Finger Lakes - Discovering United States of America

Travelling to Finger Lakes

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Finger Lakes, a pretty good destination in United States of America (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Finger Lakes and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Finger Lakes, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through United States of America, here's everything to know about Finger Lakes for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Finger Lakes

Finger Lakes is a beautiful and picturesque region located in central New York, United States. It is named after the eleven narrow and elongated glacial lakes that are spread across the region, resembling fingers. The region is known for its scenic and natural beauty, including forests, hills, waterfalls, and gorges. The Finger Lakes region is also famous for its wineries, producing high-quality wines that are enjoyed all over the world. It offers numerous outdoor recreational activities like hiking, boating, fishing, skiing, and snowboarding. Additionally, the region has charming small towns and villages that are full of history, culture, and friendly people.

What to visit in Finger Lakes

Sure, here are the top tourist attractions in Finger Lakes with some information about each of them: 1. Watkins Glen State Park - Known for its stunning waterfalls and scenic trails, Watkins Glen State Park attracts visitors from all over the world. The park offers several trails, ranging in difficulty, that lead you through tunnels, over bridges, and near 19 waterfalls.
2. Seneca Lake Wine Trail - The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is a series of wineries and vineyards located around Seneca Lake. The area has become known as one of the top wine regions in the country. Visitors can sample award-winning wines and learn about the wine-making process.
3. Corning Museum of Glass - This world-renowned museum has an extensive collection of glass art, history, and science. Visitors can learn about the history of glass and watch live glassblowing demonstrations.
4. Taughannock Falls State Park - The park is home to one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains. Taughannock Falls drops 215 feet into a gorge and offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Finger Lakes National Forest - The Finger Lakes National Forest is an incredible area of nature that covers 30,000 acres. It offers a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the Finger Lakes region.
6. Erie Canal - The Erie Canal is an important piece of American history and is still in use today. Visitors can explore the canal by taking a boat ride or biking along the towpath. There are also several museums and visitor centers that provide information about the canal's history.
7. Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge - The refuge covers over 7,000 acres and is a migratory stopover for over 200 species of birds. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the refuge or hike on one of the nature trails.
8. Skaneateles Lake - Skaneateles Lake is known for its crystal clear water and charming town. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake or wander through the quaint shops and restaurants in the town.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Finger Lakes that are definitely worth visiting!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in United States of America, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Finger Lakes.

When to go on holiday to Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region in the United States has four distinct seasons, with warm summers, cool fall weather, cold winters and pleasant spring season. The most popular time to visit is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the peak tourist season, which means that prices for accommodation and activities can be higher, and there may be crowds in the popular tourist spots. If you prefer to avoid peak season, you may want to consider visiting Finger Lakes in the spring or fall season (April to May or September to October). During these months, there are fewer tourists, and the weather is still pleasant. You can also enjoy the beautiful fall foliage and harvest festivals that take place during the fall season. If you are interested in winter sports, Finger Lakes is also a great destination to visit during the winter season (December to February). You'll find plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities, along with festive events and holiday celebrations.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Finger Lakes

Finger Lakes can be accessed by various modes of transportation, including: 1. By car: Finger Lakes is easily accessible by car through several major highways. From New York City, take I-81 north to exit 12B and follow the signs to Finger Lakes. The drive usually takes about 4 hours.
2. By train: Amtrak runs trains to Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo, which are all near to Finger Lakes. From these cities, you can rent a car or take a bus to reach Finger Lakes.
3. By bus: Greyhound Bus Lines and Trailways both have bus stops in various Finger Lakes cities, including Ithaca, Geneva, and Auburn.
4. By plane: The nearest major airports are Syracuse Hancock International Airport and Greater Rochester International Airport, both of which have regular flights from several major US cities. You can rent a car or take a bus from these airports to reach Finger Lakes.
Once you reach Finger Lakes, there are several ways to get around, including renting a car, taking a bus tour, or cycling.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Finger Lakes, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Finger Lakes

1. Grape Pie - a fruit pie made with locally grown Concord grapes and a buttery crust.
2. Cornell Chicken - a barbecue chicken marinade made with vinegar, oil, and poultry seasoning, invented by Dr. Robert Baker of Cornell University.
3. Salt Potatoes - small, boiled potatoes served with melted butter and salt, a regional snack that originated with Irish salt miners in the 1800s.
4. Spiedies - marinated and grilled cubes of meat (usually chicken, pork, or lamb) served on bread or a roll, a Binghamton and Southern Tier-area specialty.
5. Beef on Weck - a roast beef sandwich served on a kummelweck roll (a caraway-seed-flecked roll topped with pretzel salt), a classic dish from the Buffalo area.
6. Fish Fry - battered and fried fish (usually haddock or cod) served with fries and tartar sauce, a popular Friday meal in the Finger Lakes region.
7. Apple Cider Doughnuts - fried doughnuts made with local apple cider and dusted with cinnamon sugar, commonly found at apple orchards and farmers' markets throughout the region.
8. Poutine - french fries topped with gravy and cheese curds, a beloved dish from neighboring Canada that has gained popularity in the Finger Lakes.
You can find general info about typical foods in United States of America here.

Is Finger Lakes an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of visiting Finger Lakes in the United States of America can vary based on the type of trip you are looking to have and your personal preferences. However, in general, it is considered to be a relatively affordable destination, especially compared to other popular tourist spots in the US.
Accommodation and transportation costs can vary depending on the time of year you visit, but on average, you can find a range of options at different price points. Activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and exploring local museums and historic sites are typically affordable or even free.
However, if you plan to indulge in fine dining, wine tasting, and spa treatments, these experiences can be more expensive. Overall, Finger Lakes offers a range of options to fit various travel budgets.

Where to find accomodation in Finger Lakes

The five most popular towns in the Finger Lakes area for travelers are Ithaca, Watkins Glen, Skaneateles, Geneva, and Canandaigua. Each of these towns offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Choosing a location to stay depends on your specific interests, preferences, and itinerary. For example, if you are interested in hiking and outdoor activities, Ithaca or Watkins Glen might be best, while if you are interested in wine tasting, Geneva or Canandaigua might be more suitable.
You can check hotel prices at Finger Lakes here:
Booking.com

Is Finger Lakes a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Finger Lakes region in the United States of America is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The region is a popular tourist destination known for its vineyards, waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic lakes. However, travelers should always exercise common sense and take precautions, such as locking their doors and windows, not leaving valuable items unattended in public areas, and being aware of their surroundings, especially at night. Additionally, visitors should check current safety guidelines and advisories before planning a trip to the Finger Lakes region.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in United States of America here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Finger Lakes.

What type of travelers will enjoy Finger Lakes the most?

Finger Lakes in the United States is a great destination for all kinds of travelers. However, some groups might enjoy it more than others. Here are a few suggestions: - Couples: Finger Lakes is an ideal spot for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The area is home to many wineries and vineyards, making it the perfect place for a wine tasting tour. You can also take a hot air balloon ride for a breathtaking view of the region, or spend some quality time kayaking on the lakes.
- Young People: Finger Lakes has ample opportunities for adventure, making it great for young people who are looking for fun. There are plenty of hiking trails that offer stunning views, as well as water sports such as boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Families: Finger Lakes is a great option for families with children as well. There are several family-friendly activities such as visiting the Corning Museum of Glass, or heading to the Seneca Park Zoo. You can also take a trip to the Strong National Museum of Play, which is perfect for kids of all ages.
Overall, Finger Lakes is a great destination for everyone, with something for every type of traveler.

How to get around Finger Lakes

The best ways to move around Finger Lakes, USA are by car, bike, or boat. While there is limited public transportation available, having a car will give you the most flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. Biking is also a great option, as there are plenty of bike rental shops and many scenic paths to follow. Lastly, the lakes themselves offer various boat tours and rentals, which are a unique way to explore the region.

What to see around Finger Lakes

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Finger Lakes: 1. Watkins Glen State Park: famous park known for its 19 waterfalls and beautiful landscapes, located just about 25 miles from the Finger Lakes.
2. Taughannock Falls State Park: Beautiful park known for its stunning 215-foot waterfall, located about 25 miles from Finger Lakes.
3. Letchworth State Park: Known for its scenic views and waterfalls, often called the "Grand Canyon of the East", located about 65 miles from Finger Lakes.
4. Skaneateles Lake: Known for its crystal-clear waters and quaint village, located just about 30 miles from Finger Lakes.
5. Corning Museum of Glass: museum showcasing exquisite glass artworks and hands-on workshops, located about 45 miles from Finger Lakes.
6. Seneca Lake Wine Trail: Known for its award-winning wineries, offering wine-tasting tours, located just about 10 miles from Finger Lakes.
7. The Erie Canal: a historic waterway that offers bike tours and boat rides, showcasing historic towns and breathtaking views, located within 25 miles from Finger Lakes.
8. Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Site: Known for its stunning gardens and beautiful mansion, located about 30 miles from Finger Lakes.
I hope these suggestions will be helpful to you!
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