You know it is summer in Finger Lakes Wine Country when (Part One):

The Corning Museum of Glass is open until 8PM every day. More Info

From Memorial Day to Labor Day the Corning Museum of Glass (and the Rockwell Museum of Western Art – combo tickets available) is open from 9 AM – 8 PM every day. Now there’s even more time to catch a Hot Glass Show on the outdoor stage, Make Your Own Glass souvenir, and get hands-on in the Innovation Center.

Wisner Market in Elmira opens this Thursday. More info

Wisner Market is one of the largest Farmers Markets in the Finger Lakes region and is celebrating 15 years in 2011. Wisner Market takes place in the heart of Downtown Elmira in Wisner Park. This Thursday kicks off the season and promises some delicious foods, farm-fresh produce, and hand-made goods.

Red Newt Bistro is open every day for lunch. More info
Speaking of farm-fresh, Red Newt Bistro is open for lunch everyday throughout the summer. A perfect stop along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, Red Newt’s executive chef, Debra Whiting, changes her menu to reflect the most fresh, in season foods. A large majority of the menu items come from farms within a few miles of the Bistro. Local food, local wine, it doesn’t get any better. Red Newt Bistro also boasts a beautiful deck overlooking sparkling Seneca Lake.

Patrick Dempsey comes to Watkins Glen. More info

This weekend is Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen and yes, McDreamy himself, Patrick Dempsey will be one of the drivers in attendance. Tickets are still available for this exciting race weekend and at only $30 for the entire weekend, you can’t beat the price. Kids and teens under 15 years old are admitted free. So get your tickets now for this thrilling weekend at The Glen.

The state parks are open. More info
There are a number of state parks in Finger Lakes Wine Country. Enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, and picnicking among some spectacular scenery. And when considering a visit to Watkins Glen, you must plan a stop at Watkins Glen State Park to experience its 19 gushing waterfalls.

Stay tuned to the Finger Lakes Travel Journal for even more reasons we love summertime in Finger Lakes Wine Country!