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Harriet Tubman Statue

Introspection in Harriet Tubman’s Chosen Hometown

As the curtains of 2024 draw to a close, many individuals feel moved to do some personal reflection – whether on the days, months or years gone by, or on the aspirations and plans laid for the future.

And sometimes, a trip to a new destination perfectly sets the scene for thoughts and introspections to flow freely.

Cayuga County in Auburn, NY is a great place to center yourself, contemplate the past or look ahead to the future. With many locations offering peaceful spaces for solitude and historic landmarks to encourage reflective thought, you can turn a weekend escape into an opportunity to consider the history that’s been made, or the changes on the horizon.

Nature and Self-Care

Sort through your thoughts and clear your mind when you engage in activities that encourage personal wellness. One great way to achieve this is by embracing the great outdoors.

Make your way to one of the county’s trails for a relaxing day connecting with nature. Take in the beauty of the elements: the diverse plant life; the serene wildlife; the endless skies above you; and the flow of water if you’re near a lake, stream or waterfall. (And if you’d like to get closer to the water, consider an activity such as fishing, kayaking, canoeing or paddleboarding.)

Person in a red coat walking in a snowy forest
Man on a boat holding a fish
Introspection in Harriet Tubman’s Chosen Hometown

Another way to pursue wellness in Cayuga County is through a rejuvenating spa or body treatment, or gentle exercise session – and you’ll find what suits you best with our selection of offerings.

Uncover History

If you’d like to turn your thoughts outward, consider exploring landmarks that connect to the past. Uncovering history invites moments of reflection, allowing you to connect deeply with the past and its lasting impact on the present.

Cayuga County is known as Harriet Tubman’s chosen hometown, and you’ll find many destinations that tell her story. You can walk along her property, pay respects at her final resting place, and explore the church where she attended services. You’ll also discover the influence of abolitionists, human rights activists and other historical figures who shook the ground in the region by visiting sites connected to her and the Underground Railroad. 

Looking for inspiration on where to start? Check out this vlog from Lauren Gay, the Outdoorsy Diva, who visited in August 2024!

Harriet Tubman House
Harriet Tubman National Home
Harriet Tubman's Gravestone in the summer

Culinary Delights and Local Flavor

No matter what kind of trip you’re planning, you’ll need to nourish yourself throughout the day with a meal. And this is an opportunity to look at food as more than just fuel. Conversation can be sparked if you’re on a getaway with others, or, if you’re traveling solo, enjoying a thoughtfully prepared dish can set the scene for reflection.

Dining options in the area range from quick and casual bites, to fine dining and unique farm-to-table offerings. 

Cayuga County is also home to picturesque Finger Lakes vineyards that produce refreshing varietals of wine – perfect for unwinding. You’ll also find craft breweries and cideries in the area, if you’re looking for something different or want more to experience.

Plan your getaway and craft the perfect itinerary for a trip that inspires reflection and rejuvenates the soul.