Several Finger Lakes communities are gaining national attention after a new feature highlighted 11 small towns across the region as some of the most peaceful places to live or visit in New York.
The list showcases Watkins Glen, Montour Falls, Canandaigua, Aurora, Geneva, Penn Yan, Skaneateles, Trumansburg, Hammondsport, Seneca Falls and Corning. Each was selected for its scenic beauty, historic character, outdoor recreation and calm small-town atmosphere.
Watkins Glen, with fewer than 2,000 residents, was recognized for its dramatic state park featuring 19 waterfalls, its lakefront parks, and the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Montour Falls stood out for its blend of history and nature, anchored by the 165-foot Shequaga Falls at the end of Main Street.
Canandaigua earned praise for its preserved 19th-century Main Street, tree-lined streets and access to Canandaigua Lake, with year-round recreation at Kershaw Park. Aurora, with fewer than 700 residents, was noted for its Cayuga Lake shoreline, historic buildings, artisan community, and quiet village pace.
Geneva, positioned in the heart of wine country along Seneca Lake, was highlighted for its combination of agriculture, wineries, colleges, theaters and lakeside views. Penn Yan was recognized as a viticulture hub tied to Keuka Lake, with attractions like the Keuka Outlet Trail, Keuka College waterfront, and the Windmill Farm & Craft Market.
Skaneateles earned national attention for its pristine lake, frequently cited as the cleanest of the Finger Lakes, along with its historic downtown, sailing culture and annual music festivals. Trumansburg was noted for its artistic spirit, Italianate downtown architecture, summer concerts and access to the Finger Lakes National Forest.
Hammondsport, located at the southern tip of Keuka Lake, was recognized for its aviation history, the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, the Finger Lakes Boating Museum, Pleasant Valley Wine Company and its peaceful lakefront parks. Seneca Falls stood out for its national historical significance as the birthplace of the women’s rights movement, as well as its canal system, downtown charm and annual “It’s A Wonderful Life” festival tied to the classic film.
Corning rounded out the list with its strong glassmaking heritage, anchored by the Corning Museum of Glass, the Rockwell Museum, the Market Street Gaffer District, and nearby nature preserves.
The feature emphasized that these communities offer a blend of historic main streets, waterfalls, vineyards, lakeside living and cultural attractions that encourage visitors and residents to slow down and enjoy a quieter pace of life.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].