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Canandaigua Lake

Canandaigua Lake

One of New York State’s 11 Finger Lakes

Canandaigua, located at the north end of Canandaigua Lake, is just 30 minutes from Rochester. The city offers a variety of water activities, including kayak rentals, swimming at Kershaw Park, and cruises on the Canandaigua Lady, a replica of a 19th-century steamboat. You can also enjoy the sight of the 80 colorful boathouses on City Pier. It takes about an hour to drive around the entire lake, and along the way, you can visit popular spots such as Onanda Park on the east shore, Deep Run Park on the west, and the town of Naples at the southern end.

Canandaigua Lake Scenic Overlook
Canandaigua Lake Scenic Overlook on CR-12
Bristol Mountain
Bristol Mountain Skiing

Take the lift up Bristol Mountain in the autumn and check out the Aerial Adventure Park and Zip-line Canopy Tour. You can walk up or down the mountain trails or take the lift.

Fun fact: The Seneca Nation, also known as the Onodowaga Nation or “People of the Great Hill,” originated near South Hill at the southern end of Canandaigua Lake. The Seneca word for Canandaigua, Kanandague, means “The Chosen Spot.”

To learn more about things to do on Canandaigua Lake, check out the destination guides for Canandaigua and Naples below.

DESTINATION GUIDES

Explore Canandaigua

Of the five Finger Lakes closest to Rochester, Canandaigua Lake and the city’s historic downtown have the most to offer visitors.

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Explore Naples

Nestled in the hills at the southern end of Canandaigua Lake, Naples is known for its beautiful surroundings and annual Grape Festival.

Read more

Map of New York’s Eleven Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region is a diverse and picturesque area located south-southeast of Rochester. It encompasses cities, villages, farmland, and 11 lakes, making it a versatile tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, and dining while taking in the natural beauty of the lakes. They can take a leisurely lakeside stroll or embark on a challenging hike along scenic hilltops or deep into the region’s unique waterfall gorges.

Explore More

Explore New York’s Finger Lakes Region

The Finger Lakes region is a popular tourist destination, featuring 11 lakes, charming cities and villages, and scenic farmland.

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Explore Routes 5 & 20

Routes 5 & 20, a 67-mile stretch where NY-5 and US-20 converge, is a gently rolling scenic highway passing through small cities and quaint villages.

Read more

What is your favorite thing to do on Canandaigua Lake?


I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

Debi Bower, Day Trips Around Rochester NY

Debi Bower is the founder and creative director of daytrippingroc.com and author of the award-winning book, Day Trips Around Rochester, New York.

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People often ask if I get free access to the places I visit. The answer is no—unless I’m invited to a special preview or offered behind-the-scenes access through my media role. Most of the time, I don’t even mention Day Trips Around Rochester, New York when I visit a place. I want to have the same experience you would.

I create and share this content because it brings me joy—and I hope it adds value to your adventures, too.

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Thank you!
Debi

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