Best Finger Lakes resorts: Top 19 places to vacation by the lake

The Finger Lakes region is one of the most beautiful in New York State. Waterfalls, rolling hills, dense forests and gorges: the diverse landscape provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities and adventure. However, the area's main feature is its 11 narrow and long glacial lakes, which give it its name.

From luxurious five-star hotels to tranquil rural retreats, the best resorts in the Finger Lakes are waiting for you. To quickly choose your accommodation option, check out the following list of top-rated locations.

Statler Hotel at Cornell University, Ithaca

Statler Hotel is one of the best resorts in the region. It is located in Ithaca on the territory of the Ivy League star, Cornell University. Thus, walking through the well-groomed grounds among the historic buildings of the campus is a special pleasure.

Statler Hotel was established in 1950 to train students who chose the hotel industry. For more than 70 years, the resort has been welcoming guests at the highest level, offering perfect service, high-quality furnishings, modern amenities and amazing views of Cornell University and picturesque Cayuga Lake. Students are paired with professionals who supervise future employees of the hospitality industry at every step of the way.

The following amenities are available for resort guests:

• fitness centre;
• several food outlets;
• free shuttle service to and from the airport.

The Mac's and The Terrace restaurants serve Italian and Pan-Asian cuisine, and there is also a cozy Banfi tavern on site.

The resort has a good location near Ithaca, so you can go for a walk in the beautiful city at any time. We also recommend visiting Robert H. Treman State Park to see a beautiful waterfall with your own eyes.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa, Skaneateles

Strolling through the amazingly manicured grounds of this resort in the Finger Lakes region, you forget you're in New York State. The pompous complex offers the perfect vacation with upscale amenities. And all this in a luxurious French-style castle, which is perfect for a romantic getaway.

The Mirbeau Inn & Spa is home to the excellent Willow by Charlie Palmer restaurant, which serves a delicious variety of dishes. If you don't want to leave your comfortable room, you can order room service. A fitness centre is also available for resort guests. For maximum relaxation, we recommend visiting the spa centre with a jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, and a wide range of treatments.

Accommodation options include 49 rooms with the best amenities, including simple bathrooms and queen or king-size beds. The pride of the resort is its lush gardens, as colorful as Claude Monet's works.

Plum Point Lodge

For lovers of a relaxing family vacation near the water, Plum Point Lodge is a great choice. The recently renovated property offers cozy, comfortable rooms in two buildings. The Farmhouse Suite is a popular choice for romantic weekends.

The cottage also offers opportunities for glamping by the lake. The complex has an excellent restaurant called Sapalta, which serves farm-to-table cuisine. Other facilities include:

• a full-size swimming pool;
• a variety of water activities;
• a pier along the 300-foot-long lakefront promenade, and more.

In addition, visitors have direct access to Finger Lake, which is especially nice on hot summer days.

The Inns of Aurora

For those looking to escape to a luxurious, elegant setting, the Inns of Aurora is the perfect choice. This romantic Finger Lakes resort is located right on the shores of a beautiful lake. The complex consists of five separate properties in the picturesque village of Aurora.

1. Aurora Inn. One of the oldest establishments, founded in 1883. In 2003, the hotel was renovated, adding modern amenities to its historical appeal. The Aurora Inn is the best choice for a romantic vacation.
2. E.B. Morgan House is the oldest inn among the five properties built in 1858. Guests can stay in one of seven rooms with large verandas.
3. The Zabriskie House, dating back to 1904, was renovated in 2019. The hotel is located in the heart of the village and has 11 rooms. The main feature of the Zabriskie House is the front porch with columns.
4. Rowland House, built in 1903, was completely renovated in 2014. The two-storey boat house impresses with its architecture, but the most favorite place for meetings and sunset is the Greek temple on the shore.
5. Wallcourt Hall (1909) was renovated in 2016, so it looks more modern and can offer an updated interior. There are 16 rooms to choose from.

There is a lot of entertainment for an unforgettable vacation. However, it is worth noting that children under 14 years old cannot stay at the resort unless you rent the entire residence.

There are several excellent dining options on the grounds of the Inns of Aurora with magnificent views and elegant furnishings. Whichever restaurant you choose, you are sure to enjoy it. Other amenities include:

• a wellness centre;
• a culinary demonstration kitchen;
• free paddleboard, canoe and kayak rentals;
• a luxurious spa that opened in 2001.

Hiking enthusiasts have access to a 3.5-mile-long trail.

Lakeside Resort & 3812 Bistro

Lakeside Resort is situated on a scenic 30-acre property with fantastic views of Seneca Lake. The resort in Finger Lakes is a short drive from Watkins Glen.

Accommodation options range from spacious rooms with a private balcony to comfortable cottages, including:

• Garden Cabins;
• Lake View Cabins;
• Creekside.

Guests can stroll along equipped walking paths, admiring waterfalls and other natural wonders.

A special feature of the complex is the famous 3812 Bistro, which offers dishes using local farm products. Here you will find a large selection of delicious craft beers and a homely atmosphere.

Argos Inn

One of the best resorts in Finger Lakes, New York is designed for adults only. Argos Inn is a romantic and cozy complex located in Ithaca. It is a historic white mansion that exudes charm and makes one fall in love with its atmosphere at first sight. The building was built in 1831, so the mansion itself is included in the list of national historical monuments. Guests will find antique furniture and other interior details inside, as well as 20th-century art.

The mansion was renovated in 2017, so the resort can offer modern amenities. Pets and children under 12 years old are not allowed here, so you can count on a carefree, relaxing vacation.

The Rook snack bar is nearby, and for a full dinner or lunch, we recommend visiting the restaurant located at the Argos Warehouse sister hotel.

41 Lakefront Hotel

The modern 41 Lakefront Hotel is the starting point for exploring the best wine routes in Finger Lakes. The complex is located in close proximity to many award-winning wineries. In addition, the most popular attractions in the region are nearby, including

• Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack;
• Casino de Lago;
• Waterloo Premium Outlets.

The hotel offers rooms in different configurations, but each of them is cozy and stylish, ideal for relaxing after a long busy day. There are also many amenities for guests, such as a fitness centre, bar, and restaurant.

Vidcliffe Hotel & Spa

This resort in the Finger Lakes region of New York is in Fairport, atop a picturesque hill. A 20-minute drive from downtown Rochester, Woodcliff Hotel & Spa is a relaxing getaway away from the bustling city.

The resort offers many amenities for its guests, including:

• a full-service spa;
• a golf course;
• outdoor and indoor swimming pools;

• restaurant;
• Craftsman Cafe, specializing in breakfast;
• Horizons Lounge with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

If you want to get as many amenities as possible, we recommend booking a spacious suite with a jacuzzi; two-storey suites are also available.

Geneva on the Lake Boutique Resort Hotel

If you want to feel like royalty, we recommend staying at this luxury resort near Finger Lakes, New York. Geneva on the Lake Boutique Resort Hotel is located in the unusual city of Geneva. The villa with Italian-style interiors is as impressive as the perfect manicured gardens around it. The main amenities include the following:

• in-room spa services;
• an outdoor 70-foot swimming pool;
• in-house Lancellotti's restaurant, which uses products grown in the hotel's gardens to prepare dishes;
• an outdoor terrace with views of Seneca Lake;
• room service if you do not want to leave your cozy apartment.

There are 29 studios and suites available for guests, decorated with Stickley furniture, a full kitchen, and beautiful views. Some apartments have fireplaces and jacuzzis, so they are often chosen by couples for romantic vacations or weekends.

Large groups can book the luxurious, spacious townhouses, which are about 20 feet from the main hotel building. The two-story houses have two bedrooms as well as a private patio.

34 State Historic Lakeshore Suites

To get to know the Finger Lakes region, the 34 State Historic Luxury Suites is the best place to stay, as it is a short drive from Hancock, Waterloo, and Cortland airports.

The pride of the resort is the works of the artist John D. Barrow, which adorn the walls and library. The hotel's interior is elegant, with a harmonious combination of antiques and modern decor. Enjoy a hearty continental breakfast on the terrace with beautiful views or order a meal in a spacious, cozy suite.

A favorite place for guests to relax is the common lounge, equipped with comfortable sofas, armchairs, and a coffee machine. The outdoor furnished terrace offers views of the lush garden; free parking is available on site.

Del Lago Resort

The Finger Lakes region has the best entertainment, where something interesting is always happening. Del Lago Resort is a large complex with 205 elegant rooms and luxury suites. In addition, the resort includes the Galleria del Lago shopping area with bars and nine restaurants, so you can stay on site all weekend long.

It's worth noting that the resort is for adults only, which means it's perfect for a romantic vacation. The pride of the del Lago Resort is the huge Spa del Lago with a cedar wood sauna and herbal steam bath. The number of treatments is impressive, including everything from haircuts to aromatherapy manicures. Concerts and various events are regularly held at the Vine Showroom.

The Mansion at Keuka Lake

A former Esperance mansion, the Mansion at Keuka Lake is one of the finest resorts in Finger Lakes, offering luxurious, comfortable accommodations. The hotel is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The property is located near the water and offers amazing views of Keuka Lake. Thanks to its beautifully manicured grounds, the Mansion is a popular choice for weddings or other large-scale events.

For those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, the Inn at Esperanza with 21 rooms is a good option for accommodation. The apartments include a private balcony or patio.

Belhurst Castle

This unique resort is located in a beautiful historic setting. The hotel is housed in an authentic castle dating back to the late 1800s on the shores of Seneca Lake. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, earning it the status of one of the most romantic resorts in the region.

Belhurst Castle is essentially three separate hotels, including:

• Belhurst Castle Chambers, which immerses guests in the Victorian era;
• Vinifera Inn is a more modern establishment built in 2003;
• White Springs Manor, located 2.5 miles from the castle, is a Georgian mansion of the 1900s with 12 rooms.

There are two restaurants on the territory of the complex, which add to the pleasure of the vacation. Guests also have access to the Isabella Spa with a wide range of relaxing treatments.

Special attention should be paid to the Bellhurst Castle Winery with strong cider, craft beer and, of course, Estate Wines wine.

La Tourelle Hotel, Bistro & Spa

La Tourelle Hotel, Bistro & Spa complex is located among the picturesque landscapes of Ithaca. The 70-acre grounds provide plenty of opportunities for walking along well-groomed trails and enjoying amazing views. Be sure to visit Buttermilk Falls, which is a true natural gem of New York State.

Here you will be able to relax as much as possible because relaxation is a priority for guests of the spacious estate. Most suites and rooms have fireplaces and beautiful views from the windows. You can stay in one of the 53 rooms.

Large companies can book accommodation in the two-storey Yellow Barn Suite, which is located in a former yellow barn that has been completely restored and updated. The apartment has three bedrooms, a spacious living room, and a kitchenette.

Among the key amenities available to visitors to La Tourelle Hotel, Bistro & Spa are a fitness centre and the August Moon Spa, where you can relax after a busy day. In addition, there is a gift shop, Bistro At La Tourelle restaurant, and a large business centre.

Springside Inn

Located in Auburn, this historic hotel is ideal for a weekend by Finger Lake. The main building was built in 1854, so it has a rich past. In particular, Harriet Tubman once hid runaway slaves here when she worked on the Underground Railroad.

The Springside Inn is located across from the western edge of Lake Owasko, surrounded by carefully manicured gardens and green lawns, which is why it's such a pleasant place to walk around.

You can stay in one of the seven elegant rooms that recreate times gone by. Breakfast is included in the booking price. There is also an Oak & Vine restaurant.

Hope Lake Lodge, Grike's Peak Mountain Resort

There are resorts in Finger Lakes, New York, that are ideal for vacations with children. For example, Hope Lake Lodge, which is part of Greek Peak Mountain. It is a cozy property with amazing views of the surrounding mountains and many amenities, including

• an outdoor pool;
• two restaurants;
• opportunities for skiing;
• a Starbucks cafe, and more.

Stepping inside, you will find a central stone fireplace, walls decorated with beams, and wood panelling. All this gives a feeling of coziness despite the impressive size of the resort.

Special attention is paid to entertainment for children. A separate menu has been created for younger guests. Interesting coloring books, outdoor games, and free treats are constantly organized there.

You can book accommodation in one of the 151 suites specially designed for families. The apartments include a fireplace, comfortable beds, and in most cases a fully equipped kitchen.

Guests of the complex have easy access to the Cascades indoor water park with water slides, pools, and more. It's worth noting that access is not included in the price of the reservation, so tickets must be purchased separately.

The Greek Peak Mountain Resort, which is most popular in winter, is found across the street from Hope Lake Lodge. However, there are plenty of things to do in summer too, such as zip lines, bunkhouses, or alpine slides.

After an active and adventurous day, we recommend visiting the spa centre with various treatment rooms, including a separate sauna.

Inn at Taughannock Falls, Taughannock State Park

Inn at Taughannock Falls is an idyllic resort in the Finger Lakes region, located on 12 picturesque acres of land in Taughannock State Park. A special feature of the complex is the opportunity to admire the views of one of the most famous waterfalls in New York State, which is just a few steps from the amazing natural attraction.

The resort offers a variety of accommodation options, but they are always luxurious. For example, the Victorian Inn suites are charming and elegant, with minimalist décor. Edgewood Lakeview offers more modern amenities, rooms with small kitchens, and lake views. To feel united with nature, we recommend booking a room at Parkview, located on the gorge trail. A great option for large groups or families is the Hillside House, which can be rented whole.

The Inn at Taughannock Falls does not have its own pool, but the lake is very close by, so you can spend time by the water and refresh yourself on hot days.

The Lake House at Canandaigua Preferred Lvx Collection

The Lake House at Canandaigua Preferred Lvx Collection is a beautiful family-friendly hotel that combines upscale, world-class amenities with historic charm. The complex is located on the shores of beautiful Canandaigua Lake, and the rooms offer amazing views that can be enjoyed from the furnished balconies. The apartments are equipped with fireplaces and handmade furniture. A separate kind of pleasure is a stroll through the vibrant gardens with sculptures and well-kept grounds of the resort at Finger Lakes. After an active holiday, visit the Rose Tavern or the Sand Bar restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious appetizers and famous fries.

The hotel is most popular in the summer when you can spend time on the lakefront swimming, sailing, or paddleboarding. In addition, there is an outdoor pool and an open-air hot tub.

Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

The historic Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is known for its spacious, comfortable rooms, whether you choose a suite or a guest room. Either way, the complex is one of the best resorts in the Finger Lakes area.

The apartments offer amazing views of Seneca Lake, and the rooms are equipped with orthopedic mattresses and a refrigerator. Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is the starting point for exploring the Watkins Glen area, which is decorated with a spectacular waterfall.

The Blue Pointe Grill restaurant serves American cuisine prepared with local ingredients. The Coldwater Bar serves snacks that can be enjoyed on the outdoor patio, sitting by a cozy fire. There is also an indoor pool and a fitness centre.