When you arrive in our region, chances are you'll see more than one of the ever-popular "Ithaca is Gorges" bumper stickers. But in truth, the entire Finger Lakes region is gorges - and gorgeous.

Boasting five major lakes, numerous state parks and waterfalls, hiking trails, and ski resorts, the Finger Lakes make an ideal vacation spot for the avid nature lover. But if you look beyond its abundant natural beauty, you'll find our region is also rich with cultural events, educational resources, unique museums and galleries, eclectic shopping opportunities, and much more.

One of the best ways for you to acquaint yourself with our area is to browse this Web site and develop your itinerary with stops at the attractions that are most appealing to you. But if - alas! - you have only a couple days in our beautiful region, here is a short list of places you simply should not miss:

1) Lakes

Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco and Skaneateles. Our region's namesakes, the Finger Lakes are without a doubt the jewels of our region. No matter which you choose, and whether you decide to go for a sail or just relax at a lakeside park and enjoy the breeze and the view, it will soothe your soul and refresh your senses.

2) State parks

Whether you visit Ithaca, Watkins Glen, Auburn, Penn Yan, Cortland, or Waterloo, there is bound to be a state park nearby.

Be sure to take the opportunity to visit at least one; many have spectacular waterfalls, and all have excellent hiking trails and beautiful scenery.

3) The Sciencenter

Built almost entirely by community volunteers, the Sciencenter offers hands-on science and technology exhibits for both the young and young-at-heart. If the weather is cooperative, start your adventure on the Ithaca Commons and wind your way by foot to the Sciencenter by following the Sagan Planet Walk, an accurately scaled model of our solar system. The walk is a level, pleasant 1,200 meters in all.

4) Wineries

No visit to the Finger Lakes would be complete without visiting at least one of our vineyards to sample some of our worldclass wines. Wineries are particularly populous along the shores of Seneca Lake, but can also be found throughout the region. It is a good idea to call ahead for operating hours, particularly if you are visiting during the winter.

5) The Ithaca Commons

One of only a handful of pedestrian malls in the United States, The Commons offers an array of eclectic boutiques, marvelous pottery and jewelry shops, independent bookstores, and delicious eateries. This is the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind memento of your visit, or to purchase a special gift (it's also a great place to pick up one of the famous "Ithaca is Gorges" bumper stickers or T-shirts).

6) Dining

Perhaps one of the reasons that residents of the Finger Lakes are such a congenial bunch is because we are so very well fed.

If you visit our Dining section, you'll see why. Our restaurants run the gamut from classic diners to eclectic bistros, and you can delight in ethnic cuisines from around the world. Be an adventurous epicure during your visit and sample the delicacies of several of our fine restaurants; they are sure to be meals you won't soon forget.

7) The Ithaca Farmer's Market

Located at the Steamboat Launch off Route 13, the weekend Farmer's Market is packed with all things Ithaca, from locally grown popcorn sold in a hand-shaped bag (representing the Finger Lakes, of course), to organically grown fruits and vegetables, to ready-to-eat ethnic cuisine. Visit during the warmer months for the greatest variety of vendors and products.

8) Bookstores

Tompkins County, in particular, is a haven for the book lover and rare book collector. When you visit Ithaca, you'll not only find a Barnes & Noble and Borders, but also a myriad of independently owned bookeries specializing in new, used, and rare books. You can browse several of these marvelous stores on and around the Commons.

9) Live entertainment

Perhaps it is due to the influence of Ithaca College's School of Music, or perhaps it is just a happy coincidence that you will find any number of musicians performing at various venues around Ithaca on any given night. Our local talent certainly rivals that found in much larger cities, to the great delight of area residents. Check our calendar or our Music section for details on events and venues.

10) Cornell University

While you're in the area, be sure to take a walking or driving tour around campus. You can simply enjoy the beautiful architecture, tour the beautiful Cornell Plantations, or stop at the Cornell Dairy for some of the best ice cream available anywhere. If for no other reason, a visit to the University will allow you to casually remark, "Cornell? Yeah, I've been there."