Watkins Glen State Park Tours

Photo by Jen - Nealys On Wheels
Photo by Jen - Nealys On Wheels
Photo by Neila_B
Photo by Courtney Keiper
Photo by Marisa Heilman


Swap the urban jungle for gorgeous landscapes at Watkins Glen State Park. Whether you'd love to take on the walking trails or just kick back with a picnic, this is the spot to get your nature hit.

This protected natural landscape is often on the itineraries of visitors to Watkins Glen. But Watkins Glen State Park isn't the area's only highlight. Watkins Glen International, Castel Grisch Winery, and Damiani Wine Cellars are some other interesting sights nearby.

Plan a trip to see Watkins Glen State Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Inn at Taughannock Falls
Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa
Moonshadow Bed and Breakfast

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Watkins Glen State Park

Colonial Inn & Creamery

Colonial Inn & Creamery

2.5 out of 5
701 North Franklin St., Watkins Glen, NY
Colonial Inn & Creamery
The Hotel Laurel at Seneca

The Hotel Laurel at Seneca

2.5 out of 5
3380 State Route 14, Watkins Glen, NY
The Hotel Laurel at Seneca
The Blackberry Inn Bed & Breakfast

The Blackberry Inn Bed & Breakfast

4 out of 5
209 6th Street, Watkins Glen, NY
The Blackberry Inn Bed & Breakfast
The Benjamin Hotel

The Benjamin Hotel

2 out of 5
223-1 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY
The Benjamin Hotel
Idlwilde Inn

Idlwilde Inn

4 out of 5
1 Lakeview Ave, Watkins Glen, NY
Idlwilde Inn
Roe Summer Cottage, Suite C

Roe Summer Cottage, Suite C

Watkins Glen
Roe Summer Cottage, Suite C
Watkins Glen State Park is just a few steps away! 
Welcome to Parkview House.

Watkins Glen State Park is just a few steps away! Welcome to Parkview House.

Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen State Park is just a few steps away! Welcome to Parkview House.
405 S. Madison, Suite A

405 S. Madison, Suite A

Watkins Glen
405 S. Madison, Suite A
Roe Summer Cottage, Suite B

Roe Summer Cottage, Suite B

Watkins Glen
Roe Summer Cottage, Suite B
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park offers a variety of outdoor adventures, including scenic hiking trails that showcase stunning views of waterfalls and gorges. Fishing opportunities are available for those looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the water. Camping options allow visitors to immerse themselves in nature. With Labor Day approaching, it's the perfect time to explore the park's wildlife and participate in numerous activities that capture the essence of this beautiful destination.

Shopping

For shopping near Watkins Glen State Park, visit The Windmill Farm & Craft Market, located 16 miles away, for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, check out Ithaca Commons and Ithaca Farmers Market, both about 19-20 miles away, offering a variety of local goods and crafts.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at Newfield State Forest, a 12-mile drive from Watkins Glen State Park, offering wellness and relaxation in a serene natural setting. For outdoor fun, visit Hillendale Golf Course, 15 miles away, where you can enjoy golfing amidst beautiful landscapes. Rand Avenue Park, 19 miles from the park, provides a peaceful retreat for relaxation.

Adventure

Watkins Glen International offers thrilling motor racing experiences, located 3 miles from the park. For hiking enthusiasts, the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, 21 miles away, provides stunning outdoor scenery. Additionally, the Dick Van Dyke Addiction Treatment Center, also 21 miles away, presents unique adventure activities for those seeking excitement.

Nightlife

At Watkins Glen State Park, enjoy a vibrant nightlife with nearby attractions. The State Theatre of Ithaca offers a cultural experience, while the Hangar Theatre provides romantic entertainment. For family fun, visit Eldridge Park's arcadeAdventureZone, perfect for adventure seekers. Each venue guarantees memorable evenings!

Find the best attractions near Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, featuring stunning waterfalls and scenic lakes. Explore the park's main attractions, including the breathtaking level waterfalls that cascade through the gorge. Enjoy a cultural experience as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Watkins Glen and the surrounding areas, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.

  • Seneca Harbor: Experience the charm of Seneca Harbor, a vibrant marina offering stunning views of Seneca Lake. Enjoy outdoor activities like boating and fishing, or relax at the beach, making it perfect for adventure enthusiasts and families alike.
  • Watkins Glen Beach: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Watkins Glen Beach, where city vibes meet recreational fun. With amenities for picnicking and swimming, it's an ideal spot for a relaxing day by the water.
  • She-Qa-Ga Falls: Discover the enchanting She-Qa-Ga Falls, a picturesque waterfall nestled in nature. Its romantic setting and outdoor adventures, such as hiking trails nearby, make it a perfect escape for couples and nature lovers.

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 iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January24.8°F (-4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February26.4°F (-3.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
March34.3°F (1.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June65.3°F (18.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
August68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September61.9°F (16.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
November39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December31.6°F (-0.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Watkins Glen State Park

To save money on your trip to Watkins Glen State Park, consider visiting between December and February for the lowest accommodation rates. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly options by filtering for "Eco-certified" accommodations and sorting prices from low to high. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for potential savings with an Expedia package. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and OneKeyCash for future stays. Take advantage of free activities in the park to maximize your 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your travel options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodations. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will show you sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • 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.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.