Visit Us
Visitor Center
Enjoy an informative, behind-the scenes “Handmade at MacKenzie-Childs” video in the Visitor Center. In addition, the Visitor Center presents the incredible Petit Palais, a quarter-inch-scale home completely decorated with MacKenzie-Childs miniatures.
Located right next to the Shop, the Visitor Center is open daily from 10 am until 5 pm. The 15-minute video is presented continuously, beginning at 10 am daily. There is no charge for admission to the Visitor Center or to see the video.
Be sure to stop at our Information Center, located under the arched entryway that leads you to the Shop and the Visitor Center, for light refreshments, tour schedule information, and local information about nearby Aurora and the Finger Lakes region.
The Farmhouse
Set high on a bluff overlooking Cayuga Lake, the Farmhouse was built in the late 1800s and served as the homestead for a prosperous dairy farm. The Farmhouse was first used as the MacKenzie-Childs reception area and office. It was also the showcase for the delightful signature products that established MacKenzie-Childs as a vital influence in American design. The Farmhouse was carefully and completely renovated between 2001 and 2003. Restored with warmth and charm, the 15-room Farmhouse shows art and antiques playfully combined with MacKenzie-Childs products, from dinnerware to rugs to kitchen tiles. On the tour, you’ll see a variety of room styles, including modern, French Provincial, and traditional English; three floors of design inspiration and dreams!
Free tours of the Farmhouse (about 40 minutes long) begin in the Shop. Book your tour at mackenzie-childs.com/tours.
Explore Aurora
Located on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake, Aurora is home to Wells College, the Aurora Inn, and many fine restaurants and shops. The Finger Lakes region of New York State is best known for its wineries, but there is also lots of history, professional theater, and great dining all around us. For more information about places to stay, things to see, and things to do while you are in our area, please visit tourcayuga.com. Questions? Contact us at 315-364-9680.
Inns of Aurora | various locations | 315-364-8888
Five first-class properties; three lakefront and two in the village of Aurora. Whether you prefer the understated elegance of the Aurora Inn; the bold colors and modern art of E.B. Morgan House; the easy, eclectic style of Rowland House; the contemporary design of Wallcourt Hall; or the refreshing serenity of Zabriskie House, the Inns of Aurora offer an unparalleled experience of the beautiful, historic Finger Lakes.
Aurora Main Stays | Main Street | 315-364-5408
Comfortable and convenient guest houses and private rooms available on or near Main Street in Aurora. They are all ideally located for dining, shopping, and events, all within a short walk. Many options available within various price ranges.
Fargo Bar and Grill | 384 Main Street | 315-364-8006
Casual food and atmosphere are the calling card of this historic restaurant and tavern, which is located directly across the street from the Aurora Inn. With food made fresh daily from scratch and desserts prepared by the Aurora Inn’s pastry chef, the Fargo is no ordinary bar and grill. Open year-round for lunch and dinner.
Village Market | 385 Main Street | 315-364-8803
Immediately adjacent to the Aurora Inn, this quaint market offers visitors a selection of local and homemade products, featuring Gimme! Coffee from nearby Ithaca, fresh produce from Long Point Orchard, and seasonal specialties from Grisamore Farms. Try their delectable pastries, homemade soups, “Market Meals,” and more—all prepared fresh daily by the talented Aurora Inn chefs.
Jane Morgan’s Little House | 378 Main Street | 315-364-7715
Since outgrowing the original house, it is now located in a restored pre-1800s house near the Aurora Inn and the Fargo Grill. Your favorite outfit is waiting. Find a unique and eclectic collection of sportswear, special-occasion ensembles, and accessories to create an unforgettable you.
Treleaven Wines | 658 Lake Road, King Ferry | 315-364-5100
Known for its award-winning dry Riesling, this winery is a gorgeous 27 acres on the east side of Cayuga Lake. The location includes Simply Cookie’s Kitchen and an outdoor space to enjoy called The Hangtime.
Long Point Winery | 1485 Lake Road | 315-364-6990
Located on the east side of Cayuga Lake on scenic State Route 90, on 72 acres of land overlooking beautiful Cayuga Lake. Guests are treated to a tasting of the finest of dry red and white wines wines and the spectacular views that the tasting room provides. Amelia’s Deli offers freshly cut Italian meats, cheese, and specialty sandwiches accompanied by homemade salads.
Heart and Hands Wine Company | 4162 State Route 90, Union Springs | 315-889-8500
Heart and Hands Wine Company is located in a serene setting overlooking the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake. They are committed to producing cool-climate wines that authentically express the unique character of the Finger Lakes. Their production is quite small, which allows for an intense focus on quality, offering several wines crafted from Pinot Noir and Riesling grapes.
Aurora Brewing Co. | 1891 State Route 90 N, King Ferry
A nanobrewery perched on a hilltop overlooking Cayuga Lake just south of the village of Aurora, started in 2015 by two friends who share a passion for finely crafted beers of the world. They brew small batches of curious styles with a focus on hoppy beers, fruited and non-fruited sours, and the unusual concoction.
Wells College
A small liberal arts college, established in 1868 by Henry Wells, who also founded the Wells Fargo and American Express Companies. The scenic 300-acre campus in the village of Aurora overlooks Cayuga Lake.
For more local suggestions or help while planning your visit, please contact the tour center at 315-364-9680 and speak to our local specialist.