Are you looking for exciting activities in Canandaigua, New York? Whether you’re a resident or planning a visit to this charming Finger Lakes destination, this guide highlights the best and most enjoyable things to do in Canandaigua to make your stay unforgettable.
Nestled in Ontario County, Canandaigua is a picturesque town known as the “Chosen Spot” for its serene beauty and vibrant community. With its stunning lake, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere, Canandaigua offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
The town is famous for its namesake Canandaigua Lake, one of the Finger Lakes, which provides countless opportunities for water-based activities like boating, fishing, and paddleboarding. History enthusiasts can explore the Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park or the Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum, while wine lovers will enjoy touring the local wineries. With unique shops, art galleries, and delicious farm-to-table dining options, Canandaigua promises something special for everyone.
20 Best And Fun Things To Do In Canandaigua, NY (2026)
1. Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park
Start your journey with a visit to Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, a breathtaking estate featuring nine themed gardens, a historic Victorian mansion, and a greenhouse complex.
Spanning 50 acres, the estate founded in 1887 features lush gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, an Italian garden, and a 40-room Queen Anne-style mansion, and offers tours, showcasing period furnishings and art.
Visitors enjoy tranquility, insight into Gilded Age opulence, and stunning photo opportunities. The gardens are a peaceful escape and a treat for nature and history enthusiasts to enjoy various fun things to do in Canandaigua, NY.
Address: 250 Gibson Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
2. Twisted Rail Brewing Canandaigua
Enjoy locally crafted beers at Twisted Rail Brewing, a craft brewery offering a variety of handcrafted beers in a relaxed often industrial-chic setting.
The brewing company offers a wide selection of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and seasonal brews with their taproom providing a cozy atmosphere and occasional live music.
As one of the many fun things to do in Canandaigua for adults, visitors can sample a variety of high-quality, locally brewed beers, often with unique and innovative flavors.
Address: 169 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
3. Canandaigua Farmer’s Market
Shopping at Canandaigua Farmers Market, a seasonal open-air market should make your bucket list of top things to do in Canandaigua, NY, this week.
The market boasts a mix of local sellers vending new produce, meats, cheeses, prepared foods, baked goods, and handcrafted crafts.
At Canandaigua Farmers Market, you can stock fresh produce, savor delectable food, find the latest merchandise, assist local farmers and businesses, and encounter a bustling community environment.
Address: 7 Mill Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
4. Bristol Mountain Ski Resort
For outdoor adventure, visit Bristol Mountain Ski Resort, a popular ski resort that offers a variety of slopes and trails for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
This attraction offers 38 slopes and trails for skiing and snowboarding, as well as a ski school for beginners. In the summer, it features aerial adventures and scenic chairlift rides making it a perfect spot for enjoying fun things to do in Canandaigua, NY, for everyone.
Visitors can enjoy various activities such as skiing and snowboarding, take in beautiful views of the surrounding Finger Lakes region from the mountain, and family-friendly activities and programs.
Address: 5662 NY-64, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
5. The Canandaigua Lady
Embark on a thrilling boat ride The Canandaigua Lady, a steamboat that offers scenic cruises on Canandaigua Lake in the Finger Lakes region of New York should make your bucket list of fun and exciting things to do in Canandaigua, NY, today.
This facility offers various cruises, including narrated tours, lunch and dinner cruises, and themed cruises, features both an enclosed lower deck and a partially open upper deck, allowing for comfortable cruising in various weather conditions, and includes amenities like a bar, dining facilities, and restrooms.
Visitors get to enjoy stunning views of Canandaigua Lake and the surrounding scenery and experience a taste of history by cruising on a replica of a classic steamboat.
Address: 205 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
6. Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail
The Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail is a collection of wineries that offer a variety of wines, from dry reds and whites to sweeter varieties, and often feature tasting rooms, tours, and scenic views.
Founded in 1990, the trail encompasses several different wineries, each with its unique style and offerings, opportunities to sample a range of locally produced wines, some of the wineries offer tours of their facilities and host special events throughout the year.
Visitors exploring unique things to do in Canandaigua, NY, can sample a variety of wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Address: 19 Susan B. Anthony Ln, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
7. Onanda Park
Enjoy family-friendly things to do in Canandaigua, NY at Onanda Park, a public park located on the shores of Canandaigua Lake in Canandaigua, NY. It offers a mix of lakeside recreation and upland forested areas, making it a versatile destination for outdoor activities.
The park features a two-mile hiking trail through the upland forested area, cabins, lodges, and pavilions available for rent, providing overnight accommodation options, offers swimming when lifeguards are on duty, fishing, and a boat launch for kayaks and canoes.
Also, the park offers numerous picnic tables, grills for public use, and winter activities like sledding and snowshoeing.
Address: 4965 Co Road 16, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
8. CMAC
Founded in 1983, CMAC is a large outdoor amphitheater and a popular venue for major concerts and performances during the summer months perfect for enjoying exciting things to do in Canandaigua, NY, at night.
The center features a wide range of musical acts, from rock and pop to country and more, with a capacity for approximately 15,000 people, with covered seating and a large lawn area, and offers various food and beverage options for concertgoers.
Visitors can gather with friends and enjoy live performances from well-known artists in a large outdoor setting,
Address: 4355 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
9. Ryan’s Wines and Spirits
One of the romantic things to do in Canandaigua, NY, in the evenings is to visit Ryan’s Wines and Spirits, a popular hub for romantic couples, wine lovers, and those searching for a place to enjoy a variety of spirits and ciders.
This liquor shop offers a wide variety of wines, spirits, and ciders, with a strong focus on New York State and Finger Lakes products, and free wine tastings on Fridays and Saturdays, providing an opportunity to sample different wines.
Discover and purchase wines and alcoholic beverages to suit different tastes and preferences, and sample different wines before purchasing.
Address: 73 Eastern Blvd, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
10. Green Front
Enjoy deliciously made cuisine at Green Front, a beloved local eatery known for its casual vibe, great food, and friendly service perfect for families and casual dining.
This dining option features a menu offering a variety of comfort foods, including their famous wings, burgers, and specialty sandwiches, a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating, full bar with a good selection of local beers and classic cocktails.
Get a chance to enjoy great food while mingling with locals, making it a memorable and authentic dining experience in your quest to explore unique things to do in Canandaigua, NY, today.
Address: 35 Niagara Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
11. Fort Hill Performing Arts Center
The Fort Hill Performing Arts Center is a cultural gem offering a wide range of live performances and events and other fun things to do in Canandaigua, NY, at night for people of all ages.
This venue features state-of-the-art performance space that hosts theater productions, concerts, dance performances, and lectures, comfortable seating and excellent acoustics that enhance the audience experience, and a diverse lineup of events, including local talent showcases and nationally recognized acts.
For fans of the performing arts or visitors simply looking for a memorable evening in Canandaigua, the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center delivers an enriching experience for all ages.
Address: 20 Fort Hill Ave, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
Exploring other attractions in New York? Why not check out some fun things to do in Nyack, NY, and fun things to do in Rockland, NY
12. Sonnenberg Park
Discover fun and exciting things to do in Canandaigua, NY, with kids at Sonnenberg Park, a tranquil community park ideal for outdoor recreation and family-friendly activities and offers a peaceful space to unwind and enjoy nature.
This park features recreational facilities such as tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball fields, a playground for kids, walking trails, and shaded tables and open grassy spaces provide the perfect setting for picnics or gatherings.
Families, sports enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a break from busy sightseeing can enjoy a relaxing and quiet moment in a serene setting and fun environment.
Address: 151 Charlotte Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
13. Sweet Expressions
Kids and sweet tooths can enjoy fun things to do in Canandaigua, NY when they visit Sweet Expressions, a charming confectionery shop specializing in homemade chocolates, fudge, nostalgic candies, and gourmet gift baskets.
Established in 1997, the shop offers a variety of freshly made chocolates and fudge, often in unique and seasonal shapes and designs, and beautifully packaged gift boxes, seasonal treats, and personalized candy arrangements.
Visitors here get to enjoy a delightful experience exploring a shop filled with delicious and high-quality confections, pick up unique souvenirs, or indulge in a sweet escape during your visit to Canandaigua.
Address: 169 S Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
14. Richard P. Outhouse Memorial Park
One of the family-friendly things to do in Canandaigua, NY, today is spending time at Richard P. Outhouse Memorial Park, a modern recreational area that offers a variety of amenities designed to provide an enjoyable outdoor experience.
The park features a large, accessible playground with climbing structures, slides, and swings, walking paths that wind through the park, spot facilities such as basketball courts, open fields for soccer or frisbee, and picnic areas with pavilions.
What’s more, the park also features a designated area for pets to run and play, making it a great spot for families with furry friends.
Address: Memorial Park, 2550 Outhouse Road, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
15. Wildheart Art
As an art lover searching for thrilling things to do in Canandaigua, NY, exploring Wildheart Art, a unique art studio and gallery that offers visitors a chance to admire and create art in an inspiring environment.
This art studio showcases a diverse collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and mixed media pieces by local and regional artists, and offers hands-on art sessions for all skill levels, including painting, pottery, and other crafts.
Also, the studio has a gift shop that features handmade items like jewelry, prints, and other artisan-crafted goods, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.
Address: 92 S Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
16. Lagoon Park
Lagoon Park is a serene nature preserve offering a tranquil escape into the beauty of wetlands and wildlife. This hidden gem is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat and unique things to do in Canandaigua, NY.
Spanning 34 acres, this nature park characterized by its wetlands environment, features walking trails, bridges, and overlooks that allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the area.
On your visit, unwind and appreciate the area’s rich biodiversity, enjoy a relaxing walk or stroll along the trails, spot birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife that inhabit the wetlands, and enjoy other fun activities.
Address: Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
17. Tee-ed Off
Tee-ed Off is an indoor golf facility featuring state-of-the-art golf simulators and provides a realistic golfing experience regardless of the weather, allowing individuals to practice their swing, play virtual courses, and enjoy the game year-round.
Visitors get to enjoy a unique indoor golfing experience, hone their skills, or have fun with friends and family as one of the many fun things to do in Canandaigua, NY, today.
Address: 39 Eastern Blvd, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
18. Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures
Catch a bird’s eye view of the summit of Bristol Mountain and its surroundings when you visit Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures, an exhilarating outdoor attraction perfect for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts to enjoy some fun things to do in Canandaigua, NY.
This attraction offers a variety of outdoor treetop adventures, including zip line canopy tours, an aerial adventure park with various courses, and a kids’ adventure park. It’s a popular destination for thrill-seekers, families, and groups looking for outdoor recreation.
Experience the adrenaline rush of zip lining and navigating aerial challenges, See the surrounding area from a unique vantage point high in the trees, and enjoy a fun and active outdoor experience in a beautiful natural setting.
Address: 5589 S Hill Road, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
19. Motion Junction Inclusive Playground
Founded in 2022, Motion Junction Inclusive Playground is a state-of-the-art recreational facility designed to be fully accessible and inclusive for people of all ages and abilities.
This vibrant playground features adaptive swings, sensory play elements, ramps, and wheelchair-accessible structures to accommodate children and adults of all abilities, a water play area, picnics, and rest areas with shaded tables and benches for families to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Additionally, the playground offers soft surfaces, open spaces, and interactive elements to create a welcoming environment for everyone.
Address: 2640 Outhouse Road, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States.
20. Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum
Visiting The Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum, a historic site that offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century life should make your bucket list of fun and educational things to do in Canandaigua, NY for people of all ages.
The museum features the 1816 Federal-style mansion that was home to Gideon Granger, a remarkable collection of over 100 horse-drawn carriages, sleighs, and related equipment, beautiful gardens, and a carriage barn.
What’s more, the museum offers guided tours giving insight into the Granger family, local heritage, and the significance of horse-drawn vehicles, and hosts seasonal events like Christmas-themed tours, sleigh rides, and antique shows.
Address: 295 N Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424, United States
plan your visit to Canandaigua, NY
Canandaigua, New York, is a charming town filled with hidden gems and boasts a perfect destination for a charming getaway. This scenic town offers an array of recreational activities ranging from its deep historical roots and vibrant local culture to its scenic parks and welcoming community, there’s a wide range of enjoyable things to explore in this quaint town.
Plan your visit today and discover all the delightful attractions this picturesque town has to offer! Safe journey
