Skaneateles Getaway gallery cover

Explore Skaneateles

Skaneateles is a peaceful and picturesque village an hour and a half east of Rochester and 30 minutes southwest of Syracuse. The beautiful village streets are perfect for strolling, and the views of Skaneateles Lake make for a great backdrop as you explore the charming shops and restaurants in the area.

The village is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with various galleries, shops, and restaurants showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. For a glimpse into the area’s rich history, walk around the Skaneateles Historic District, where you can admire the beautifully restored 19th-century homes and buildings that line the streets.

Best of Rochester - Day Trips Around Rochester book

Day Trips Around Rochester, New York

Best of Rochester Award-Winning Book for Best Published Literary Work of 2023 and #1 Amazon Best Seller.

Plan Your Day Trip to Skaneateles

Skaneateles Lake bakery
Skaneateles Bakery
Skaneateles Patisserie
Patisserie
Rosalies Cucina garden
Rosalie’s Cucina

Breakfast

Enjoy the early morning sun rising over the lake with a savory breakfast sandwich, a sweet pastry, and a warm beverage from Skaneateles Bakery, Patisserie, or Rosalie’s Cucina. Head to Clover’s for a classic diner-style breakfast.

Skaneateles Clift Park gazebo
Clift Park Gazebo
Skaneateles Lake Clift Park
Clift Park
Skaneateles Thayer Park
Thayer Park
Thayer Park
Skaneateles Shotwell Memorial Park
Shotwell Park
Skaneateles Lake Mid-Lakes Navigation
Mid-Lakes Guided Boat Tour

Morning

Mid-Lakes Navigation offers a variety of themed cruises from Clift Park, including the unique Mailboat Cruise. During this three-hour cruise, which runs most days from July 1 to Labor Day, you can help deliver mail to locations that are unreachable by roads. It’s one of the few remaining US Mailboats in operation.

Mirbeau Bistro
Mirbeau

Alternatively, you can unwind with a massage at Mirbeau Spa in a cozy wine-country estate accentuated by a landscape inspired by Claude Monet’s paintings.

Dougs Fish Fry
Doug’s FIsh Fry
Sherwood Inn
Sherwood Inn
Skaneateles Anyelas Vineyard scenic view
Anyela’s Vineyards

Lunch

Enjoy a casual meal at Doug’s Fish Fry, something upscale at the Sherwood Inn, or drive down West Lake Road to Anyela’s Vineyards for an exceptional view overlooking Skaneateles Lake.

Skaneateles Nest
Nest 58
Skaneateles Vermont Green Mountain Specialty Co
Vermont Green Mountain
Skaneateles The Local Branch Co
The Local Branch
Skaneateles Artisans
Skaneateles Artisans

Afternoon

Stroll around the village along Genesee, Jordan, and Fennell Streets, where you’ll find shops like The Local Branch Co., First National Gifts, Skaneateles Artisans, and more.

Skaneateles Lake Cliffs
Staghorn Cliffs

Alternatively, you can hike through Hinchcliff Family Preserve to view the lake above Staghorn Cliffs or check out the accessible boardwalk leading to the Carpenter Falls overlook.

Skaneateles Blue Water Grill lakeview
Blue Water Grill
The Krebs Skaneateles
The Krebs
Skaneateles Moros Kitchen
Moro’s Kitchen
Skaneateles Elephant and Dove Mexican Cuisine
Elephant and The Dove

Dinner

Make a reservation at one of these popular restaurants: The KrebsRosalie’s CucinaMoro’s Kitchen, Elephant and The Dove, or Bluewater Grill.

Signature Events

Antique & Classic Boat Show

July

Visit Clift Park to enjoy dozens of historic boats on display at Skaneateles Pier. The two-day event features a boat parade, contests, and nautical-themed activities.

Skaneateles Festival

August

Skanfest takes place over several weeks at multiple venues throughout the village. The festival attracts a diverse array of local and international musicians, including renowned classical ensembles, jazz groups, and folk performers. Besides the concerts, Skanfest also features lectures, workshops, and other special events. It’s an excellent opportunity for music lovers to experience some of the best musicians from around the world.

Skaneateles Dickens Christmas Sherwood Horse Carriage
Sherwood Inn
Skaneateles Lake Dickens Fest Sherwood Inn
Opening Day
Skaneateles Lakes Dickens Christmas
Festive Music

Skaneateles Dickens Christmas

weekends from late November–late December

The World’s Smallest Parade kicks off this monthlong weekend festival on Bright Friday (the day after Thanksgiving). The festival continues every Saturday and Sunday, leading up to Christmas. You’ll find Charles Dickens and other characters roaming the streets, shops, and restaurants, greeting guests and spreading holiday cheer. Enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides around the village, caroling and plays at the gazebo, and chestnuts roasting on an open fire.

Google Map of Locations

View the map separately here.

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Day-Trip Destinations

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Where are your favorite places to see, shop, and eat in Skaneateles?

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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