This Quiet Finger Lakes City Is An Underrated Gem For Nature Lovers
The Finger Lakes form a renowned region in upstate New York, comprised of 11 distinctively lengthy lakes that sort of resemble spindly fingers. The area's beautiful, lush summers make it a hot spot for cottagers and those simply looking for a weekend escape by the water. The farmlands around the Finger Lakes are also very well known for their vineyards, making it one of the country's top wine-producing districts.
Along with its natural landmarks, there are several beautiful cities and towns that call the area home, some standing out more than others. Today, we would like to focus on Hammondsport, a seriously underrated and picturesque community that does not see the same level of crowds you might see elsewhere.
Located about 5 hours from New York City and just around 2 hours from Buffalo, come and see why this should be your next vacation destination this year, especially if you love the great outdoors.
More About Hammondsport
Tucked into the southern tip of Keuka Lake, Hammondsport is a village of fewer than 600 residents that was first settled in the 1790s, during the earliest days of the United States as a country. It eventually became a hub for grape growing and winemaking, an identity it still maintains today, with the Finger Lakes region now known nationally for its vineyards.
Moving into the early 20th century, the village also notably played a key role in aviation history. In fact, Glenn H. Curtiss, a pioneer of flight, tested early seaplanes on Keuka Lake, and his legacy is currently preserved at the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum.
Geographically, Hammondsport is defined by its location at the base of steep, glacially formed hills and the Y-shaped Keuka Lake (sometimes called "Crooked Lake"), which provides ample opportunity for both residents and visitors to go boating, fishing, and embark on numerous lakeside hikes. The surrounding ridgelines are likewise laced with trails and scenic drives, and boast a number of incredible must-see viewpoints over the lake/surrounding countryside.
Hammondsport’s wonderful natural draws, layered with its storied past, make it a quiet but compelling destination beyond the usual stops in the Finger Lakes, excellent for foodies, nature lovers, and history buffs alike.
Must-Visit Parks and Other Green Spaces Near Hammondsport
As mentioned, there are more than a few parks, wildlands, and other kinds of green spaces in and around this town. Here are some of the top recommendations you should definitely make a point of checking out the next time you're in the area, from lakeside beaches to expansive state forests and more.
Keuka Lake State Park
Located just 30 minutes north of Hammondsport, Keuka Lake State Park is a standout attraction for anyone looking to really explore the Finger Lakes landscape up close. The park covers over 620 acres on the Keuka Lake's northwestern branch, offering easy access to wooded hiking trails, picnic areas, and a pebble beach ideal for swimming and launching small craft onto the water.
The Bluff Point Trail is perhaps the park's most popular path, providing clear views of the lake’s unusual Y-shape. It is especially vibrant in the fall season, when the area's foliage explodes with color. Wildlife is also abundant here, so keep your eyes open and you may spot some deer, foxes, and a variety of birds.
Campgrounds in the park are open seasonally, making it a convenient base for extended stays in the region, too. Moreover, the Saunders Finger Lakes Museum sits close by, offering you a roadside stop on your way from Hammondsport.
Champlin Beach
Champlin Beach Park, sitting on the southwestern edge of downtown, is a serene lakeside retreat on the very southern tip of Keuka Lake. This town-managed park boasts a sandy beach area, picnic tables, and a playground, making it a popular destination for families and locals alike throughout the year.
This locale is also a good spot to launch a kayak, canoe, or even a jet ski, with rentals available from various nearby providers, such as Keuka Watersports. Another notable feature of the park is a plane sculpture in the water honoring Glenn Hammond Curtiss, the aviation pioneer born in Hammondsport.
Note that during the summer season, lifeguards are on duty, ensuring a safe swimming environment for all. Public restrooms are also available from May to October.
Depot Park
Seated right on downtown Hammondsport's waterfront, this idyllic parkette includes a small swimming area that is staffed by lifeguards during the summer season, as well as public restrooms and well-shaded benches. A set of docks and a boat ramp here also supports light watercraft activity, and the lawn space is often used for community events and casual lakeside picnics. Furthermore, its central location makes it easy to visit between stops at nearby restaurants, hotels, or shops.
Named after the former train depot building nearby and once part of the Bath & Hammondsport Railroad, the park now clearly serves other civic functions, linking the space to the village’s past as a vital transportation hub for the region.
Other Local Activities To Do
Wine tours, museums, and historic landmarks are among the most common sights, besides parks, in the Finger Lakes, and Hammondsport is no different. Take a look at these other fun destinations and activities you can partake in during your next stay.
Pulteney Square Historic District
Pulteney Square Historic District forms the downtown core of Hammondsport. Centered around a village green, Pulteney Square, the district features a collection of 19th and early 20th-century buildings that reflect a variety of different architectural styles from over the years. Historic churches, inns, and well-preserved storefronts, many still serving community functions, are there for your viewing pleasure.
Tired and hungry after a long day out? Grab a bite at the Village Tavern Restaurant & Inn just steps away from the main square. This local favorite is an old-school pub with overnight accommodations on the upper floors.
Seasonal events here, including farmers' markets, are held in the area, giving you a chance to engage with the community even if you're just visiting. Furthermore, the district is incredibly walkable, making it ideal for exploring at a relaxed pace.
Glenn H. Curtiss Museum
The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport celebrates the life and innovations of the namesake early aviator. Spanning a massive 60,000 square feet, the museum houses a remarkable collection of early aircraft, motorcycles, bicycles, and vintage automobiles, a perfect spot for transportation enthusiasts of all kinds.
Within its grounds, you can explore full-scale reproductions and even some original models, including the 1917 Curtiss JN-4D "Jenny" biplane and the "America" flying boat. The museum also features exhibits on Curtiss's historic contributions to aviation and New York history, offering a detailed window into his role in developing what is likely his greatest contribution, one of the first successful seaplanes.
Interactive displays, a restoration workshop, and a 75-seat theater further flesh out the visitor experience, making this museum a must-see for anyone in the Finger Lakes region.
Go on a Wine Tour
The countryside around Hammondsport is jam-packed with fertile, world-class wineries. If you are a wine fan or just want to sample some local product, your options are numerous, ranging from tasting rooms in town to vineyards within driving distance.
Not keen on leaving town? The Over The Bridge Wine Bar is a cozy little joint downtown near the historic district. Here, you'll be able to pick from a menu consisting of local wines or other regional and global offerings.
On the other hand, Keuka Lake's shores are home to wineries like Bully Hill Vineyards, Keuka Lake Vineyards, and the Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery. Those are just a few of over a dozen options along what is known as the Keuka Wine Trail, most of which pair wine with unbeatable lakeside views. Definitely try to hit up one of these spots in the evening to catch a sunset while sipping a glass of the good stuff. Most of these vineyards also offer tours, tastings, and have shops that sell their current lines, so you can have something to take back home with you.
Kick Back and Relax in the Great Outdoors at Hammondsport
Hammondsport may be small in a number of ways, but it delivers an impressive range of experiences for nature lovers and curious travelers alike. From paddling the clear waters of Keuka Lake to hiking forest-blanketed hillsides or exploring aviation history, the area combines scenic beauty, history, and culture into the ultimate spot for a weekend getaway in New York.
For those seeking a quieter alternative to more crowded Finger Lakes destinations, Hammondsport tops our list of underrated gems that you ought to see before the word gets out to everyone else!
