Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen State Park, one of the state's premier natural wonders, is one reason to visit this small village (population 2,500). On the south edge of Seneca Lake, this residential community attracts boaters, who sail from Seneca Harbor. This is also wine and car-racing country. U.S. car racing, which had been halted because of World War II, was revived in Watkins Glen in 1948. Until the current speedway opened in 1956, the competing cars would roar through the center of the village. Area wineries range from large-production operations to intimate family-run vineyards. The Rieslings are among Seneca Lake's most celebrated wines.