Nothing Is Real

John Lennon made a good point when he sang, “Living is easy with eyes closed, misunderstanding all you see.” Take for instance all the doom scrollers of today, staring down at their phones, eyes closed off from the real world around them. This limited vantage point — a narrow screen of constant noise and color — ignores all the amazing people and places happening in small towns across America. If one sense is closed off, it’s time to engage another: perhaps a trip to one of the region’s illustrious lavender fields? Just follow your nose down East Lake Road along Honeoye Lake.

Aurora Lavender Farm

Based in the hamlet of Honeoye, New York, Aurora Lavender Farm is a small, welcoming Finger Lakes gem where rows of fragrant lavender meet the buzz of beehives and the calm of Honeoye Lake. Visitors can stroll the fields, enjoy U‑Pick lavender, and explore a charming farm store stocked with handmade goods, raw honey, pure NYS maple syrup, candles, skincare, and even culinary lavender varieties. Lavender simple syrup? Try a free sample, and you might re-think how you stock your cocktail bar.

Patrick, one of the owners, takes a break from working in the barn to greet you as you arrive at the farm stand. You learn that he and his wife Elizabeth used to frequent fairs, but the schedule would get hectic for the pair of schoolteachers. You know this feeling all too well, as you watch your little travel companion make a beeline for the rows of lavender. Hence the farm’s focus has shifted to farm stand, local storefront, and online sales. But what makes Aurora truly unique? The added bonus of its educator owners: the farm also offers classes in floral design, lotion‑making, cooking, and even lavender-immersed yoga, all rooted in their mission to share natural, farm‑crafted products and services with warmth and passion.

You’ve been eyeing the quarts of maple syrup since you arrived, so you buy a jug on your way out. Your little travel companion has developed an affinity for pancakes as of late. Indeed, you’re grateful for a convenient farm stand like Aurora Lavender Farm’s, located just ten minutes from Conesus Lake. Best of all, you’re supporting a local family with your business. Why not explore other local shops around the area?