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

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.

DESTINATION GUIDES

Explore Auburn

Auburn offers a full day of immersive experiences. Follow this guide to make the most of your time exploring the city’s rich culture.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Enjoy the Journey Together!