Person kayaking on a lake at sunset.

How to Spend Your Summer in the Finger Lakes

What’s your idea of the perfect summer vacation? If you’re searching for a destination that has something for everyone, look no further than Finger Lakes, and in particular at Hammondsport & Keuka Lake! The Finger Lakes region of New York State boasts lots of fun summer activities, making it a great destination for travelers of all interests. From wine tastings to boat cruises, to hiking, boating, swimming, you name it… there are so many fun and relaxing ways to spend summer in the Finger Lakes!  

When you’re ready to start planning your trip, you’ll love our free Hammondsport Destination Guide. This visitor’s guide is filled with ideas on how to spend the summer on Keuka Lake! 

5 Ways to Have the Best Summer on Keuka Lake 

1. Go Boating on Keuka Lake 

No trip to our area would be complete without some fun on the water. Boating on Keuka Lake is one of our favorite ways to spend a beautiful summer afternoon. There are several marinas on Keuka Lake that offer boat, tube, and ski rentals so you can enjoy the perks of lake living as a visitor!  

2. Taste Incredible Wines 

Did you know that the Finger Lakes is the Eastern United State’s premier wine region? There are more than 100 wineries across Finger Lakes Wine Country. With so many options, it can be difficult to choose which tasting rooms to visit. Hit all our favorites along the Keuka Lake Wine Trail. It only takes one hour to drive the complete circuit, making it easy to visit all six member wineries in a single day! 

3. Explore Awe-Inspiring State Parks 

While boating may be the most popular outdoor activity in the summer, it’s not the only option. If you’re looking for an adventure on dry land, consider a day trip to Watkins Glen State Park. This 778-acre New York state park is known for its beautiful scenery and stunning waterfall hikes, specifically the Gorge Trail. Even better, it’s also just a short, 30-minute drive from the town of Hammondsport that provides some of the area’s most breathtaking views!  

4. Learn More About Our Area 

History buffs won’t be disappointed in a trip to Keuka Lake, as there are 2 great museums in Hammondsport. Explore the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, the Finger Lakes Boating Museum, and there is the International Motor Racing Research Center in Watkins Glen, and more!  

5. Spend the Summer on Keuka Lake at the Hammondsport Hotel 

Ready to spend summer on Keuka Lake? The Hammondsport Hotel is the ideally located “home base” while you’re in the area. Our hotel is tucked away on the southern tip of Keuka Lake, making it the perfect destination for those who want a quiet place to stay after a day of exploring. The Hammondsport Hotel offers four accommodation types including Standard 2 Queen Rooms2 Queen SuitesStandard King Rooms, and King Suites

Room at Hammondsport Hotel

Our overnight guests can also enjoy our complimentary hotel amenities like daily breakfast, a 24/7 exercise facility, an indoor heated pool, and more! 

Check our availability to start planning your summer vacation to the Finger Lakes!