Finger Lakes, New York Travel Guide

Explore the Finger Lakes region in New York – a perfect destination for wine lovers, outdoor adventurers, and history enthusiasts with its scenic landscapes and charming towns.

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Finger Lakes

Nestled in the heart of New York State, the Finger Lakes region is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wine enthusiasts alike. With its stunning landscapes, eleven pristine lakes, and charming small towns, the Finger Lakes offer a perfect blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. The region is renowned for its picturesque vineyards and world-class wineries. Visitors can embark on the Finger Lakes Wine Trail to sample award-winning wines, enjoy scenic views, and learn about the winemaking process. The area's unique microclimate and rich soil make it ideal for growing a variety of grapes, ensuring a delightful tasting experience. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Finger Lakes provide endless opportunities for adventure. Hiking trails like the Watkins Glen State Park trail lead you through breathtaking gorges and past cascading waterfalls. The lakes themselves are perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. In the winter, the region transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering activities like skiing and snowshoeing. History buffs will find plenty to explore, from the Women's Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls to the Corning Museum of Glass. The charming towns of Ithaca, Geneva, and Skaneateles offer unique shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, making them perfect for a leisurely day trip. Whether you're sipping wine by a vineyard, hiking through a scenic gorge, or exploring a historic town, the Finger Lakes region promises an unforgettable experience with its natural beauty and rich heritage.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Finger Lakes.

Visit in the fall to witness the stunning foliage and enjoy wine harvest season.
Book winery tours in advance, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.
Pack comfortable hiking shoes for exploring the many trails and gorges.
Don’t miss out on trying the local Riesling, a specialty of the region.
Check out the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and handmade goods.

Top City Travel Guides in Finger Lakes

The cities of Finger Lakes, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Syracuse

Ithaca

Destinations in Finger Lakes

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Letchworth State Park

Watkins Glen

Finger Lakes Region

Finger Lakes

Explore Finger Lakes: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Finger Lakes

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Stony Brook State Park

Explore the serene beauty of Stony Brook State Park in Dansville, NY, featuring stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and picturesque waterfalls.

4.7

Chimney Bluffs State Park

Explore the breathtaking bluffs and serene landscapes of Chimney Bluffs State Park, a natural wonder on the shores of Lake Ontario in New York.

4.7

Finger Lakes Welcome Center

Discover the Finger Lakes Welcome Center: Your Gateway to the Best of New York's Scenic Finger Lakes Region.

4.8

Glenn H Curtiss Museum

Discover the legacy of aviation at the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, featuring historic aircraft and motorcycles in the heart of New York's Finger Lakes.

4.8

Best landmarks in Finger Lakes

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park

Explore the breathtaking Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion, where nature meets history in a stunning botanical paradise in Canandaigua, New York.

4.5

Harriet Tubman Home

Discover the inspiring legacy of Harriet Tubman at her historic home in Auburn, NY, a key site in American history and the fight for freedom.

4.7

Finger Lakes Boating Museum

Explore the rich maritime history of the Finger Lakes at the Boating Museum, where boating heritage and local culture come alive in stunning exhibits.

4.7

Rose Hill Mansion

Explore the exquisite Rose Hill Mansion, a historical landmark offering a glimpse into the grandeur of 19th-century life on Seneca Lake.

4.7

Best restaurants in Finger Lakes

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Nolan's on Canandaigua Lake

Experience fine dining with breathtaking views at Nolan's on Canandaigua Lake - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.5

Seneca Harbor Station

Discover the culinary treasures of Seneca Harbor Station in Watkins Glen – where American cuisine meets breathtaking lakeside views.

4.3

Wolffy's Grill and Marina

Discover delectable American cuisine at Wolffy's Grill and Marina, where stunning waterfront views meet family-friendly dining.

4.4

Ports Cafe

Experience exquisite American cuisine at Ports Cafe overlooking Lake Geneva – where culinary creativity meets stunning lakeside views.

4.7

Best bars in Finger Lakes

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Wolffy's Grill and Marina

Discover the perfect blend of American cuisine and scenic views at Wolffy's Grill and Marina in Seneca Falls.

4.4

Kindred Fare

Discover Kindred Fare in Geneva, NY: a family-friendly American restaurant offering a diverse menu with gluten-free and vegetarian options in a unique setting.

4.7

Scale House Brewery

Discover the best of craft brewing and artisan pizza at Scale House Brewery in Hector, NY - a must-visit for food and beer lovers.

4.6

Stonecutter's Tavern at Belhurst Castle

Discover the charm of Stonecutter's Tavern at Belhurst Castle, where American cuisine meets stunning lakeside views in a historic atmosphere.

4.1

Best shops in Finger Lakes

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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Finger Lakes Premium Outlets

Explore Finger Lakes Premium Outlets for unmatched shopping experiences and incredible discounts on top brands in a stunning outdoor setting.

4.2

The Windmill Farm & Craft Market

Experience the vibrant local culture at The Windmill Farm & Craft Market in Penn Yan, New York, where fresh produce and artisanal crafts come together.

4.6

Three Brothers Wineries and Estates

Discover the charm of Three Brothers Wineries and Estates, where unique tasting experiences await amidst the scenic beauty of New York's Finger Lakes.

4.6

Fingerlakes Mall

Explore shopping, dining, and entertainment at Fingerlakes Mall in Auburn, NY - a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike.

3.5

Explore Finger Lakes on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Finger Lakes, mapped for you.

Finger Lakes Essentials

The Finger Lakes region in New York is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airports are Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC), and Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport (ITH). From these airports, you can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or use public transportation to reach your final destination in the Finger Lakes. Additionally, Amtrak provides rail services to Syracuse and Rochester, and Greyhound and Megabus offer bus services to several towns in the region.
Once in the Finger Lakes, renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the region due to the spread-out nature of its attractions. However, there are also local bus services, taxis, and rideshare options available in larger towns like Ithaca, Rochester, and Syracuse. For a more scenic experience, consider renting a bike or taking a boat tour on one of the lakes. Some wine trails offer shuttle services for winery tours.
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses, farmers' markets, and rural areas where card payment might not be available. ATMs are plentiful in larger towns, but may be sparse in more remote locations.
The Finger Lakes region is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to exercise standard travel precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. Larger cities like Syracuse and Rochester have neighborhoods with higher crime rates; consult local advice or stay within well-known tourist areas to avoid these. Always lock your car and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Major hospitals are located in Syracuse, Rochester, and Ithaca, with smaller medical facilities available in other towns. Pharmacies are accessible in most towns for minor health issues. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Always keep a list of emergency contacts and your insurance details handy.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Wear comfortable shoes for outdoor activities. Avoid overly casual attire in fine dining restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local wines and fresh produce. Don't forget to tip service staff, typically 15-20% in restaurants.
To experience Finger Lakes like a local, visit the numerous farmers' markets for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with winery staff for personalized wine-tasting experiences. Take advantage of the many hiking trails and state parks for outdoor activities. Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the community culture. For a unique experience, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lakes up close.

When is the best time to visit Finger Lakes?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Finger Lakes

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Finger Lakes. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHi
  [Hai]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [See ya]
- YesYep
  [Yep]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomeSure thing
  [Shur thing]
- Thank youThanks
  [Thangs]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/Sorry
  [Pardon me/Sor-ree]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [How ya doin'?]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [Guhd. You?]
- Do you speak English?Can you talk English?
  [Can ya talk English?]
- I don't understandI ain't getting it
  [I ain't gettin' it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [Can I see the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI'm not a meat eater
  [I'm not a meat eater]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check, please?
  [Can I get the check, please?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Leave me alone!
  [Leave me alone!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI can't find my way
  [I can't find my way]
- I'm illI'm not feeling well
  [I'm not feelin' well]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just browsing]
- How much is it?What’s the price?
  [What’s the price?]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit pricey
  [That's a bit pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can you cut me a deal?
  [Can you cut me a deal?]
- What time is it?What’s the time?
  [What’s the time?]
- It's one o'clockIt’s one o’clock
  [It’s one o’clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [What’s the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [Can you point it out?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)One ticket to...
  [One ticket to...]

History of Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region was originally inhabited by the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy, which included the Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, Mohawk, and later the Tuscarora tribes. These indigenous people thrived in the area for centuries, developing rich cultural traditions and complex political systems. The lakes themselves were named after the tribes, such as Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake.
In 1779, during the American Revolutionary War, General George Washington ordered the Sullivan Expedition to destroy Iroquois villages that were allied with the British. Led by Major General John Sullivan, this military campaign aimed to eliminate the Iroquois threat to American settlers. The destruction of villages and crops had a lasting impact on the indigenous population and opened the region for future settlement by European Americans.
Completed in 1825, the Erie Canal transformed the Finger Lakes region by connecting the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean via the Hudson River. This engineering marvel facilitated the movement of goods and people, leading to economic growth and increased settlement in the area. Towns like Rochester and Syracuse, which are on the outskirts of the Finger Lakes, flourished as commercial hubs due to their proximity to the canal.
The Finger Lakes region played a significant role in the abolitionist movement in the 19th century. The town of Seneca Falls became a hotspot for anti-slavery activism. Many residents, including prominent figures like Frederick Douglass, provided support for the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved people escape to freedom. The area's commitment to social justice laid the groundwork for future civil rights activism.
In 1848, Seneca Falls hosted the first women's rights convention, organized by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. The event marked a pivotal moment in the women's suffrage movement and produced the Declaration of Sentiments, which called for equal rights for women, including the right to vote. This historic convention cemented the Finger Lakes region as a cornerstone of American feminist history.
The Finger Lakes region is renowned for its wine production, particularly Riesling wines. The area's wine history dates back to the 19th century when European immigrants brought their viticulture expertise. The establishment of wineries like Pleasant Valley Wine Company in 1860 helped put the Finger Lakes on the map. Today, the region boasts over 100 wineries and is a premier destination for wine enthusiasts.
Founded in 1865, Cornell University in Ithaca, located near the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, has had a profound impact on the Finger Lakes region. As an Ivy League institution, Cornell has attracted scholars, researchers, and students from around the world. The university's agricultural research and extension programs have also contributed to the development of local industries, including agriculture and viticulture.
Established in 1985, the Finger Lakes National Forest is the only national forest in New York State. Covering over 16,000 acres between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, the forest offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and bird-watching. Its creation reflects the growing environmental awareness and efforts to preserve the natural beauty of the region.