From Rustic Charm To Modern Comfort: Your Guide To The Best Finger Lakes Hotels

Last Updated 28 Mar 2024 by Fiona Perisone

Our Top Rated Stays

Geneva On The Lake thumbnail

Best Overall

Be welcomed by Geneva On The Lake's serene atmosphere and superb staff. Enjoy the breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations, and world-class dining. You can also enjoy the lovely garden and the breathtaking views of Seneca Lake.

Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel thumbnail

Best Location

The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is the ideal place to enjoy the elegance and beauty of the Finger Lakes region. Take advantage of the water sports, first-rate amenities, and gorgeous lake views.

Hampton Inn Seneca Falls thumbnail

Best Budget Friendly

At Hampton Inn Seneca Falls, you can enjoy the best of the New York's Finger Lakes region at a reasonable price. This hotel offers convenience and comfort, making it a fantastic choice for travelers.

More Recommended Stays

The Finger Lakes of New York are a hidden gem! With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and bustling cultural scene, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, you'll find plenty of reasons to fall in love with the Finger Lakes.


Finger Lakes region is home to 11 stunning glacial lakes offering endless outdoor recreation opportunities, from boating and fishing to hiking and camping. The rolling hills and lush forests surrounding the lakes provide a stunning backdrop for your adventures, and you're sure to be inspired by the breathtaking views. In addition to its natural beauty, the Finger Lakes are rich in history and culture. From the birthplace of women's rights in Seneca Falls to the vineyards and wineries that produce some of the world's best wines, there are plenty of interesting places to explore and discover. The vibrant arts scene in the region should also not be missed, with everything from world-class museums and galleries to local theaters and festivals.


With its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, you should stay at least for a long weekend or longer. To help you find the right accommodations for your upcoming trip, we've highlighted the best hotels in Finger Lakes below. But before we dive in, first, let's find the best town for you.

Best Area To Stay In Finger Lakes Region

Finger Lakes encompasses over 9,000 square miles and consists of fourteen individual counties. With so many possible destinations surrounding Finger Lakes, it can be difficult to choose the right one. Here are some towns to consider:


Canandaigua

This bustling town is the heart of the Finger Lakes, offering a little bit of everything for everyone. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the lake, a cultural experience, or a night out on the town, Canandaigua has you covered.


Geneva

Geneva is the place to be for anyone looking for a laid-back experience and wine lovers. With its charming vineyards, beautiful lakefront, and historic architecture, Geneva is the epitome of small-town charm. Sip on some local wines while enjoying the stunning scenery – what could be better?


Watkins Glen

This charming village is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. The area's highlight is Watkins Glen State Park, which features a breathtaking gorge trail that winds through 19 waterfalls and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.


Skaneateles

This quaint town is often referred to as the "Jewel of the Finger Lakes," and for a good reason too. With its sparkling lake, historic architecture, and charming shops and restaurants, Skaneateles is the perfect place to relax and recharge.


Ithaca

Known for its stunning gorges and vibrant culture. This is the perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and college students alike, as the area is home to both breathtaking natural wonders and a bustling student population. The charming college town offers a vibrant arts scene, world-class restaurants, and endless outdoor activities.


Rochester

For those who prefer the hustle and bustle of a city, Rochester is the place to be. With its thriving arts scene, top-notch restaurants, and exciting nightlife, Rochester is the perfect destination for those who love to be in the thick of things.

8 Best Finger Lakes Hotels

Geneva On The Lake

Best Overall

Available Amenities:

  • Wifi
  • Pool
  • Fitness Center
  • Boating
  • Children Activities
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/Lounge
Overall Rating: 
4.7/5 stars

Cost

Cleanliness

Value

Location

Service

The Geneva On The Lake is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of the Finger Lakes wine country, offering stunning views of Seneca Lake. It is a top choice for anyone looking for a sophisticated and luxurious stay in the Finger Lakes region. With its stunning views, elegant accommodations, and world-class dining, this hotel is sure to impress even the most discerning traveler.


The hotel is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion, providing you with a sophisticated and elegant stay. One of this hotel's standout features is its design's attention to detail, with plush furnishings, stylish decor, and elegant touches throughout. The rooms and suites are spacious and well-appointed, with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi, and many offer stunning lake views.


Known for its world-class dining, Geneva On The Lake has a restaurant that serves up delicious, locally-sourced cuisine in a refined setting. Whether you're in the mood for a romantic dinner for two or a large family gathering, the Geneva On The Lake is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal. In addition to its dining, unwind with the hotel's top-notch spa offerings, including massages, facials, and rejuvenating body treatments. Maintain an active lifestyle during your stay with the hotel's fully-equipped fitness center.

Pros:

  • Cozy and quiet setting
  • Offers fine dining option on site 
  • Spacious and comfortable rooms
  • Great location with a stunning view
  • Located in the heart of wine country. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the local wineries and tasting rooms.

Cons:

  • Feature antique furnishings, fireplaces, and original artwork, which add to the hotel's historic atmosphere but can feel outdated for some
  • It can be quite expensive compared to other hotels in the area
  • Although the location on the shores of Seneca Lake is beautiful, it is also quite remote

Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

Best Location

Available Amenities:

  • Wifi
  • Pool
  • Fitness Center
  • Water sport equipment rentals
  • Books, DVDs, Music for children
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/Lounge
Overall Rating: 
4.5/5 stars

Cost

Cleanliness

Value

Location

Service

Whether you're in town for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is the perfect place to experience the beauty and luxury of the Finger Lakes region. With its stunning lake views, top-notch amenities, and prime location, this hotel is one of the best hotels for travelers looking for the ultimate in comfort and relaxation.


Located on the shores of Seneca Lake, this hotel offers breathtaking views and luxurious amenities. The elegant guest rooms feature modern furnishings, plush bedding, and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase stunning lake and mountain views. Featuring an on-site restaurant that serves up locally-sourced cuisine in a sophisticated setting that is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The hotel also offers a range of spa services, including massages, facials, and body treatments, to help you unwind and relax.


Aside from indoor amenities, the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel features a marina and access to water sports, making it a popular destination for boaters and outdoor enthusiasts. The hotel's location on Seneca Lake provides easy access to the area's renowned wineries and the nearby Watkins Glen State Park, which offers miles of scenic hiking trails and waterfalls.

Pros:

  • Located in the heart of Watkins Glen, near the harbor and within walking distance of many of the town's attractions, restaurants, and shops
  • Clean, comfortable, and quiet
  • Outdoor fire pits and excellent view of the lake
  • Located on the waterfront, and many of the rooms offer stunning views of Seneca Lake
  • Offers a variety of activities and amenities that are suitable for kids

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • The hotel is located near the harbor and busy roads, and some guests may find the noise levels to be a bit high
  • Parking: Parking at the hotel can be limited, and guests may have to park their car in a lot or on the street
  • Rooms can feel small and cramped for some

Hampton Inn Seneca Falls

Best Budget Friendly

Available Amenities:

  • Wifi
  • Pool
  • Fitness Center
  • free parking
  • Free Breakfast
  • Pet Friendly
  • Shuttle bus service
Overall Rating: 
4.5/5 stars

Cost

Cleanliness

Value

Location

Service

The Hampton Inn Seneca Falls is a top choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience in New York's Finger Lakes region. Located in the heart of Seneca Falls, this hotel offers easy access to the area's many attractions, including the famous Women's Rights National Historical Park and the Seneca Falls Canal Harbor.


Featuring spacious rooms with comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and modern amenities. You can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning or visit one of the nearby restaurants and cafes. With only five minutes from downtown Seneca Falls, local attractions, and easy access to the area's many wineries, lakes, and parks, this hotel offers a convenient location that you will need to take advantage of.


In addition, the Hampton Inn Seneca Falls also offers a range of on-site amenities, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a business center. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, this hotel provides everything you need to stay comfortable and connected during your stay.

Pros:

  • Comfortable rooms and facilities
  • Excellent service and amenities
  • Friendly and helpful staff
  • Located in the heart of Seneca Falls, near many of the town's attractions, restaurants, and shops
  • Offers a free breakfast

Cons:

  • Located near busy roads, and some guests have reported that the noise levels can be a bit high
  • It does not offer many other amenities, such as a swimming pool or fitness center
  • Parking at the hotel can be limited, and guests may have to park their car in a lot or on the street

Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles

Best luxurious retreat

Available Amenities:

  • Wifi
  • Pool
  • Fitness Center
  • Spa
  • Free Parking
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/Lounge
Overall Rating: 
4/5 stars

Cost

Cleanliness

Value

Location

Service

Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles is a luxurious retreat in the heart of New York's Finger Lakes region. Surrounded by stunning scenery and nestled on the shores of Skaneateles Lake, this hotel offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.


The Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles' spacious guest rooms are beautifully appointed, featuring elegant furnishings, comfortable beds, and private balconies with stunning lake views. An on-site restaurant is available, and it serves up delicious cuisine made with locally-sourced ingredients, or you can enjoy a drink at the bar and lounge.


If you are seeking a luxurious and rejuvenating escape, you have to check out Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles' full-service spa that is complete with a range of rejuvenating treatments. The hotel's indoor pool and fitness center allow you to stay active and refreshed during your stay.

Pros:

  • Warm and welcoming
  • Great facilities and services
  • Hotel is well-maintained
  • Excellent food and spa service
  • Offering upscale rooms and amenities
  • Located in a picturesque setting, near Skaneateles Lake and surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Cons:

  • Slow service during the holiday season
  • Rates can be quite high
  • While the hotel has a fine-dining restaurant, there are limited dining options in the surrounding area
  • Located in a rural area, and it can be a bit of a drive to reach nearby attractions

The Lake House on Canandaigua

Best historic property

Available Amenities:

  • Wifi
  • Pool
  • Fitness Center
  • Spa
  • Kids stay free
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/Lounge
  • Pet Friendly
Overall Rating: 
4.5/5 stars

Cost

Cleanliness

Value

Location

Service

The Lake House on Canandaigua is a picturesque and elegant hotel located on the shores of Canandaigua Lake in New York's Finger Lakes region. This hotel offers breathtaking views and luxurious amenities, making it a popular destination for anyone seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating escape.


With lakefront access, many of the spacious rooms feature private balconies and the timeless charm of the historic property that is infused with elegant, artistic details and modern amenities. Featuring an on-site restaurant that serves up delicious cuisine made with locally-sourced ingredients, while the bar and lounge provide you with the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the area.


Whether you're in town for business or leisure, this hotel provides everything you need to stay comfortable and refreshed during your stay and makes it the perfect choice for your next trip to the Finger Lakes area. 

Pros:

  • Excellent view of the lake and lake view dining
  • Clean and well-maintained property
  • Friendly and professional staff
  • Outdoor fire pits available
  • Located right on the shore of Canandaigua Lake, offering stunning views of the water and the surrounding area
  • Offers a range of room options, including standard rooms, suites, and cottages

Cons:

  •  Its rates can be quite expensive
  • The hotel is located in a relatively rural area, and there may be limited activities
  • Located near busy roads, and some guests have reported that the noise levels can be a bit high

The Gould Hotel

Best Value

Available Amenities:

  • Wifi
  • Pool
  • Free Parking
  • Pet Friendly
  • Children's television networks
  • Restaurant
Overall Rating: 
4/5 stars

Cost

Cleanliness

Value

Location

Service

The Gould Hotel, located in the charming town of Seneca Falls, New York, is a historic hotel that offers a unique blend of classic elegance and modern comfort.


Each room is tastefully decorated with period-style furnishings and features comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and free high-speed internet access. The hotel's restaurant serves delicious farm-to-table cuisine, showcasing the best of the local food scene. In addition, a fitness center, indoor pool, and outdoor sundeck are available and will provide you with ample opportunities to stay active and refreshed during your stay.


The Gould Hotel's central location in Seneca Falls makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. You can see several historic sites and attractions within walking distance, including the Women's Rights National Historical Park and the Cayuga-Seneca Canal.

Pros:

  • All major attractions, shopping and dining are in walking distance.
  • Modern and stylish rooms
  • Clean and comfortable
  • Offers a range of room options

Cons:

  • Rooms can be small
  • A relatively small hotel, and it may not have all of the amenities and services that one would expect at a larger hotel
  • Located on a busy street, and some guests have reported that the noise levels can be a bit high

Inns of Aurora

Unique Hotel

Available Amenities:

  • Wifi
  • Pool
  • Archery
  • Spa
  • Bicycles available
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/Lounge
Overall Rating: 
5/5 stars

Cost

Cleanliness

Value

Location

Service

The Inns of Aurora, located in the charming town of Aurora, New York, is a collection of four historical inns that offer a unique blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. A lakefront hotel with a spa near Cayuga Lake, this hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious and authentic travel experience.


Each of the four inns is unique, offering a range of room options, from cozy standard rooms to spacious suites. All rooms are tastefully decorated with period-style furnishings and feature comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and free high-speed internet access. The hotel's restaurant serves delicious farm-to-table cuisine, showcasing the best of the local food scene. With an on-site spa offering a range of luxurious treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments, you can unwind and enjoy a relaxing weekend.


Located in central Aurora, Inns of Aurora is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. The hotel is located near several historic sites and attractions, including the Wells College campus and the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. It is also a short drive to Cornell University and Ithaca.

Pros:

  • Very neat rooms and facilities
  • Helpful and hospitable staff
  • Common areas are elegantly decorated in a modern farmhouse style
  • Located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and close to a range of outdoor activities
  • Known for their attention to detail, with luxurious furnishings, fine linens, and a range of amenities

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Located in a relatively rural area, and there may be limited activities and attractions in the surrounding area

Argos Inn - Ithaca's Boutique Hotel

Best Boutique Hotel

Available Amenities:

  • Wifi
  • Massage
  • Bar/Lounge
  • free parking
Overall Rating: 
4/5 stars

Cost

Cleanliness

Value

Location

Service

The Argos Inn, located in the vibrant town of Ithaca, New York, is a boutique hotel that offers a unique blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. Beautifully restored, LEED certified, the historic mansion is perfect for travelers seeking a nostalgic and authentic travel experience.


The hotel's rooms are tastefully decorated with stylish furnishings and feature comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and free high-speed internet access. The hotel's on-site restaurant serves delicious cuisine, showcasing the best of the local food scene. In addition, the Argos Inn also offers a range of amenities designed to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. It includes a fitness center, indoor pool, and outdoor sundeck, providing you with ample opportunities to stay active and refreshed during your stay. The hotel's on-site spa offers a range of luxurious treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments.


Located near several popular attractions, including Cornell University, parks, the Museum Of the Earth, and the Ithaca Farmers Market just a few minutes away, Argos Inn is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. 

Pros:

  • Great location with cool vintage/hip vibe
  • Within walking distance of a range of shops, restaurants, and attractions
  • Spacious and elegant-looking rooms
  • Easy to get in and out of town
  • 24-hour access to coffee, tea, and hot cocoa
  • Known for its personalized service
  • Committed to sustainability and it incorporates a range of green initiatives

Cons:

  • Some may be bothered by the noise from the bar
  • May not have all of the amenities and services that one would expect at a larger hotel
  • Some may feel the room is small in size and may not be suitable for families 

About the Author

Fiona is a veteran travel consultant, photographer and travel writer at planetrider.com. She has spent many years as a corporate travel consultant and decided to actually live the life rather than plan it for others!

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