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Owasco Lake

Owasco Lake

One of New York State’s 11 Finger Lakes

Owasco Lake is surrounded by farmland, with the city of Auburn at the north end, just 75 minutes from Rochester. At Emerson Park, visitors can swim in the lake, explore Deauville Island and the pier, rent kayaks, or enjoy a performance by the REV Theatre Company at the Merry-Go-Round Playhouse. Take a scenic 45-minute drive around the lake from Auburn to Moravia, where you’ll discover Fillmore Glen State Park.

Willard Memorial - Owasco Lake Auburn
Willard Memorial Chapel
Owasco Lake fishing pier
Owasco Lake at Emerson Park
Owasco Lake Merry Go Round Playhouse
Merry Go Round Playhouse
Seward House
Seward House

City of Auburn

Swim or paddle at Emerson Park. Catch a show at Merry-go-Round Playhouse. Visit the museum homes of Harriet Tubman and William Henry Seward. Tour the beautiful Willard Memorial Chapel, a rare example of the work of Louis C. Tiffany and Tiffany Glass and Decoration Co., in that it is the only complete and unaltered Tiffany chapel known to exist.

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Fillmore Glen walking across bridge
Fillmore Glen

Morovia

While not on the lake, Fillmore Glen State Park has a stream-fed swimming pool and a 1.5-mile gorge trail. Hike the Owasco Flats Nature Preserve at the south end. There is also a car-top boat launch here in addition to Southshore Marina.

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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What is your favorite thing to do on Owasco 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.

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Thank you!
Debi

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