Discover Finger Lakes, Your Guide to the Perfect Getaway
The Finger Lakes region of New York State offers a delightful vacation experience perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers. With beautiful lakes, charming towns, and robust wineries, this region provides vacation rentals in the Finger Lakes. It is ideal for those looking for a memorable and relaxing getaway. These rentals allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of this quaint region while enjoying all the comforts of home.
As you explore the Finger Lakes, you’ll find a variety of vacation rental selections to suit your needs, ranging from cozy cabins in the forest to lakefront houses with stunning views. Make your trip even more special by choosing the perfect vacation rental that complements your desired activities and attractions, such as visiting the popular wine trails, attending annual festivals, or indulging in fine dining at local restaurants.
When booking your Finger Lakes vacation rental, consider the time of year, as each season brings unique attractions and experiences. From the colorful display of the Lilac Festival in Rochester during spring to the stunning foliage in the fall, there’s always something new to discover in this picturesque region.
Top 3 Facts about the Finger Lakes Region in New York State
01
Underground Wonder
The Finger Lakes region is home to the longest underground railroad network in the United States, with over 200 miles of tunnels and passageways.
02
Glacial Origins
The Finger Lakes were formed during the last ice age over 10,000 years ago. Glaciers carved out the long, narrow lakes, creating the unique, finger-like shape that gives the region its name. There are eleven primary lakes, with Seneca and Cayuga being the largest and deepest.
03
Waterfalls Galore
The region is famous for its numerous waterfalls, with over 100 in and around Ithaca alone. One of the most famous is Taughannock Falls, which is taller than Niagara Falls at 215 feet. These waterfalls are a major draw for tourists and nature enthusiasts.
Must See Attractions
Watkins Glen State Park
This park is famous for its stunning gorge, featuring 19 waterfalls along a scenic trail. The picturesque landscape and stone bridges make it a must-visit.
Taughannock Falls State Park
State Park
Home to Taughannock Falls, which plunges 215 feet, making it one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of Cayuga Lake.
Skaneateles Lake
Lake
Known for its crystal-clear water, Skaneateles Lake is a popular destination for boating, swimming, and fishing. The town of Skaneateles offers charming shops, restaurants, and historical sites.
Annual Events and Festivals
July
Finger Lakes Wine Festival
The Finger Lakes Wine Festival, held each July at Watkins Glen International, is one of the largest wine festivals in New York State. This event showcases over 90 regional wineries, allowing visitors to sample various wines, particularly the Finger Lakes’ renowned Rieslings.
In addition to wine tastings, the festival features culinary classes, live cooking demonstrations, and a variety of food vendors. Visitors can also enjoy live music, artisan craft vendors, and various activities such as wine seminars and interactive experiences. The festival’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning location make it a must-visit event for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Late July & Early August
Canandaigua Lake Music Festival
The Canandaigua Lake Music Festival, held in late July and early August, is a premier classical music event in the Finger Lakes region. This festival brings together established and emerging musicians for a series of concerts spanning classical and contemporary genres.
Performances are held at various venues around Canandaigua, including the historic Fort Hill Performing Arts Center. The festival aims to make classical music accessible to all, with interactive elements such as pre-concert talks and meet-the-artist sessions. Its picturesque setting near Canandaigua Lake adds to the charm and appeal of this cultural highlight.
September
Watkins Glen Grand Prix Festival
The Watkins Glen Grand Prix Festival, held in early September, celebrates the rich history of road racing in Watkins Glen. The event features vintage car shows, races, and various automotive-themed activities that draw car enthusiasts worldwide. Historic racing cars take to the original 6.6-mile road course through the village streets, offering a thrilling spectacle.
The festival also includes live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, creating an exciting and engaging environment. This festival honors Watkins Glen’s pivotal role in American motorsport history and its ongoing passion for racing.
Top Hiking Trails
Watkins Glen State Park Gorge Trail
Main Entrance, 1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
This iconic trail winds through a spectacular gorge featuring 19 waterfalls along its 2-mile path.
The stone bridges and steps add to the trail’s charm, making it a must-see for hikers.
Taughannock Falls State Park Gorge Trail
1740 Taughannock Blvd, Trumansburg, NY 14886
This easy, 0.75-mile trail leads hikers to the base of Taughannock Falls, which plunges 215 feet, making it the highest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains.
The trail offers stunning views of the gorge and the falls.
Finger Lakes Trail
Multiple entry points; a popular one is at the Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area, 5281 Searsburg Rd, Trumansburg, NY 14886
This extensive trail system spans over 580 miles across New York State, with a significant portion running through the Finger Lakes region.
Hikers can enjoy diverse landscapes, including forests, waterfalls, and lakes.
Best Golf Courses
Ravenwood Golf Club
929 Lynaugh Rd, Victor, NY 14564
Designed by Robin Nelson, Ravenwood Golf Club is a championship-level course that has hosted several prestigious tournaments, including the New York State Amateur Championship.
The course features rolling fairways, strategic bunkering, and large, undulating greens, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Seneca Falls Country Club
2790 State Route 89, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
Situated along the shore of Cayuga Lake, this historic course offers stunning lake views and a layout that blends natural beauty with strategic play.
Established in 1925, the course features mature trees, well-maintained greens, and water hazards that come into play on several holes, providing a test for golfers while highlighting the region’s scenic charm.
Reservoir Creek Golf Course
8613 State Route 21, Naples, NY 14512
Nestled in the hills of Naples, Reservoir Creek Golf Course offers a scenic and challenging layout with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The course features rolling terrain, natural water hazards, and meticulously maintained fairways and greens, providing a memorable golfing experience in a tranquil setting.
Water Sports
Boating
Boating is one of the most popular activities in the Finger Lakes. You can rent motorboats, sailboats, pontoon boats, and even houseboats to explore the extensive waterways.
Many lakes have marinas and boat launches, making getting out on the water easy. Lake cruises and charter services are also available for those who prefer a guided experience.
Swimming
Swimming is a favorite summer activity in the Finger Lakes. Many lakes have designated swimming areas with lifeguards, picnic facilities, and restrooms.
The crystal-clear waters of lakes like Skaneateles and Canandaigua are particularly inviting for swimmers.
Water Skiing & Wakeboarding
The larger Finger Lakes provide ample space for water skiing and wakeboarding. These adrenaline-pumping activities are best enjoyed in the open areas of the lakes where the water is smooth.
Several marinas and water sports companies offer rentals and lessons.
Winter Activities
Skiing & Snowboarding
The Finger Lakes region is home to some excellent ski resorts.
Bristol Mountain offers over 1,200 vertical feet of skiing, with 38 trails and two terrain parks. Greek Peak features 55 trails, a tubing center, and an adventure center with a mountain coaster. Both resorts provide lessons, rentals, and various amenities for a full day of winter fun.
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are perfect for those who prefer a quieter winter experience.
The Finger Lakes National Forest offers several groomed trails with beautiful countryside views. Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area has over 22 miles of trails for skiing and snowshoeing, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding area.
Ice Fishing
The Finger Lakes are well-known for their excellent fishing, extending into the winter months with ice fishing. Honeoye Lake is particularly popular due to its shallow depth and reliable ice cover. Anglers can catch species such as perch, bluegill, and northern pike. Always check ice conditions before heading out.
Where to Eat
FLX Table
$$ – $$$ • Fine Dining
Ports Café
$$ – $$$ • Upscale, Seafood, Steak
The Park Inn
$$ – $$$ • Farm-to-Table
Where to Shop
The Windmill Farm and Craft Market
Market
Taughannock Falls Gift Shop
Gift shop
Ithaca Commons
Pedestrian mall
Where to Sleep
Tips on Renting a Vacation Home in the Finger Lakes Region
Start Early
Begin your search for a vacation rental well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons like summer or fall. Start by browsing online rental platforms, local vacation rental agency websites, or contacting property owners directly.
Read Reviews
Review reviews from previous guests to get a sense of their experiences with the property and the property management or owner.
Communicate with the Host
Reach out to the host or property manager with any questions or concerns you may have before booking. Clear communication can help ensure that your expectations align with what the rental property offers.
Plan Ahead
Once you’ve booked your vacation rental, start planning ahead for your stay by creating a packing list, organizing transportation, and researching nearby attractions and activities.
Going Deeper: History and Cultural Significance of
The Finger Lakes region of New York State boasts a rich history and cultural significance that stretches back thousands of years. Shaped by the glaciers of the last Ice Age, the region’s distinctive landscape features eleven long, narrow lakes, each with its own unique character and charm.
Historically, the Finger Lakes area was home to Indigenous peoples such as the Seneca, Cayuga, and Onondaga tribes, who lived harmoniously with the land and waterways. The arrival of European settlers in the 17th century brought significant changes to the region, including the establishment of agricultural communities, the construction of the Erie Canal, and the growth of industries such as farming, mining, and manufacturing.
Today, the Finger Lakes region is celebrated for its natural beauty, world-class wineries, vibrant arts scene, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore historic sites like Seneca Falls, known as the birthplace of the women’s rights movement, and learn about the area’s storied past through museums, festivals, and cultural events. From its ancient geological formations to its modern-day attractions, the Finger Lakes continue to captivate and inspire all who visit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Finger Lakes
Finger Lakes vacation rentals offer various amenities to make your stay enjoyable. You can expect waterfront access, kayaks, hot tubs, pet-friendly accommodations, and proximity to local wineries. Your home away from home will likely have everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing getaway.
There are eleven pristine Finger Lakes, each with its unique charm and attractions. Seneca Lake, Keuka Lake, and Skaneateles Lake are the most popular lakes for waterfront vacation rentals. But remember to explore the other beautiful lakes in the region, as each highlights its natural beauty and offers various waterfront properties.
The names of the 11 Finger Lakes are Canadice Lake, Canandaigua Lake, Cayuga Lake, Conesus Lake, Hemlock Lake, Honeoye Lake, Keuka Lake, Otisco Lake, Owasco Lake, Seneca Lake, and Skaneateles Lake.
The Finger Lakes region offers a wide range of activities, including wine tasting at numerous vineyards, outdoor recreation such as hiking, boating, and fishing, visiting historical sites and museums, exploring quaint towns and villages, and enjoying scenic drives along the lakeshores.
The depths of the Finger Lakes vary, with some reaching depths of over 600 feet (183 meters). Seneca Lake is the deepest of the Finger Lakes, reaching a maximum depth of approximately 618 feet (188 meters).
The Finger Lakes region is beautiful year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm. Summer and fall are popular times to visit for outdoor activities, wine tours, and festivals. Winter attracts visitors for skiing, snowboarding, and cozy getaways, while spring brings blooming flowers and vibrant foliage.