Vacation Rentals in Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region boasts over 75 biking and hiking trails, and a top recommendation is the Grimes Glen Country Park in Naples. This family-friendly hike is flat and easy with gorgeous waterfalls en route. Be prepared to get your feet wet though and wear shoes with traction. Another worthwhile gem is the "Grand Canyon of the East," the Letchworth State Park that lends itself to horseback riding, skiing, and snowmobiling diversions. Water babies will love the kayaking, swimming, and whitewater rafting opportunities here. Winter is just as fun in Finger Lakes, and you can hit those powdery white slopes for some snowboarding, skiing, or snowmobiling. Book vacation rentals in advance as winters get busy.

A good starting point to discovering the region’s history would be the CNY Living History Center, home to three museums. Over 10,000 exhibits at the Homeville Museum trace America’s involvement in the World Wars and Civil War, while the Brockway Museum is all about trucks and tractors. Spread over 569 acres, the Ganondagan State Historic Site is the actual site of a 17th century Seneca town. Replica houses here offer visitors a glimpse into the late 1600s life of a typical Seneca family. While here, try to catch a play or musical at the sprawling Seneca Art & Culture Center. Children meanwhile will love the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester. This interactive family-friendly museum involves toys, arcade games, dolls, and pinball machines among other vintage delights.

The region boasts an enviable festival calendar. Spring ushers in the Spring Carnival Weekend which takes place at Bristol Mountain - enjoy tubing, snow volleyball, mask contests, and scavenger hunts. Native American Art, guided trail walks, and even dancers in full regalia are part of the summertime Indigenous Music & Arts Festival which takes place at the Ganondagan State Historic Site. The Naples Grape Festival in late September pays homage to the region’s grape-growing culture through outdoor music, arts, crafts, and wine-tasting events. Head to Clifton Springs in December for the eagerly awaited Festival of Lights. Native American Winter Games and Sports await at the Ganondagan State Historic Site.

Farm-to-table food enthusiasts will love the Finger Lakes region. Make sure to savor the typically Upstate New York dish, Chicken French – golden cutlets dabbed in a buttery lemon sauce. Atlas Bowl near Taughannock Falls beckons for its vintage bowling set up, and a top selection of ciders and craft beers. The Crystal Lake Café and Americana Vineyards is a rustic little spot where diners can feast on lobster rolls, clam chowder, and charcuterie. For lakefront dining on a spacious deck, head to Vonnie's Boathouse Bar and Grille – live bands play on some days here. Finally, satiate all sugar cravings at Monica’s Pies. Naples' local Grape Pie Queen, Monica Schenk is highly regarded for her inventive grape pies, jams, and jellies.

The best way to enjoy the Finger Lakes is to hop on board a boat that’ll sail past shimmering shorelines. Otisco Lake is perfect for pontoon boats while Skaneateles Lake and Canoga Lake are fantastic sailing and recreational boating spots. For kayaking and canoeing, the warm waters of Keuka Lake beckon.

Get in touch with Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures if you fancy zip-lining through lush forest cover. Their challenge rope courses are highly sought-after as are the hot air balloon rides where you can enjoy bird’s eye views of the landscapes.

Visit the town of Elmira, summer home to literary giant Mark Twain. Here, you can visit his study and the spot where he was buried at the Woodlawn Cemetery. The Mark Train Trolley will take you past beautiful century-old homes, and you can even check out the Chemung Valley History Museum while here.

Make time for the Corning Museum of Glass, a heady mix of science, art, and history. While here, why not embark on the Make Your Own Glass Experience, and watch glass being made right before your eyes.

The Finger Lakes region has long attracted music aficionados, and you too can enjoy live music at the many wineries and bars especially on weekends. The Clemens Center is an outstanding performing arts venue that hosts a stunning range of musical events.