8 Fairy-Tale Small Towns In The Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes region in New York is home to some of the most enchanting towns in the country. With breathtaking natural beauty, charming small-town nostalgia, and crystal-clear lakes, it is easy to see why this area feels like it was taken straight out of a fairy tale. When visiting these towns, you will have access to magical treehouses nestled in the woods, bountiful orchards straight out of a countryside dream, vibrant festivals that celebrate local culture and lore, and cascading waterfalls that add natural wonder to every adventure.
Genesco
The village of Genesco, New York, has been designated a National Historic Landmark, offering Victorian architecture and a unique charm. The town is situated near Conesus Lake, a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, water sports, and the site of a magical 4th of July celebration. Sitting on the edge of the water is Deer Run Winery, the oldest operating winery on Conesus Lake.
The Doty building, which was purchased and renovated for usage by SUNY Geneseo, was once Geneseo's high school. Currently it holds administrative offices for the college. Wikimedia Commons
Enjoy a delicious meal at the winery's Tankroom Café, where taste and atmosphere come together to create a wonderful dining experience. For those with children, or even those who want to appease their inner child, there is Tree Creations, a growing village of child-sized tree houses. This tourist attraction features numerous tree houses, including a wizard’s den, a tiny airplane, and a mystical castle in the sky.
Seneca Falls
A historical location along a branch of the Erie Canal, and often attributed to being the inspiration behind It’s a Wonderful Life, is Seneca Falls, New York. This town does not hold back on its dedication to the film, from a museum to a bridge, and even a festival. The It’s a Wonderful Life Museum contains ‘Bedford Falls’ nostalgia, with memorabilia and displays from the film. The bridge, which is thought to be the inspiration behind the movie, attracts visitors from all around the world.
Finally, the It’s a Wonderful Life Festival is a two-day event featuring special events and appearances from actors who appeared in the celebrated movie. The town is not just a place to immerse yourself in the film, as it also has other amazing sites, such as the Monteauma National Wildlife Refuge, a 10,000-acre sanctuary for birds that offers hunting, fishing, and trails.
Penn Yan
Penn Yan, New York, is a charming small village in Yates County, situated in the Finger Lakes region, offering numerous attractions, including trails, festivals, and orchards. The Keuka Lake Outlet Trail is a 7-mile hiking area, where you can fish, cross-country ski, bike, and even travel on horseback. This wooded trail borders the Keuka outlet and, with two waterfalls and a turtle pond, the area presents a kind of natural beauty that leaves visitors with picture-perfect moments.
Spend the day at Apple Barrel Orchards, where you can go grape, apple, and cherry picking and choose from a selection of ciders. During Halloween, the orchard holds spooky wagon rides and a themed party, where many mystical characters are sure to attend. Join the residents of Penn Yan for their Fall Festival, a small family-friendly event featuring live music, a petting zoo, horse rides, as well as food and vendors.
Skaneateles
Located on Skaneateles Lake is the town of Skaneateles, New York, a popular destination for water activities, including fishing, swimming, and boating. The city also has several parks, notably the well-visited Shotwell Memorial Park, situated on the water. It is a great place to go for a picnic and see the monuments that pay tribute to war veterans.
Visit Carpenter Falls, a 90-ft. ribbon of water falling from limestone rocks, which provides an excellent starting location for adventure. Following the old railroad is the Charlie Major Nature Trail, which features a picnic area, playground, waterfall, and three bridges. What could be a better way to end your visit than by heading over to the Skaneateles Festival, a 4-week world-class music festival by the water?
Aurora
Aurora, New York, a former college town and village of approximately 623 residents, is located on the shore of Cayuga Lake. The area has a lot to offer as it is filled with stunning views, pristine parks, and wildlife sanctuaries. Take a trip along the Finger Lakes with Bianconi Tours, a boat tour agency that offers sunset cruises, history tours, and wine tasting by boat.
Those who enjoy nature and all it has to offer should visit the Owen Falls Sanctuary. This 57-acre beautiful nature preserve features two waterfalls and trails that take visitors through a juvenile forest lined with wildflowers. Knox Farm State Park is another stunning slice of nature, featuring 633 acres of land for hiking, cross-country skiing, wildlife viewing, and exploring historic buildings.
Owego
The historic village of Owego, New York, renowned for its 19th-century architecture, is situated on the Susquehanna River and has been described as ‘the southern gateway town to the Finger Lakes.’ For an adult-only experience, book a stay at Belva Lockwood Inn, a charming bed and breakfast in a historic hotel, featuring a unique piano bar.
Another adult activity that is sure to make you feel as if you are a hero in your own fairy tale can be found at P.A.C.’s Axe Throwing LLC, a recreation center, where visitors can participate in the sport of axe throwing. There is also plenty of fun to be had by the entire family at the Owego Strawberry Festival, a 43-year tradition featuring fireworks, flowers, and a variety of events. Owego is also home to the Tioga County Fair, where rides, food, and activities combine for an unforgettable experience.
Corning
Located on the Chemung River, near the southern edge of the Finger Lakes, is Corning, New York. Well-known for its glass production, Corning offers an experience like no other, where visitors can satisfy their creative side and step back in time for a truly magical experience. With over 3,500 years of glass art on display, the Corning Museum of Glass offers a magical experience for all visitors, making them feel as though they have stepped into another world.
Step back in time at Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes, a living history museum where costumed characters from a bygone era transport you on a journey into the past. The 250-acre Spencer Crest Nature Center offers visitors the opportunity to take a stroll around an apiary, walk along the numerous trails and ponds, and visit a museum featuring rotating exhibits.
Trumansburg
The small village of Trumansburg, New York, is renowned for its proximity to attractions, making it a gateway to numerous adventures. Head over to Taughannock Falls State Park, where, as the name suggests, there is a stunning 215-foot waterfall that carves a 400-foot gorge composed of limestone, shale, and sandstone.
For those who prefer not to leave, consider renting a room at the Inn at Taughannock Falls, a stunning estate situated within the state park, overlooking Cayuga Lake. Please join us at the Trumansburg Fair, with something for everyone. It is a great place to enjoy rides, shows, and food. It also features demolition derbies, horse and cattle shows, rodeos, and fireworks to close out the event.
Within the Finger Lakes region, numerous towns boast distinct characteristics that make them unique and special in many ways. The eight magical towns selected showcase some of the best that the Finger Lakes has to offer. These towns are more than just scenic views and water activities; they provide exceptional experiences that are sure to live forever in your imagination. Whether you are planning a romantic escape, looking to admire the fall colors, or seeking a family-friendly getaway filled with adventure and discovery, these towns provide unforgettable experiences that visitors will remember long after they leave.
