Learn to be Local
Learn to be Local
Yates County sits in the heart of the Finger Lakes, shaped by rich agricultural heritage, deep-rooted traditions, and the natural beauty of Keuka, Seneca, and Canandaigua Lakes. Known for its welcoming small towns, scenic landscapes, and close-knit community, the area blends rural charm with surprising opportunity.
Here, pristine lakes meet rolling vineyards, Mennonite buggies share the road with lakefront visitors, and local businesses thrive alongside long-standing family farms. Yates County leads the state in organic agriculture, is home to one of New York’s most vibrant craft beverage regions, and supports a growing mix of entrepreneurs, makers, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts. With a historic village center in Penn Yan, a million annual visitors drawn to our lakes, wineries, breweries, and a community that prioritizes quality of life, Yates County offers a unique balance of tranquility, innovation, and connection.
Whether you’re considering a move or simply exploring what makes this place special, this is where your introduction to Yates County begins.
Craft Your Story Here
FIND BALANCE IN YATES COUNTY
Life in Yates County is shaped by the moments you create, whether you're listening to live music at a local winery, brewery, or distillery, exploring lakeside trails, browsing a bustling farmers’ market, or joining a community festival that brings neighbors together. Here, recreation, creativity, and connection are part of everyday life.
From our growing Community Center and public pickleball courts to seasonal events, art walks, farm-fresh foods, and beloved local businesses like The Windmill and Oak Hill Bulk Foods, there’s always something new to enjoy. Read on to discover more about the activities, traditions, and local favorites that will help you craft your own Yates County story.
Arts & Culture
WHERE CREATIVITY & COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER
Yates County is alive with music, art, history, and community traditions that make it easy to feel at home. Whether you're catching a lakeside concert, exploring local galleries, or stepping into the stories that shaped the Finger Lakes, there’s always something inspiring to discover.
Yates County’s arts and culture scene is vibrant, welcoming, and endlessly inspiring—inviting you to explore, connect, and create your own story here.
Music
Live music fills the county year-round, from cozy winery or brewery performances to downtown shows and the beloved summer Music in the Park series. Big-name artists take the stage nearby at CMAC and Concerts at Point of the Bluff, while David Boyd Music in downtown Penn Yan offers lessons and a welcoming space for musicians of all ages.
Museums
Explore our rich heritage at the Yates County History Center, the Oliver House Museum & Genealogical Society, and the Saunders Finger Lakes Museum. Each offers a deeper look into the culture, people, and stories that shaped the region.
Art
Creativity thrives here. The Arts Center of Yates County offers exhibits and hands-on workshops, while PYTCo and the PYA Drama Club bring youth and adult theatre to the community. Local businesses also partner with artists to host rotating galleries.
Festivals
Yates County and the surrounding Finger Lakes region are home to can’t-miss celebrations all year long. Enjoy local favorites like the Keuka Arts Festival and downtown Penn Yan local festivals, such as Cruisin Night. Just a short drive away, the world-famous GrassRoots Festival delivers four days of nonstop music, culture, and community.
Nearby Attractions
The renowned Corning Museum of Glass offers world-class collections and live glassblowing demonstrations just a short drive away. Aviation enthusiasts can explore the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, while history comes to life at the Women’s Rights National Historical Park. Watkins Glen State Park features breathtaking gorge trails and waterfalls. Plus, Rochester, Ithaca, and Syracuse are all within an hour—putting even more dining, entertainment, and culture within easy reach.
Wineries & Breweries
Wineries, breweries, and cideries across Yates County host live music, art nights, seasonal events, and more all year-round. You can also experience Wine Trail tasting and pairing events to further explore our award-winning wine region.
Discover Local Events
YATES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
From seasonal festivals and lakefront concerts to farmers’ markets, workshops, and community celebrations, there’s always something happening here. To keep up with local events, activities, and everything in between, check out the Yates County Chamber of Commerce’s Events Calendar. It’s your go-to hub for discovering what’s coming up next and finding new ways to connect, explore, and enjoy life in Yates County.
Recreation & Well-Being
GET OUT AND GET MOVING IN YATES COUNTY
Whether you're looking to unwind on the water, challenge yourself on a trail, or simply live a healthier, more active lifestyle, Yates County has endless ways to help you recharge, reconnect, and feel your best.
Water Adventures
With kayak and paddleboard rentals, boat tours, wake-surf and water-ski lessons, and easy access to Keuka and Seneca Lakes, life here naturally flows to the water. Spend your days cruising the shoreline, exploring hidden coves, or soaking up the sun from the deck of a pontoon.
Trails & Parks
From leisurely strolls to high-energy adventures, Yates County’s trails fit every pace. The historic Keuka Outlet Trail offers miles of scenic running, biking, and hiking, while the Keuka Lake State Park and green spaces across the county provide room to wander, relax, and explore.
Sports & Recreation
Yates County is home to spectacular high-school athletics, collegiate athletics, and even recreational adult leagues. Just a short drive away, you can find many minor-league teams spanning baseball, hockey, and lacrosse, as well as professional sports with the famous Watkins Glen International Speedway and Rochester being home to professional lacrosse. Public pickleball and tennis courts, and the golfer’s paradise with 60+ courses like Lakeside Country Club’s 18-hole golf course invite friendly competition.
Farms & Local Foods
DISCOVER THE HEART OF YATES COUNTY
Yates County’s rich agricultural heritage shapes both its landscape and its local economy. From long-standing family farms and innovative new growers to orchards, vineyards, dairies, and a strong Mennonite farming community, this region is one of New York’s most productive agricultural hubs.
To support continued growth, the Finger Lakes Economic Development Center offers specialized financing, including New York State’s first Agriculture Loan Fund and a Restaurant Loan Fund designed to bring more dining options to downtown Penn Yan.
Explore the farms, flavors, and experiences that make Yates County a true farm-to-table destination.
Farms & Markets
Yates County’s agricultural roots fuel a vibrant local food scene, from orchards and dairies to vineyards and maple producers. Experience it firsthand through farm stands, seasonal events, and “you-pick” favorites like Apple Barrel Orchards and Tomion’s Farm Market. Agritourism brings it all together—offering hands-on ways to taste, tour, and explore. Browse fresh goods and homemade treats at The Windmill Farm & Craft Market, or visit New York’s oldest continuously operating farmers market right on Penn Yan’s Main Street. Discover even more local farms and markets here.
Restaurants
From cozy cafés to farm-driven eateries, Yates County’s culinary scene is fueled by fresh, local ingredients and small-business passion. Many restaurants source directly from area farms, orchards, wineries, and craft beverage producers, offering menus that reflect the Finger Lakes’ seasonal bounty. Whether grabbing a quick bite downtown or settling in for a lakeside meal, visitors will find options that highlight authentic, local flavor. Explore local Yates County restaurants here.
Greenhouses
The region is also home to beautiful greenhouses and specialty growers, perfect for plant lovers, home gardeners, and anyone seeking seasonal blooms. Local flower farms and nurseries offer everything from spring seedlings and hanging baskets to fresh-cut bouquets and dried floral goods. These businesses play a key role in the county’s agricultural identity, adding color and creativity to the local landscape. Brighten up your day here.
Craft Beverages
Yates County is the birthplace of the Finger Lakes craft beverage movement, surrounded by more than 100 wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Thanks to rich farmland, organic grain mills, and a strong agricultural tradition, producers here craft exceptional wines, small-batch beers and ciders, and locally sourced spirits. Read more on our Farm to Glass page to dive deeper into the region’s signature craft.