7 Offbeat Finger Lakes Towns To Visit In 2025

Tucked between narrow, glacial lakes and scenic rolling hills, the Finger Lakes region of New York is full of surprises, especially beyond the usual stops. Named after its eleven long, finger-shaped lakes, this region offers charm with natural beauty and a deep sense of local identity.

Known for its vineyards, historical trails, and lakeside views, the Finger Lakes hide a collection of quirky, lesser-known vicinities where the culture runs deep and the crowds stay light. These offbeat destinations offer something a little different in places like Penn Yan, Palmyra, Owego, and Dundee, think unexpected art galleries, eccentric museums, adventurous hiking trails, and memorable events that leave a lasting impression. If you're looking to explore the Finger Lakes in a way that feels more personal, curious, and fun in 2025, these 7 towns are worth the trip.

Penn Yan

Penn Yan is a village of around 5,000 residents at the northeastern tip of Keuka Lake known for its deep agricultural roots, Mennonite influence, and quirky feel. The name “Penn Yan” is a mix of “Pennsylvania” and “Yankee,” a nod to the early settlers who shaped its character.

A visit here is not complete without exploring the Keuka Lake Wine Trail, just minutes away, where family-run wineries serve everything from dry vinifera to bold hybrid blends. For a taste of flavor, head to Keuka Restaurant, a local favorite serving hearty breakfasts, steaks, and pasta in a no-frills, welcoming space.

At the Arts Center of Yates County, you will find rotating exhibits by regional artists, intimate classes, and warm community events that reflect Penn Yan’s creative pulse. When it is time to unwind, Indian Pines Park offers lake access, shady picnic spots, a swimming beach, and trails that keep the afternoon light and easy.

Hammondsport

Hammondsport sits at the southern tip of Keuka Lake in Steuben County and is home to just over 500 residents. Known as the “Cradle of Aviation” and the heart of New York’s wine country, it played a major role in the early days of flight and viticulture in the Finger Lakes.

One of the town’s standout attractions is the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, which showcases early aviation history along with vintage motorcycles, automobiles, and experimental aircraft. Just a short drive away, the Finger Lakes Boating Museum displays over 100 preserved boats across six galleries, offering a glimpse into the region’s maritime legacy.

For a relaxed afternoon alone or with loved ones, head to Depot Park, a lakeside retreat with walking trails, picnic settings, and a small beach perfect for summer swimming. End your day at Bully Hill Vineyards, where vibrant tastings, panoramic views, and a welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite stop among wine lovers in 2025.

Owego

Located in Tioga County along the Susquehanna River, Owego is a historic area with a population of just over 18,000. Known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and community charm, Owego offers a mix of culture, vintage flair, and quiet riverside beauty.

Start your visit at the Early Owego Antique Center, where two floors of antiques, furniture, collectibles, and vintage finds make it a treasure trove for curious browsers. Just around the corner, The Owego Kitchen is a cozy local favorite, serving up hearty paninis, breakfast sandwiches, and fresh pastries in a restored downtown storefront.

For something unexpected, head to Riverow Bookshop, a locally owned shop filled with rare finds, classic titles, and the comforting scent of old pages. If you’re up for a short drive, Tioga Downs Casino Resort is just 15 minutes away and offers a full entertainment experience, complete with a racetrack, hotel, spa, gaming floor, and several restaurants.

Palmyra

Palmyra is a quaint city often referred to as the “Queen of Canal Towns.” With historic roots stretching back to the early 1800s, Palmyra is known for its festivals, antiques, and old sites, making it a unique stop.

One of its most notable landmarks is the Sacred Grove, a tranquil forest near the childhood home of Joseph Smith. According to Latter-day Saint tradition, it was here that Smith experienced his First Vision, making it a place of pilgrimage and quiet reflection.

Just a short walk away is the William Phelps General Store and Home, a rare preservation of 19th-century life. Once a tavern, bakery, and general store, the space today is a museum where original furnishings and untouched Victorian-era artifacts still line the shelves. Wrap up your visit at Pal-Mac Aqueduct Park, where you can stroll along the historic Erie Canal towpath, spot wildlife near the aqueduct remains, and enjoy peaceful moments near the falls.

Aurora

Along the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake in Cayuga County, Aurora is a peaceful lakeside city known for its preserved 19th-century scenic waterfront. It offers a refreshing and offbeat Finger Lakes experience perfect for a quiet 2025 getaway.

Begin with a stop at the Fargo Bar & Grill, a beloved local spot serving comfort food alongside pool tables, darts, and a relaxed patio for lakefront dining. Just across the road, The Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa provides a luxurious base with wellness programming, outdoor adventures like kayaking and archery, and picturesque lake views. Explore the Howland Farm Museum, which showcases the region’s agricultural heritage through vintage equipment, curated exhibits, and farm-life stories that bring rural history to life. For a nature break, head just 18 minutes south to Great Gully, a lesser-known gorge where a creekside trail leads to beautiful waterfalls, a quiet, photogenic gem along the Finger Lakes Land Trust.

Trumansburg

Trumansburg is a small village of around 1,700 residents known for its eclectic spirit and friendly area. Though originally misspelled from the founder’s name, Abner Treman, the name stuck, and so did the charm.

Its most iconic natural landmark is Taughannock Falls State Park, home to one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls east of the Rockies at 215 feet. Visitors can hike along the gorge, enjoy boating on Cayuga Lake, or take in the view from pretty overlooks.

For a feel of its local heritage, the Ulysses Historical Society Museum offers insight into the history of Trumansburg and surrounding Cayuga Lake communities through curated exhibits and regional artifacts. Wine lovers can round out the experience at Frontenac Point Vineyard & Estate Winery, where tastings come with a side of Cayuga Lake views and relaxed conversation with local vintners.

Dundee

Situated in Yates County, Dundee is known for its proximity to the breathtaking Seneca Lake.

Anglers often frequent Big Stream, which flows through the area and is renowned for its seasonal fishing opportunities. Wine enthusiasts can visit McGregor Vineyard, one of the oldest wineries in the region. Established in the late 1970s, the vineyard specializes in estate-grown vinifera wines. Visitors can enjoy seated tastings accompanied by a complimentary plate of cheese, pesto spread, and chocolate, all while taking in panoramic views of Keuka Lake.

For motorsport fans, Outlaw Speedway offers thrilling dirt track racing events. This 4/10-mile semi-banked clay oval track hosts races on Friday nights from April through October, featuring various car classes and attracting both local and national drivers. Another notable winery is Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, a pioneer in Finger Lakes winemaking since 1979. The vineyard is acclaimed for its Rieslings and offers educational tasting experiences that delve into the nuances of their wine production.

The Finger Lakes region is a collection of character-filled towns where quirks, culture, and quiet beauty collide. These offbeat gems offer more than scenic lake views, they invite travelers to slow down and discover something different. From Penn Yan’s agricultural legacy to Hammondsport’s aviation roots and vibrant wine scene, each offers a slice of authenticity that is hard to find elsewhere. Owego brims with antique treasures and community charm, while Palmyra has a spiritual history with striking architecture. Every stop brings its own flavor, whether it’s book-browsing in Aurora or catching a race night in Dundee. If you’re after local color, memorable stories, and peaceful exploration, these seven towns in the Finger Lakes region make 2025 the perfect time to take the scenic route.