8 Most Breathtaking Towns In The Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region, situated in upstate New York, comprises eleven narrow, geologically carved freshwater lakes that attract visitors from across the country. Named for the finger-like pattern, these deep lakes offer many recreational activities both within and outside their crystal-clear waters. The area is renowned for its unique geology, historical significance, and expansive wine production. The Finger Lakes, with its stunning scenery and diverse range of historical and cultural activities, boasts its fair share of breathtaking towns with their own unique charm and attractions.

Geneva

In the Seneca and Ontario counties of New York is Geneva, which is located at the northern end of Seneca Lake. With its historic architecture and stunning lakefront park, Geneva is a central area in the Finger Lakes region. One of the prime historic architectural wonders located in Geneva is the Smith Opera House, a circa-1894 theatre that screens movies and hosts various performances. Seneca Lake State Park provides scenic views of the lake, trails, and picnic areas, along with a water spray ground for kids and a beach for swimming. Another great park that highlights the beauty of Geneva is the Watkins Glen State Park, which is about 30 miles south along Seneca Lake. While there, you are met with scenic views along trails, rocky cliffs, and picturesque waterfalls.

Skaneateles

Skaneateles is a town in Onondaga County, New York, that is home to one of the beautiful Finger Lakes. The clear blue waters of Skaneateles Lake make it a popular spot for fishing, cruises, boating, and other recreational water activities. There are several parks scattered throughout Skaneateles that highlight the many faces of beauty found in the area. Clift Park is a well-traveled park in the middle of downtown Skaneateles, with a clear blue swimming area, a community dock, a stone sitting area with a fountain and garden, and a gazebo. Otisco Lake Preserve is a nature preserve located on the west side of Otisco Lake that has over 1,300 feet of wild shoreline. Offering a hiking trail for rare public lakeshore access, it is also a main habitat for bald eagles and other water birds.

Hammondsport

Hammondsport is a small village in Steuben County with a population of approximately 580 people, located on the south end of Keuka Lake. While Hammondsport is small in size, it has many amenities that offer a beautiful experience to all those who visit. For individuals who enjoy museums, there is the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, which displays 20th-century aircraft with a theatre and restoration shop on site. There is also the Finger Lakes Boating Museum, which is dedicated to displaying boats from the region. Champlin Beach offers a great place for swimming, boating, taking in amazing views of the hills and lakes from gorgeous vistas, and picnic and BBQ areas. After a long day of exploring, be sure to visit Keuka Lake Vineyards for all your wine tasting needs.

Canandaigua

In Ontario County, on the north end of Canandaigua Lake, is the scenic and historic town of Canandaigua. A particularly popular scenic spot among visitors and locals is the Roseland Water Park. With 56 acres of aquatic adventure, it is the biggest waterpark in the Finger Lakes region. For a more natural landscape, enjoy the day at Kershaw Park, featuring lakefront walkways, an open-air gazebo, picnic pavilions, a public dock, and a beach. Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park is another breathtaking location, offering tours of the 1887 Queen Anne Mansion amid exotic flora in an arboretum and gardens located on 50 acres of land.

Ithaca

If you have ever been to New York, chances are you have heard of Ithaca. Located on the southern shore of Cayuga Lake, it is home to Cornell University, making it a popular spot with various activities. The Buttermilk Falls State Park is a great place to explore the beauty of Ithaca, as this 811-acre wooded parkland has campgrounds, a waterfall, a lake, and hiking paths. Accessible by walking trail is Ithaca Falls, a 150-foot cascade with a natural pool and a great fishing spot. Ancient Roman sculptures up to 21st-century photography are held at the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art in an I.M. Pei-designed tower. Overall, Ithaca is definitely a place that lives up to expectations, with unique parks, ancient sculptures, waterfalls, and a crystal-clear lake. It is filled with gorgeous views and authentic experiences.

Aurora

Another breathtaking small village town that is well worth the visit is Aurora, situated on the shore of Cayuga Lake. Aurora is also home to the Howland Farm Museum, where guests can explore the evolution of agricultural trends in Cayuga County. For a glimpse of the serene, spend the day at Long Point State Park, a state park with abundant wildlife. This former college town is close to the Great Gully Nature Preserve, which has long attracted visitors from across the state. With multiple captivating waterfalls and swimming permitted below them, this extensive ravine is a great place to surround yourself with the beauty of Aurora.

Corning

Corning, New York, located on the Chemung River in Steuben County, is a great place to enjoy natural, historical, and artistic activities. For fine art lovers, the Rockwell Museum examines the American experience through art displays. The Corning Museum of Glass is like walking into a magical kingdom, covering 3,500 years of glass art that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Take a trip back in time by visiting the Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes, where you can immerse yourself in a living history village with costumed characters leading the way. Make sure to take a walk around the Spencer Crest Nature Center, which has 250 acres of stunning landscapes, from trails and ponds to a museum with an apiary and rotating exhibits.

Romulus

Romulus is a town located in Seneca County, New York, named after the mythical founder of Rome. There are many wineries in and around the town, such as Lakeshore Winery and Goose Watch Winery, both of which have a wide selection of wines to choose from amid beautiful views. Deer Haven Park, LLC is an ecological park that hosts events throughout the year, along with a mini museum on site and Majesty & Mystery bus tours. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, one of which is the Seneca White Deer, a beautiful, majestic animal that can be seen throughout the area.

A Breathtaking Time Amidst The Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region, spanning around 9,000 square miles, covers a large area of land that offers diverse attractions, making it a popular destination year-round. Each of the towns mentioned above is a fantastic option for experiencing the breathtaking surroundings of the Finger Lakes. Whether you want to enjoy the natural beauty of waterfalls and glacial lakes, explore the diverse wildlife, or sample wine from over 100 wineries, the Finger Lakes region is a great place to spend your time.