithaca Commons and Ithaca Farmers Market, both about 19 to 32.2km away, featuring a variety of shops and local produce.

Recreation

At Hillendale Golf Course, enjoy a serene round of golf surrounded by nature, just 24.1km from Watkins Glen State Park. Newfield State Forest offers peaceful trails for relaxation and rejuvenation, located 19.3km away. Meanwhile, Rand Avenue Park invites you to unwind in its tranquil setting, 30.6km from the park.

Adventure

At Watkins Glen International, located 4.8km from the park, adrenaline-fueled motor racing offers thrilling excitement and sports vibes. Meanwhile, the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, 33.8km away, invites you to hike through breathtaking scenery, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure amidst nature.

Nightlife

In Watkins Glen, the nearby State Theatre of Ithaca offers a cultural escape with captivating performances, while the Hangar Theatre provides a romantic atmosphere for theatre lovers. For family fun, Eldridge Park’s arcade AdventureZone promises exciting adventures, making for a lively night out.

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 scenic beauty of the national park. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, the park provides ample opportunities for exploration. Additionally, nearby attractions like Watkins Glen International enhance your visit, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to experience nature and excitement in the heart of New York.

• Seneca Harbor: Experience the charm of Seneca Harbor, a marina that offers a vibrant outdoor atmosphere. With its stunning views and adventure vibes, it's perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or water activities. Just 805m from Watkins Glen State Park, it's a delightful spot to unwind by the water.
• Watkins Glen Beach: Located 1.4km from the park, Watkins Glen Beach boasts a lively city vibe. Enjoy a sandy escape with amenities for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games. It's an ideal place to relax and soak up the sun while enjoying the local community atmosphere.
• She-Qa-Ga Falls: Just 3.2km away, She-Qa-Ga Falls enchants visitors with its romantic and adventurous setting. The waterfall cascades beautifully, providing a picturesque backdrop for photography, hiking, and exploration in the great outdoors.

Best time to go to Watkins Glen State Park

The best time to visit Watkins Glen State Park is dependant 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

When planning your visit to Watkins Glen State Park, consider exploring nearby free activities like Eagle Cliff Falls and Grist Iron Brewing Company. To save on accommodation, visit between December and February, when prices are lower, and aim for a Tuesday stay. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly hotels, and consider eco-certified options. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities can lead to significant savings. Don't forget to check for great rates, free cancellations, and cheap hotel options to maximize your travel budget.

• 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can easily sort your results by price, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Watkins Glen State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.