8 Darling Small Towns in the Finger Lakes
Do you need a special itinerary encompassing vibrant natural sights, historical finds, and commercial thrills? If so, the Finger Lakes region may have travelers covered. With its gorgeous small towns full of lovely landmarks and attractions to consider, such as the Harriet Tubman Home or Seneca Lake art exhibitions, it is no surprise that people often travel around New York to experience all that this region has to offer. Towns such as Auburn and Penn Yan house a wellspring of activities and attractions ideal for all travelers to explore. To this end, here are some darling towns to make your next getaway more exciting and memorable.
Canandaigua
Located southeast of Rochester, Canandaigua is known as "The Chosen Spot" and is often touted for its lovely landmarks. The Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park is a typical stop for newcomers who love Victorian mansion architecture and the most darling 19th-century diverse gardens around the landscape. History lovers may also like Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum, which houses over a hundred horsedrawn carriage exhibits, exciting gift shop trinkets, and even has a darling 19th-century exterior.
For a taste of nature, Kershaw Park is a comfort-driven landmark with shady sunbathing spots and strolling paths for lakeside pleasures. Similarly, at Canandaigua City Pier, tourists and locals can enjoy the appeal of both backyard Canandaigua Lake memories and boathouse splendors while checking out fantastic ice cream vendors. After the exploration, visitors to the Heron Hill Tasting Room will likely want to take part in vibrant wine tastings and memorable conversations among friendly locals. Or, grab a meal at Rio Tomatlan, which serves coastal Mexican cuisine and has a darling little patio space that makes travelers feel like they are visiting a part of Mexico.
Naples
Seen as the "Grape Pie Capital Of The World" and "Wine Center Of The East," Naples has many names that attract oenophiles from all over. At Inspire Moore Winery, grape history, and cultural heritage are recognized while tourists experience vibrancy around cozy vineyards and darling gazebos. Winery lovers will want to stop by Hazlitt Red Cat Cellars, a famous hangout spot where residents enjoy traditional wine culture and darling patio arrangements; it also has an overlooked scenic trail.
After filling up on food and drinks, adventurers can head out to one of the many attractions in Naples. Outdoor enthusiasts prefer Grimes Glen Park, which has the best natural views with its beautiful hiking paths and ice-carved valleys that leave a lasting impression. Hikers may also want to check out Conklin's Gully, which provides a scenic trek through rocky rims with incredible waterfalls. Wesley Hill Nature Preserve is a wildlife retreat option for travelers who prefer to visit during the summer or winter to enjoy creekside waters and satisfying overlooks with a view of Honeoye Lake.
Auburn
Auburn, located at the north end of Owasco Lake, is a popular destination for its historic landmark beauty. At the Harriet Tubman Home, one can expect guided tours of darling homestead relics and original foundations used by a well-known abolitionist. The Seward House Museum also has some darling and attractive features, including tributes to William Henry Seward, classical gardens, and 19th-century Civil War artifacts. Furthermore, at the Cayuga Museum of History & Art, tourists can appreciate sound-on-film history and photographic memories brought to life by historians who celebrate local culture.
For entertainment venues, one can check out Carriage House Theater, a hotspot for small-sized band parties and music events that make tourists feel like they are living in the 19th century. End the day at The Prison City Pub and Brewery, a wonderful eatery with happy brewpub conversations, cheesy pizzas, and vibrant taprooms.
Corning
Situated on the Chemung River, Corning is labeled the "Crystal City" for its natural and historical glass history. The Corning Museum of Glass is one of the best stops for its unforgettable glasswork sculptures and darling innovations that illustrate the heart of artistic talent. For a different take on local history, visitors can also walk through history at the Rockwell Museum, where 19th-century fine art collections and Native American bronze artifacts are always worth the return trip. Or, head over to the Little Joe Tower, a darling and photographic 187-foot-tall structure spottable from just about anywhere in town.
Along with glasswork, Corning is also an artistic hub, palpable at the many galleries and architecture along Centerway Square. For example, the nearby West End Gallery is an art lover's indoor paradise with colorful mosaic creations and lovely ceramic trinkets that may astonish newcomers. Painters can also stop by Pop and Paint, a studio filled with local resin artistry and easygoing locals.
Hammondsport
Hammondsport, often called "Pleasant Valley" and "Wine Village," offers a unique mix of aviation history, natural beauty, and wine culture. The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum is a testament to the town's rich aviation heritage, housing an impressive collection of vintage airplanes revealing much about regional history. For those interested in a different aspect of the area’s past, the Finger Lakes Boating Museum provides a fascinating look at age-old boating exhibits, including a wooden boat tour of Keuka Lake.
The town’s natural retreats are equally captivating. Depot Park, with its southern lake views, offers a serene spot for those seeking a quiet moment by the water. At the same time, Champlin Beach is perfect for families, offering kayaking opportunities and a welcoming atmosphere for pets. As the day ends, wine enthusiasts will find Hammondsport’s vineyards irresistible. Bully Hill Vineyards and Pleasant Valley Wine Co. provide vintage wine-tasting sessions and breathtaking views of Keuka Lake.
Watkins Glen
Originally known as "Salubria," Watkins Glen offers a delightful blend of village charm and stunning natural wonders. Visitors seeking nature expeditions will find Watkins Glen State Park to be a lively landmark, boasting cascading waterfalls and memorable hiking trails carved through rock layers and crevices. Wildlife enthusiasts may appreciate a visit to the Farm Sanctuary, which not only provides heartwarming encounters with rescued animals but also shares the rich history of pastures in the area.
Tourists searching for outdoor thrills will be captivated by Sail True Love, a popular locale offering public sailing itineraries and scenic riverside experiences. Those interested in more leisurely activities might opt for apple picking at Apples & Moore, an underrated fruit farm known for its welcoming atmosphere and picturesque landscapes. To round out a day of exploration, a meal at Seneca Lodge Restaurant is a must, offering delicious fare like chicken parmesan and the cozy, rustic ambiance of a cabin diner.
Penn Yan
Another village town that stands out on this list, Penn Yan, makes every winery-oriented tourist feel right at home. Those who want casual outdoor vibes can also visit Keuka Lake Wine Trail. This historic winery doubles as a crucial landmark for glacial beauty and vibrant wine-tasting moments around Keuka Lake. Fox Run Vineyards is another option with its darling blue architecture and alluring 50-acre vineyard run by the friendliest locals.
After indulging in local wines, visitors can move on to the wonderful artistic hotspots spread throughout this Finger Lakes town. The Arts Center of Yates County is one such spot where travelers can check out golden vaults full of unique jewelry and darling lakeside conversations related to local household pottery. Meanwhile, the Apple Barrel Orchards are a hidden gem for grape-picking pleasures and also have a cute cherry farm.
Seneca Falls
Just east of Geneva lies Seneca Falls, a beautiful little town distinctly known as the "Birthplace Of Women's Rights." Those interested in unraveling the roots of its nickname head straight to the Women's Rights National Historical Park. This park exudes historical knowledge related to feminist pioneers and human rights activism, and it also has a darling chapel nearby. For more history, one can visit It's A Wonderful Life Museum, which showcases the life of Italian settlers and original relics that made films like “It's a Wonderful Life" more popular. Some may even find a darling landmark in town called the It's a Wonderful Life Bridge, which allows tourists to enjoy a scenic riverside overpass and 1900s street nostalgia.
Travelers who like nature can check out Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, a sheltered sanctuary with diverse wetland birds and observation towers that make for a pleasant vehicular itinerary. The refuge also boasts 10,000 acres of pristine wilderness, making it ideal for an auto tour with the whole family. For a more rustic experience, one can stop by Glamping at Meadeville Farm for lavish gardens, delightful pumpkin hayrides, and breathtaking Finger Lakes scenery.
Conclusion
These charming towns in the Finger Lakes region offer a delightful mix of natural beauty, historical richness, and vibrant culture, making them perfect for any traveler seeking a memorable getaway. From Canandaigua's picturesque lakeside views to Hammondsport's aviation heritage, each town provides unique experiences that capture the essence of New York's upstate charm. Whether you're exploring waterfalls, savoring local wines, or diving into rich history, these destinations promise satisfaction and discovery at every turn. With so much to offer, the Finger Lakes region is a treasure trove of darling small towns waiting to be explored.
