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.
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.