8 Close-Knit Towns to Visit in the Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes region is a distinct area of Upstate New York that exemplifies the natural beauty of the state and its cultural significance in places other than New York City. This chain of lakes contains a wide assortment of small to medium-sized towns and cities that attract tourists all year round to their lakeside attractions.
From fascinating historical museums to natural wonders that can only be found in this part of New York State, come explore these close-knit towns with us.
Canandaigua
Canandaigua, located along the northern shore of Canandaigua Lake, offers a combination of natural beauty, history, and accessible attractions that can be enjoyed all year long.
The town’s historic district is a particularly popular spot for tourists, as it is home to a variety of 19th-century buildings, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Ontario County Courthouse, a notable example of a historic building here, is a centerpiece of the downtown area. You can also explore the local museums, such as the Canandaigua History Museum, which gives insight into the region's role in early New York history.
Check out the region's many natural features, like Canandaigua Lake, a prime destination for boating, fishing, and swimming in the summer. The surrounding parks, like Kershaw Park, provide more scenic views and walking trails in the area's forests, which are especially beautiful in the fall season.
For wine lovers, the town is also located in close proximity to the famed Finger Lakes wine region, with numerous vineyards offering tastings and tours. For cider, Star Cider is located just south of town on the shores of the lake, giving you an amazing view as you enjoy a locally made beverage.
Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen, situated at the southern tip of Seneca Lake, is renowned for its scenery and proximity to several notable parks. The town is most famous for Watkins Glen State Park, known for its expansive gorge, waterfalls, and lush forests. The park features a network of trails, including the Gorge Trail, which will take you past up to 19 unique waterfalls and through narrow, winding passages carved into the rock.
This upstate New York town is also home to several historic sites and buildings, many of which reflect its past as a popular resort town for New Yorkers. The Schuyler County Historical Society Museum is another worthwhile attraction for learning more about the area's history, while the nearby Watkins Glen International Raceway is a historic destination that draws motorsport enthusiasts year-round for races and events.
The town’s location along the Finger Lakes Wine Trail also provides easy access to more local wineries, like Castel Grisch Winery and Hillick & Hobbs Estate, both located near the pristine shores of Seneca Lake.
Penn Yan
AT one of the northern ends of Keuka Lake is Penn Yan, which combines a welcoming small-town atmosphere with a plethora of activities and attractions. The town’s name, a blend of “Pennsylvania” and “Yankees,” reveals its origins as a settlement for diverse groups in early 19th-century New York, when newcomers from all over settled this area.
The Keuka Outlet Trail, a multi-use pathway connecting Keuka and Seneca Lakes, is a key attraction for hikers, cyclists, and paddlers alike. The trail follows the route of an old canal and offers scenic views of waterfalls and the surrounding countryside. Penn Yan is also a central hub for exploring the Keuka Lake Wine Trail, with nearby vineyards offering tastings of award-winning wines.
The town celebrates its heritage through events like the Yates County Fair, one of the oldest fairs in the region.
Skaneateles
Skaneateles, seated on the shores of Skaneateles Lake, is known for its pristine waters and inviting downtown core, making it a favorite lakeside town in New York. The town’s lakefront setting offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming, with the clear, spring-fed waters often considered some of the cleanest in the state.
The Skaneateles Lake Scenic Railway provides a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the area. Take a look at other historic landmarks such as the John D. Barrow Art Gallery, which features local artists, and the Skaneateles Historical Society Museum, which highlights the area’s early settlement and role in the Underground Railroad.
Local dining options range from upscale eateries to casual spots with scenic lake views. Blue Water Grill is situated right beside the town's main pier, which makes for a scenic walk after a meal.
Geneva
Geneva rests on the northern shore of Seneca Lake and is a historic town known for its scenic waterfront, vibrant downtown, and strong agricultural economy.
The town’s waterfront area is a great place to go for a walk and discover what the community has to offer, as picturesque views of the lake and a number of parks, including the popular Seneca Lake State Park, which features walking trails, picnic areas, and spots for fishing and boating, can be found.
Geneva’s downtown is a blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. Take a morning or evening stroll down the bustling Main Street, lined with local shops, cafes, and restaurants like Beef & Brew. The town also hosts several cultural events throughout the year, such as the Geneva Arts Festival and the Finger Lakes Wine Festival.
The nearby Hobart and William Smith Colleges also contribute to the town’s noticeable academic and cultural atmosphere, with public events, performances, and lectures taking place on its campus throughout the year.
Hammondsport
Hammondsport can be found at the southern tip of Keuka Lake and is another town in the Finger Lakes that is deeply connected to the region’s wine industry.
Situate along Finger Lakes Wine Trail, several nearby wineries have tastings and tours available to book (with many accepting walk-ins too). The area’s vineyards produce a variety of wines, including the region’s signature Rieslings, which grow well in the rich soils and climate of upstate New York. The Bully Hill Vineyards is a short drive north of town, and one of many great options to sample a local vintage or two.
Keuka Lake, known for its distinct Y-shape, is also a popular destination in upstate New York for boating, swimming, and fishing, with several public parks and boat launches around the shoreline.
The town’s history is also highlighted at the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, which celebrates the legacy of aviation pioneer Glenn Curtiss, who was born in Hammondsport. The museum showcases a notable collection of aircraft and motorcycles.
Aurora
The town of Aurora is on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake. It is home to Wells College, a private liberal arts institution that adds a youthful energy to the community. The now-closed institution has a beautiful and historic historic campus that can still be explored, with its 19th-century buildings and scenic grounds providing a picturesque backdrop for the town.
This town is also known for its other historic buildings dating back to the 1800s, like the Aurora Inn, a historic lakeside hotel that is a popular dining and lodging spot, providing excellent views of the lake.
Cayuga Lake itself is a prime destination for outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. The surrounding region offers a variety of hiking trails and parks, such as the nearby Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.
Ithaca
Also resting on the shores of Cayuga Lake is Ithaca, home to Cornell University and Ithaca College. This educational center features a vibrant downtown centered around The Commons, a pedestrian mall with shops, restaurants, and frequent cultural events.
The surrounding landscape is a highlight, with over 150 waterfalls within a 10-mile radius. Visitors can explore the dramatic gorges at Buttermilk Falls State Park, Taughannock Falls State Park, and Robert H. Treman State Park, all offering trails and picnic areas. The towering Taughannock Falls, which drops 215 feet, is a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
Ithaca emphasizes sustainability, which can be seen in its renowned Ithaca Farmers Market, which offers regional produce, crafts, and cuisine along the gorgeous lakefront throughout the summer and fall. It stands as one of the most visited towns in the Finger Lake region for many reasons.
See The Finger Lakes Through These Memorable Towns
From the historic charm of Hammondsport to the natural wonders of Watkins Glen, every destination chosen here is to provide you with a memorable experience in the Finger Lakes. Whether exploring scenic lakes, sampling world-class wines, or wandering vibrant downtowns, you will find plenty to enjoy in these close-knit towns.
They are all ideal for those seeking relaxation, outdoor adventures, or a unique cultural experience. Try to venture from New York City or any other part of the country this year to check them out for yourself!
