8 of the Most Welcoming Towns in the Finger Lakes

Home to world-class wineries, breathtaking landscapes, and the most charming small towns the East Coast has to offer, the Finger Lakes region is a treasure trove of hidden gems and delicious experiences. Beyond its vast natural beauty, this region of upstate New York has as warm of hospitality as its southern counterpart. Friendly communities, vibrant culture, and delicious food are just some of the many reasons this is a must-visit destination. If you are planning a trip or want to know where to go when you embark on your adventure, here are eight of the most welcoming towns in the Finger Lakes.

Ithaca, New York

In the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca is a vibrant town renowned for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and progressive spirit. Complete with stunning gorges, five waterfalls, and two state parks, Ithaca is for those who have an adventurous spirit.  

Sapsucker Woods offers some of the best bird watching in Ithaca and is an easy 3-mile hike for everyone in the family. If you’re looking for something a bit more out of the ordinary, maybe check out the International Rutabaga Curling Championship, which takes place each year on the last outdoor Saturday at the Ithaca Farmers Market – an event that brings tourists and locals alike from all over the globe. No matter the time of year, downtown Ithaca always has something to do – whether it is the Sagan Planet Walk, hosted by the local Sciencenter (perfect for young kids), or getting a giant sandwich on Restaurant Row (for the young at heart!), or even just listening to the live music that is always abundant in the square. 

Whether you are here chasing waterfalls or happen to be passing by, Ithaca has something for everyone who comes through.

Skaneateles

Skaneateles is a charming village on the aptly-named Skaneateles Lake, coming from the Iroquois word meaning ‘long lake’. Since its humble beginnings as a haven for settlers following the Revolutionary War, Skaneateles still offers entertainment and respite for thousands of travelers each year, boasting a population that doubles in July and August as snowbirds or residents making a pilgrimage to Florida stopped in Skaneateles and rent out one of their charming cottages. 

There is so much to do in this historic town of Skaneateles – for those who want to experience the outdoors, there is biking, hiking, and kayaking (and a spa to recover at!), but by far, what draws the crowds to Skaneateles is the sense of community and the events which always seem to be around the corner.  

For instance, every July for the past 45 years, Skaneateles has been home to a vintage boat show that draws over 10,000 visitors each year. Complete with live music, crafts for the kids, and live shows for those who are less marine-inclined, there’s no wonder why this has been a draw for over 40 years!

The annual Duck Dash, which takes place at the end of September, is where locals and tourists alike bet on rubber duck races through the local creek, winning prizes of gift cards, wine, hotel stays, or even a $1000 cash prize! If you’re feeling festive, the Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles transforms this hamlet into a winter wonderland! Every weekend following Thanksgiving, there are Christmas Carol sing-alongs, eggnog and roasted chestnut samples, and ‘trunk shows’ for the whole family! 

Canandaigua

Translated as ‘The Chosen Spot,’ this historic and scenic town houses a bevy of small businesses, galleries for all tastes, restaurants, and warm, welcoming places to stay. A childhood haunt of the late great Humphrey Bogart, Canandaigua is a vibrant community of local flair and comfy cottages. 

It boasts the Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park, which is perfect for nature lovers and history buffs– one of the country’s most extensively preserved estates from the Victorian era. Or perhaps you’d like a taste of the state at New York Kitchen, which showcases the best New York offers. Want to get more hands-on? They offer cooking classes too! 

For the kids, Roseland Waterpark will provide hours of fun in the sun, and for adults, the Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail will be a delight for adults for all award-winning 41 miles. The summer isn’t the only thing that is heating up, though, as in mid-July, the Canandaigua Lake Music Festival gets into full swing, hosting local and nationally recognized musicians over several days.  

Aurora

It does not get much smaller than Aurora, with a population of only 700 people year round; this gem on the Cayuga Lake is a little slice of heaven. 

Aurora, or Aurora-on-Cayuga, is known for its rich history, including the founding of the Wells College in 1868. This still preserved campus is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

 For a place to stay,  the Inns of Aurora is a collection of historic homes restored and united to become one of the top luxury accommodations in the Finger Lakes, also sporting another entry onto the National Register of Historic Places with the E.B. Morgan House.

Finally, even if you are not a fan of ceramics, the intricate and one-of-a-kind pieces of MacKenzie-Childs make their home here. You can even visit the campus to see the magic as it is woven. 

Penn Yan

Like many of its compatriots on this list, Penn Yan is known for wine, beer, and all things tasty! Located by Keuka Lake, Penn Yan has glacially deposited soil that makes for perfect growing conditions for all kinds of wine – precisely what led to the birth of America’s wine industry in 1860. 

Winding roads and pleasant hills lead you to stunning views of the area and over 20 wineries on the Keuka Lake Wine Trail. If wine isn’t to your taste, Penn Yan also hosts meaderies, cideries, and breweries a-plenty! With plenty of places to stop for a picnic, you can take it slow, savor the taste, and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you. 

Finally, there is the Arts Center of Yates County – a showcase of local and regional artists with free admission. Inside, you’ll find paintings, sculptures, and even jewelry pieces in their converted vault. They have a rotating schedule of art classes, so you can expand your skills with their visiting instructors from around the country and showcase your own piece of art.

Hammondsport

This picturesque town of less than 1,000 residents has been a destination for sports enthusiasts and leisure travelers since the mid-1800s. Located on Keuka Lake, one of the only Y-shaped lakes in the world, this adorable town, brimming with history, has stunning views that are impossible to miss. 

The ‘Father of Naval Aviation’ Glenn Curtiss, made his home here, contributing to the seaplane as well as his other myriad of contributions to aeronautics. The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum hosts the history of the Cradle of Aviation and is perfect for kids and adults alike. Community events like the Hammondsport Winter Stroll, an annual showcase of locally crafted libations, got Hammondsport voted as Budget Travel’s ‘Coolest Small Town in America.’ 

So whether you choose to see Hammondsport by seaplane, water taxi, or your two feet and a heartbeat – there is plenty for you to see, do, and taste! 

Geneva

Geneva sits in the heart of the Finger Lakes. Visiting Geneva promises incredible history, romantic settings, and award-winning wines. This little slice of paradise has something to cater to all tastes– whether you are looking for idyllic outdoor adventure, pampering like no other, or casting your troubles away. 

Geneva hosts the Kashong Conservation Area for the outdoorsman, 84 acres of protected land with many hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing trails available. If you’re looking for the catch of your life, join thousands of anglers who make the pilgrimage to the ‘Lake Trout Capital of the World.’ There is even an annual National Lake Trout Derby that has been entertaining and enthralling since 1964! 

For those who want a bit more pampering in their downtime, Geneva On The Lake is the place for you. Built in the style of an Italian villa, this AAA 4-diamond award-winning resort has over 10 acres for you to explore and enjoy. When the day winds down, enjoy the fine dining offered at the resort, and you’ll never know you aren’t in the Italian hills! 

Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen perfectly summates the beauty and community that makes the Finger Lakes region so unique. Watkins Glen State Park was voted the #3 State Park in the country by USA Today and has a breathtaking 19 waterfalls on a less than 2-mile trail. 

If you would trade the rush of water for the roar of an engine, Watkins Glen can accommodate you, too! Birthplace to American road racing, this hamlet has hosted international automobile racing since 1948 and continues with the Vintage Grand Prix Festival. For even more racing excitement and history, Watkin Glen International, voted the best NASCAR Track by USA Today, hosts NASCAR, IMSA, and Ferrari racing. 

To wind down on warmer nights, Watkins Glen offers Movies on the Lake in the scenic Clute Park, or maybe a walk through the unique collection of architecture and historical buildings of the Glorious T Historic District is more your style. Whatever you come to Watkins Glen for, you will want to stay!

Discover the Heart of the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region is the beating heart of upstate New York, unfolding as a beautiful collection of welcoming towns, scenic vistas, and adventure around every corner. Whether enticed by the tranquil lakeshores and history (or want to go for the wine!), the Finger Lakes beckons you with open arms and an open invitation for visitors of all shapes, sizes, and experiences. So get out there and explore this charming corner of the state, where no matter where you’re from, you will always feel like you’re home.