Owasco Lake

Owasco Lake

One of New York State’s 11 Finger Lakes

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

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.

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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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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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What is your favorite thing to do on Owasco Lake?

Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.

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 me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.

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