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The Finger Lakes are a series of long, narrow lakes in central and western New York, gouged out by glaciers and running roughly north to south like outstretched fingers. The region mixes college towns, small farms, waterfalls and dozens of wineries, many of them known for Riesling and other cool-climate wines. It also has a significant place in American social history, especially the movement for women's rights.
Gorges are a highlight: Watkins Glen State Park carries a trail past waterfalls through a narrow stone canyon, while Taughannock Falls and Robert H. Treman State Park lie near Ithaca, home to Cornell University and the cascades of Ithaca Falls. Wine trails trace the slopes around Seneca Lake and Keuka Lake, where the village of Hammondsport sits at the southern tip. In Corning, the Corning Museum of Glass offers galleries and live glassblowing. Seneca Falls holds the Women's Rights National Historical Park, marking the 1848 convention, and Canandaigua's Sonnenberg Gardens and the lakeside village of Skaneateles add relaxed stops.
The region suits road trips, tasting rooms and unhurried lakeside stays. Summer is busiest, and autumn brings harvest season and color. Distances between lakes add up, so choosing one or two areas as a base helps.
WiserMap travel guideFinger Lakes New York Watkins Glen and Seneca Lake WinePlan a Finger Lakes trip in New York: Watkins Glen gorge, Taughannock Falls, Ithaca, Seneca Lake wineries, Skaneateles, Seneca Falls and the best seasons.Read the guide
A narrow gorge at the south end of Seneca Lake where the Gorge Trail climbs past 19 waterfalls, under rock arches and behind Rainbow Falls, on stone steps and bridges. It is the most famous park in the region. Tip: the trail closes in winter, and it is crowded at midday in summer.
A park on the west shore of Cayuga Lake with a 215-foot waterfall, one of the tallest east of the Rockies, falling into a deep rock amphitheater. An easy flat trail leads to its base, and a rim overlook is reached by car. Tip: the park also has a swimming beach on the lake.
A park south of Ithaca with a rugged gorge, 12 waterfalls, and the Gorge Trail between Lucifer Falls and the lower park. The lower park has a popular stream-fed swimming hole beneath a waterfall in summer. Tip: the trail has many steps, so wear sturdy shoes.
Called the Grand Canyon of the East, this park on the western edge of the region follows the Genesee River through a deep gorge with three major waterfalls. Trails and overlooks line the rim, and hot air balloon rides operate in summer. Tip: the Inspiration Point overlook is the classic view.
Dozens of wineries line the slopes around Seneca Lake, the deepest of the Finger Lakes. They are known especially for Riesling, along with sparkling wines and reds, and many have tasting rooms with lake views. Tip: book tastings ahead on weekends and plan a designated driver.
A Y-shaped lake with vineyards on its slopes and the village of Hammondsport at its southern tip, which has a town square, the Glenn H. Curtiss aviation museum and historic wineries such as Dr. Konstantin Frank. Tip: the Keuka Outlet Trail is good for an easy walk or bike ride.
One of the world's largest glass museums, with 35 centuries of glass art and science. Visitors watch live hot glass demonstrations and can make their own glass item in the studio. Tip: book a make-your-own-glass session ahead, and give yourself at least half a day here.
Seneca Falls hosted the first women's rights convention in 1848. The national park includes the Wesleyan Chapel where it took place, a visitor center with exhibits and the home of Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Tip: ranger-led tours of the Stanton house run in the warmer months.
Ithaca is a lively college town at the south end of Cayuga Lake, home to Cornell University with its gorges, botanical gardens and clock tower. Ithaca Falls is a wide waterfall close to downtown. Tip: the Ithaca Farmers Market by the lake is a favorite on weekends in season.
A lakeside city at the north end of Canandaigua Lake with a pier, boat tours and Main Street shops. Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion is a Gilded Age estate with nine formal gardens, including Japanese and rose gardens. Tip: the gardens open only from spring to autumn.
A pretty village at the north end of Skaneateles Lake, known for its very clear water, historic shops and restaurants. Lake cruises leave from the village pier, and there is a lakeside park with a gazebo. Tip: in summer, band concerts are held in the park on Friday evenings.
A large wetland at the north end of Cayuga Lake that is a major stopover for migrating birds. A wildlife drive and trails offer views of ducks, geese, herons, bald eagles and, in spring and fall, huge flocks of waterfowl. Tip: bring binoculars and visit at dawn or dusk.
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