Vacation Rentals
Attractions
Events
Weather
Boating
Hiking
Golfing
SkiingGet the Weather and See the Best Seasons to Explore the Finger Lakes
Best time to go
Choosing the best time to visit the Finger Lakes depends on your desired adventure, as this picturesque region offers distinct and magical experiences year-round.
In spring, the Finger Lakes awaken with lush greenery, blooming vineyards, and roaring waterfalls fed by the season’s melt. It’s the perfect time for hikers to explore Watkins Glen State Park or for wine enthusiasts to enjoy early releases during the Keuka in Bloom festival.
Summer is prime time for lakeside fun, with opportunities for boating, paddleboarding, and fishing on the eleven sparkling lakes. Festivals like the Finger Lakes Wine Festival in July and weekly farmers’ markets add vibrant energy, while the warm weather is ideal for dining al fresco at wineries such as Dr. Konstantin Frank or along Skaneateles Lake.
In autumn, the Finger Lakes explode with fiery fall colors, making it a dream destination for scenic drives and vineyard tours during harvest season. Events like Naples’ Grape Festival showcase the area’s agricultural heritage, while apple orchards and pumpkin patches bring festive family fun.
Winter transforms the Finger Lakes into a serene retreat, with snow-dusted landscapes and cozy indoor activities. Enjoy ice wine tastings at local vineyards, explore miles of cross-country ski trails, or unwind in front of a roaring fireplace in a lakeside cabin. Seasonal charm reaches its peak during the annual Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles, where the village comes alive with holiday cheer.boating, paddleboarding, and fishing opportunities
Finger Lakes, by the seasons
Spring
Spring (March to May): As the Finger Lakes awaken from their winter slumber, temperatures gradually climb from the mid-30s°F (1-2°C) in March to a more pleasant 60°F (15°C) by May. Spring ushers in a season of renewal, marked by blooming wildflowers, budding vineyards, and the return of migratory birds.
A standout event during this time is the Rochester Lilac Festival, held in May. This celebration at Highland Park showcases over 500 varieties of lilacs, filling the air with their fragrant aroma and drawing thousands of visitors. Spring also marks the beginning of wine trail season, with wineries offering tastings of their latest releases. Travelers during this period can take advantage of off-peak accommodation rates, making it an ideal time for a budget-friendly getaway.
Summer
Summer (June to August): Summer in the Finger Lakes is synonymous with outdoor adventure and warm, sunny days averaging around 80°F (27°C). The lakes themselves take center stage, inviting visitors to enjoy swimming, kayaking, and boat cruises under clear skies.
July is particularly vibrant with the Finger Lakes Wine Festival at Watkins Glen International, where more than 90 wineries showcase their best vintages. Additionally, summer nights often feature stargazing opportunities at the Cumming Nature Center or other dark-sky areas, with the Milky Way clearly visible. Farmers’ markets and outdoor dining spots buzz with activity, offering seasonal produce and locally sourced meals. With longer days and a lively atmosphere, summer is the peak season for experiencing the region’s charm.
Fall
Fall (September to November): Arguably the most picturesque season, fall transforms the Finger Lakes into a tapestry of gold, red, and orange hues. Temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (24°C) in September to a crisp 50°F (10°C) in November, perfect for cozy hikes and scenic drives.
This is prime harvest time, with events like the Naples Grape Festival celebrating the region’s viticulture heritage. Apple orchards and pumpkin patches open for family-friendly fun, while wineries and breweries offer special seasonal tastings. The clear, cool nights also provide a chance to catch the Northern Taurids meteor shower in early November, a celestial spectacle best viewed from the area’s quiet, open spaces.
Winter
Winter (December to February): Snow blankets the Finger Lakes, transforming them into a serene retreat. Daytime temperatures hover around 30°F (-1°C), making them ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and cozying up by a fireplace.
Festive events bring the season to life, including the annual Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles, where the town recreates a Victorian holiday village with carolers and horse-drawn wagons. Winter also provides a chance to visit the region’s frozen waterfalls, such as Taughannock Falls, which offers a magical sight of ice formations. Though quieter, this season offers discounted accommodations and a tranquil setting for those seeking a peaceful escape.
Peak season
Time Frame
The peak season in the Finger Lakes typically runs from late June through August, when summer is in full swing. During this time, visitors flock to the region to enjoy its warm weather, sparkling lakes, and a plethora of outdoor activities and events. The season also coincides with the bustling wine trail scene and the height of farmers’ markets brimming with fresh, local produce.
Benefits
There are numerous reasons why summer is the prime time to visit the Finger Lakes:
- Abundance of Activities: From lakefront lounging and paddleboarding to boat cruises and vineyard tours, the region offers something for everyone during its high season. Events like the Finger Lakes Wine Festival in July bring an extra buzz.
- Ideal Weather: Average temperatures hover around 80°F (27°C), making it perfect for outdoor pursuits like hiking the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail or kayaking on Keuka Lake.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: With lively lakeside towns, bustling marinas, and al fresco dining spots, the Finger Lakes feel alive with energy. The extended daylight hours also allow for longer adventures and late-evening activities.
Drawbacks
Despite its appeal, peak season does come with challenges:
- Higher Costs: Accommodations and experiences often come with a premium price tag due to increased demand, so planning ahead is key.
- Crowded Attractions: Popular spots such as Watkins Glen State Park or Taughannock Falls can become busy, especially on weekends.
- Limited Availability: Last-minute travelers may struggle to secure their preferred lodging or boat rentals, as these are frequently booked well in advance during the summer months.
Off-peak or shoulder season
Time Frame
The shoulder season in the Finger Lakes occurs in the spring (April through early June) and autumn (September through mid-November). These transitional months offer cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and unique seasonal highlights, making it an ideal time for visitors seeking a quieter, more budget-friendly getaway.
Benefits
There are several advantages to exploring the Finger Lakes during the shoulder season:
- Fewer Crowds: Popular attractions like Watkins Glen State Park and the region’s wine trails are far less crowded, allowing for a more leisurely experience.
- Affordable Rates: With lower demand, accommodations and tours often come with discounted rates, making it easier to stretch your travel budget.
- Seasonal Beauty: Spring brings blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn dazzles with fiery fall foliage and crisp, refreshing air. Both seasons offer plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, photography, and outdoor activities.
- Festivals and Events: Enjoy spring wine-pairing weekends or fall harvest festivals, such as the Ithaca Apple Harvest Festival or the Keuka Lake Wine Trail’s “Harvest Celebration of Food & Wine.”
Drawbacks
Although the shoulder season has many advantages, there are a few challenges to consider:
- Variable Weather: Spring and autumn can bring unpredictable weather patterns, so packing layers and waterproof gear is essential.
- Reduced Hours: Some attractions, boat tours, or seasonal activities may operate on limited schedules or be unavailable, so it’s best to check ahead.
Low season
Time Frame
The off-season in the Finger Lakes typically spans the winter months, from December through February. During this time, cold temperatures dominate the region, with snowfall creating a serene, picturesque landscape. While many outdoor activities slow down, the off-season offers a unique charm and opportunities for quiet exploration.
Benefits
Despite the chill, visiting the Finger Lakes during the off-season comes with several advantages:
- Winter Sports and Activities: Snow-covered trails are perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter activities. Bristol Mountain Ski Resort and Greek Peak Mountain Resort are great destinations for downhill skiing and snowboarding.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: The off-season is the quietest time of year, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s natural beauty without the summer crowds.
- Budget-Friendly Travel: Lower demand translates to significant savings on accommodations, dining, and other attractions, making it ideal for travelers on a budget.
- Cozy Indoor Experiences: This is the perfect time to indulge in wine tastings at cozy, fire-lit wineries, like those on the Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake Wine Trails, or to explore unique museums like the Corning Museum of Glass.
Drawbacks
The off-season isn’t without its challenges, so it’s important to plan ahead:
- Cold Weather: Temperatures often dip below freezing, and heavy snowfalls are common, which may deter some travelers.
Limited Activities: Many outdoor attractions, including state parks and boat tours, are closed or operate on restricted hours.
Unpredictable Weather: Winter storms can affect travel plans, so flexibility and preparation are key.
If you’re visiting during the off-season, consider booking a stay at a lakeside cabin with a fireplace or hot tub for the ultimate cozy retreat. Winter wine trail events, like the Seneca Lake “Deck the Halls” holiday celebration, offer festive ways to experience the region even in the colder months.
A season for every traveler
The Finger Lakes region of New York offers something special for every type of traveler, from adventure-seekers to those looking for a relaxing escape. No matter the season, the Finger Lakes promises an unforgettable experience tailored to your travel style.
The Outdoor Enthusiast
Outdoor enthusiasts will revel in the area’s state parks, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes perfect for hiking, kayaking, and biking, with spring through fall providing the most pleasant weather for exploring the natural wonders.
The Food and Wine Connoisseur
Food and wine connoisseurs will find themselves immersed in a culinary haven, with over 100 wineries specializing in world-renowned Rieslings, vibrant farm-to-table restaurants, and signature events like the Finger Lakes Wine Festival in July—making summer and autumn ideal for savoring the region’s flavors.
The Relaxation Seeker
For relaxation seekers, the tranquil lakeside cabins, spa retreats, and scenic boat cruises create the ultimate retreat, particularly in winter when cozy fireside stays pair perfectly with the peaceful atmosphere.
Ensure an unforgettable visit to the Finger Lakes by checking current weather conditions and forecasts before your trip, allowing you to fully embrace all the region’s incredible offerings.
Frequently asked questions about the Pocono Mountains
The best months to visit the Finger Lakes are May through October, offering warm weather, vibrant festivals, and opportunities to explore the region’s wineries, waterfalls, and lakes. Autumn is especially stunning, with peak fall foliage typically occurring in late September to mid-October.
Plan for at least 3 to 5 days to fully enjoy the Finger Lakes. This allows enough time to visit the major attractions like the wine trails, Watkins Glen State Park, and Taughannock Falls while leaving room for leisurely activities like lakefront relaxation or boating.
The peak season is July and August, when the weather is warmest, and outdoor activities like swimming, kayaking, and hiking are in full swing. During these months, the region hosts several major events, such as the Finger Lakes Wine Festival in July.
Fall is one of the most picturesque times to visit the Finger Lakes, with breathtaking foliage and harvest season events. October is ideal for leaf-peeping, apple-picking, and wine tours featuring limited-edition autumn vintages.
The off-season spans from November to March, characterized by colder weather and fewer crowds. However, this period is ideal for a cozy getaway with opportunities for wine tasting, holiday events, and cross-country skiing in parks like Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area.
Late spring (April and early May) and late fall (early November) offer the best value, with lower accommodation rates and fewer tourists. These shoulder seasons also provide peaceful hikes and blossoming or early autumn scenery.
Summer in the Finger Lakes is ideal for water activities, vibrant farmers’ markets, and outdoor concerts. The long days and warm evenings provide perfect conditions for exploring lakefront towns, dining al fresco, and enjoying events like the Canandaigua Art and Music Festival.