Explore Skaneateles

Skaneateles is a peaceful and picturesque village an hour and a half east of Rochester and 30 minutes southwest of Syracuse. The beautiful village streets are perfect for strolling, and the views of Skaneateles Lake make for a great backdrop as you explore the charming shops and restaurants in the area.

The village is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with various galleries, shops, and restaurants showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. For a glimpse into the area’s rich history, walk around the Skaneateles Historic District, where you can admire the beautifully restored 19th-century homes and buildings that line the streets.

Plan Your Day Trip to Skaneateles

⤵️ Download Our Day-Trip Planner PDF

Breakfast

Enjoy the early morning sun rising over the lake with a savory breakfast sandwich, a sweet pastry, and a warm beverage from Skaneateles Bakery, Patisserie, or Rosalie’s Cucina. Head to Clover’s for a classic diner-style breakfast.

Morning

Mid-Lakes Navigation offers a variety of themed cruises from Clift Park, including the unique Mailboat Cruise. During this three-hour cruise, which runs most days from July 1 to Labor Day, you can help deliver mail to locations that are unreachable by roads. It’s one of the few remaining US Mailboats in operation.

Alternatively, you can unwind with a massage at Mirbeau Spa in a cozy wine-country estate accentuated by a landscape inspired by Claude Monet’s paintings.

Lunch

Enjoy a casual meal at Doug’s Fish Fry, something upscale at the Sherwood Inn, or drive down West Lake Road to Anyela’s Vineyards for an exceptional view overlooking Skaneateles Lake.

Afternoon

Stroll around the village along Genesee, Jordan, and Fennell Streets, where you’ll find shops like The Local Branch Co., First National Gifts, Skaneateles Artisans, and more.

Alternatively, you can hike through Hinchcliff Family Preserve to view the lake above Staghorn Cliffs or check out the accessible boardwalk leading to the Carpenter Falls overlook.

Dinner

Make a reservation at one of these popular restaurants: The Krebs, Rosalie’s Cucina, Moro’s Kitchen, Elephant and The Dove, or Bluewater Grill.

Signature Events

Antique & Classic Boat Show

July

Visit Clift Park to enjoy dozens of historic boats on display at Skaneateles Pier. The two-day event features a boat parade, contests, and nautical-themed activities.

Skaneateles Festival

August

Skanfest takes place over several weeks at multiple venues throughout the village. The festival attracts a diverse array of local and international musicians, including renowned classical ensembles, jazz groups, and folk performers. Besides the concerts, Skanfest also features lectures, workshops, and other special events. It’s an excellent opportunity for music lovers to experience some of the best musicians from around the world.

Skaneateles Dickens Christmas

weekends from late November–late December

The World’s Smallest Parade kicks off this monthlong weekend festival on Bright Friday (the day after Thanksgiving). The festival continues every Saturday and Sunday, leading up to Christmas. You’ll find Charles Dickens and other characters roaming the streets, shops, and restaurants, greeting guests and spreading holiday cheer. Enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides around the village, caroling and plays at the gazebo, and chestnuts roasting on an open fire.

Google Map of Locations

view map separately here

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Where are your favorite places to see, shop, and eat in Skaneateles?

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