Discover the Finger Lakes, Your Guide to the Perfect Getaway

The Best Experiences in the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region of New York State offers an extraordinary escape brimming with natural beauty, cultural charm, and exciting activities.

Home to 11 glacial lakes, this area is celebrated for its world-class wineries, quaint towns, and thriving arts scene. Visitors can explore vacation rentals that range from rustic woodland cabins to luxurious lakefront homes, creating a perfect base for discovering the region’s diverse attractions.

From sipping award-winning Rieslings along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail to marveling at the breathtaking Taughannock Falls, the Finger Lakes is a destination that caters to every interest. History buffs will enjoy the museums and landmarks, such as the Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn or the Women’s Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls, while outdoor enthusiasts can kayak, hike, or bike along scenic trails. The region also hosts an array of annual events, including the Finger Lakes Wine Festival and Naples Grape Festival, making it an ever-changing destination worth visiting in every season.

Top 3 Facts about the Finger Lakes

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.

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.

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

STATE PARK

Known for its breathtaking gorge trail, Watkins Glen State Park features 19 waterfalls, stone bridges, and cascading streams set within a deep and picturesque gorge. The main trail takes visitors along bridges and staircases, offering an up-close experience of these stunning natural features. This popular park also has picnic areas, campsites, and several scenic viewpoints, making it a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers alike. Open year-round, with a vehicle entrance fee of $10 during peak season; parking is free in the winter.

Taughannock Falls State Park

STATE PARK

Taughannock Falls State Park is home to the impressive Taughannock Falls, which plunges 215 feet—making it one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors can explore hiking trails that offer close-up views of the falls, a beach along Cayuga Lake, and scenic overlooks showcasing the park’s incredible natural beauty. The park also hosts educational programs and seasonal events, making it a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Open year-round, with a vehicle entrance fee of $9.

Skaneateles Lake

Natural Wonders

Skaneateles Lake, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. The charming town of Skaneateles offers boutique shops, historic sites, and restaurants, creating a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for visitors. During the summer, lake tours provide beautiful views of the waterfront homes and natural scenery. Public access is available at several boat launches and parks along the shore, making it easy to enjoy the lake at any time of year.

Corning Museum of Glass

Museums and Galleries

The Corning Museum of Glass is a one-of-a-kind attraction featuring over 35 centuries of glass art, technology, and history. Visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations, explore intricate glasswork exhibits, and even create their own glass pieces in the museum’s studio. With interactive displays and diverse collections, the museum appeals to visitors of all ages and interests. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with adult admission at $20 and free entry for children under 17.

Seneca Lake Wine Trail

Vineyards and Breweries

The Seneca Lake Wine Trail includes more than 30 wineries and vineyards offering tastings, tours, and seasonal events. Known for its excellent Rieslings, the trail leads visitors through scenic vineyard landscapes along Seneca Lake, with unique tasting rooms and food pairings at various stops. The trail hosts several events throughout the year, including wine and cheese weekends and harvest celebrations. Tasting fees vary by winery, making it easy for visitors to sample and enjoy Finger Lakes wines.

Buttermilk Falls State Park

State Park

Buttermilk Falls State Park features a stunning series of cascading waterfalls and pools that make it ideal for swimming, picnicking, and relaxation. The park has scenic hiking trails passing through forested areas and rocky terrain, providing beautiful views of Buttermilk Creek and the surrounding gorge. It’s a popular summer spot for families and a peaceful retreat for nature lovers year-round. The park is open year-round, with a $9 vehicle entrance fee during peak season

Harriet Tubman Home

Historical Sites

Located in nearby Auburn, the Harriet Tubman Home was the final residence of the renowned abolitionist and Underground Railroad conductor. Guided tours take visitors through Tubman’s life, work in the anti-slavery movement, and ongoing legacy. The site, which includes her home and surrounding property, provides a powerful historical experience. Open Tuesday through Friday, with guided tours available; adult admission is $5.

Finger Lakes National Forest

national PARK

Covering over 16,000 acres, the Finger Lakes National Forest is the only national forest in New York, offering a range of outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, camping, and cross-country skiing. With diverse landscapes including woodlands, gorges, and open pastures, the forest is a beautiful location for nature lovers to explore, birdwatch, and view seasonal wildflowers. Entry is free year-round, with trails and camping available for a nominal fee.

Ithaca Farmers Market

LAKE

The Ithaca Farmers Market, located along the waterfront, is a lively destination featuring over 100 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts from the Finger Lakes region. Live music, lake views, and locally sourced foods add to the vibrant market atmosphere, making it a must-visit. Open on Saturdays and Sundays from April to December, it provides a taste of Ithaca’s community spirit and regional flavors in a beautiful setting.

Canandaigua Lake

Lakes and Waterfalls

Canandaigua Lake is a popular spot in the Finger Lakes region for boating, kayaking, and fishing. The Canandaigua City Pier, lined with colorful boathouses, offers a scenic area for walks and photos. The lake is also home to the New York Kitchen, a culinary center offering cooking classes, tastings, and meals featuring regional ingredients and wines. Public access points and rental options make it easy to enjoy Canandaigua Lake’s scenic beauty.

Letchworth State Park

STATE PARK

Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park features stunning gorges, cliffs, and three major waterfalls along the Genesee River. With over 66 miles of hiking trails, hot air balloon rides, and spectacular fall foliage, the park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers. Open year-round, with an entrance fee of $10 per vehicle from May to October, this scenic park offers a variety of ways to enjoy the natural beauty of New York’s landscape.

Hill Cumorah Visitors Center

Religious and Spiritual Sites

The Hill Cumorah Visitors Center in Palmyra is an important historical site for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Exhibits, educational films, and guided tours highlight the site’s significance, as it is believed to be where Joseph Smith found the golden plates. Each summer, the Hill Cumorah Pageant, a large outdoor performance, draws thousands of visitors. Admission to the center is free, and it is open daily year-round.

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

Rent a property

Looking for a great place to stay. Begin your adventure now!

Find a Property

Become a host

Want to list your vacation home? Get started here.

List a Property

Frequently asked questions about the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes are beautiful year-round, but the most popular times are late spring through fall. May through October brings warm weather ideal for hiking, lake activities, and vineyard visits, with October showcasing a spectacular display of fall foliage. Winter offers opportunities for snow sports and cozy stays, especially in areas around Canandaigua and Keuka Lake.

Yes, many parts of the Finger Lakes welcome pets! Several state parks, such as Watkins Glen and Taughannock Falls, allow leashed dogs on trails, and many vineyards and breweries in the region also welcome pets in outdoor areas. Some accommodations offer pet-friendly rooms, but it’s wise to check each establishment’s policy in advance.

While a car provides the most flexibility, it’s possible to experience parts of the Finger Lakes without one. Public transportation and rideshare services are available in cities like Ithaca, and local tour companies offer transportation for wine trails and sightseeing. Biking is also popular, especially around Keuka and Seneca Lakes.

The Finger Lakes offers many family-friendly attractions, from the Strong Museum of Play in Rochester to the Seneca Park Zoo. Children love visiting the petting zoos, such as Whispering Pines Animal Kingdom, and activities like kayaking, fishing, and exploring trails around the lakes are popular for all ages. In winter, sledding and ice skating bring an added layer of seasonal fun.

Families enjoy indoor water parks like Great Wolf Lodge, hiking kid-friendly trails at Hickory Run State Park, and visiting the Pocono Raceway for thrilling NASCAR events. Many resorts also offer mini-golf, arcades, and outdoor adventure courses.

Many attractions in the Finger Lakes region offer discounts and special packages to help you save. Start by checking the official Finger Lakes tourism website or the websites of individual attractions, such as the Corning Museum of Glass or Watkins Glen State Park, as they often promote seasonal deals.

If you’re visiting multiple wineries or breweries, consider purchasing a wine or beverage trail passport, which provides bundled discounts on tastings at participating locations. Many museums and cultural sites also offer discounted admission for seniors, students, and military personnel. Additionally, booking midweek or purchasing tickets online in advance can often unlock lower rates. Don’t forget to look for bundle packages that combine activities, such as boat rentals and winery tours, for even more savings.

The Finger Lakes region is accessible by car, bus, and plane. The closest major airports are in Rochester, Syracuse, and Ithaca, each offering car rental options. From New York City, the region is about a 4-5 hour drive. Bus services such as Greyhound and local regional buses provide access to some towns, and Amtrak trains serve Rochester and Syracuse for those interested in rail travel.