One of New York State’s 11 Finger Lakes
Seneca Lake, located 45 minutes from Rochester, is the largest and deepest of the Finger Lakes. A trip around the lake takes approximately two hours.
In Geneva, visitors can enjoy stunning lake views from the Finger Lakes Welcome Center, Seneca Lake State Park, and various restaurants and wineries on the lake’s north end. At the south end, visitors can climb the 800 stone steps through the gorge in Watkins Glen, watch an exciting race at Watkins Glen International, or take a stroll down Seneca Lake Pier. The eastern shore offers beautiful sunset views from Sampson State Park.
Other points of interest
Follow Rt. 14 just three miles south and visit Montour Falls, home to several more waterfalls, including one of the most photographed—Shequaga Falls.
Head about eight minutes south of town to Havana Glen to explore a much smaller gorge with an extraordinary fall—a great swimming hole!
Seneca Lake has more wineries than any other Finger Lake. Follow the wine trail!
Take a hike through Finger Lakes National Forest and pick wild blueberries for free from a 5-acre managed patch.
You can swim and relax at Sampson State Park and Lodi Point State Park, hike the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail between Seneca and Keuka Lakes or visit the Kashong Conservation Area.
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.
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.
Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen
Farm Sanctuary sits on 175 acres in Watkins Glen, just west of Sugar Hill State Forest, and is home to more than 500 rescued farm animals.
What is your favorite thing to do on Seneca Lake?
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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.
Enjoy the Journey Together!
