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Canandaigua is the "Chosen Spot"

The history of Canandaigua predates the arrival of European settlers in America. The "People of the Hill" (as the Seneca called themselves) believe it to be their birthplace and where they established a settlement named Kanandarque. In September 1779, war came to this village. General George Washington had ordered the destruction of the homeland of the Seneca Nation, allies of Great Britain during the American Revolutionary War. Fifteen years later, George Washington (now President Washington) sent an emissary to Canandaigua to establish "peace and friendship forever" with the Six Nations of the Iroquois. The treaty, called both the Canandaigua and Pickering Treaty, was one of the first treaties entered into by the new government of the United States. The signing of the treaty is marked each November 11th. 

A “sense of the past” is evident throughout the Canandaigua area.  The exhibits and programs at the Ontario County Historical Society and Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum help to tell the story of the community’s development.  A walk or drive through the city uncovers hundreds of examples of historical architecture.  The Downtown Historic District of South Main Street is a preservationist’s (as well as any shopper’s) dream come true. A visit to Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park is like taking a step into the
Victorian Era.

Canandaigua's "sense of fun" is also fully on display. The list of recreational opportunities seems endless – boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, skiing, biking, golf, ... A favorite summertime place for the whole family is Roseland Waterpark! Public access to Canandaigua Lake is a priority for this lakeside community. Onanda Park on West Lake Road about 8 miles south of the city and Kershaw Park on Lakeshore Drive in Canandaigua provide areas for swimming! There are also plenty of ways to get out on the water. Take a dinner cruise on the Canandaigua Lady or climb aboard Capt. Gray's Tours for a leisurely ride around Canandaigua Lake. If you want to be in charge several area marinas have boats and sailboards for rent.

There is no "down time" for this vibrant and growing community, although many consider summer to be its busiest season. Summer events include Rose Week at Sonnenberg Gardens in June; Historic Downtown Canandaigua Arts Festival in July; the Ontario County Fair in July; and the very popular Waterfront Art Festival at Kershaw Park.

Tow new major attractions are scheduled to open this summer as well.  The New York Wine and Culinary Center  will educate, support and advocate for wines, agricultural products and foods produced and served throughout New York state. You won’t want to miss a live concert at the new Marvin Sands Constellation Brands Performing Arts Center, hosting an eclectic schedule of major musical groups and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.

The action does not end with Labor Day – there is a full slate of fall, winter and spring events to keep things popping in Canandaigua. Check out our online events calendar for a complete listing of area events.

A great way to get to know Canandaigua is to come and stay for a few days. The Inn on the Lake is a full service resort and conference center, offering a full array of attractive packages for visitors. A number of superb bed and breakfast facilities are located in and around Canandaigua, including the four-diamond rated Morgan Samuels Inn.  The 1900 Thendara Inn puts you right on the waterfront, and the Bed & Breakfast at Oliver Phelps places you in the heart of the city’s historic district.