Hristina Lozanovska 
Welcome to wine country! With gorgeous lakes and outstanding natural beauty, let’s explore where to stay in Finger Lakes.
The Finger Lakes region in New York State is home to more than 130 wineries, over 200 waterfalls, and the 11 long and narrow lakes that give the region its name. The Finger Lakes are a geological anomaly formed by receding glaciers, creating deep lakes and stunning gorges.
The lakes are surrounded by many quaint towns and villages, so deciding where to stay can be a bit complicated. To help you plan the perfect trip, I compared all the areas around the Finger Lakes and went through all the hotels on offer. Then, I handpicked the very best accommodation options and organized them into price categories for all types of travelers.
The top spot for your stay in the Finger Lakes region is the city of Ithaca on the South end of Cayuga Lake, offering stunning lake views, great dining, shopping, sightseeing, and accommodation. What more could you want?
Once you know which town you’ll choose, make sure you book your stay in advance because this area is packed with tourists every year, and good hotels are quick to go!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
If you want to book now, quickly browse this list of the top hotels in Ithaca, NY:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Ithaca – where to stay in the Finger Lakes for first-timers
- 2. Watkins Glen – where to stay for nature lovers
- 3. Geneva – most local area in the Finger Lakes, NY
- 4. Aurora – for a relaxing stay in the Finger Lakes
- 5. Canandaigua – best place to stay in the Finger Lakes with family
- 6. Corning – where to stay in The Finger Lakes for culture
- Other cool towns for your stay in the Finger Lakes
- FAQs about where to stay in the Finger Lakes
- Conclusion
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here’s a map of all the areas in the Finger Lakes region I will be talking about in this post:
- ITHACA : for first-timers
- WATKINS GLEN : for nature lovers
- GENEVA : for the local atmosphere
- AURORA : for a relaxing vacation
- CANANDAIGUA : for families
- CORNING : for culture
1. Ithaca – where to stay in the Finger Lakes for first-timers
Ithaca is located on the Southern tip of Cayuga Lake, the second-largest of the Finger Lakes. This stunning area is only a half-day drive from major cities like NYC, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia and 30 miles (50 km) from Seneca Lake.
Besides its convenient location, the city boasts picturesque landscapes, wineries, wine trails, and great lodging options – a great place for your first trip to the Finger Lakes.
The first thing to know about Ithaca is that it’s a college town, home to the Ivy League Cornell University and Ithaca College, so don’t be surprised if you see young crowds or even a bachelorette party around town – the nightlife is pretty lively!
When in Ithaca, the one thing you absolutely have to explore is the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, the oldest wine trail in the US. This trail is home to many vineyards where you can have plenty of fun wine-tasting the various wines native to the region, making it a top destination for a romantic getaway to the Finger Lakes!
Some of the main attractions in Ithaca are the parks. Buttermilk Falls State Park offers many hiking opportunities and is home to as many as 10 waterfalls. Robert H. Treman State Park is another unmissable park spanning over 1,110 acres, where you’ll see a gorge with waterfalls (over 150 in the park) and even a swimming hole to cool off after your hike.
A couple hours’ drive away, you’ll find Letchworth State Park or, as people like to call it, the ‘Grand Canyon of the East.’ This gorgeous area boasts numerous hiking trails, campgrounds, and magnificent nature. Taughannock Falls State Park is just a 15-minute drive away, and I highly suggest you make that trip, too!
You’ll also find many restaurants that offer amazing food and drinks – I suggest Moosewood – but I wouldn’t miss the Ithaca Farmers’ Market (map), which takes place every weekend!
Thanks to the popularity and the college proximity, Ithaca has a variety of lodgings to offer. Let’s see them:
I love the design of this boutique hotel that’s located in a historic building. Every room is decorated with both antique and modern elements, and it’s equipped with air conditioning. For the perfect end to your day, spend the evening at Bar Argos and try some of the local wines and beers.
Other accommodation options in Ithaca
Guests at this hotel will enjoy an indoor pool, a spa, and a free roundtrip airport shuttle
This affordable motel is pet-friendly, boasts clean rooms and a garden, and offers a free breakfast buffet
Bask in the comfort of this cool house that has 2 rooms, a kitchen, and a bathtub
Things to do in Ithaca
- Explore the Cornell Botanic Gardens (map)
- Hike up to the Ithaca Falls (map)
- Book a guided wine tour and try some of the 600 wines from this region
- Stroll along the Waterfront Trail
- Visit the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art and Cornell University
2. Watkins Glen – where to stay for nature lovers
Welcome to one of the most scenic villages in the Finger Lakes region! Located on the Southern shore of Seneca Lake, NY, Watkins Glen is the perfect place to visit if you want to immerse yourself in the stunning nature this region offers.
It’s a very quiet and serene place, ideal if you want to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
FUN FACT: A Native American legend says that the Finger Lakes were created when the Great Spirit laid its hands on the land to bless it and left its handprints there, which were then filled with water.
Since it’s right on Seneca Lake (the largest out of the 11 Finger Lakes), there are many opportunities for water activities like kayaking and boating. The village is also home to Watkins Glen State Park, which offers breathtaking views of the famous waterfalls – there are 19 of them – and lots of hiking trails. Plus, admission is free!
If you want to hike in the park, I recommend the Gorge Trail (map); this 2.2 mile (3.5 km) trail follows Glen Creek and goes along stone steps, through tunnels, and even under 2 waterfalls! However, it can be a bit challenging, so I only recommend this for experienced hikers.
This area is perfect for exploring the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, which is home to a community of 31 wineries situated along Seneca Lake. If you’re wondering which place to choose for a wine tasting, I highly recommend the Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard & Winery.
Once you’ve had enough of sampling all the different wines (I’m not sure you’ll ever have enough, though), you might want a different experience. If so, I suggest you head along the Eastern shores of Seneca Lake and Grist Iron Brewery, which serves a very unique product – grape beer produced from locally sourced grapes in the Finger Lakes region!
Last but not least, I suggest you embark on a cruise on Seneca Lake. You can choose from several options, as many boat companies offer cruise packages departing from Watkins Glen Harbor. Check out some of the options here.
Although this bed and breakfast is not a fancy, luxurious hotel, it has an authentic look and provides many comforts. In the morning, you can choose from several breakfast options and have your coffee in the garden, then hit the tennis court. Other amenities you’ll find here are free Wi-Fi and parking, as well as air conditioning.
Other accommodation options in Watkins Glen
Enjoy the harbor views from the comfort of your room and enjoy the indoor pool, hot tub, and bar
Explore the small waterfalls and hiking trails at this resort, which has a shared lounge, a garden, and barbecue facilities
Ever dreamt of sleeping in a boat? The accommodation features a bedroom, a kitchen, a bathroom, and a lovely patio
If none of these options are the best fit for you, and you are looking for something more unique – I’ve got you covered! Since you’ll be exploring the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, I recommend that you get the full experience of staying at a winery with lodging.
One of the most unique places to stay in the Finger Lakes is The Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars. Located in Dundee, 12 miles from Watkins Glen, this 3.5-star hotel has a tasting room and a vineyard – you can enjoy a glass of wine at any time while staying in one of the 30 rooms.
Things to do in Watkins Glen
- Head East along Seneca Lake and stop by to see Hector Falls
- Enjoy the views of Lake Seneca in Clute Park (map)
- Hike up to Rainbow Falls (map) in Watkins Glen State Park
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3. Geneva – most local area in the Finger Lakes, NY
At the North end of Seneca Lake, you’ll find Geneva, “The Jewel of Finger Lakes”, a lively and charming town and the perfect place for history buffs.
As you’ll see, the town is all about local farming and agriculture, so it’s no wonder that most of the businesses in Geneva are based on producing fruits, vegetables, dairy products sold in farm markets, wineries, and craft microbreweries.
Possibly the best thing to do around Geneva is to explore Seneca Lake State Park, which has numerous trails for light hiking, a swimming beach, and many cute spots where you can have a picnic on the water.
You also have to spend some time roaming the streets of this quaint town, its antique shops, and trying different dining spots. If you need restaurant recommendations, take mine and book a table at F.L.X. Table – they offer a one-of-a-kind interactive dining experience. But if you want something more laid-back, there’s no better choice than The Rusty Pig.
To top things off, Geneva is also conveniently situated; not only does it lie on Seneca Lake, but it’s also quite close to Keuka Lake – just a 40-minute drive away! Keuka Lake is also a great destination for a day trip from Geneva, as there are many quaint towns to explore around the lake and, of course, the Keuka Lake Wine Trail.
Situated within the historic Belhurst Castle on Seneca Lake, this charming inn is as luxurious as what I usually recommend, but it’s the most upscale property in Geneva. Some of the rooms boast lake views, and some feature in-room spa baths. Guests can also dine at the 2 on-site restaurants and buy souvenirs from the gift shop.
Other accommodation options in Geneva
This 3-star property provides free bikes, access to a gym and a lounge, and free parking
A pet-friendly hotel for budget travelers that features a fitness center and offers complimentary breakfast
Enjoy some peace and quiet in this spacious suite that boasts a patio, a queen bedroom, and a modern bathroom
Things to do in Geneva
- Book a romantic dinner at Belhurst Castle and Winery
- Spend some time visiting the nearby wineries with Winewagen Tours
- Go wine tasting at Three Brothers Wineries and Estates
4. Aurora – for a relaxing stay in the Finger Lakes
The village of Aurora, also called Aurora-on-Cayuga, is a small picturesque village on the Eastern shores of Cayuga Lake, 40 miles (65 km) away from Seneca Lake. Aurora is a very small and peaceful village, which makes it ideal for travelers who want to have a relaxing vacation.
The main point of interest here is the Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa, which is also the place to stay in Aurora. However, even if you don’t stay there, I highly recommend you spend a day at the awesome spa. You can indulge in Ayurvedic treatments, relax in the spa, or get yourself a manicure!
You can spend the rest of your time walking along the lake or sunbathing on Lake Glass Beach (map). But if you want to explore a bit more of the region, make the 20-minute drive to Owasco Lake and discover some of the best towns around here, such as Owasco and Auburn.
Relax in this comfortable, upscale inn that offers its guests access to a full-service spa, a fitness center, and lakeside fire pits. The inn also has an amazing farm-to-table restaurant where you can try fresh local food, and when the weather is nice, you can get a kayak or a canoe and go out on Cayuga Lake.
Other accommodation options in Aurora
Stay in a 19th-century converted church featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, and a spacious living area
This cozy house is perfect for a couple’s getaway, with a comfortable sleeping area, a kitchen, and a bathroom
A private room in a restored farmhouse, with an en suite bathroom and queen bed, plus access to shared spaces
Things to do in Aurora
- Have a hearty meal at Fargo Bar & Grill
- Spend a day at Long Point State Park
- Go on a boat tour of Cayuga Lake
5. Canandaigua – best place to stay in the Finger Lakes with family
Located on the Northern shore of the Canandaigua Lake and 33 miles (53 km) West of Seneca Lake, this small town has a serene atmosphere and offers scenic views of the lake and hills. Super nice downtown area too!
Also known by the Native Americans as ‘The Chosen Spot,’ this historic location is one of the best places to stay in the Finger Lakes if you’re traveling with your kids.
You’ll find plenty of activities that will keep both the adults and the little ones entertained, plus you’ll be surrounded by many natural spots where you can go on walks or hiking! One of the top attractions in town is the amazing botanical gardens at Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park (map).
Of course, we’re still in the wine country, so you can’t miss checking some of the wineries on the Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail. And if you have time, I suggest taking a day trip to Farmington, 12 miles (20 km) North of Canandaigua to explore this charming town.
Finally, if you’re a skiing or snowboarding enthusiast, book a winter stay in Canandaigua and make the most of the Bristol Mountain Ski Resort. The ski resort is just a 20-minute drive from Canandaigua, so you can have a very comfortable stay and quick and easy access to the slopes.
One of the best lakefront hotels in the Finger Lakes, this 4-star property has spacious rooms, a garden, and an outdoor swimming pool situated on the shore of Lake Canandaigua – try to book a room with a veranda to get the best views of the lake! They have a wonderful firepit too where you can sit back and relax after the day of exploring.
Other accommodation options in Canandaigua
Some of the perks of staying here include gym and pool access, a free breakfast buffet, and business facilities
Get a free kayak and go out on the on-site pond or relax by the wood-burning fireplace
Within walking distance of the lake, this studio features 2 beds, 1 bath, and a lovely kitchen/dining area
Things to do in Canandaigua
- Take the kids to Roseland Waterpark
- Plan a visit to the Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum
- Have a fun family day at Kershaw Park (map)
6. Corning – where to stay in The Finger Lakes for culture
Corning, America’s Crystal City, has been an important player in the glass industry for a long time! Located on the Chemung River and between two lakes – Keuka Lake (30 miles / 48 km) and Seneca Lake (46 miles / 74 km) – and the ultimate spot if you want a lively small-town vibe and easy access to historic attractions.
Start your day at the Southside Historic District; just walk around and admire the architecture before moving on to the Rockwell Museum (you can pre-purchase tickets online). Then, go across the river and find the Corning Museum of Glass! I highly recommend buying tickets in advance and taking a few hours to admire the world’s largest museum of glass art.
This is a very quaint town, but it’s also quite small, so if you’re planning a longer stay, you may run out of things to do. Luckily, there are plenty of other places to explore in the region – you can always embark on one of the wine trails, hike in one of the state parks, or even plan a fishing trip on Conesus Lake.
Conveniently located near the Corning Museum of Glass, this pet-friendly property features a pool and a business center. Even though it’s not super luxurious, this 3-star hotel provides excellent service, a free breakfast buffet, dry cleaning and laundry services, and free Wi-Fi. Each room in this property is air-conditioned and has an en suite bathroom.
Other accommodation options in Corning
Offering access to a gym, an indoor swimming pool, and a 24-hour snack shop, the hotel also serves daily breakfast
An affordable hotel with a 24-hour gym, a fireplace in the lobby, free self-parking, and a complimentary breakfast
A lovely house that’s tucked away between the trees and has 2 rooms, a balcony, and a garden
Things to do in Corning
- Admire the art at West End Gallery
- Spend a relaxing day in Denison Park (map)
- Learn about history at the Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes
Other cool towns for your stay in the Finger Lakes
So far, I’ve shown you the best towns where to stay in the Finger Lakes in New York for a great vacation. However, there are so many great lakes in the area and even more quaint towns, so I couldn’t resist providing 6 additional recommendations:
- Trumansburg – Near Cayuga Lake, this quaint village is famous for Taughannock Falls State Park. The Hazelnut Kitchen restaurant is the ultimate place to eat
Hotels: Gothic Eves Inn and Spa and the 16 Elm Heritage Hotel - Seneca Falls – West of Cayuga Lake, home of the Women’s Rights National Historical Park (map), Cayuga Lake State Park, and other museums and landmarks. Hotels: The Gould Hotel and Hampton Inn
- Penn Yan – Right on Keuka Lake, great starting for hiking the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail and exploring the Keuka Lake Wine Trail.
Hotels: Best Western Plus Vineyard Inn & Suites and Los Gatos Bed & Breakfast. - Hammondsport – On the South side of Keuka Lake, Hammondsport is a quiet town that’s great for outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, and seaplane rides.
Hotels: The Park Inn and Vinehurst Inn And Suites. - Syracuse – Located on the Southern tip of Onondaga Lake, the town hosts the Rosamond Gifford Zoo
Hotels: Marriott Syracuse Downtown and Hotel Skyler Syracuse. - Skaneateles – At the North end of Skaneateles Lake, this is an ideal location for water activities, like SUP and kayaking, and even fishing.
Hotels: Mirbeau Inn and Spa and Skaneateles Suites Boutique Hotel.
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$200 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | US$140 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$100 |
| 📍Best area: | Ithaca |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Canandaigua |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Argos Inn |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Hilton Garden Inn |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Rodeway Inn And Suites |
FAQs about where to stay in the Finger Lakes
🤔 Where should I stay when visiting the Finger Lakes?
The best place for a stay in the Finger Lakes Wine Country is Ithaca, a college town on Cayuga Lake with lively nightlife and stunning nature. The top hotels for your stay here are Argos Inn and Hilton Garden Inn.
🌅 Which of the Finger Lakes is most scenic?
Seneca Lake is one of the most scenic spots out of all the Finger Lakes, as it offers some great views of the waterfalls and a few scenic drives along the lake that you will love.
🍷 Where are the most wineries in the Finger Lakes?
The Seneca Lake Wine Trail has the largest number of wineries out of all the Finger Lakes. So if you’re going especially for that, I recommend staying near wineries, specifically in Watkins Glen at Hudson Manor Bed & Breakfast.
🛬 What is the closest airport to the Finger Lakes region in New York?
The nearest airport to the Finger Lakes is the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, located approximately 4 miles (6 km) Southwest of Ithaca, NY.
🛩️ What are the best hotels in Finger Lakes near Greater Rochester International Airport?
The Fairfield Inn Marriott and the Staybridge Suites are the 2 best hotels to stay near Greater Rochester International Airport.
🌊 What are the best hotels on the water in Finger Lakes?
Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa in Aurora and The Lake House on Canandaigua are 2 amazing hotels on the water that offer breathtaking lake views.
💵 How much is a hotel in Finger Lakes for this weekend?
The prices for Finger Lakes hotels vary depending on the season, the type of hotel you choose, and the length of your stay. To give you a rough idea, a hotel room in the Finger Lakes during summer can cost between US$100 and US$400.
Conclusion
What a stunning place! I hope this post helped you decide where to stay in the Finger Lakes in New York State! The lakes are a half-day drive from NYC, Washington DC and Philadelphia and you will get to see some gorgeous scenery on the way!
I know how hard it is to decide which hotel to pick, so here are my top 2 favorite ones to help you with your process:
- Argos Inn – A historic, upscale hotel with an amazing bar and cozy rooms
- Hilton Garden Inn – I appreciate the free airport shuttle and the friendly staff
Just keep in mind that many people want to visit this area, walk the wine trains, and see the Finger Lakes National Forest, so I highly recommend booking your hotel in advance to avoid any inconvenience and get the best rooms!
Leave me a comment below if you have any questions or suggestions for our readers, and I’ll make sure to answer!
Enjoy the good wine,
Hristina
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