Southern Tier Bicycle Route Map
Southern Tier Bicycle Route Map
Exploring the Southern Tier Bicycle Route is an experience of a lifetime. Spanning 1,200 miles, the route takes cyclists through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the United States. From the shores of Lake Erie to the Atlantic Ocean, the route passes through charming small towns, bustling cities, and breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or a novice, the Southern Tier Bicycle Route has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
The Southern Tier Bicycle Route is full of amazing attractions that are sure to leave you in awe. Some of the must-visit places along the route include the Finger Lakes Wine Country, Watkins Glen State Park, and the Corning Museum of Glass. In addition, the Southern Tier is known for its charming small towns, such as Cooperstown, home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and Skaneateles, a picturesque village on the shores of Skaneateles Lake.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions along the Southern Tier Bicycle Route are incredible, there are also plenty of hidden gems that are worth exploring. One such gem is the Ithaca Farmers Market, where you can sample local produce and artisanal products. Another hidden gem is the Letchworth State Park, known as the “Grand Canyon of the East.”
Food Scene
The Southern Tier is home to some of the best food in the country, with a focus on farm-to-table cuisine and locally sourced ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes along the route include chicken spiedies, a local specialty, and grape pie, a sweet treat made with locally grown grapes. Be sure to also check out the craft beer scene, with breweries such as Southern Tier Brewing Company and Ithaca Beer Co. offering delicious brews.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? No problem. There are plenty of ways to save money on your Southern Tier Bicycle Route trip. One budget-friendly tip is to camp instead of staying in hotels. There are plenty of campsites along the route that offer affordable rates and beautiful scenery. Another tip is to take advantage of free attractions, such as parks and museums.
Outdoor Adventures
The Southern Tier is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Some of the best outdoor adventures along the route include the Finger Lakes Trail, the Genesee Riverway Trail, and the Allegheny River. Be sure to also check out the Adirondack Mountains, which offer some of the best hiking and camping in the country.
Historical Landmarks
The Southern Tier is rich in history, with many historical landmarks along the route. Some of the must-see landmarks include the Erie Canal, the Harriet Tubman Home, and the Women’s Rights National Historical Park. Be sure to also check out the Corning Museum of Glass, which showcases the history and art of glassmaking.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Southern Tier Bicycle Route is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids will love. Some of the best family-friendly activities along the route include the Corning Museum of Glass, the Strong National Museum of Play, and the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Be sure to also check out the Adirondack Animal Land, a family-owned zoo that is home to over 500 animals.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you are looking for unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences, the Southern Tier Bicycle Route has plenty to offer. Consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the Finger Lakes, or exploring the underground caves at Howe Caverns. You can also visit the town of Hammondsport, which is home to the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, showcasing the history of aviation.
Natural Wonders
The Southern Tier is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the country. Some of the must-visit natural wonders along the route include the Watkins Glen State Park, Taughannock Falls State Park, and the Niagara Falls. You can also explore the Adirondack Mountains, which offer stunning views and plenty of hiking opportunities.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Southern Tier has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some of the best nightlife spots along the route include the Ithaca Commons, a pedestrian mall with plenty of bars and restaurants, and the Elmwood Village, a trendy neighborhood in Buffalo with a lively nightlife scene.
Local Markets
The Southern Tier is home to plenty of local markets, offering fresh produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts. Some of the best markets along the route include the Ithaca Farmers Market, the Rochester Public Market, and the Elmwood-Bidwell Farmers Market. Be sure to also check out the Corning Farmer’s Market, which offers fresh produce and live music.
Beaches and Mountains
The Southern Tier offers a perfect blend of beaches and mountains, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best beaches along the route include the Hamlin Beach State Park, the Charlotte Beach, and the Seabreeze Amusement Park. You can also explore the Adirondack Mountains, which offer plenty of hiking and camping opportunities.
Cultural Immersion
The Southern Tier is a great destination for cultural immersion, with plenty of museums, galleries, and cultural events. Some of the best cultural attractions along the route include the Strong National Museum of Play, the Corning Museum of Glass, and the Buffalo History Museum. Be sure to also check out the Rochester International Jazz Festival, which brings together some of the best jazz musicians in the world.
Art and Music Scene
The Southern Tier has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and live music venues. Some of the best art and music attractions along the route include the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Burchfield Penney Art Center, and the Chautauqua Institution. Be sure to also check out the Rockwell Museum, which showcases the art and culture of the American West.
Walking Tours
The Southern Tier is a great destination for walking tours, with plenty of historic neighborhoods and landmarks to explore. Some of the best walking tours along the route include the Buffalo Architecture Walking Tour, the Ithaca Gorges Walking Tour, and the Rochester Public Art Walking Tour. Be sure to also check out the Historic Hanover Square Walking Tour in Syracuse, which showcases the city’s rich history.
Architectural Marvels
The Southern Tier is home to plenty of architectural marvels, from historic landmarks to modern masterpieces. Some of the best architectural attractions along the route include the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Graycliff Estate, the Richardson Olmsted Campus, and the George Eastman Museum. Be sure to also check out the Corning Museum of Glass, which showcases the art and science of glassmaking.
Historical Sites
The Southern Tier is full of historical sites, from the Erie Canal to the Underground Railroad. Some of the must-visit historical sites along the route include the Harriet Tubman Home, the Women’s Rights National Historical Park, and the Fort Niagara State Park. Be sure to also check out the Erie Canal Museum, which showcases the history of the canal.
Biking Routes
The Southern Tier Bicycle Route is, of course, the best biking route along the Southern Tier. However, there are also plenty of other biking routes worth exploring. Some of the best biking routes along the route include the Erie Canalway Trail, the Genesee Riverway Trail, and the Niagara River Greenway Trail.
Wellness Retreats
The Southern Tier is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of spas, yoga studios, and wellness centers. Some of the best wellness retreats along the route include the Mirbeau Inn & Spa in Skaneateles, the Spa at the Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown, and the BodyMind Float Center in Rochester.
Adventure Sports
The Southern Tier is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for rock climbing, zip-lining, and whitewater rafting. Some of the best adventure sports along the route include the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course, the Letchworth State Park Hot Air Balloon Rides, and the Niagara Jet Adventures.
With so much to see and do along the Southern Tier Bicycle Route, you are sure to have an unforgettable adventure. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time on the road.