In 2018, over 14,500 visitors from all over the world toured our LA and NY sanctuaries to meet the 900+ rescued animals that call this place home. Come witness summer unfold in upstate New York—where our Watkins Glen sanctuary is located—as animals and visitors alike bask in the beauty of the Finger Lakes region. You probably have enough reasons to visit, but just in case—here are three more.

Despite the treatment some of our farm animals have been through, their resilience to express affection to humans is remarkable. Many of them crave ear scratches, nuzzles, head butts and belly rubs. For many of our visitors, this is the first time they’ve gotten to meet a pig, goat, or cow. Every animal has a story, and over the course of an hour-long tour, you’ll hear many. The best part? Each has a happy ending.

Farm Sanctuary is located in the heart of the Finger Lakes, named for its eleven finger-shaped lakes amongst rolling hills. The region is known for waterfalls, vineyards, and forests—like the Sugar Hill State Forest, right at our doorstep and perfect for hiking. We’re a little over four hours from both Manhattan and Philly—make a day of it with a hike in the Watkins Glen State Park (just 15 minutes from the sanctuary), followed by vegan eats. Or make it a weekend getaway by booking one of our tiny houses, go stargazing, and wake up to the sights and sounds of the farm.

In 2018, USA Today listed the Finger Lakes as America’s top wine region. With over 100 wineries in the area, it provides some much needed East Coast competition to the West Coast-dominant scene of Napa, Santa Barbara, and Walla Walla. The Finger Lakes are also home to a steadily rising number of craft breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Make a weekend trip out of it all by following the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Or skip the wineries altogether and just pick up a locally produced bottle and enjoy it on the deck of one of our newly designed tiny houses with a vegan cheese plate.

Tours are held every weekend throughout May, September, and October, and on Wednesday through Sunday during June, July and August. Get more info here on tour times, things to do, and how to make your next visit the best one yet!