On the Water in the Finger Lakes
On the Water in the Finger Lakes
There is no better time to experience the stunning waterways of the Finger Lakes than during the summer months. Whether you explore the Finger Lakes by boat or take in the glistening lakeside views from one of the local beaches, there’s no shortage of ways to get on the water and take in the beauty of summer in the Finger Lakes.
DAY ONE
Fly into Rochester and head to The Beachcomber for a lakeside lunch on Conesus Lake. Enjoy delicious seafood, burgers, and sandwiches on a sandy beach at this Conesus staple. You can do more than just take in the views of Conesus Lake from the beach, head to Conesus Lake Boat Rentals after lunch and get out on the water. Rent a beautiful pontoon that seats up to 12 people and spend the afternoon on the boat.
Drive to Canandaigua and enjoy lakefront accommodations at The Lake House or Hotel Canandaigua, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. Both resorts offer stunning lakeside views, tasty cuisine, and relaxing outdoor pools.
Savor the beautiful lake views with lakeside dining at one of Canandaigua’s amazing restaurants. If you’re staying at The Lake House, be sure to check out Rose Tavern for local cuisine inspired by the bounty and beauty of the Finger Lakes. If you’re in the mood for Italian, head to Coho Pizza and Wine Bar for pizza, Italian fare, burgers, and wine that can all be enjoyed with a view of Canandaigua Lake. Or choose from a variety of other dining options, there’s something in Canandaigua for every palate. If you want to eat on the water, a dinner cruise on the Canandaigua Lady is just for you!
DAY TWO
Grab breakfast and spend your morning relaxing at the Lakeside Pool. If you don’t want to waste any time getting out on the water, book a private cruise with Seager Marine and spend two hours exploring Canandaigua Lake with an experienced captain.
Tap into your adventurous side and try out paddle boarding, kayaking, or windsurfing at Canandaigua Sailboard. If you’re looking to stick to the land, take a walk along the north shore of Canandaigua Lake. Enjoy the scenery as you stroll along the .5-mile path. On the way, stop at Kershaw Park and take in the views from the beach, the lawn, or one of the park benches.
Now that you’ve played in Canandaigua Lake, head to Geneva where you’ll find, Seneca Lake, and enjoy lunch at F2K Kitchen located at 41 Lakefront Hotel. F2K Kitchen has delicious appetizers, salads, and entrees like a Mississippi Pot Roast Sandwich or Chicken Sandi.
Drive over to the charming town of Seneca Falls, the birthplace of women’s rights. Have dinner at Wolffy’s Grill & Marina and take in the views of Cayuga Lake while you enjoy burgers, sandwiches, and seafood.
Don’t forget about your sweet tooth! After dinner take a drive down Cayuga Lake to Cayuga Lake Creamery’s Interlaken location. Sample the creamery’s homemade ice cream made in small batches right on-site. Try unique flavors like Blueberry Cheesecake, Cherry Jubilee, or Coconut Almond Fudge.
Spend the night in Seneca County at one of the lakeside properties on Cayuga or Seneca Lake.
DAY THREE
Start your morning off right with brunch at 1833 Kitchen & Bar in Aurora. Keep it simple with their Classic Breakfast or try some of their custom offerings like Lobster Benedict or a Tasso Ham Omelet. Don’t forget to add a mimosa!
After brunch, visit Emerson Park on Owasco Lake to relax at the beach, go swimming, or take a boat out. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard from Owasco Paddles while you’re there.
When you get hungry, head down the street and grab ice cream from Thom Thumb Drive-In, an Owasco Lake staple since 1978. While you’re there, try your hand at the mini-golf course.
You can’t leave the Finger Lakes without visiting a winery, so if you have some time before dinner enjoy a tasting at Quarry Ridge Winery on Cayuga Lake. This family-owned winery prides itself on the unique vineyards of the Finger Lakes and makes sure that the natural terroir of the region shines through with its wines.
After your tasting, get ready for one last lakeside dinner at Wheelhouse Restaurant. This third-generation-owned Cayuga Lake restaurant prides itself on excellent food and a casual atmosphere. They only serve the freshest seafood and craft weekly specials based on the seasonal catch.
Spend your final night at one of the many great accommodations in Cayuga County.
Fly out of Syracuse. If you have more time, check out some of the waterfalls or hiking trails in the Finger Lakes.
