8 Towns in the Finger Lakes that Were Ranked Among US Favorites (2024)

Nestled in the heart of Upstate New York, the Finger Lakes region is one of the most beautiful areas in the entire state. With its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views, it’s the perfect spot for a weekend getaway from the noise of the city. While the lakes and surrounding forests are amazing, the charming small towns lining its clear waters are even better! They boast a rich history, plenty of family-friendly activities, and some of the best wineries on the East Coast! So, pack a bag and check out some of the best towns the Finger Lakes have to offer.

Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen is something out of a postcard. Situated on the south end of Seneca Lake, it’s home to breathtaking views, historical sites, and a charming downtown district. Walk the charming sidewalks downtown to engage in a little shopping and dining at amazing local restaurants. However, the biggest draw to Watkins Glen is the amazing Watkins Glen State Park. Travel through mossy gorge trails, travel alongside waterfalls, and take in the scenic views.

Seneca Lake is the largest of the Finger Lakes and offers amazing opportunities for fishing, boating, or spending the day out on the water. For a real treat, end your day at the historic Seneca Harbor Wine Center. It’s a great place to kick back with a chilled glass of Riesling and enjoy the view of the lake. For more excitement, make sure to stop by Watkins Glen International to catch a NASCAR and IndyCar race!

Corning

While not directly on the Finger Lakes, Corning is a delightful town in the region with so much to explore and discover! If you love unique attractions, Corning is a must on your Finger Lakes bucket list. Head to the magnificent Corning Museum of Glass to browse glass art and historical artifacts. You can even watch a live glass-blowing demonstration. Or, head to the Rockwell Museum to spend the day casually strolling through its collection of American art.

The charming downtown district, aka the Gaffer District, is another great place to spend the day. The perfectly preserved streets in the downtown district transport you back to simpler times. Each building delivers a new thing to discover, from quaint shops, boutiques, and local cafes. Corning isn’t directly on a Finger Lake, but the Finger Lakes National Forest is only a short drive away!

Seneca Falls

It’s a wonderful life in Seneca Falls…literally! While the movie It’s a Wonderful Life was filmed in California, many believe the fictional town of Bedford Falls was inspired by Seneca Falls. From its charming downtown district with quaint shops and cafes to the beautiful views from the Seneca-Cayuga Canal, it’s truly a slice of paradise.

Aside from its beauty, Seneca Falls also had a rich history, especially in the Women’s Rights Movement. Head to the National Women's Hall of Fame to honor the women who gave birth to the movement, or walk the beautiful and historic ground of the Women's Rights National Historical Park. Nature lovers should head to the Seneca Meadows Wetlands Preserve, which has 1,100 acres of beautiful wetlands. Located east of Seneca Falls is the beautiful Cayuga Lake State Park, a great place to hike trails, boat, fish, swim, or picnic.

Naples

Nature enthusiasts have to make a stop at the quaint little town of Naples! It’s famous for its amazing views and hiking trails. Grimes Glen is a perfect spot to relax, walking the trails and taking in the beauty of the local waterfalls and wildlife of the area. Or, head to High Tor Wildlife Management Area for sweeping views of the area. If you love being on the water, take a short 20-minute drive north to Canandaigua Lake!

However, Naples is so much more than breathtaking scenery. The small town is famous for its Concord and Niagara grapes and even holds an annual festival (Naples Grape Festival) celebrating everything grapes. So, be sure to snag one of their famous grape pies before you go! As a part of the Finger Lakes Wine Region, Naples has plenty of local wineries to kick and and relax, like the Arbor Hill Grapery & Winery.

Hammondsport

Situated on the southern tip of Keuka Lake, the charming town of Hammondsport is the perfect blend of natural beauty and attractions. It’s a great spot for the whole family. For outdoor adventure, head to Keuka Lake for a day of fishing, boating, swimming, and kayaking. The lush wooded area of Keuka Lake is especially beautiful in the fall. Or, check out the heart of Hammondsport, Depot Park. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists and is home to many annual community events in town, like the Seaplane Homecoming.

Hammondsport is often referred to as the Heart of the American Wine Industry and is home to some of the most notable and oldest wineries in the Finger Lakes. Spend the afternoon sipping Gewürztraminers at Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, overlooking the view of vast vineyards. Or, head to the Heron Hill Winery to try a sip of their award-winning Riesling and Chardonnay. When taking a wine tour of the Finger Lakes, Hammondsport is a must-see.

Geneva

Geneva is a bustling and lively town on the Northern edge of Seneca Lake. The downtown district boasts a cozy blend of modern and historic buildings, perfect for a day of shopping and sightseeing. Head to Geneva Lakefront Park in the heart of downtown to walk along the water and enjoy the view. It’s also a great place to rent a boat and spend the day out on the water. While you’re in town, you can catch a live performance at the stunning Smith Center for the Arts.

A short drive outside the charming downtown district is Seneca Lake State Park, perfect for nature lovers. It’s a great place to hike, fish, swim, or just take in the amazing water views. Not far from the state park is the Geneva Historical Society, home of Rose Hill Mansion. Take a guided tour through the sprawling 19th-century mansion and learn a little more about the town’s rich history.

Canandaigua

Located on crystal-clear Canandaigua Lake, Canandaigua is a charming town with amazing views and a vibrant history. History buffs have to stop by the Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum, which is a massive estate that displays antique carriages. Or, head to the Ontario County Historical Society Museum to learn more about the rich history of the region.

Spend time outside and soak in the scenery at Canandaigua City Pier and Park. It’s a great place to take a relaxing walk along the water and take in the views of the town. The pier is also the hub for community events like the annual Lakefront Art Festival and the Canandaigua Lake Music Festival.

Skaneateles Village

Skaneateles Village is a picturesque town nestled on the northern tip of Skaneateles Lake, one of the cleanest and clearest of the Finger Lakes. Stroll along the charming historic streets of downtown to check out the unique local shops and cafes. The downtown area is also the hub for engaging community events like the Skaneateles Farmers Market, Summer Music Festival, and the Dickens Christmas event.

A popular spot for locals and tourists is Clift Park, located in the heart of town. It’s a lakeside park with amazing views of the water and village and a host of fun activities. Spend the day walking along the water, or rent a boat for a day of fishing or swimming in Skaneateles Lake’s crystal-clear waters.

Whether you’re planning your next getaway or need to recharge your batteries, these towns in New York are the perfect escape. From the crystal-clear waters of Skaneateles Lake, the award-winning wineries of Hammondsport, and the breathtaking waterfalls of Watkins Glen, there’s something here for everyone. Each of these towns brings a unique history and charm, along with friendly locals and exciting annual events and festivities. In just one weekend, you’ll feel like a local (and may never want to leave)! Pack your bags and get ready to explore these beloved spots in the Finger Lakes.

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