This Is The Friendliest Small Town in New York
Skaneateles is often overlooked on the northern shore of the long and skinny Lake Skaneateles, one of the cleanest lakes in the U.S. While there is no shortage of charming towns in the Empire State, this amiable town of 7,000 people offers friendly nature and accessible history. Pronounced “Skanny-atlas” or “Skinny-atlas,” it prefers to be called the "Crown Jewel of the Finger Lakes," a shared title with the eponymous lake.
With the lakeside beauty backing its moniker, Skaneateles is one of the richest escapes in the Finger Lakes region of New York, as it has been for centuries. It is bike, pet, and kid-friendly, with playgrounds, paved paths, and walking trails. Once here, you'll feel part of a Hallmark postcard with so much to explore at your fingertips. Having created a desirable community from the very beginning, this article delves into what makes Skaneateles special.
History
The town of Skaneateles was created from the town of Marcellus in 1830 and was incorporated three years later. At the time, the community was focused on agriculture, with a prominent focus on the dairy and grain industries. Over the years, many immigrants from Ireland came to the region and set up businesses, boosting the population and economy of the town. Afterward, from 1876 to 1945, Skaneateles lived through its notable decades of boat craftsmanship. Producing well-known canoes, motor launches, and sailboats, much of the riches gleaned from that era. While some worked, the wealthy found a home turf for the summer, producing lavish lakeside mansions and fenced courtyards.
In many ways, Skaneateles stayed its own little enclave, unlike any other, to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Today, the tourist hub and retirement destination is accessible to the average American family for a getaway on the fifth-largest of New York's scenic Finger Lakes. One of the country's cleanest lakes translates as "long lake" from the Iroquois language, telling of its roomy ambiance, is perfect for a peaceful boat ride or an idyllic lakeside picnic.
The Lake
Skaneateles Lake is the prime attraction in town, spanning 8,800 acres and over 15 miles. Its sparkling waters drew people in from near and far to Skaneateles for a day on the water, sometimes longer. Some ended up staying, leading to a boom in manufacturing and tourism. Whether you're exploring the region in the summer, chasing the foliage, or planning your next holiday escape, the town is very safe, with clean environs and something fun for everyone in every season around its real jewel.
Visitors today have to pay a small fee of three bucks to cover the cost of the lifeguard, while the locals swim for free. Activities abound, from boating in the clear waters to fishing along the coast. Sailing is another pastime here, and summer days are full of sailors out under the sun. Thankfully, there is a sectioned-off swimming area within the lake, which keeps people from getting near the sails. If you don’t have a boat, the rental kayaks are available at the Skaneateles Marina and Sailboat Shop on East Genesee Street. Back on land, one can explore the next-door lake from Owasco Bluffs Nature Preserve or head east for a day by Otisco Lake with a marina and campground.
Attractions
Resting in the heart of Onondaga County, Skaneateles is fun to explore and relax after adventures. The whole town looks like a setting for a Hallmark movie. For the best views of the lake, Thayer Park and Clift Park also work as access points to the lake. Clift Park boasts an iconic gazebo by the pier that looks like a postcard shot of the town, with walking trails, swimming, and scenic benches. For accommodation, the next-door Sherwood Inn is a beautiful blue historic building at the heart overlooking the lake.
The booming boat and watersports industry still rings true, but the craftsmen expanded into the arts, and the past is celebrated through festivals and races. The antiquated downtown and rich maritime history make Skaneateles a historical tourism destination. Don't miss the 1810 Kelsey-Davey Farm and 1830 Community Place with historic insights into the town's antislavery activism. The Skaneateles Historical Society offers more historic opportunities with its walking tour, covering sites like the Thayer Mansion, Colonial Theater, and The Krebs.
Festivals
Skaneateles is a town that knows how to celebrate, hosting festivals and events throughout the year that bring its friendly community to life. Summer kicks off with the Antique and Classic Boat Show, where beautifully restored wooden boats grace the pristine waters of Skaneateles Lake. Held every July, this event also features live music, food vendors, and craft stalls along the lakefront, celebrating the town’s maritime heritage. Music lovers flock to the Skaneateles Festival in August, a month-long event featuring world-class performances of classical, jazz, and contemporary music in scenic venues, from lakeside settings to historic buildings.
As the holidays approach, Dickens Christmas transforms the town into a Victorian wonderland, complete with costumed characters, horse-drawn carriage rides, and carolers filling the streets. This beloved event runs from late November through December, making Skaneateles a magical winter destination. Fall brings smaller seasonal celebrations, including harvest festivals and apple cider tastings, highlighting the town's natural beauty and community spirit.
Shopping and Dining
As a tourist hotspot in New York, the shopping and dining options abound in Skaneateles. For food, Blue Water Grill is a friendly American grill serving both breakfast and sushi menus, with TVs at the bar and a lakefront deck. Doug's Fish Fry is known for its generously sized fish platters in bright and cozy digs with a colorful seascape mural and a train set. On the other hand, one can stock up at TOPS Friendly Markets for a lakeside picnic.
Art enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Skaneateles. Start at the Barrow Gallery, a museum showcasing captivating artwork, and then head to Skaneateles Artisans, a gallery featuring local crafts and creations. Unique shops like DROOZ and Company and Board & Brush Creative Studio offer great options for gifts or home decor with a lakeside flair. Afterward, explore the Skaneateles Antique Center near the boat dock for a treasure trove of vintage finds. Finish your day with the perfect view of the sunset along the town’s iconic pier.
Why is Skaneateles the Friendliest Small Town in New York?
Skaneateles is a favorite escape from the city year-round for both New York residents and visitors. The town marries rich maritime history and activities with a friendly environment, palpable through the array of cultural sites and festivals. Community activities are endless, from the Easter Scavenger Hunt to the classic Antique and Classic Boat Show and Dickens Christmas. For lower crowds, visit in the spring or when the leaves get a fall tinge, with calm weather protected by nature. You can be here in under 30 minutes from Syracuse and under four hours from the Big Apple. So what are you waiting for? Coming in a private jet? Skaneateles Aerodrome is designed for small planes.
