If you’re a connoisseur of creamy delights and artisanal cheeses, the Finger Lakes region of New York offers a delectable journey through its Cheese & Creamery Trail. Let’s embark on a flavorful adventure, highlighting some must-visit spots that promise to tantalize your taste buds.
Spotted Duck Creamery – Penn Yan, NY
Spotted Duck Creamery in Penn Yan offers a farm-to-cone experience unlike any other. Their signature frozen custard is crafted from rich duck eggs laid by their own Ancona ducks, resulting in a luxuriously creamy texture that sets it apart from traditional ice cream. Visitors can indulge in ice cream flights to sample a variety of inventive, small-batch flavors made with local, organic ingredients. Beyond the delectable treats, guests are invited to meet the very ducks responsible for their dessert. This unique combination of exceptional quality and charming ambiance has earned Spotted Duck national and local acclaim. While lines can form during peak times, the delightful experience and award-winning flavors make it well worth the wait.
Address: 999 NY-54, Penn Yan, NY
Muranda Cheese Company – Waterloo, NY
Muranda Cheese Company, just a short drive from Seneca Lake, offers a unique tasting experience for cheese lovers. Visitors can sample 12 different cheeses, with selections changing regularly, and enjoy a guided tasting that highlights the flavor of each cheese and offers recipe suggestions. Set in a renovated 1800s barn, the company uses high-quality cow’s milk sourced from local Finger Lakes farms. With over 20 varieties, including British Cheddar, Red Buddy, and Muranda Blue, there’s something for everyone. Muranda Cheese Company is a must-visit for cheese lovers.
Address: 3075 NY-96, Waterloo, NY
Seneca Farms – Penn Yan, NY
Established in 1950, Seneca Farms is a beloved spot near Keuka Lake, known for its homemade ice cream and legendary fried chicken. With over 50 flavors of ice cream, including vegan options, and a menu featuring hand-breaded chicken, corn fritters, and homemade salads, Seneca Farms is a perfect stop for a hearty meal and sweet treat. The original drive-thru still operates, adding a touch of nostalgia to your visit.
Address: 2485 NY-54A, Penn Yan, NY
Sunset View Creamery – Odessa, NY
Sunset View Creamery produces a variety of cheeses made from milk from their own cows. Their offerings include Cheddar, BelPaese, Havarti, and a unique Heritage blend. In addition to cheese, the creamery provides exciting experiences such as cow cuddling (yes, you can actually cuddle cows!) and opportunities to learn how to milk a cow. Visitors to Sunset View Creamery can choose between self-guided and guided tours and sample cheeses in the farm store. Don’t forget to try their chocolate milk; it’s honestly the best chocolate milk I have ever tasted!
Address: 4970 Co Rte 14, Odessa, NY
Shtayburne Farm Creamery – Rock Stream, NY
Located on the west side of Seneca Lake, Shtayburne Farm Creamery is a family-owned dairy farm offering handcrafted cheeses and homemade ice cream. Their cheese selection includes Monterey Jack, aged and flavored cheddars, and fresh cheese curds. A highlight for visitors is the customizable cheese and ice cream flights, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors.
Address: 2909 Chase Rd, Rock Stream, NY
Lively Run Goat Dairy – Interlaken, NY
As one of the longest-operating commercial goat dairies in the U.S., Lively Run Goat Dairy has been crafting artisanal cheeses since 1982. Their offerings include the award-winning Finger Lakes Gold, a firm, nutty goat cheese with a touch of sweetness. Visitors can tour the farm, meet the goats, and sample a variety of goat and cow milk cheeses in their tasting room.
Address: 8978 Co Rd 142, Interlaken, NY
Embarking on the Finger Lakes Cheese & Creamery Trail promises a delightful blend of flavors, scenic beauty, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re savoring duck egg custard, sampling artisan cheeses, or indulging in classic comfort food, this trail offers a feast for all senses.