Skaneateles Lake

One of New York State’s 11 Finger Lakes

Skaneateles, a charming village located at the northern end of the lake, is approximately 75 minutes from Rochester. Visitors will find a variety of unique shops and dining options along Genesee and Jordan streets. Thayer Park provides a lawn area to take in the breathtaking lake view. Meanwhile, Clift Park features a pier, swimming beach, and gazebo, and is a launch point for boat tours. Alternatively, you can opt for a one-hour scenic drive around the lake.

The Finger Lakes region offers various cruises, with the three-hour Mailboat Cruise on Skaneateles Lake standing out as a unique and memorable experience. For over a century, boats have been delivering mail to summer cottages and camps that are unreachable by road.

Please note that the Barbara S. Wiles mailboat will not operate in 2025 while the vessel undergoes maintenance. However, you can still enjoy a Skaneateles Lake cruise onboard the Judge Ben Wiles.

DESTINATION GUIDES

Explore Skaneateles

The Village of Skaneateles is the perfect place to get away and enjoy the pace of lake life, surrounded by unique boutiques and restaurants.

Skaneateles Anyelas Vineyard scenic view — Anyela’s Vineyard

Andrew Fuller Recreation Park Scott — Andrew Fuller Park

Skaneateles Hinchcliff Family Preserve — Hinchcliff Family Preserve

Other points of interest

There are three boat launches: Skaneateles Marina, a DEC launch on the west bank, and Fuller Park (Town of Scott) on the south end.

Stop by Anyela’s Vineyards (the only winery on Skaneateles Lake) and Lockwood Lavender Farm (pick your own in season).

Explore Bahar Preserve and Carpenter Falls, High Vista Nature Preserve, Ripley Hill Nature Preserve, High Hickory Wildlife Sanctuary, or Hinchcliff Family Preserve.

Dickinson Conservation Area is accessible by boat only. You can still appreciate it in this beautiful drone-captured video of Staghorn Cliffs.

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 Skaneateles 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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Debi

Enjoy the Journey Together!