Finger Lakes Region
New York
With its 11 lakes surrounded by vineyards, forests, and waterfalls, the Finger Lakes region is one of the most enchanting in New York State. Dotted with historic towns and lakeside resorts, it’s an idyllic spot for hiking and outdoor activities, as well as one of New York State’s premier wine appellations.
Visitors come to the Finger Lakes to hike, cruise, and fish on the lakes; enjoy wine tastings; and hop between lakeside villages. Some of the main towns include Watkins Glen, Penn Yann, Skaneateles, Ithaca, Canandaigua, and Auburn, all of which make great basecamps for exploring the region. Regional highlights include Glen State Park and Taughannock Falls State Park, the glassmaking village of Corning, the Women’s Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls, and Belhurst Castle.
- Getting around in the region is far more practical with your own vehicle, so it’s best to hire a car or visit as part of a guided tour.
- Outdoor activities in the Finger Lakes region include hiking and biking, water sports on the lakes, and even skiing in the winter months.
- The region is home to some excellent museums including the Corning Museum of Glass, the Strong International Museum of Play, and the George Eastman Museum.
The Finger Lakes region lies in Central New York in New York State, just south of Lake Ontario and upwards of a 3.5-hour drive from New York City. Amtrak trains run from New York City to Rochester and Syracuse (although expect journey times of over six hours), while domestic flights land at Rochester, Elmira, and Syracuse airports.
A popular spot for vacationing New Yorkers during the summer months, it’s recommended to book accommodation and tours in advance if visiting in high season. July and August see lakeside festivals and events taking place all around the region, while spring is the ideal time for wine tasting without the crowds. The region is also a top choice for admiring New York State’s spectacular fall foliage.
Thanks to its microclimate created by the region’s lakes, Finger Lakes is known for its cool climate wine varietals, most notably white wine such as riesling and gewürztraminer, and red wine including cabernet franc and pinot noir. There are over 100 wineries, and three wine trails link the wineries around Cayuga, Keuka, and Seneca lakes. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, with opportunities to sample regional craft beer, whiskey, cheese, and chocolate along the way.
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