If you’re in search of an authentic slice life in Upstate New York, why not plan a trip to some of the best towns in the Finger Lakes? Renowned for its world-class wineries, scenic rural landscapes, and rich history, the Finger Lakes offers travelers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and friendly small-town charm.
Each town in the region–which is made up of eleven finger-shaped lakes–offers its own unique allure.
There really is something to love about every town in the Finger Lakes, from the gorges of Ithaca to the breweries of Geneva to the historical sites of Seneca Falls. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare to be captivated by the beauty and hospitality of these bucolic towns in New York’s wine region.
Note: Many attractions in the Finger Lakes are seasonal, so always check before you start planning!
1. Ithaca
Set at the southern end of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca is unmatched in natural beauty when it comes to towns in the Finger Lakes. Begin your exploration on the Cascadilla Gorge Trail, a scenic and steep path that will take you from downtown up to Cornell University’s campus.
If your leg muscles can take it, you have more gorge trails to choose from, one at Buttermilk Falls State Park and another at Robert H. Treman State Park, both stunning natural wonders. If the weather is in your favor while you’re in town, hang out at Ithaca Commons, the two-block pedestrian plaza lined with restaurants, shops, and public art. Ithaca stands out as one of the most hip towns in the Finger Lakes!
2. Seneca Falls
Is it the Bedford Falls of movie lore or the birthplace of the modern Women’s Rights movement? Seneca Falls upholds its reputation as both, making it a uniquely fascinating Finger Lakes town. It is said that Frank Capra, director of It’s a Wonderful Life stopped here once for a haircut and was enamored of its small-town charm. The rest is movie history, which visitors can learn about at a museum named after the film.
About a century before Capra set foot in Seneca Falls, local resident and suffragette Elizabeth Cady Stanton and her peers organized the 1848 Women’s Rights Convention at Wellesley Chapel, a plain church that is still standing and welcomes visitors. Several more sites around Seneca Falls commemorate the convention, including Cady Stanton’s home.
3. Trumansburg
With a population of under 2,000, Trumansburg is the quintessential American small town. But unlike many of similar sizes, there are tons of fun activities at your fingertips here. You could spend a pleasant afternoon on Main Street appreciating the 19th century architecture, pop into a café or restaurant to refuel, and finish off with a locally made craft beverage at Garrett’s Brewing Company.
If wine is more your style, Frontenac Point Vineyard & Estate Winery, Bet the Farm Winery, and more are just short drives away.
And whether you drive to the viewing platform or hike the gorge trail to get there, do not miss Taughannock Falls, which is known as the tallest single drop waterfall in the region. For a full day of outdoor warm-weather fun, bring a picnic to Taughannock Falls State Park, where you can lounge, swim, and take in sweeping views of Cayuga Lake. Wherever you end up, you’ll find that Trumansburg is one of the most scenic towns in the Finger Lakes.
4. Aurora
Take a walk on Main Street in Aurora and you might just think you’ve stumbled onto a movie set and are about to witness a meet-cute. It’s got that blend of visual appeal and small-town friendliness that make for ideal settings for a holiday love story. Set along the shores of Cayuga Lake, Aurora is largely made up of the Inns of Aurora.
Aside from its visual allure, outdoor enthusiasts can partake in activities from kayaking and paddle boarding to hiking and snowshoeing. Aurora is also a great place for those seeking a taste of local flavor. Aurora offers farm-to-table dining experiences featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the surrounding countryside. Without a doubt, Aurora stands out as one of the prettiest towns in the Finger Lakes.
5. Watkins Glen
If you love the gorges of Ithaca, you’ll find the mesmerizing rocky landscape of Watkins Glen State Park to die for! Hikers on the gorge trail (open seasonally) will spot 19 stunning waterfalls in just a 1.5-mile distance. If the day is hot, cool off in the park’s Olympic-sized swimming pool.
There’s plenty to do in the village of Watkins Glen, too. Sightseeing cruises depart (seasonally) from the harbor on Seneca Lake, exciting car races take place at Watkins Glen International, and unique festivals pop up year-round, including the Finger Lakes Wine Festival in the summer and the Fire & Ice Celebration each winter. For its blend of beauty, culture, and activities, Watkins Glen is one of the best Finger Lakes towns and should not be missed!
6. Geneva
Geneva sits on the northern tip of Seneca Lake and is a place that will delight foodies, beer lovers, and wine drinkers alike! The food and drink scene is alive and well in Geneva, where you’ll find seasonal farm-to-table fare at F.L.X. Table, hearty comfort food at Beef & Brew, and mouthwatering Italian staples at Bella’s Sicilian Ristorante.
Geneva is also an ideal base for following the Seneca Lake Wine trail and for visiting many of the Finger Lakes breweries.
7. Waterloo
Patriotic tourists will love the fun fact that Waterloo is known as the Birthplace of Memorial Day. It all started when a local pharmacist suggested honoring Civil War casualties by placing flowers on their graves. As a result, the community came together, put flags at half mast, and marched to three local cemeteries to adorn the graves of Civil War soldiers.
Visitors can find out more by visiting the National Memorial Day Museum. Waterloo is also home to the Finger Lakes Premium Outlets if you’re in the market for clothing, housewares, designer bags, or accessories.
8. Hammondsport
When it comes to charming villages in the Finger Lakes, Hammondsport has it all: a town square that serves as a gathering spot, proximity to award-winning wineries, and views of picturesque Keuka Lake, known as the Crooked Lake for its Y-shape. For up-close lake views, bring a picnic to Depot Park. In the summer, swimming is also an option, or you can head a little further along the lakeshore to Champlin Beach.
Some of the best-known and most scenic wineries in the region are near Hammondsport, including Dr. Frank Konstantin Winery and Bully Hill Vineyards. There’s also a museum devoted to aviation, where an annual airplane and car show called Wings & Wheels is hosted every year.
9. Owego
Set along the shores of the Susquehanna River, Owego offers a blend of small-town charm and natural beauty. A stroll down Front Street reveals a selection of shops, cafes, antique stores, and historic landmarks. Owego is also home to the popular annual Strawberry Festival, a block party that includes a parade, food, craft vendors, and entertainment for the whole family!
10. Corning
Renowned for its glassmaking heritage, Corning is home to the Corning Museum of Glass, where visitors can inspect intricate glassworks spanning centuries and even try their hand at the craft of glassblowing. The Rockwell Museum, featuring American art and housed in the former City Hall, is also located here.
After some museum hopping, history buffs will appreciate a stroll through the historic Gaffer District, lined with charming boutiques, galleries, and restaurants to please every palate. If you’re looking for local culture followed by great food, Corning is one of the best towns in the Finger Lakes, NY!
11. Skaneateles
Hugging the northern tip of a pristine lake by the same name, Skaneateles is known for its slew of antique stores, eclectic gift shops, and culinary delights, all within a pedestrian-friendly downtown area. Visitors should be sure to take in Clift Park waterfront. A stroll around the village also reveals beautifully constructed homes that date back to the 19th century. Once you’ve explored to your heart’s content, treat yourself to ultimate relaxation at the renowned Mirbeau Inn & Spa.
12. Auburn
After rescuing dozens of enslaved individuals in unparalleled acts of bravery, Harriet Tubman settled in Auburn until her passing in 1913. Visitors can delve into her extraordinary legacy by touring her home (open seasonally) and by paying respects at her resting place at Fort Hill Cemetery.
Another historic home of note in Auburn is The Seward House Museum, where 19th century Secretary of State William Henry Seward resided from 1851-1872. Auburn is located at the northern end of Owasco Lake. Do not pass up a chance to visit this historical Finger Lakes town.
13. Canandaigua
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Set at the northern tip of a lake by the same name, Canandaigua is the largest town in the Finger Lakes. Residents and visitors alike love it as much for summer water sports like swimming, kayaking, and fishing as for its abundant art galleries, boutiques, and wineries. A historical site of note in Canandaigua is Ontario County Courthouse, where Susan B. Anthony was tried in 1873 after voting in the 1872 presidential elections.
Visitors seeking a luxury hotel experience should stay at The Lake House on Canandaigua, a lakefront resort that features a spa, world-class dining, and a calendar of events that include morning yoga, craft beverage tasting, and wine pairing dinners.
14. Naples
Tucked away to the southwest of Canandaigua Lake is the village of Naples. The picturesque village hosts the annual Naples Grape Festival, an event that celebrates the region’s rich agricultural heritage and attracts tens of tourists every September and features grape-inspired culinary creations, as well as live music and entertainment.
Beyond its annual festivities, Naples offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation from trout fishing in Naples Creek to spotting wildlife at High Tor Wildlife Management Area.
Final thoughts on towns in the Finger Lakes
We have spent several years exploring various towns in the Finger Lakes and we are never disappointed, whether our goal is to discover new wineries, seek out new hiking trails, or just take in some rural scenery. There is so much to see and do in this corner of New York that you’ll never run out of adventures!