Discover the best things to do in the Finger Lakes region with our detailed guide. From picturesque landscapes to exciting activities, explore the beauty of this destination. Plan your perfect getaway now! Welcome to the enchanting world of the Finger Lakes, where natural beauty meets endless adventures.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the myriad of activities that make this region a must-visit. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, the Finger Lakes has something for everyone.
Things to Do in The Finger Lakes
Embark on an unforgettable hiking experience as you traverse the region's diverse trails. From the challenging paths of Watkins Glen State Park to the scenic views of Taughannock Falls State Park, every step unveils a new facet of nature's wonders.
1) Seneca Lake
Watkins Glen – This is one of the best towns to stay in the Finger Lakes because it’s perfectly located between major attractions, restaurants, and wineries. Moreover, you’ll be between both Keuka and Cayuga Lake! So this is the best town to stay in if it is your first Finger Lakes vacation. The town is also home to one of the best New York State Parks: Watkins Glen State Park.
Geneva – More upscale and cute town with great food.
Burdett – Near some of the popular wineries in the Finger Lakes and delicious restaurants.
For luxury, I recommend the following hotels:
Vinifera Inn located within the Belhurst Castle & Spa.
Geneva On the Lake. This historical and luxurious hotel has a restaurant on-site and even a fitness center!
2) Keuka Lake
Keuka Lake is uniquely shaped like a Y, thinner/smaller, and more quaint, yet near tons of things to see and do. This is a local favorite. You can stay in Hammondsport (near antique shops and an Aviation museum) or Penn Yan (a cute little town with good food and near outdoor opportunities yet still close to Seneca Lake).
Penn Yan – For outdoor lovers, consider hiking or biking the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail. If you love wine, follow the Keuka Lake Wine Trail from Penn Yan. While in Penn Yan, stay in town at the Los Gatos Bed and Breakfast or Trimmer House Bed and Breakfast.
Hammondsport – This area was super cute with an aviation museum, antique shops, and close access to Keuka Lake. From here, Watkins Glen and Corning are both about 20 minutes away. Catch up on sleep at the adorable Moonshadow Bed & Breakfast, located near many popular wineries.
3) Cayuga Lake
Cayuga Lake is just as popular for its own unique reasons. It’s home to the popular college town of Ithaca and close to several wineries, tours, and incredible food. You will not run out of things to do here!
Ithaca – Ithaca is one of the best small cities in the Finger Lakes to base yourself out of. This highly educated and progressive town is home to the prestigious Cornell University and Ithaca College. For a unique stay in nature, consider glamping at Firelight Camps. If glamping in New York is not your thing, check out The Argos Inn, a cute boutique hotel choice in Ithaca.
Interlaken – This is one of my favorite regions in the Finger Lakes because of its vast beauty, farmlands, and proximity to places like the Finger Lakes Cider House, Americana Winery, and Thirsty Owl. You can also drive to Seneca Lake from here within 15-20 minutes.
4) Skaneateles Lake
This one is my favorite, but it’s located a bit further east. Located on the clear shores of Skaneateles Lake, the village of Skaneateles is one of the cutest upstate NY towns to visit for friendly locals, good food, walkable streets, and tons of boutique shopping. Skaneateles is simply a hidden gem and yet just an hour away from major cities like Syracuse and Ithaca.
Here, you can wake up to beautiful lake views by staying at a waterfront rental and later take a guided boat tour with dinner, or rent a personal watercraft. Skaneateles Lake is famous in the region for having some of the clearest and cleanest water in the entire state of New York.
There are some historic sites here too. You can view Hazelhurst, a beautiful yellow mansion on the lake. Or, see the James and Lydia Canning Fuller House (built in 1815), which was once a part of the Underground Railroad. Ultimately, the Skaneateles Historic District is the most popular place to visit, encompassing the quaint and cozy downtown area.
After a day of strolling and shopping, have dinner and a cocktail at Elephant and Dove (some of the tastiest food in the region with healthy options). And for a classic bed and breakfast, consider resting at Sherwood Inn, established in 1807.
OK now let’s get into the things to do in the Finger Lakes! Starting with the outdoors. Scroll to the other sections if you’re not into nature!
Here are some of the best things to do in the Finger Lakes for outdoor lovers. If you have physical limitations, below I’m including some accessible adventures too!
If you don’t fancy the outdoors, then keep scrolling down for the NON-outdoor things to do below!
5) Watkins Glen State Park + Trails
The iconic Watkins Glen State Park is a must-visit for all who travel to the region who love: waterfalls, gorges, hiking, and natural wonders. This park’s most iconic attraction is the rainbow bridge which is about a mile walking from the entrance on relatively flat grounds + some steps. Get there early to avoid crowds or on a weekday.
The park also offers other trails to explore that hardly have any visitors. I strongly recommend the South Rim trail which takes you into a beautiful forest for about another mile where you can see a creek from high above.
6) Buttermilks Falls State Park
This is one of my favorite places in the entire State of New York and one of the most beautiful hikes in New York. This park is a short hike around several natural gorges, natural pools, streams, waterfalls, unique rock formations, and lovely trails. Swimming is officially allowed at the bottom of the waterfalls when a lifeguard is present.
7) Finger Lakes National Forest
Finger Lakes National Forest is the only national forest in New York State. Here, you can choose from several hiking trails for hikers of all levels. The forest encompasses over 15,000 acres that span across Seneca and Schuyler countries. As you explore the 30+ miles of trails, you can admire wildlife, gorges, woodlands, and much more. The only tricky part of this forest is that there are several entrances and trails because it’s so big. Here is a list of their 13 trails + distances.
8) Horse Back Riding with Painted Bar Stables
Wondering what to do in the Finger Lakes for adventure? How about galloping through the Finger Lakes National Forest with the folks at Painted Bar Stables? If you’re new to horseback riding, you can start with some lessons before going on the trail. They offer year-round guided trail rides. But book ahead of time; they can sell out fast! I had a blast and highly recommend this experience!
Location: Burdett, NY (Seneca Lake)
Prices: $30 and up for lessons + $70+ for trail rides
9) Keuka Outlet Trail + Seneca Mills Falls
This scenic hike or bike trail offers beautiful waterfalls along the way. You can start in Dresen and end in Pen Yann (3 miles one way). Or, you can drive up to a parking lot and walk a few minutes to Seneca Mills Waterfall. Easy peasy!
Location: Near Penn Yan (Northwest of Keuka Lake)
10) Kayaking on Keuka, Seneca, and/or Cayuga Lake
When you go to the Finger Lakes, you must do at least one of the following things: go wine tasting, visit a Finger Lakes waterfall or go kayaking! Kayaking is the perfect treat on a nice summer day. If you’re more adventurous, consider stand-up paddleboarding, too!
For calm waters between Seneca and Cayuga Lake, you can go on a kayaking tour with Lisa. This is perfect if you’re still learning how to kayak, as you’ll have a guide with you the whole way. And she takes you through the Cayuga-Seneca Canal which is generally calmer. Book her tour by clicking here.
In Keuka Lake, check out Shoreline Rentals from Penn Yan.
In Cayuga Lake, try Paddle N More right by the beach in the area that leads to Taughnonck Falls.
And in Seneca Lake, we recommend Summit To Stream Adventures.
11) Wine Tasting Boat Tour
This boat tour through Cayuga Lake departs from two different ports and takes a small number of travelers through different wineries/vineyards for wine tastings. A beautiful way to get to know Cayuga Lake while enjoying many wineries.
The cost was $150 + tip and tax. So it was not cheap. But it’s perfect if you don’t want to drive and/or want something more physically accessible while enjoying the beautiful views.
12) Finger Lakes Sea Plane
Get a better view of the Finger Lakes by flying on the Finger Lakes Sea Plane Tour. This plane takes off and lands over Keuka Lake, but you can also opt to fly over Watkins Glen, Seneca Lake, and Canandaigua Lake. Starting at $250 per person.
13) Taughannock Falls State Park
This is an easy walk/hike to the waterfall (Taughannock Falls) or you can see it from high above without having to go into any trail. Along the way there, you will pass a beautiful stream where you’ll likely see kids swimming and enjoying the natural pools.
Location: 15 minutes from Ithaca (western Seneca Lake)
Price: $9 per vehicle
Swimming: Please note you CANNOT swim under the waterfall, even if you see people doing it. A ranger will come roaring down and embarrass you all.
14) Ride a Hot Air Balloon Over Letchworth State Park
Known as the Grand Canyon of the east, the Genessee River flows through three waterfalls, as high as 600 feet. In addition to waterfalls, the park has 66 miles of trails, horseback riding, biking, skiing, guided tours, white water rafting, kayaking, and hot air balloon experiences.
Camp here in the summer, or stay in a winterized cabin during colder months. Snowmobiling is also popular here in the wintertime. Remember: before exploring Letchwork State Park, check their website for any alerts.
15) Go on a Wild Foraging Hiking Tour
Join local forager and ecologist, Sarah Kelson on this 90 minuted guided hike through Buttermilk Falls State Park. With her help, you’ll learn about the local plants and ecology of this gorgeous region. Click here to book this tour. Please note- you’ll meet at Firelight Camps (in Ithaca) and depart on your guided hike from there.
PS: Firelight Camps is one of our favorite places to go glamping in New York! Two for one!
ARTS & CULTURE THINGS TO DO IN THE FINGER LAKES
Let’s move on to the artistic and cultural things to do in the Finger Lakes! Keep scrolling to the next section if this isn’t your thing.
16) Visit the Cute Town of Corning
At least a half-day trip to the beautiful town of Corning, New York is a must for art, history, and culture enthusiasts. In Corning, you will find two must-visit museums: the Corning Glass Museum and Rockwell Museum. If time permits, consider strolling through the town’s historic center and Market Street for good food and boutique shopping.
Please note: Corning has a population size of just 10,000 but it is technically considered a small city in Upstate New York. For that reason, we have included it in our list of the best cities in New York State to visit!
17) Corning Glass Museum + Workshops ★
I had no idea that glass was such an interesting part of our human history, art, and science. This museum really puts into perspective the function of glass with its exhibitions, galleries, historic interactive workshops, demonstrations, ancient collections, a wing explaining the impactful industrial uses of glass (past/present), and a large gift shop featuring glass from local New York artists.
This is arguably one of the best museums in the USA, featuring such an interesting medium and so underrated! Allocate at least 2 hours to this museum and that’s NOT including the studio workshop classes. Book your tickets here.
18) The Rockwell Museum ★
You may feel a special connection to the art in the Rockwell Museum, not just because it’s European American, Latin American, and Native American, but because a lot of the art here is reminiscent of the landscapes you’ll pass on your drives around the Finger Lakes. That northeastern landscape, the hills, the history, and the culture permeates through many of the paintings you’ll see in this small but meaningful museum full of stunning artwork about the American experience.
The museum puts it beautifully, it is about “the people, land, and ideas that shape America through the eyes of American artists.”
19) Visit Harriet Tubman’s House in Auburn
Another one of the coolest places to visit in upstate New York for meaningful history is Auburn, New York. Auburn sits on the north end of Owasco Lake. The town got its name from a beautiful poem, “Deserted Village” by Oliver Goldsmith.
While you visit Auburn, stop by Harriet Tubman’s house to pay homage to one of our greatest American heroines. After escaping slavery, Tubman rescued 300 enslaved Americans using a network of safe houses that reached this very region in upstate New York.
This was all despite having suffered a traumatic head injury (while enslaved) which affected her health for the rest of her life. She was also the first recorded American woman to lead an armed expedition during the American Civil War. During the Combahee Ferry Raid, she helped liberate another 700 enslaved Americans! Tubman retired and was buried in Auburn, New York. Today, you can visit her home (pictured above) in Auburn. She is an icon of revolutionary courage and freedom.
Please note – there are over a hundred wineries in this region and people have different predilections to the wines/tastes they may prefer. These are my suggestions based on taste, recognition/accolades, and ambiance.
Two unique types of wine that I personally recommend trying in the Finger Lakes are Riesling and Cayuga White. The former is renowned in the region as one of the best in the world and the latter was invented by local Cornell students!
20) JR Dill Winery
If you love white wine + lakeside views surrounded by beautiful pine trees, then this is the place to stop by! My friend and I both left carrying white wine bottles. And that’s after a long consideration between three white wine bottles!
Location: Burdett, NY (Seneca Lake)
21) Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery
Have you ever gone to a vineyard/winery and tasted their wines but not understood the jargon nor the significance of the wine’s composition? Ever wish someone could help contextualize your experience by giving you some fun insight into the grapes, the aroma, the region, and taste? Well, this was one of my most wholesome wine tasting experiences. John, our sommelier, gave us an in-depth look at the history of Seneca Lake, the jargon used for wine, the grapes, the region, and more. We left feeling much more connected and educated via laughs and drinks.
If that doesn’t convince you to stop by Wagner, their wines have been ranked as some of the best in the country receiving various awards and accolades.
Try their award-winning Riesling Caywood East Dry 2018!
Location: Seneca Lake
22) Thirsty Owl Wine Company & Bistro
A well-known and fun winery to pop into for lunch and wine tasting. Moreover, this winery also provided some of the most spectacular lakeside views. As for the wine, my friends left carrying bottles from here!
23) Other Wineries
Please note that wineries close around 5:00 PM (or 6:00 PM in the summer), thus it’s important to plan your visits wisely. I’ve heard the below wineries are wonderful but didn’t have time to check them out. There are just so many!
Dr. Konstantin (Keuka Lake)
Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard (Seneca Lake)
Miles Wine Cellars (Seneca Lake – pictured above)
Americana Winery (Cayuga Lake)
UNIQUELY TASTY BREWERIES & CIDER HOUSES IN THE FINGER LAKES
In addition to wineries, the Finger Lakes region is also home to several breweries, cider houses, and distilleries. There are various, but here are the three I strongly recommend stopping by!
24) Grist Iron Brewing Company
This brewery wins on all counts: great ambiance, beautiful views, delicious food, and really good beer. Since most of their drinks are on tap, you can ask to try a beer before committing to an entire class. I tried the grape beer (which isn’t very sweet) and was floored by how delicious and refreshing it was!
Location: Seneca Lake
25) Finger Lakes Cider House ★
My favorite spot in the Finger Lakes! Just the drive here alone is worth the drive, as you pass magnificent landscape views, beautiful homes, bucolic farms, and the sprawling countryside. Located in the middle of vast farmland, the rustic American-style Finger Lakes Cider House offers delicious food, a unique gift shop, and a huge list of some of the best cider you’ll taste. Their ciders and cider cocktails vary from sweet to dry, some infused with herbs, spices, wine grapes, and much more.
This is definitely one of the best things to do in the Finger Lakes. And you NEED to get the cornbread here.
26) Ithaca Beer Company
Ithaca Beer Company offers stunning views welcome you as you walk into their outdoor seating area. You can sit either by a picnic table in the field or by a grapevine decorated seating area for small or larger groups. You can order some fast food here as well. The beer selection was extensive and delicious.
27) Graft Wine + Cider Bar
I was delighted to find out that the chef of this restaurant is a fellow Dominican! You know what that means? FLAVOR!
Honestly, anything you get on the menu is bound to satisfy your taste buds. We tried the chicken, pork, salmon, and we were all delighted with Chef Orlando’s dishes. The ambiance is uniquely beautiful and cozy. And the service was lovely. A must-visit for tasty and fresh dishes by a dexterous chef! And some of the best food I had in the entire Finger Lakes region.
28) Veraisons Restaurant (Glenora Wine Cellars) ★
Hands down, also some of the best food I had in the entire Finger Lakes. Everything at Veraisons was full of good seasoning, perfect texture, and balanced. They also offer gluten-free and vegan options. Try the calamari and the mushroom tart! Oh, and the baked apple + ice cream dessert, too. Yum.
This is also a winery; though we didn’t get to do a wine tasting here they have an extensive selection of wines to choose from. Location: Seneca Lake
29) FLX Table ★
The concept of this restaurant is unique. Sixteen strangers gather together over a 4-course dinner that the chef chooses. You sit together at a long table sharing the experience and connecting with each other. By far, one of the coolest cultural experiences in the Finger Lakes to meet others, including local people over delicious food.
This is one of the best Finger Lakes activities, and if you don’t believe me, USA Today ranked FLX Table as the best restaurant in the country!
Book weeks ahead of time as they book up quickly and only host two rounds of dinner at 5 PM and another at 8 PM on select days. Location: Geneva, NY (Northern Seneca Lake)
30) Nickel’s BBQ Pit ★
For some classic American food with a southern meaty-heavy twist, stop by Nickel’s BBQ Pit. As a chicken wing connoisseur, I can eagerly attest to the deliciousness and crunchiness of their buffalo-garlic-parmesan chicken wings! Whew, I’m gulping just thinking about how tasty they were. Also try their ribs, tater tots, and fried pickles. Yum, yum, yum!
31) Spotted Duck Creamery (Duck Egg Ice Cream) ★
The Spotted Duck offers frozen custard, cones, and cookies made from local/organic ingredients including duck eggs from the very farm you see pictured above! They do not use corn syrup, artificial colors, or flavors! If you can’t decide on one flavor, go with a “flight” so you can taste 4 different scoops for $6.75.
32) Grist Iron Brewing Company’s Restaurant ★
As I noted above, Grist Iron Brewing wins on all counts: great ambiance, beautiful views, delicious food, and really good beer. The mac and cheese is a must-try! Ask for a glass of grape beer, I promise it’s refreshing, delicious, and actually not sweet.
33) Support Local Small Businesses & Farmers
There are plenty of places, corners, stands, and shops to do all sorts of shopping in the Finger Lakes. But one of my favorites? Buying local and supporting small businesses/farmers. The way of life in this region is much calmer, thus business owners will leave their businesses completely unattended with the prices listed above a box where you put the cash and take the product. It’s based on the honor system! What a beautiful way to cultivate a craft via trust in the community.
34) Ithaca + Weekend Farmers Market ★
You could easily spend your morning at this lovely market in Ithaca. Here you can grab your morning coffee/kombucha while you shop for plants, local honey, cheese, meats, organic soaps, lotions, jewelry, home goods, fruits/veggies, and a zillion other local small business products. After you work up an appetite, be sure to check out the food stands in the back. I recommend the Cambodian food, it’s full of flavor and uses some of my favorite Caribbean/Asian staples like plantains!
35) Lively Run Dairy & Farm
Lively Run Dairy, established in 1982, is among the pioneers of goat cheese in the U.S. and is a cornerstone of the Finger Lakes Region’s rich dairy history. This family-operated creamery is steered by the Messmers Family. Their dedication has led to innovation and acclaim earning national awards for their Cayuga Blue in 2017 and Finger Lakes Gold Reserve in 2019 from over 1,700 entries at the American Cheese Society Cheese Contest.
I stopped by here to hug the goats, but you can also come here to buy cheese, do a tasting, or feed the very friendly goats! Truly a beautiful experience and the family was lovely to meet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best times to visit the Finger Lakes?
The Finger Lakes are beautiful year-round, but the peak season is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities flourish.
Are there family-friendly activities in the Finger Lakes?
Absolutely! From hiking trails suitable for all ages to family-friendly wineries, the Finger Lakes cater to visitors of every age group.
How many wineries are there in the Finger Lakes?
The Finger Lakes region is home to over 100 wineries, each offering a unique tasting experience.
Can I enjoy winter activities in the Finger Lakes?
Certainly! Embrace the winter wonderland with activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.
Are hot air balloon rides safe in the Finger Lakes?
Yes, hot air balloon rides in the Finger Lakes adhere to strict safety standards, ensuring a secure and memorable experience.
What is the best way to explore the hidden waterfalls?
Venture off the beaten path and use local guides or maps to discover hidden waterfalls and gorges safely.
Conclusion
The Finger Lakes region beckons with a tapestry of experiences that captivate the soul. Whether you're exploring the natural wonders, indulging in culinary delights, or uncovering hidden gems, this destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Plan your trip to the Finger Lakes and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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