Finger Lakes Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Finger Lakes with our comprehensive travel guide that includes a list of must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay and more.


Introduction to Finger Lakes

Nestled in the heart of Upstate New York, Finger Lakes is a region filled with stunning natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. With over 11 pristine natural lakes, more than 100 wineries, and an abundance of hiking trails, Finger Lakes offers something for everyone. The region is located within driving distance from major cities like New York City, Buffalo, and Rochester.

List of Places to Visit in Finger Lakes

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Corning Museum of Glass: This museum showcases the history of glassmaking, with exhibits featuring glass from ancient to modern times. Visitors can also learn about scientific glassblowing and watch live glassblowing demonstrations.

  • National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House: A historic landmark dedicated to the legacy and life of the women’s suffrage movement leader, Susan B. Anthony.

  • Seneca Falls Heritage Area Visitors Center: The birthplace of the U.S. women’s rights movement, visitors can explore exhibits, learn about the history of the movement, and walk the streets where it all began.

Natural Attractions of Finger Lakes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Watkins Glen State Park: A popular destination to enjoy nature, visitors can hike along the gorge trail or take a dip in one of the park’s many pools or waterfalls.

  • Taughannock Falls State Park: Known for its cascading 215-foot waterfall, Taughannock is ideal for hiking, picnics, camping and swimming.

  • Letchworth State Park: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth features waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and 66 miles of hiking trails for all skill levels.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Finger Lakes

  • Keuka Outlet Trail: Whether it’s cycling, walking or jogging, the Keuka Outlet Trail offers a unique experience with scenic views through the vineyards and along the former railroad beds in Penn Yan.

  • Catharine Valley Trail: It’s a great trail for families and beginners to explore the natural beauty of Italian-themed wineries and farms of the Finger Lakes.

  • Seneca Lake Wine Trail: As the name suggests, this is a wine trail that features wineries, breweries, and distilleries. The trail also has bike rental centers to allow biking throughout the 20-mile route.

Best Things to Do in Finger Lakes: Activities and Tours

  • Wine tours: Finger Lakes is home to over 100 wineries, and visitors can choose from vineyard tours, wine and cheese tastings, and wine trails.

  • Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack: If you’re a horse racing enthusiast, the Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack is the place to be.

  • Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park: Perfect for families, this zoo boasts over 700 animals from around the world.

Week-Long Itinerary for Finger Lakes

Day Activity
1 Hiking at Watkins Glen
2 Wine tour
3 Visit the Corning Museum
4 Scenic drive around lakes
5 Go horseback riding
6 Visit a brewery
7 Relax and enjoy the city

Food and Drink Scene of Finger Lakes

Must-Try Dishes

  • Potato Knish: This is a traditional Jewish pastry filled with potatoes, onions, and butter. It’s a must-try at the Jewish delis in Rochester.

  • Grape Pie: Finger Lakes’ signature dessert made of locally grown grapes. Take a slice at the Monica’s Pies or The Flour Shop Bakery.

  • Salt Potatoes: Potatoes boiled in a pot of heavily salted water, this regional dish is a staple in many upstate New York homes.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Finger Lakes’ climate offers an abundant variety of native grapes that are used to make world-renowned wines. Try the Riesling or Pino Blanc.

  • Beer: If you prefer beer, try the selections at the local breweries like Good Nature Brewing Company and Ithaca Beer Company.

  • Spirits: Craft distilleries like Finger Lakes Distilling and Black Button Distilling offer unique spirits that are made using local produce.

Where to Stay in Finger Lakes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Gould Hotel: A boutique hotel in Seneca Falls that offers high-end amenities.

  • Taughannock Farms Inn: A historic 23-room inn located near Taughannock Falls that offers scenic views of the lake.

  • Hostelling International Finger Lakes: A budget-friendly hostel in Ithaca that offers a range of accommodations, including private rooms and dorms.

What to Buy in Finger Lakes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wine and Spirits: Bring home some of the upstate New York wine and spirits that are unique to the region.

  • Maple Syrup: Finger Lakes is known for its maple syrup, which is available at local farms and roadside stands.

  • Handcrafted Pottery: Potteries like The Potter’s Room in Naples, NY offer handcrafted ceramics that are both functional and beautiful.

Local Culture and Customs of Finger Lakes

  • Traces of Women’s Rights Movement: Finger Lakes is synonymous with Women’s rights. The Seneca Falls convention has a special significance in the suffrage movement, and it’s worth exploring the landmarks of the movement.

  • Water Sports and Outdoor Activities: Whether it’s kayaking, fishing, hiking or camping, the region is perfect for outdoors enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit Finger Lakes

While Finger Lakes is beautiful all year round, summer and early fall (June to October) are the best times to visit. The weather is pleasant, and the trees are at their most vibrant during the fall foliage season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Finger Lakes

Do:

  • Do visit the local wineries and distilleries that offer an exquisite blend of flavors unique to the area.

  • Do explore the historical landmarks of the suffrage movement that began in Seneca Falls.

  • Do take advantage of the natural beauty that upstate New York offers with outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, fishing, and camping.

Don’t:

  • Don’t miss out on the scenic views of the lakes by taking the route 20 between Canandaigua Lake and Skaneateles Lake.

  • Don’t try to do too much in one day. Take your time to enjoy the beauty and culture of Finger Lakes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Finger Lakes

Finger Lakes is generally safe, but it’s wise to take precautions when you’re exploring the natural areas. Be aware of your surroundings and follow the rules when hiking, kayaking, or fishing.

Health in Finger Lakes

Finger Lakes has excellent medical facilities that offer a wide range of services to residents and visitors.

Getting to Finger Lakes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Finger Lakes

  • Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport
  • Rochester International Airport
  • Greater Binghamton Airport

Bus Stations Near Finger Lakes

  • Regional Transportation Center in Syracuse
  • Trailways Bus Terminal in Binghamton
  • New York Trailways Bus Terminal in Rochester

Other Options

Finger Lakes is well-connected, with regular train and bus services from major cities like New York City, Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse. Taxis and car rentals are also available.

How to Get Around in Finger Lakes

The best way to explore Finger Lakes is by car. Taxis and car rentals are available at the airports and bus stations.

Where to Go Next from Finger Lakes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Niagara Falls: Approximately 2.5-hour drive from Finger Lakes, Niagara Falls is one of the most famous natural attractions in the world.

  • Ithaca: A college town with a vibrant arts and culture scene, Ithaca is located at the southern end of Cayuga Lake.

  • Rochester: Known as ‘The Flour City,’ Rochester is the third-largest city in New York and is home to the George Eastman Museum.

Conclusion

Finger Lakes is a hidden gem that has everything for a perfect vacation. From the stunning natural beauty to the cultural landmarks and outdoor adventures, it’s a dream destination for travelers. Follow this comprehensive guide to plan your Finger Lakes trip and make it a memorable experience.

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    Eastern Finger Lakes
    Finger Lakes Apple Country
    Rochester and Suburbs
    Western Finger Lakes