8 Best Towns in the Finger Lakes for a Winter Getaway
Many families have their winter traditions, and they often involve travel. However, most people have less trouble deciding what to do and more difficulty deciding where to visit! Choosing the location for the perfect winter getaway for either yourself or the family can be the most challenging decision of the holiday season. For those interested in embracing all things winter, from skiing to hiking snow-covered trails, the Finger Lakes region in upstate New York is just the ticket. The Finger Lakes area is packed full of such destinations, and here are some of the best of the best!
Skaneateles
Skaneateles hosts an annual Winterfest featuring ice sculptures and a polar plunge that brings a special sparkle to any winter vacation. The frozen lake offers winter activities such as ice fishing and skating, while vendors provide hot cocoa and other winter treats. Local wineries nearby offer winter wine tastings, and well-preserved examples of 19th-century architecture add a unique charm to the town that can bring a touch of romance to holiday travels for couples. The Sherwood Inn, dating back to 1807, serves as a historical site and is operational today, offering cozy and affordable accommodations. Skaneateles is also known for its Dickens Christmas festival with period-costumed characters, an excellent option for kids of all ages, making the town ideal for family trips. Just be sure to reserve tickets online for special discounts that are not offered on arrival!
Auburn
Outdoor recreation is not in short supply in the town of Auburn. Nearby trails are popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The town also holds plenty of wonderful indoor activities to get travelers out of the cold weather. The Auburn Public Theater hosts various winter performances showcasing local and out-of-town talent. History buffs who visit Auburn can find the Harriet Tubman Museum and The Seward House Museum, which offer insights into local history. The downtown area features several small art galleries showcasing local artists and is notable for its farm-to-table restaurants that make for the perfect date night.
Penn Yan
Known for its local craft breweries and distilleries, Penn Yan is a town not to be forgotten when considering a winter getaway, especially for parties of two. The town has a variety of historic inns for cozy stays, adding to the already romantic atmosphere that often goes hand in hand with winter decorations. It hosts a seasonal farmers' market with local produce and crafts, adding to the list of community events such as the winter carnival with games and local food. Penn Yan is also close to Keuka Lake, which offers an opportunity for winter moonlit lakeside walks. Being a part of the Finger Lakes Trail brings, of course, chances for winter hiking to get outside and enjoy the crisp winter air, are ample.
Geneva
Situated at the northern tip of Seneca Lake lies the beautiful town of Geneva. This town is ideal for romantic getaways or even winter weddings. The town is home to renowned restaurants recognized for their high-quality, locally sourced dining options. Seneca Lake State Park also provides beautiful winter landscapes and outdoor activities. Geneva’s architecture and historical estates deliver beautiful backdrops for family or romantic photographs. When you return home, local shops deliver unique handcrafted goods for excellent, non-mass-produced holiday gifts.
Canandaigua
Canandaigua is perfect for those seeking thrills and activity for their winter vacation. It is close to Bristol Mountain Ski Resort for skiing and snowboarding. This area is great for skiers of all skill levels and an excellent way to get the kids out and active. It also hosts a winter festival with ice sculptures and food stalls. There are workshops for teaching how to create local handicrafts. Canandaigua Lake is popular for ice fishing. A well-preserved downtown area with shops and cafes creates a warm environment inviting all to experience the local way of life. The town will surely leave a lasting impression that will have you returning every year. A winter getaway in the Finger Lakes is nothing short of magical. There, travelers will find a winter wonderland, especially at The Lake House on Canandaigua, which offers luxurious accommodations.
Ithaca
Home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, the town of Ithaca offers a little something for everyone. The frozen waterfalls at Ithaca Falls and Taughannock Falls are beautiful options for nature enthusiasts and artists. State Theatre of Ithaca offers winter shows and concerts showcasing young talent. The Cornell Botanic Gardens delivers the ideal setting for outdoor activities and winter walks on the trails, including a connection to the extensive trails in Buttermilk Falls State Park. Not to mention, gourmands will be pleasantly surprised by the diverse restaurant scene for which the town is renowned. Ithaca is the kind of town that can satisfy the needs of every member of the family.
Watkins Glen
Home to Watkins Glen International raceway, this town offers a different kind of holiday atmosphere. Local wineries and craft breweries with winter tastings continue the sporty pride of the town, delivering a unique experience for all. Small independent shops located in the town village offer local goods perfect for holiday shopping. The town is famous for its frozen waterfalls, which are located in Watkins Glen State Park, and Seneca Lake is popular for peaceful winter walks. The Schuyler County Historical Society showcases local history in an exciting and interesting way, adding a special charm to any holiday activity.
Hammondsport
Hammondsport is situated at the southern tip of Keuka Lake and is home to the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, offering scenic views and activities such as fishing and peaceful runs. The town provides vineyard tours even in the winter, and artisanal shops with locally-made crafts are also open to visitors. The historic village square with 19th-century buildings adds to the beauty of the town, which is often decorated with holiday fittings during the winter season. The annual winter festival with local food and music brings crowds from surrounding areas and showcases a beautiful sense of community.
Planning the perfect winter getaway can be challenging when hotel prices skyrocket and every family member is looking for something different. The diverse offerings that each of these towns in the beautiful Finger Lakes region hold can tick all the boxes travelers desire on a winter retreat. Regardless of interests, be they sports, romance, history, nature, or just a calm environment for some relaxation, the Finger Lakes will not disappoint.
