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Garrett Memorial Chapel Penn Yan Keuka Lake cover

Keuka Lake

One of New York State’s 11 Finger Lakes

Keuka Lake is known as “The Crooked Lake” because of its distinctive Y shape, and it is the central lake among the 11 Finger Lakes. Located about an hour’s drive from Rochester, it is home to Penn Yan and Branchport on the north end and Hammondsport on the south. A 90-minute drive around the lake offers stunning views and the chance to visit numerous award-winning wineries. Garrett Memorial Chapel provides a unique space to enjoy the lake’s beauty. Visitors can also participate in swimming and kayaking at lakeside parks in Penn Yan and Hammondsport. The Keuka Outlet Trail offers a seven-mile trek between Keuka and Seneca Lakes for those interested in hiking or cycling.

Penn Yan

Birkett Mills Penn Yan Buckwheat Pancake griddle
Birkett Mills
Keuka Outlet Trail Seneca Mills Falls waterfall Penn Yan
Seneca Mills Falls on the Keuka Outlet Trail
Windmill shop facades Penn Yan
The Windmill

Penn Yan stands out due to the significant presence of Old Order Amish and Mennonite communities. These communities are known for their traditional horse-drawn buggies, which can be seen navigating the hilly roads in and around Penn Yan at a leisurely pace.

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Explore Penn Yan

One hour from Rochester, Penn Yan is a unique day-trip experience due to the significant presence of Old Order Amish and Mennonite communities.

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Hammondsport

Depot Park
Depot Park
Hammondsport
Crooked Lake Ice Cream

Nestled in a pleasant valley at the southern tip of Keuka Lake in Steuben County in the town of Urbana, Hammondsport, NY, offers a charming getaway brimming with scenic beauty, delicious dining, unique shopping, and exceptional wines. This walkable village seamlessly blends outdoor activities, rich history, and local flavor for a complete day-trip experience.

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Explore Hammondsport

Hammondsport offers a charming getaway brimming with scenic beauty, delicious dining, unique shopping, and exceptional wines.

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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.

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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.

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Rochester-Area Boat Tours

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Great Lakes, Genesee River, Erie Canal, and Finger Lakes on one of these Rochester-area boat tours.

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9 Wineries with Scenic Keuka Lake Views

Visit these wineries in Penn Yan, Dundee, and Hammondsport to taste award-winning wines paired with scenic Keuka Lake views.

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What is your favorite thing to do on Keuka 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.

If my work has helped you explore and appreciate the Rochester area, please consider becoming a paid subscriber on Substack. You’ll receive an email whenever I publish new content and have the chance to connect with a growing community of local explorers.

Thank you for supporting my efforts to keep producing meaningful and helpful content.

Thank you!
Debi

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Enjoy the Journey Together!

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