The Finger Lakes area is renowned for its fishing lakes and beautiful park country. Apart from the parks and lakes, attractions in the area include the Corning Museum of Glass and the Everson Museum of Art. Another draw for visitors to the area are Cornell University in Ithaca and Syracuse University in Syracuse. Syracuse is also home to the annual New York State Fair. The Erie Canal, responsible for opening the West to expansion in the early 1800s, is a major historical attraction in this part of the state. For race fans, Watkins Glen International in Watkins Glen hosts NASCAR races and other motor racing events. A number of golf courses also dot the Finger Lakes region, offering challenges for all skill levels. During the winter months, skiing is at the fore in the area, with hills such as Bristol Mountain in Canandaigua providing schussing opportunities.