Iroquois legend tells us that the Finger Lakes in New York state were formed when the Great Spirit placed his hand in blessing on this land, leaving behind an imprint. And so the 5 main lakes (of the 11 total) in west-central New York do look like “fingers” – hence the name of this region. The names of the Finger Lakes still remind us of the history of the Iroguois that lived here for over 200 years – from east to west, the lakes are Otisco, Skaneateles, Owasco, Cayuga, Seneca, Keuka, Canandaigua, Honeoye, Canadice, Hemlock, and Conesus.
Geologists of course, prefer the scientific (but somewhat less interesting) reason for the creation of this region: retreating Ice Age glaciers, with their intense pressure, gouged the deep holes that created the lakes about a million years ago. This also accounts for the more than 1,000 waterfalls in the area, as well as the wide fertile valleys that are responsible for the perfect climate for the region’s famous wine country.
No matter which version you prefer, there’s no question that the Finger Lakes are a lovely and interesting destination to consider for your next vacation. Whether you’re interested in beautiful scenery, fascinating historical sites, museums and architecture, outdoor sports, or want to take one of the many wine tours, the Finger Lakes have it all.
While there are several cities in this area, much of the Finger Lakes region is rural, with farms and quaint villages contrasting with some exceptional examples of 19th-century architecture throughout the picturesque landscape. Touring the area – especially for those interested in checking out the many vineyards – is a delightful way to spend a few days.
Of course, it is the Finger ‘Lakes’, so visitors to this area can expect many opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, especially during the warmer months. In addition, those looking for land-based activities can hike the challenging trails in the region’s stunning state parks with their dramatic rocky gorges and cascading waterfalls.
The Finger Lakes region is home to quite a bit of interesting history as well, with a number of sites in the area providing the visitor who loves history with some fascinating places to explore. Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon Church, had a vision here leading to the beginning of that church. Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony worked for women’s suffrage here, and this region is considered the birthplace of the women’s movement as a result. Frederick Douglass worked for the abolition of slavery near his home in Rochester and Harriet Tubman smuggled slaves to Canada along the region’s many Underground Railroad stops. And Mark Twain wrote The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn here as well.
For visitors who are looking for culture and museums, the Finger Lakes offers some great options. Here you’ll find the Corning Museum of Glass, which offers one of the world’s finest collections of art and historical glass. Guests who visit this museum will want to explore the museum’s Innovation Center which focuses on the actual science of glass, with hands-on exhibits and live demonstrations of glassmaking. The photography enthusiast won’t want to miss the George Eastman Museum, which was once the home of the founder of Eastman Kodak. While the historic mansion and gardens are worth visiting in themselves, the International Museum of Photography and Film, connected to the mansion, is the perfect place to learn about the history of photography.
And for families with children (or those who are kids at heart), be sure to plan time to visit the Strong International Museum of Play, which is home to the world’s most comprehensive toy collection. From “Sesame Street” to electronic games, books to board games, dolls to all kinds of vehicles, if you can play with it, they’ll have it.
Now that you know you want to go, when do you want to visit? While the summer months provide the best options for outdoor water sports, fall with it’s spectacular colors, is a very popular time of the year to visit. The “shoulder seasons” between spring and summer, or summer and fall, will typically provide the best pricing, although fall visitors can usually find more availability – and better pricing – for weekday visits rather than the more popular weekend trips.
Beauty. A variety of outdoor activities. History. Culture. Oh…and wine. The Finger Lakes are ready for your visit. When are you ready to go?
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