The Finger Lakes region is one of New York’s most picturesque areas, famous for its sparkling lakes, rolling vineyards, charming towns, and waterfalls.
In 2025, scenic train rides in the Finger Lakes combine nostalgia, adventure, and relaxation, offering something for families, couples, and photography enthusiasts alike.
Whether it’s a summer wine tour, a sunset ride along Canandaigua Lake, or a morning brunch with mimosas, there’s a train ride for every mood and season.
Detailed schedules, ticket prices, nearby attractions, and booking links make planning simple and stress-free.
Table of Contents
Canandaigua By Train
Family Train
The Family Train is ideal for travelers of all ages, offering a scenic ride along the shores of Canandaigua Lake. Enjoy the lush summer landscapes, charming small towns, and riverside views.
Extra Detail: Duration is approximately 1–1.5 hours. Tickets start at $18 for adults and $12 for children. Wheelchair and stroller access are available, with onboard restrooms for convenience.
Insider Tip: Morning rides are perfect for family photos, while kids can enjoy onboard activities and snacks.
Additional Info: Departure times are 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 2:00 pm. Boarding is at Canandaigua Station. The train features historic railcars from the early 1900s.
Nearby accommodations include local inns and bed-and-breakfasts. Seasonal combo packages with vineyard visits are available.
Sunset Club Train
Evening riders will love the Sunset Club Train, where the golden light of the setting sun reflects on Canandaigua Lake and the surrounding hills.
Extra Detail: Duration is about 1.5 hours. Tickets start at $22 per person. Onboard amenities include restrooms and complimentary beverages.
Pro Tip: Bring your camera for breathtaking sunset shots. Window-side seats in the middle cars give the best views.
Additional Info: Departure is at 6:00 pm daily during July–August. Recommended for ages 10+.
Nearby dining options include lakeside restaurants and bistros. Special offers may apply on weekday rides.
Wine Train
Sip your way along the Finger Lakes on the Wine Train, a scenic journey that pairs lake views with tastings from local vineyards.
Extra Detail: Duration is 2–2.5 hours. Tickets are $35–$50, depending on the package. Wheelchair accessible, with wine tasting stations onboard.
Insider Tip: Pair your ride with a post-ride visit to nearby Canandaigua wineries for a full-day wine experience.
Additional Info: Departs Fridays and Saturdays from Canandaigua Station. Minimum age 21+ for wine tasting.
Historical notes: trains follow a route dating back to the early 1900s. Combo packages may include lunch at a vineyard. Weather permitting.
Mimosa Express
Start your morning right with the Mimosa Express, a scenic ride with brunch and bubbly mimosas. Watch the sunrise over Canandaigua Lake while enjoying a light breakfast.
Extra Detail: Duration is about 90 minutes. Tickets are $28–$40 per person. Family-friendly, with restrooms and stroller access.
Pro Tip: Book early for weekend rides, as these morning experiences fill up quickly.
Additional Info: Departure at 9:00 am on weekends. Boarding at Canandaigua Station. Ages 21+ recommended for mimosa tasting.
Nearby local bakeries and brunch spots enhance the experience.
Geneva By Train
Geneva offers equally scenic train rides with similar themed experiences: Family Train, Sunset Club Train, Wine Train, and Mimosa Express.
The route highlights include Lake Seneca views, riverside landscapes, and quaint town streets.
Extra Detail: Duration ranges from 1–2.5 hours. Tickets are $18–$50, depending on the ride and package. Wheelchair accessible, with onboard restrooms.
Insider Tip: Combine the ride with a lakeside walk or a visit to local farmers’ markets for a complete day out.
Additional Info: Boarding at Geneva Station. Departure times vary; some rides operate daily, others weekends only. Historic trains date back to the 1920s.
Combo packages include vineyard or waterfall tours. Family-friendly rides recommended for ages 3+. Weather permitting.
Seneca Falls By Train
Seneca Falls is a historic and scenic highlight of the Finger Lakes region. Train rides here include Family Train, Evening Club Train, Wine Train, and Mimosa Express.
Travelers glide past waterways, vineyards, and picturesque small-town streets.
Extra Detail: Duration is 1–2.5 hours. Tickets range from $18–$50. Family-friendly and accessible. Onboard restrooms and snack services are available.
Additional Info: Boarding at Seneca Falls Station. Departure times vary seasonally. Ages 3+ recommended for family rides.
Special events like themed evenings run monthly. Nearby lodging includes inns and historic hotels. Combo packages with local dining are offered.
Railfan Train
For rail enthusiasts, the Railfan Train is a full-day special ride departing from Geneva. Enjoy extended views of lakes, rivers, and vineyards while learning about the Finger Lakes’ railway history.
Extra Detail: Duration is a full-day event. Tickets are $45–$65. Wheelchair accessible with onboard amenities.
Additional Info: Departs from Geneva Station on September 1, 2025. Recommended for ages 5+. Historic railcars provide a vintage travel experience. Weather permitting; booking links are available online.
Pro Tips for Finger Lakes Scenic Train Rides
- Best Seasons: Summer for wine tours and lake views, fall for foliage, winter for holiday-themed rides.
- Booking Advice: Popular rides sell out fast, especially sunset, wine, and brunch rides. Early reservations are recommended.
- Accessibility: Most rides are wheelchair and stroller-friendly.
- Nearby Attractions: Lakeside walks, vineyards, farmers’ markets, local dining, and craft shops complement the rides.
- Onboard Amenities: Restrooms, snacks, and beverages available depending on ride.
- Ticket Prices: $18–$65 depending on the ride and package.
- Ride Duration: 1–2.5 hours for standard rides, full-day for Railfan Train.
- Weather Notes: Rides operate weather permitting; check schedules before traveling.
- Age & Safety Tips: Family-friendly rides recommended for ages 3+. Wine and Mimosa rides are adult-focused.
- Special Offers: Seasonal discounts, combo packages, and multi-ride deals are available.
- Departure Locations & Times: Canandaigua, Geneva, and Seneca Falls Stations with specific times varying by ride.
- Local Dining & Lodging: Nearby inns, bed-and-breakfasts, restaurants, and bakeries enhance the experience.
Conclusion
From lakeside sunsets and family-friendly excursions to wine tastings and brunch rides, there’s something for everyone.
Read More: 6 Best Scenic Train Rides in New York for Fall 2025
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