| Welcome to April, friends! The peepers have returned and we are still buzzing from such a lovely March here at Grayhaven. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for our annual Pysanky workshop, it is so rewarding to see the turnout grow every single year. Watching the pine porch fill with neighbors and guests leaning over their intricate wax-resist designs has become a true highlight of our spring. If you’ve been by the property lately, you’ve likely seen the parking lots by the cemetery and across from Buttermilk Falls bursting at the seams, a sure sign that Trout Season is officially here. The Inlet Valley boasts some of the best fishing in the state, and we love seeing the anglers return to our backyard. Our team is working hard to prepare for the summer season. Crisp April mornings means some time outside getting the gardens ready for the first spring blooms and enjoying the return of the muskrats and beavers to our stream. We are here for it!Whether you’re coming to town to visit your student, catch a show at a local theater, or finally tackle that waterfall hike you’ve been dreaming of, Grayhaven is ready for you. The Carriage House Loft is our favorite hideaway for deep rest and creative thinking. With its vaulted ceilings and quiet views, it’s the ultimate sanctuary to return to after a day of chasing waterfalls or browsing the local bookshops. Happenings here at the ‘Haven: April Gallery Night: “A Sense of Place” with Stahl Caso Friday, April 3rd | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM Join us in the guest lounge for our April opening reception! This month, we are honored to feature the evocative work of Stahl Caso. His pieces explore themes of home, landscape, and the quiet magic of the Finger Lakes, capturing the essence of the region we call home. Come for the art, stay for a drink at our reception bar, and enjoy the comfort of our lovely guest lounge with other art lovers. Upcoming Events There is always something brewing. Keep an eye our Events Page to be the first to see what’s next for Euchre, Book Club, and our guest-led workshops. In Ithaca + the Finger Lakes: Great Eats: From Ithaca to Seneca Lake Moosewood Restaurant: We are loving their newly expanded brunch and lunch offerings—the perfect plant-forward fuel before a hike. Sans Dumplings (at Kemmeter Wines): If you’re heading to the west side of Seneca, this is a must. Handmade dumplings and vineyard views (Fri/Sat 11:30–6:00). South Hill Cider (Thursday–Monday): Only a few minutes up the road. Their patio offers one of the best sunset views in the county alongside award-winning ciders. State Eatery: Easter Brunch! Grab some Brunch and some BBQ, and enjoy the local vibe. In Ithaca + The FLX The 4-H Duck Race (April 25): There is nothing quite like watching 3,000 bright yellow rubber ducks tumble over the Cascadilla Creek falls. It’s a frantic, fabulous local tradition. Spring Awakening at Ithaca College (Starting April 8): Catch this high-energy, Tony-winning musical at the Dillingham Center on South Hill. Wine & Herb on the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail (April 24–26): Drink. Eat. Garden. Repeat. Collect potted herbs and veggies at each winery stop to jumpstart your spring garden. Spring Wine & Cheese on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail (April 17–19): A classic trail event! Spend the weekend exploring the west and east shores of Seneca, enjoying curated pairings of local artisanal cheeses and world-class wines. Global Journey through Chocolate at Dr. Konstantin Frank (April 14 + 15): Make reservations early for this multi-course seated lunch featuring savory and sweet culinary creations highlighting Hedonist Chocolate from Rochester. Spring Hiking Lick Brook Falls: Just down the road, this “insider” spot features a 93-foot multi-tiered cascade that is at its most powerful during the April melt. Buttermilk Falls (Rim Trail): Now is the time to go! Without the heavy summer canopy, the views of the foaming “staircase” falls from the Rim Trail are unobstructed and spectacular. Stewart Park: Our favorite lakefront gem. The paved paths are perfect for an easy morning stroll with a coffee to watch the seasonal birds return to Cayuga Lake. Planning your next adventure? Our calendar is open for the entire 2026 season. From the first blooms of May to the peak foliage of October, the best rooms go early. Secure your favorite Cottage or Treman Lodge room today! Here’s to the silver flash of trout in the creek, the first daffodils in the yard, and finding that bright April energy in the Finger Lakes. We look forward to seeing you soon! See you soon,♡ — Alexis, Mark + The Grayhaven Motel Team BOOK NOW |
