FAQs
How many Finger Lakes are there?
Eleven Finger Lakes and one Great Lake. From west to east, they are: Conesus, Hemlock, Canadice, Honeoye, Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles, and Otisco. Lake Ontario is to the north.
How big is the Finger Lakes Region?
Believe it or not, the size of the Finger Lakes region rivals that of a small state! The region covers 9,000 square miles containing 14 communities, 11 lakes and countless adventures.
What is the weather like in the Finger Lakes?
Like the rest of New York State, the Finger Lakes is a four-season destination – we experience a little bit of everything!
Summers bring the hot, sunny days with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s. It’s the perfect time to get the boat on the water and enjoy those eleven lakes! In the fall and spring, the weather stays comfortable in the 50s and 60s with blooming flowers and vibrant colors. Winter in the Finger Lakes is a snowy landscape. As the lakes freeze over, locals and visitors alike bundle up to hit the slopes, go ice fishing or attend a winter festival. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of wineries, breweries, and restaurants to visit to escape from the cold while enjoying some of the region’s incredible cuisine.
When is the best time to leaf-peep and see the colors?
As the leaves start to change color in the fall, the region comes alive with splashes of red, orange, and yellow. The best times for leaf-peeping in the Finger Lakes is usually around late September or early October, though this can change if there is a hot summer or early autumn cool down. The best way to know when the leaves are reaching peak color is to keep an eye on our website and social media for updates as autumn sets in.
How do I get to the Finger Lakes? And how do I get around once I am there?
By train, plane, or automobile! The Finger Lakes region has three airports: the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport, the Syracuse Hancock International Airport, and the Elmira Corning Regional Airport in Horseheads, NY. All offer flights to and from the region daily. The William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center in Syracuse and the Louise M. Slaughter Station in Rochester both operate bus and train routes to regional destinations.
Once in the Finger Lakes, personal vehicle is the most reliable mode of transportation. The local airports have options from several major car rental companies, and ride share services are often available.
How many wineries are there in the Finger Lakes? What about craft breweries and distilleries?
There are nearly 150 wineries in the Finger Lakes Region and over 80 breweries, distilleries and cideries. Several wine trails and craft beverage trails host events and offer incentives for visitors to explore them.
Where do I stay?
That all depends on what you want to do! We have fourteen communities that make up the Finger Lakes region, and each one has several options for overnight accommodations. Hotels, bed & breakfasts, camping sites, glamping resorts, cabins, yurts, and even covered wagons! We suggest you narrow down where you want to be based on what activities you’re looking to do. Use our list of “Places to Stay” to guide you in the right direction.
Are there dog-friendly places in the Finger Lakes?
Yes! We love our four-legged friends. Many of the wineries and breweries are dog-friendly – though it’s always a good idea to confirm before visiting. Additionally, there are several accommodations and hiking trails that will welcome your pups for a visit.
What if I have more questions?
We’re happy to help! Reach out to us on social media, give us a call at 1-888-408-1693, or fill out our contact form. We can’t wait to help you plan your perfect trip to the Finger Lakes.
