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Winter Activities in the Finger Lakes and What You Need to Know

If you’ve never visited the Finger Lakes during the winter, you’re missing out on an amazing trip! Our quiet upstate New York region transforms into a beautiful snow-covered wonderland. Whether you’re taking a holiday vacation or you’re visiting early in the new year, there are so many wonderful things to do during the coldest months. Preview some of our favorite winter activities in the Finger Lakes and events and start planning your next vacation today! If you want even more great things to do, download our free Vacation Guide.

Winter Activities in the Finger Lakes

Conduct Your Own Finger Lakes Winter Wine Tour

The Finger Lakes Wine Region is one of the best in the nation. The climate and soil in the region create the perfect environment for growing grapes. Winter is a fantastic time to visit area wineries. You can sip a glass of delicious wine and enjoy an outstanding view of the snow-covered land. There are still plenty of awesome events you can attend at wineries in winter, so check out the Finger Lakes Wine Region calendar before you visit!

Go Ice Fishing

It may surprise you to learn that winter is one of the best seasons for fishing in the Finger Lakes. When the lakes partially or completely freeze over, our beautiful lakes become a hotspot for lake, rainbow, and brown trout as well as landlocked salmon. Keuka Lake is especially good for ice fishing, so check out our selection of rentals along the lake and book today!

Strap on Some Skis

The Finger Lakes region is known for having excellent skiing potential. The cold bodies of water help to create “lake-effect snow,” which is the best type for winter sports like snowshoeing or cross-country or downhill skiing. There are two excellent ski resorts in the area: Bristol Mountain Ski Resort and Greek Peak Mountain Resort. Both offer fantastic rental programs, downhill mountain trails, and Nordic skiing centers. If you’d prefer to explore some of our beautiful state parks, consider snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Hammond Hill State Forest and Letchworth State Park are both excellent sites for Nordic skiing. The trails within both parks are well-maintained, perfect for beginners or experienced skiers.

Finger Lake Winter Events

Enjoy the Finger Lakes in December

It’s a Wonderful Life Celebration

One of the best Cayuga Lake events is the It’s a Wonderful Life Celebration. The town-wide festival takes place in Seneca Falls, which was said to be the inspiration for the classic film. Visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, special screenings of the film, holiday-themed competitions, and charity events that benefit local groups!

Watkins Glen Village Christmas

One of the most iconic holiday events is the Wakins Glen Village Christmas. It has been running for over 25 years in early December. Village Christmas includes a Dr. Seuss parade, fireworks, and arts and crafts. It also includes a meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus! This Seneca Lake event is perfect for the whole family.

Visit the Dryden Theatre for a Movie Screening

End your year on a good note! Eastman’s Museum Dryden Theatre hosts a fantastic New Year’s Eve Dinner & a Movie. Enjoy a holiday-themed meal at the museum’s cafe before you watch a classic piece of cinema. Tickets to the screening and dinner are just $25 and include food, a beverage, dessert, and admission.

Enjoy a Delicious Dinner at New York Kitchen

The Finger Lakes is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. Enjoy some fine dining cuisine at the Dr. Konstantin Frank Sparkling Winemaker Dinner. This special dinner welcomes a representative from Dr. Frank’s Wine Cellars to educate guests on their various sparkling wines. Meanwhile, you’ll enjoy a multi-course dinner. Each of the dishes pairs perfectly with a delicious wine from the cellar. Treat yourself and reserve your table!

Visit the Finger Lakes in January

Get a Deal at the Bargain Bash

Each year, Seneca Lake Wine Trail launches their event season with the Bargain Bash. This week-long sale allows wineries to clear their inventory and prepare for the upcoming harvest. You can visit participating wineries to score fantastic deals on everything from bottles of wine to souvenirs! Check the website to see a list of participating wineries. If you’d like a preview of some of our favorite spots on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, check out our blog!

Don’t Miss the Finger Lakes in February

Free Fishing Days

As we said, ice fishing is a favorite activity in the Finger Lakes during the colder months. For out-of-state guests who may not have a New York State fishing license, the Free Fishing Weekend is an excellent opportunity to cast your line without too much paperwork. The first Free Fishing Weekend typically takes place in mid-February. These weekends are popular so be sure to book your home along the lake quickly!

Vintage, Vines and Valentines

Head to the Naples Valley Visitors Association to enjoy a romantic afternoon! The annual Vintage, Vines, and Valentines event encourages visitors to explore the cozy village of Naples, NY. You’ll find anything from local wines and beer to kid-friendly activities and homemade chocolates. There are horse-drawn wagon rides, a bonfire, and an open mic as well. This is an excellent festival for guests of all ages!

Keuka Lake Wine Trail Wine and Cheese Lovers Weekend

Another great Valentine’s Day event is the Wine and Cheese Weekend from Keuka Lake Wine Trail. It showcases two of the most popular products from the Finger Lakes. When you purchase a ticket, you’ll get to visit various area wineries (and receive a complimentary Keuka Lake Wine Trail glass) and enjoy a sample the winery’s drink that’s perfectly paired with cheeses. Don’t miss one of the best Keuka lake events! For more information on local dairies and creameries, read our blog on the Finger Lakes Cheese Trail!

Stay with Finger Lakes Premier Properties

There’s no better place to enjoy a Finger Lakes winter getaway than in one of our stunning rental homes! Discover the widest selection of beautiful lakeside and off-lake rentals when you browse through our inventory. From small cabins to luxurious accommodations, you’ll have no trouble relaxing from your day of enjoying Finger Lakes winter activities.

Consider booking Bluestone Cottage, our waterside property perched on the edge of Keuka Lake. If you’re interested in ice fishing, you won’t find a better place to stay in the region! This beautiful four-bedroom, one-bathroom home is the perfect place for a family vacation or getaway with friends. Imagine sipping your coffee on the private balcony or roasting marshmallows in the fire pit.

Browse the rest of our accommodations and book today! We look forward to having you.

2018 Finger Lakes Market Report – Q3

Courtesy of your Lakefront Specialists

The latest results from the Quarter 3 Lakefront Real Estate Report indicate that while it is still a sellers’ market, lakefront buyers are becoming much more selective in finding a home at the right price. Those not utilizing their lake homes couldn’t have been more thrilled with the decrease in inventory with their homes selling at 30% higher than in 2017. However, the rise in prices have shifted buyers to look at other lake markets in order stay within budget. Below our Lakefront Specialist highlight some of the trends they have seen this past quarter and what this means for those considering selling their lake home.

2018 Finger Lakes Market Report, Quarter Three (July-September).

Significant increase in Average Sale Prices noted, while the overall number of lakefront homes sold has declined, YOY.

With a considerable increase in average sale prices (30%), YOY, the Finger Lakes real estate market continues to thrive as we approach November. Skaneateles Lake topped the charts with a massive 38% increase in average sale price YOY, but sold only half the number of homes as in 2017. Keuka (31%), Canandaigua (23%) and Conesus (15%) experienced noticeable increases as well and maintain their position has highly coveted regions for potential buyers.

A word from our Lakefront Specialists:

“Overall, listings are still selling quickly and for near asking price if they are priced properly from the beginning. According to local agents that show our properties, buyers are moving toward Seneca and Cayuga as an alternative to paying the high taxes of Canandaigua and Keuka. That is not to say that there are no buyers for these lakes, the properties on Keuka Lake this quarter sold quickly, and many of the higher priced homes sold on this lake. The higher end market on Seneca was very slow. Nothing sold higher than $625,000 this year. This tells us, combined with realtor input, that the buyers looking for a deal have moved to Seneca and Cayuga. No matter what lake, the market is still solid and could remain this way if the weather continues to cooperate. Anyone looking to sell on any of the lakes still have opportunity for a sale this year.” – Cynthia Emerling, Listing Specialist/Broker Associate

“There is a lot of activity with buyers looking on Cayuga and Seneca, realizing that these two lakes offer the best value for your money. Actual offers/sales have been slow with people taking their time in making decisions. Inventory on the Finger Lakes has been increasing, offering buyers more choices within certain price ranges. The Finger Lakes region continues to be a very sound and reliable real estate investment with appreciation growing every year.” – Dave Lucchesi, Buyer’s Specialist

Timing and Selling Your Home

As noted by Emerling, seasonality has a large impact on lakefront sales. Like most markets, buyer interest in the Finger Lakes takes off in the spring, peaks late summer/early fall and drops off in the winter. As a region renowned for its favorably mild summers, aesthetic fall seasons, and then leaping into such severe winters, it makes sense that our market responds in a correlative manner.

If you are considering listing your home in the post-peak season to circumvent the stiff competition of summertime sales, we recommend utilizing the end-of-fall, beginning-of-winter timeline (October to December) before snowstorms and inclement weather sullies an out-of-state buyers perception of the Finger Lakes.

Not to mention, in terms of the Average Sale Price, the market is at all-time high today. With fewer homes on the market to compete with, and a significant increase in sale prices across the Finger Lakes, it’s a lucrative time to be a seller.

Finger Lakes Premier Properties specializes in lakefront living across the region. Our dedicated Lakefront Listing Specialists who know and understand the unique attributes of each lake’s market. Whether your home is on Canandaigua or Owasco, our Listing Specialists know your market, towns, and watersheds, and will help you understand when will be the best time to sell your home.

If you are interested in an overview of the National Real Estate Market, click here (national stats), and when you are ready to list your home, or purchase a new one, give us a call at 888-599-4810 or email Sales@FLPPlake.com.

3 of the Most Festive Finger Lakes New Year’s Eve Events

Ring in the new year during your Finger Lakes vacation! This winter wonderland is also home to some wonderful New Year’s Eve celebrations. From elegant affairs to family-friendly events, there are so many ways to reflect on the previous year and start 2019 off the right foot! Take a look at three of our favorite Finger Lakes New Year’s Eve events and discover where you can find the best selection of rental properties in the region. If you’re looking for even more great things to do in the Finger Lakes, download our free Vacation Guide! We’ve listed the best Finger Lakes winery events, as well as some of our favorite attractions, restaurants, and more.

Continue reading 3 of the Most Festive Finger Lakes New Year’s Eve Events

Why You Need to Visit the Bristol Mountain Ski Resort

If you see the Finger Lakes as a summer-only destination, then you’re missing out on one of the best skiing destinations in the country! Our region houses seemingly endless opportunities for downhill and Nordic skiing. With our gorgeous state parks, many of which features trails that are perfect for cross-country skiing, and the amazing ski resorts, you won’t have much trouble finding a little slice of heaven to explore. If you’ve never skied in the Finger Lakes, consider heading to the Bristol Mountain Ski Resort. This outstanding facility has created one of the most perfect ski areas in the country. With well-maintained slopes, beautiful vistas, and excellent prices, there’s no better place in the region. Discover everything you need to know about this business and where you should stay during your next winter trip to the Finger Lakes! If you need even more help planning your getaway, download our free Vacation Guide!

Continue reading Why You Need to Visit the Bristol Mountain Ski Resort

Celebrate the Holidays with Some of the Best Finger Lakes Christmas Events

Celebrate holiday in a winter wonderland! During the colder months, the Finger Lakes region in upstate New York transforms into an idyllic snowy paradise. There are few places better to enjoy this festive season than our cozy region. Discover the best ways to enjoy this special time of year with the best Finger Lakes Christmas events! Download our free Vacation Guide for a full list of events in the region.

Enjoy These Finger Lakes Christmas Events

Canandaigua Christkindl Market

The season kicks off with the Canandaigua Christkindl Market! It was ranked the number one Germany-inspired Christmas Market in all of North America by Paste Magazine! This event brings over 150 regional artists and food vendors to the town of Canandaigua. In 2018, the market will take place from November 9 to 11. There’s no better place to do your holiday shopping. Enjoy traditional German food, wine, beer, and more! If you’re feeling lucky, enter the raffle to win some fantastic prizes. Small children will love attending the “Elf School,” which gathers local elves and the Christkindl Angel to lead little ones in fun kid-friendly activities.

It’s a Wonderful Life Celebration

The quiet village of Seneca Falls is often said to be the inspiration for the fictional town of Bedford Falls, from the classic film It’s a Wonderful Life. Even actors from the movie, upon visiting the quiet New York town, instantly made the connection to the setting of the iconic story they crafted onscreen. Find the similarities for yourself when you visit for the annual It’s a Wonderful Life Celebration! Running from December 7 to 9, 2018, this weekend-long event includes horse-drawn carriage rides, charity events, holiday-themed competitions, and (of course) screenings of the movie!

Watkins Glen Village Christmas

For over 25 years, downtown Watkins Glen transforms into a paradise of holiday cheer for one evening in early December. Join us on December 7, 2018, for Village Christmas! Enjoy arts and crafts with the kids and holiday shopping while you listen to the chorus of strolling carolers. Be sure to join the crowd at 6:30 p.m. to get a look at the Dr. Seuss parade, which ends with the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus! After, you can meet the famous duo and their reindeer. The evening finishes with a gorgeous fireworks display at the waterfront. This is a must for the whole family!

Stay with Finger Lakes Premier Properties

No matter which of these Finger Lakes Christmas events you decide to attend, be sure to book your home through us! Finger Lake Premier Properties has the best inventory of homes in the region. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious estate or a pet-friendly rental house, you’ll find it here!

Consider booking Sun Kissed, a lakeside property that is located in Seneca Falls. If you plan on attending the It’s a Wonderful Life Celebration, this is the home to book! With two bedrooms and one bathroom, it’s ideal for trips with your immediate family. You’re sure to enjoy the view of Cayuga Lake from the second-floor balcony or the convenient location to local attractions, like The Women’s Rights Museum in town.

Take a look at our full inventory of homes and book today! We look forward to having you.

The Inside Scoop on the Best Skiing in the Finger Lakes

Discover why U.S. News & World Report named the Finger Lakes one of the best skiing destinations in the country! Our gorgeous lakes help create the perfect snow conditions for a skiing adventure. Whether you’re interested in racing downhill or taking a leisurely cross-country walk, you won’t want to miss out on skiing in the Finger Lakes! Download our free Vacation Guide for more great winter sports suggestions.

Experience the Best Skiing in the Finger Lakes

Downhill Skiing

Bristol Mountain Winter Resort

One of the most popular ski resorts in the area is Bristol Mountain Winter Resort! With a 1,200 feet vertical rise and 138 acres of skiable terrain, you’ll have no problem finding something to do. They also have a state-of-the-art snowmaking system, so skiers and snowboarders can rest assured that they’re experiencing the best possible conditions. Rental equipment is available from Bristol Mountain, so you won’t have to worry about packing bulky skis or snowboards. If you’re new to the sport, you can book a lesson from Bristol Mountain! They offer ski and snowboard classes for total beginners for just $59. That includes an eight-hour lift ticket, eight-hour equipment rental, and three hours of coaching. If you’d prefer to set your own pace and enjoy cross-country skiing, they have a Nordic Center in Canandaigua. You’ll be able to explore the almost three kilometers of well-maintained trails from mid-December to mid-March.

Greek Peak Mountain Resort

Greek Peak Mountain Resort is another excellent option for downhill skiing in the Finger Lakes. Like Bristol Mountain, they offer equipment rentals and lessons that promise to get you ready for the slopes. Greek Peak boasts a 952 feet vertical drop and 220 skiable acres. There is a Nordic Center as well, with a warming hut, a variety of trails, and affordable ski and snowshoe rentals. You can even book a lesson, available by reservation only. For just $52.50, you’ll have a trail pass, equipment, and a two-hour class on all things cross-country skiing.

Cross-Country Skiing

If you’re only interested in cross-country skiing, there are plenty of places nearby that have excellent trails.

Hammond Hill State Forest has a 16-mile trail system that is perfect for cross-country skiing. It’s maintained in part by the Cayuga Nordic Ski Club, so you can feel confident that you’re enjoying quality trails.
Letchworth State Park is often named one of the most beautiful places in New York State. Enjoy the beauty for yourself when you take advantage of their many trails available for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and horseback riding.

Stay With Finger Lakes Premier Properties

Are you ready to experience the best skiing in the Finger Lakes? Then book your home with Finger Lakes Premier Properties. We have the best selection of homes in the region. Whether you’re looking for pet-friendly properties or upscale, luxury homes, we’ve got just what you need.

Are you planning on taking advantage of the slopes at Bristol Mountain Winter Resort? Then book Arbor Landing! It’s just a 10-minute drive from the resort. This four-bedroom, two-bathroom home is ideal for winter family vacations. Enjoy the exceptional views of Canandaigua Lake or snuggling in front of the wood pellet fireplace.

Take a look at our full selection of homes and book today! We look forward to having you.

4 of the Best Towns in the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region in upstate New York is home to some of the country’s best state parks, one of the best wine regions, and an up-and-coming food scene that should not be missed! If you’ve never visited the Finger Lakes before, there’s no better time to do it than right now. But with so many possible destinations surrounding the 11 Finger Lakes, it can be difficult choosing the right one. Here are some of our picks for the best towns in the Finger Lakes and what there is to do. For even more great suggestions of things to do in the region, download our free Vacation Guide!

The Best Towns in the Finger Lakes

Ithaca

Home to Ithaca College and Cornell University, this quiet Finger Lakes town has the laid-back feel of a college community and some of the best attractions and state parks around. Whether you’re touring one of the higher education centers as a potential student or you’re planning on taking a quiet lake vacation, this is an excellent choice! Buttermilk Falls and Robert H. Treman State Parks are both nearby, both of which are great options for hiking excursions. In town, you can tour the Herbert H. Johnson Museum of Art, the Cornell Botanic Gardens, or the Sciencenter. Ithaca is located at the southernmost tip of Cayuga Lake and is home to some of the best wineries on the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail!

Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen is most well-known for two things: Watkins Glen State Park, which is said to be the best park for gorge hikes in the Finger Lakes, and the Watkins Glen Grand Prix. If you’re interested in rally car racing, Watkins Glen is the place to go. Outdoor enthusiasts should not miss the change to hike the gorge trails in the state park. Wakins Glen is located at the southernmost tip of Seneca Lake.

Geneva

Voted All-America City 2015, Geneva is the perfect place to go for a quiet, relaxing lakefront vacation. Geneva is on the northernmost tip of Seneca Lake and features a bustling downtown district and fantastic cultural attractions. See a show at the Smith Opera House or tour the many local historic houses.

Penn Yan

Enjoy the best of the Keuka Lake Wine Trail when you visit Penn Yan! This quiet village is home to many wonderful vineyards as well as shuttle and touring services that allow you to make your own, custom wine tour. If you’re interested in taking a boat tour (which we highly recommend you do!), stop by Big Fish Boat Tours. They offer a variety of different tour packages, including a wine tasting or a romantic sunset tour.

Stay With Finger Lakes Premier Properties

Experience the best towns in the Finger Lakes for yourself when you book your stay with Finger Lakes Premier Properties. We have an amazing selection of homes, from luxury estates to pet-friendly houses. If you’re interested in hiking the best gorge trails in the region or seeing a race, consider staying in Dean Lake House, located in Watkins Glen! This four-bedroom, two-bathroom rental features stunning lake views, modern conveniences, and a cozy atmosphere. Dean Lake House is perfect for families who don’t want to sacrifice comfort or privacy during their annual vacation.

Take a look at all of our properties and book today! We look forward to having you.

Where to Find the Best Finger Lakes Fall Foliage

The Finger Lakes region is famous for its incredible displays of orange, reds, yellows, and browns during the fall season. Leaf peepers and photographers come from all over the country to enjoy the amazing sights. Let Finger Lakes fall foliage become part of your annual tradition. Here are some of the best places to see the foliage! If you need help planning the rest of your trip to the Finger Lakes, download our free Vacation Guide. It’s full of our personal recommendations for everything in the region, from restaurants to hiking trails and more! It’s the perfect all-in-one guide to this area we call home, and we’re so excited to share it with you. Download it today!

Where to see Finger Lakes Fall Foliage

Canandaigua Lake

Start your leaf peeping adventure at the northernmost tip of Canandaigua Lake and head down West Lake Road. This drive is enough of an opportunity to see some incredible foliage, but it also conveniently takes us to our next stop on the tour of trees.

About 15 minutes into your drive south, you’ll come across Onanda Park. This quiet, lakefront park in the town of Canandaigua is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic lunch or an easy stroll. One of our favorite things to do here is to sit in some of the available chairs and gaze out on the water. However, if you’re looking for a great hike, we’ve got the inside scoop. There are 73 acres of Uplands located across the road. You can hike two miles of hiking trail over the hillside and encounter gorgeous vistas.

After your hike, continue to explore on Route 21S towards Naples, you will discover a vast array of photo-worthy sights as you climb and descend the hills surrounding Canandaigua Lake. Along your ride grab a snack at one of the many fruit stands offering freshly picked grapes, or better yet, a grape pie from the infamous Monica’s Pies just outside Naples. Fortunately, this area also neighbors many of our vacation rentals that fit the bill for the perfect foliage-oriented weekend.

Seneca Lake

Another wonderful scenic drive begins in Geneva, near Seneca Lake. Drive along NY 14 South and look at the stunning views of the lake on the left and the trees on the right. This road continues to Watkins Glen, where you can explore the town or head to the state park, which has some of the best hiking trails in the Finger Lakes. Explore the Gorge Trail, which is famous for its winding staircases and views.

Cayuga Lake

Cayuga Lake State Park is ideal for families traveling with small kids. The little ones will love playing on the swing sets and other equipment, and you’ll love the priceless views!

If you’re in the mood for a glass of wine, the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is the perfect opportunity for another scenic drive. Wineries like Toro Run or Thirsty Owl are perfect places to stop and enjoy the view and a glass of wine!

Keuka Lake

The Keuka Outlet Trail is a rail-trail in the heart of the Finger Lakes. This path stretches between Keuka and Seneca Lake, with plenty of opportunities to see the vistas for which the Finger Lakes are famous, including waterfalls and historic buildings.

Stay with Finger Lakes Premier Properties

Are you ready to experience the Finger Lakes fall foliage? We’ve got just the homes you need! Finger Lakes Premier Properties has the best selection of vacation rentals around, including many rentals that are just a short distance from the sites above! For example, Stone Crest, our gorgeous six-bathroom, four-bathroom estate is just two miles from the Keuka Outlet Trail. If you’d prefer to spend your time in Watkins Glen, book Dean Lake House, a four-bedroom, two-bathroom property which is less than a mile from town. The possibilities are endless!

Check out our full selection of rentals and book today! We look forward to having you.

Curtain’s Up! Check Out 4 of the Best Finger Lakes Theaters

Nothing beats a night at the theater! Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or you’re planning a quiet date night with your loved one, there is always a good reason to see a live performance. The Finger Lakes is home to many different types of theaters, from modern to musical. During your vacation, why not enjoy a night of spectacle and splendor? Discover the best Finger Lakes theatres and what kind of show you might in each.

If you’re searching for the perfect restaurant to visit before curtain-up, download our free Vacation Guide!

Visit These Finger Lakes Theaters

Merry Go Round Theater

Commonly called “Broadway in the Finger Lakes,” the Merry Go Round Theater is known for its extravagant productions and quirky performances. It’s the largest theater of its kind in the region, and mainly musicals. You’ll see everything from huge hits like Mamma Mia to lesser-known works. They also produce the Finger Lakes Musical Theatre Festival, a summer-long series that showcases the best talent in the region. Its most well-known for The PiTCH, which showcases new works in early stages of development. If you’re a hardcore theater fan, this is a must!

Hangar Theater

Another popular performance hall in the area is Hangar Theatre. Located in Ithaca, this company produces a wide range of plays and musicals. You’ll find experimental works like at the Merry Go Round, but you’ll also find options for children, art exhibits, and stand-up comedy. It’s named for its location, which is inside a renovated airplane hangar, which only adds to the quirky likability of this location.

Clemens Center

A more traditional performing arts center, Clemens Center hosts touring productions of musicals in their Broadway series, as well as comedians, musicians, and kid-friendly shows. If you’re staying near Seneca Lake, check out the calendar of events and see if there are any that pique your interests!

Bristol Valley Theater

The Bristol Valley Theater is modeled after a traditional community theater, with local performers and classes provided at the center. It’s located south of Canandaigua Lake and offers a handful of shows every summer season. Another option is Camp Dramapalooza, a week-long camp for young thespians! The weeks are divided by age group, so if you plan on traveling to the Finger Lakes in the summer, keep an eye out for the next round of dates and sign up your little ones!

Stay with Finger Lakes Premier Properties

After your night at one of these great Finger Lakes theaters, return to a gorgeous lakefront vacation rental! Finger Lakes Premier Properties has the best selection of homes in the region, from luxury rentals to pet-friendly accommodations.

If you plan on attending a show at the Merry Go Round Theater, book Evergreen Place for your getaway! This five-bedroom, four-bathroom property is just a five-minute walk from the playhouse. This historic property, built in 1884, was one of the original homesteads on the north end of the lake. Today, it’s been outfitted with modern amenities and comfortable furnishings.

Take a look at our full selection of homes and book today! We look forward to having you.

Top 10 Things To Do In The Finger Lakes This Fall

By: Emily White

10. Scenic Drives – By car, motorcycle or even by bicycle, the Finger Lakes has some of the most breathtaking views. Take a drive along any of the lakes, and don’t forget to drive between them over the rolling hills for views of vineyards and forests. Some memorable drives include Route 14a between Seneca and Keuka Lakes, Route 414 from Watkins Glen to 96A towards Geneva, or Route 21S from Canandaigua down to Naples. Your best bet is to just get in the car and take back roads that will take you to the highest elevations of the Finger Lakes where the views are truly spectacular.

9. Naples Grape Festival – Naples, at the southern end of Canandaigua Lake, hosts an annual festival celebrating the local grape harvest on September 29th & 30th. Enjoy the weekend event featuring live music, wine tasting, vendors and, of course, a myriad of local grape fare. Enjoy this delicious event to kick-start the fall season.

8. Get Spooked! – The Finger Lakes has a long history of tales from the beyond. With Halloween coming, fall is the perfect opportunity to get spooked by the history of the region along the Haunted History Trail of New York State. Along the trail you’ll find stories of asylums, hotels and even a winery (Miles Winery) that will make your hair stand on end. Or, be part of the fun by experiencing the Mansion Mysteries at Sonnenberg Gardens in Canandaigua (visit their website for dates and tickets). If your family enjoys a good scare and thrilling endeavors, a haunted zip line at Bristol Mountain’s SCaerial Adventures will deliver a frightful experience.

7. Paddle the Lakes – With fewer motor boats on the lakes, it is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the water with a kayak or canoe. Fortunately, many of our lakefront vacation homes come with all of the accessories needed for paddling the lakes, non-motorized boats included. Be the first to rise and glide across the water as the sunlight first hits the vibrant autumn colors surrounding the lakes. For many of our guests, this is the peak of their fall getaway.

6. Corn Mazes & Pumpkin Patches – Pumpkin Patches aren’t just for the little ones. Make a race out of a corn maze, catapult some pumpkins and see who can carve the best pumpkin for some fun off-lake activities during your fall stay. Many of these markets now offer local wine and craft beers for a delicious fall pairing.

5. Explore the Museums – Throughout the Finger Lakes there are a variety of museums to explore. From the Women’s Rights National Historic Park in Seneca Falls, to the Finger Lakes Boating Museum in Hammondsport, along with the diverse art collection at the Rockwell Museum in Corning, the area is rich in history. For the fall season, be sure to visit the Corning Museum of Glass for their Glass Harvest and Glass Pumpkin blowing events.

4. Go Picking – There is nothing like the taste of fresh, crisp apples off the tree. Accompanied by a hay ride, fresh warm apple cider and donuts, picking apples is an event that many locals anticipate all year. The fun doesn’t stop at just apples. The fall is also prime time for picking pumpkins and grapes at select farms throughout the Finger Lakes.

3. Wine & Grape Harvest – If you have not visited the wineries of the Finger Lakes, the fall is one of the best seasons to make the trip. With over 100 different wineries throughout the region, many nationally and internationally acclaimed, you can taste a variety of red and white award-winning wines for just a few dollars per tasting room. The grape harvest typically begins in the first week of September and lasts through the end of October as the different varieties ripen. Some wineries, such as Fox Run Vineyards and Fulkerson Winery, offer tours through the vineyards and some of their production facilities. You will gain a new appreciation for the flavors in your wine glass with these educational tours.

2. Hiking the Waterfalls – Crisp fall days are an ideal time to explore the Finger Lakes by foot. From picturesque gorges and waterfalls, such as Watkins Glen State Park on the South end of Seneca Lake to the gradual hiking trails of the Cummings Nature Center along Canandaigua Lake, there are trails to suit any level of hiker.

Enjoy the Beauty of Fall Foliage From the Lake and Above – Typically the first two weeks of October are the prime time for leaf peepers to enjoy the beauty of the fall foliage. Whether it is from the dock of your lakeside home or while out exploring the region, do not forget your camera! The bright colors are majestic. A great leaf peeping experience includes riding the chairlift at Bristol Mountain Fall Sky Rides. While you’re there, you can take it to the next level by coasting through the trees on the zip line at their Aerial Adventures Park.