If you love nothing more than a good adventure in the great outdoors, you've come to the right place. From the die-hard outdoors person to the weekend warrior, the Finger Lakes region has something for everyone. With six major lakes, six downhill ski resorts, 12 state parks, 24 golf courses, and biking, hiking, skating, fishing, cross-country skiing and water sports to your heart's content, you'll never be at a loss for a great escape, no matter what the season. You can find full information in our directories, but here are just a few places and events you shouldn't miss:

Warm Weather

Cayuga Lake: No visit to Ithaca is complete without a visit to our beautiful lake. The largest of the Finger Lakes, Cayuga can be an endless source of fun. Whether you're renting a two-person sailboat and catching the breeze, or lounging lakeside at Stewart Park, there is always plenty to do. Try a dinner cruise on the M.V. Manhattan, rent a canoe, kayak, or speedboat, or go for a swim at Myers Point.

For More Adventurous Souls: Are swimming and canoeing a little too bland for your taste? Never fear, we have activities to get even your adrenaline pumping. To see the "big picture" of the Finger Lakes, get a lift in a hot air balloon or learn how to skydive. Or for another unique perspective, go scuba diving on some of the wrecks in Seneca Lake.

Seneca Waterfront Festival: If you've never experienced the sheer exhilaration of watching a cardboard boat race (and yes, the cardboard boats are manned), here's your big opportunity. The famed Cardboard Boat Regatta began in 1995, and has grown every year since. Entertainment for kids and adults, music, food and more are all part of the fun.

Taughannock Falls Concert Series: An outdoor concert is held every Saturday during the summer beside Cayuga Lake at Taughannock State Park. To make an event of it, bring something to throw on one of the park's many grills, a Frisbee for fun, and a chair or blanket so you can relax and enjoy the music. If you arrive early, be sure to make the hike to Taughannock's most striking natural feature - the second highest, single-drop waterfall in the United States.

Cold Weather

Cross Country Skiing: You've used a ski machine in the gym; now try the real thing. With several shops in the region renting cross-country equipment, instruction available, and a plethora of beautiful trails, this is your golden opportunity to see why so many people love the sport.

Great Downtown Ithaca Chili Cook-Off: This annual February event takes place on the Ithaca Commons. Don't let cold weather keep you away - the chili will definitely keep you warm! The area's finest chefs stir up chili of every ilk, from vegetarian to white turkey to traditional beef and beans. Plus, you can browse some of the nicest shops in Ithaca.

Ithaca Falls: You may wonder why you'd visit a waterfall in the winter, but once you've visited the enormous Ithaca Falls - 150' high and 175' wide - you'll understand! Beautiful at any time of year, the falls are particularly gorgeous when frozen. And when the spring thaw arrives, you'll be amazed by the raw power of them.

Sleigh Rides: What could possibly be nicer than admiring the snow-covered countryside from the comfort of a horse-drawn sleigh? Perhaps the only thing better is warming up afterward by a cozy fire with a fabulous meal on the way. And both are readily available in the Finger Lakes.