Where to Stay in Finger Lakes Wine Country

Written By Julie Beach

New York | Finger Lakes

Best Towns To Stay in on the Finger Lakes Wine Trails

The Finger Lakes region of New York is a premier destination for wine enthusiasts, featuring lake views, award-winning vineyards, and charming towns. Finding the best place to stay in the Finger Lakes near wineries can significantly enhance your wine-tasting experience. Whether you're exploring the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, or the Keuka Lake Wine Trail, selecting the right base is crucial for making the most of your visit. Discover some of the best Finger Lakes towns to stay in when visiting wineries, each offering unique advantages and convenient access to the region’s renowned wine trails.

Contents: Click to Jump to Each Town

👉 Geneva - The Gateway to All Three Wine Trails

👉 Watkins Glen - The Ideal Spot for Seneca Lake Wine Exploration

👉 Hector - Home to the Best Finger Lakes Wineries & Sunsets

👉 Hammondsport - The Heart of the Keuka Lake Wine Trail

👉 Ithaca - The Vibrant Hub for the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

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Geneva, New York

The Gateway to All Three Wine Trails

Best for Visiting: Seneca Lake Wine TraiL, Keuka Lake Wine Trail, and Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

Where to stay in the Finger Lakes, Geneva

Located at the northern tip of Seneca Lake, Geneva is a vibrant lakeside town that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern amenities. As a college town, home to Hobart and William Smith Colleges, it has a lively atmosphere. The town offers many lake activities, from kayaking to boating, and is known for its bustling Linden Street, which features top-notch restaurants, bars, and frequent events like the Linden Street Wine Series. Geneva’s central location makes it ideal for exploring the renowned wineries along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail and provides easy access to the nearby Cayuga Lake Wine Trail and Keuka Lake Wine Trail.

Why Stay Here: Geneva is home to a variety of accommodations, from boutique hotels and historic inns to lakefront resorts. The town also has many dining options, local shops, and cultural attractions like the Smith Opera House and nightlife on Linden Street. It is a great central location to be able to access several of the Finger Lakes Wine Trails.

Where to Stay in Geneva, New York

41 Lakefront Hotel, Trademark Collection By Wyndham

Pet-Friendly Lakefront Stay in the Heart of Geneva’s Wine Country

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41 Lakefront Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham in Geneva, New York, offers a lakefront property with stunning Seneca Lake views. This pet-friendly hotel features a gym, indoor pool, onsite restaurant, and bar. Located within walking distance of local restaurants and bars, it’s ideal for those embarking on a Seneca Lake wine tour. If you're seeking where to stay on Seneca Lake or near Finger Lakes wineries, 41 Lakefront Hotel provides a perfect base for your wine adventures.

  • Lake Front Property

  • Walking Distance to restaurants and bars

  • Pet Friendly

  • Gym and Indoor Pool

  • Onsite Restaurant and Bar

Historic 98: Game room, fire pit and dog friendly!

Spacious 4-Bedroom Historic Home Perfect for Groups and Families

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Historic 98 in Geneva, New York, is a charming house rental perfect for groups exploring the Finger Lakes. Built in 1813, this 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom home sleeps 8 and offers modern amenities like a game room with pool table and darts, a spacious backyard with a firepit and grill, and a washer/dryer. Located within walking distance of restaurants and bars, it's an ideal spot for those on a Seneca Lake wine tour. If you're looking for where to stay near Finger Lakes wineries, this historic house in Geneva offers a unique and comfortable stay.

  • 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, sleeps 8 - Perfect for larger groups

  • Historic home built in 1813

  • Pet Friendly

  • Spacious Backyard with firepit and grill

  • Washer/Dryer

  • Game room with pool table and darts

  • Walking Distance to restaurants and bars

Drift Away: Hot tub, kayaks, fireplace & PAC-MAN

Cozy Lakefront Cottage with Hot Tub, Kayaks & Games

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Drift Away Cottage in Geneva, New York, is a cute lakefront house with Seneca Lake views, perfect for a relaxing wine tasting getaway. This 2-bedroom, 1-bath cottage sleeps 5 and offers fun amenities like a hot tub, kayaks, outdoor ping pong, and a Pac-Man game. With a boat dock and outdoor deck featuring a grill, it's ideal for enjoying the outdoors. If you're looking for where to stay in Geneva during a Seneca Lake wine tour or near Finger Lakes wineries, Drift Away Cottage provides a cozy lakeside retreat.

  • 2 bedroom, 1 bath, sleeps 5

  • Lake front cottage

  • Outdoor ping pong and Pac Man game

  • Kayaks and a boat dock

  • Outdoor deck with grill and hot tub

Watkins Glen, New York

The Ideal Spot for Seneca Lake Wine Exploration

Best for Visiting: Seneca Lake Wine Trail

Where to stay in the Finger Lakes, Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen, located at the southern tip of Seneca Lake, is a lakeside town renowned for its dramatic gorge and waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park and its status as a hub for racing enthusiasts. For wine lovers, its proximity to the region’s top wineries makes it a prime destination, especially with the nearby "Banana Belt" area on Seneca Lake's southeast side, known for its exceptional vineyards. The town hosts the annual Finger Lakes Wine Festival at Watkins Glen International Raceway, and offers water activities like kayaking and sunset sailing. With several stunning waterfalls nearby, including Hector Falls and Montour Falls, Watkins Glen is an ideal base for exploring the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.

Where to Stay in Watkins Glen, New York

Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

Upscale Lakefront Hotel with Pool, Dining & Stunning Views

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Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel in Watkins Glen, New York, is a lakeside hotel offering views of Seneca Lake. With its lakefront location, guests are within walking distance of local restaurants and bars. The hotel features a gym, indoor pool, onsite restaurant and bar, and room service for a luxurious stay. Perfect for those exploring the Seneca Lake wine tour, it's an ideal option for where to stay near Finger Lakes wineries. If you're looking for where to stay in Watkins Glen with beautiful lake views, this hotel is a top choice.

  • Lake Front Property

  • Walking Distance to restaurants and bars

  • Gym and Indoor Pool

  • Room Service

  • Onsite Restaurant and Bar

Idlwilde Inn

Romantic B&B for Couples in Watkins Glen

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The Idlwilde Inn is a classic romantic bed & breakfast offering beautiful views of Seneca Lake and a warm, intimate atmosphere ideal for couples. Perfect for a quieter, cozy getaway—especially in the winter months—this charming inn features thoughtfully decorated rooms designed for comfort and relaxation. Wake up to peaceful lake views and enjoy a homemade breakfast before heading out for wine tasting, scenic lakeside walks, or exploring the nearby Finger Lakes region. Located just minutes from downtown Watkins Glen, the inn provides easy access to wineries, restaurants, and outdoor attractions while maintaining a tranquil, retreat-like feel. It’s an ideal choice for couples seeking charm, comfort, and a romantic lakeside escape.

  • Romantic bed & breakfast with Seneca Lake views

  • Daily breakfast included

  • Cozy, well-appointed rooms perfect for couples

  • Short drive to downtown Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen Lakeview Cottage with Waterfall!

Lakeview Cottage with Private Waterfall & Seneca Lake Views

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Lakeview Cottage in Watkins Glen, New York, is perfect for groups exploring the Finger Lakes region. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath house sleeps 7 and a private waterfall, a large deck with stunning Seneca Lake views, and parking for 4 cars. The outdoor grill and dining area make it ideal for group gatherings and relaxation after a day on the Seneca Lake wine tour. If you're looking for where to stay in Watkins Glen or near Finger Lakes wineries, this house with a Seneca Lake view offers a memorable group retreat.

  • 3 bedroom, 2 bath, sleeps 7

  • Private waterfall

  • Large deck with Seneca Lake views

  • 4 car parking

  • Outdoor grill and dining area

Charming 2-bedroom apartment overlooking park in the Village of Watkins Glen

Pet-Friendly Village Apartment Steps from Dining & Wine Trail

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This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment in Watkins Glen, New York, sleeps 4 and is ideal for a Seneca Lake wine tour. Pet-friendly and within walking distance to local restaurants and bars, it offers convenience and comfort. Guests can enjoy the outdoor grill and patio, as well as bicycles provided for exploring the area. If you're wondering where to stay near Finger Lakes wineries, this apartment provides a perfect base for your wine-tasting adventures in Watkins Glen.

  • 2 bedroom, 1 bath, sleeps 4

  • Pet Friendly

  • Walking distance to restaurants and bars

  • Bicycles provided

  • Outdoor grill and patio

Hammondsport, New York

The Heart of the Keuka Lake Wine Trail

Best for Visiting: Keuka Lake Wine Trail

where to stay in the finger lakes, Hammondsport

Located at the southern tip of Keuka Lake, the lakeside town of Hammondsport was named "Coolest Small Town in America” by Budget Travel Magazine.  It’s also known as the birthplace of American winemaking. Home to Pleasant Valley Wine Company, which in 1860 became the first Bonded Winery in the United States. And home to Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, who founder revolutionized the wine industry in the 1950s by proving that European grape varieties could thrive in the region.

Where to Stay in Hammondsport, New York

Best Western Plus Hotel

Hotel with Pool, Gym, Free Breakfast & Firepit

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The Best Western Plus Hotel in Hammondsport, New York, offers a convenient and comfortable stay for those exploring the Finger Lakes wine region. Just a 3-minute drive from the restaurants and bars in the Village of Hammondsport, this hotel provides easy access to the Keuka Lake Wine Trail, making it one of the best locations to stay near wineries. Guests can enjoy amenities like a gym, indoor pool, free breakfast, and housekeeping services, as well as a communal outdoor firepit. Handicap accessible, it’s an excellent option for anyone wondering where to stay in Hammondsport for a Finger Lakes wine tour.

  • Handicap Accessible

  • 3-minute drive to restaurants and bars in the Village of Hammondsport

  • Gym and Indoor Pool

  • Free Breakfast and Housekeeping

  • Communal outdoor firepit

STARWOOD Cabin - OFF GRID Glamping

Secluded 1-Bedroom Glamping Cabin on 2 Private Acres

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STARWOOD Cabin - OFF GRID Glamping in Hammondsport, New York, offers a secluded and unique stay on two private acres, perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape. This 1-bedroom, pet-friendly cabin is a four-season rental and provides an ideal setting for Finger Lakes glamping. Located just a 5-minute drive from the restaurants and bars in the Village of Hammondsport, it’s also a convenient base for a Keuka Lake wine tour, with optional transportation to wineries available. If you're looking for the best location to stay near Finger Lakes wineries, STARWOOD Cabin offers a perfect blend of privacy and accessibility.

  • 1 bedroom cabin with 2 private acres - Perfect for couple

  • Pet Friendly

  • 4 season rental

  • 5-minute drive to restaurants and bars in the Village of Hammondsport

  • Optional transportation to wineries

Historic Keuka Lake Winemaker Estate with Pool

Spacious 7-Bedroom Estate with Pool & Fire Pit in Hammondsport

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The Historic Keuka Lake Winemaker Estate with Pool in Hammondsport, New York, offers a spacious and charming retreat, perfect for groups and families. This 7-bedroom, 7-bathroom estate, once home to a historic winemaker, features an outdoor swimming pool and fire pit, providing a relaxing setting for your stay. Just a short walk from the restaurants, bars, and Keuka Lake, it’s ideally situated for a Keuka Lake wine tour. If you're searching for where to stay in Hammondsport or near Finger Lakes wineries, this estate offers a blend of history, comfort, and convenience.

  • 7-bedroom, 7-barthrooms, sleeps 14 - Perfect for groups and families

  • Previously a historic winemakers’ estate

  • Outdoor swimming pool and fire pit

  • Short walk to restaurants and bars in the Village of Hammondsport and Keuka Lake

  • Washer and Dryer

Moonshine Cottage on the Lake

4-Bedroom Lakefront Cottage with Dock, Kayaks & Firepit

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Moonshine Cottage on Keuka Lake in Hammondsport, New York, is a charming lakefront getaway perfect for families and small groups. This 4-bedroom, 2-bath house on Keuka Lake sleeps 8 and offers direct access to the water with kayaks, a boat dock, and a swim ladder. The outdoor deck, grill, firepit, and fishing opportunities make it an ideal spot for relaxation. Just a 5-minute drive from the Village of Hammondsport's restaurants and bars, it's perfectly situated for a Keuka Lake wine tour. If you're looking for where to stay near Finger Lakes wineries, Moonshine Cottage provides the ideal lakeside retreat.

  • 4 bedroom, 2 bath, sleeps 8

  • Lakefront Cottage with kayaks and boat dock with swim ladder

  • Outdoor deck, grill, firepit and fishing

  • 5-minute drive to restaurants and bars in the Village of Hammondsport

  • Washer and Dryer

Elevate your Finger Lakes winery experience by skipping the steering wheel—our guide to wine tour companies and drivers breaks down the best services for personalized, stress-free tasting adventures. Enjoy insider tips on local chauffeurs, customizable itineraries, and seamless logistics, so you can focus on the wine, while someone else handles the driving.

Ithaca, New York

The Vibrant Hub for the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

Best for Visiting: Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

Ithaca, at the southern end of Cayuga Lake, is a vibrant college town home to both Ithaca College and Cornell University. As the largest town in the area, it offers a wide selection of hotels, restaurants, and cultural activities while still retaining a small-town charm. With numerous nearby waterfalls and hiking trails, it’s an ideal destination for those who want modern conveniences while exploring the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail.

Where to Stay in Ithica, New York

A Modern Lakeview Retreat

Stylish 1-Bedroom Apartment with Floor-to-Ceiling Cayuga Lake Views

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This stylish 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment offers a perfect retreat for up to three guests, with stunning floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views of Cayuga Lake. Image waking up each morning and taking in the lake views from your bed. Located just a 5-minute drive from downtown Ithaca and 10 minutes from Ithaca airport, it's the ideal spot for exploring the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. The apartment features modern finishes, outdoor seating with a grill, and parking for two cars, making it a great base for both wine travelers and those looking to enjoy Ithaca’s natural beauty and vibrant downtown.

  • 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, sleeps 3

  • Huge floor to ceiling windows with amazing views of Cayuga Lake

  • Modern finishes

  • Parking for 2 cars

  • Outdoor seating with a grill

  • 5 minute drive to downtown Ithaca

  • 10 minutes to the Ithaca airport

Ithaca Marriott Downtown on the Commons

Stylish Hotel in the Heart of the Ithaca Commons

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This modern full-service hotel offers a comfortable and convenient base for exploring everything downtown Ithaca and the Finger Lakes have to offer. Located right on the vibrant Ithaca Commons pedestrian district — steps from shops, restaurants, galleries, and entertainment — you’ll enjoy easy access to local culture and nightlife. Rooms are thoughtfully designed with plush bedding, ergonomic workspaces, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs, with some offering sweeping views of downtown Ithaca or Cayuga Lake. Dine on-site at Monks on the Commons, the hotel’s American restaurant and bar with a lively patio, or take advantage of amenities including a 24-hour fitness center, business services, and free airport shuttle. Ideal for couples, business travelers, or Finger Lakes adventurers alike, this hotel blends urban energy with comfortable, modern design.

  • On-site Monks on the Commons restaurant & bar with outdoor patio

  • Complimentary airport shuttle service

  • Located on the Ithaca Commons pedestrian district

  • Free Wi-Fi and 24-hour fitness center

Each season in the Finger Lakes tells its own story—spring blooms in the vineyards, summer sunsets over the lakes, autumn’s golden harvest, and cozy winter escapes. Our seasonal guide reveals the best times to visit, with events and experiences that showcase the region’s beauty year-round.

Hector, New York

Home to the Best Finger Lakes Wineries & Sunsets

Best for Visiting: Seneca Lake Wine Trail

where to stay in the finger lakes, hector

Located on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake, Hector is a smaller, relaxed town that perfectly captures the spirit of Finger Lakes Wine Country. Just minutes from Watkins Glen, Hector is surrounded by rolling vineyards, waterfalls, and lake views. With so much to see and do close by, it’s an ideal base — especially if you only have a few days to explore.

Why Stay Here: Hector sits in the “Banana Belt” of the Finger Lakes, a stretch of Seneca Lake with a unique microclimate that helps grow some of the finest Finger Lakes wines. Many of the region’s best wineries are clustered along one scenic stretch of road, making it easy to visit multiple in a single day. Hector is also celebrated for its unforgettable sunsets, best enjoyed from a winery patio, brewery deck, or lakeside stay. And with the neighboring towns of Burdett and Lodi nearby, you’ll find even more cozy dining spots, wineries, and lakefront escapes — giving this little corner of Seneca Lake an outsized amount of charm.

Where to stay in Hector, New York

Single Island Shores

Lakefront Cabins & Cottages from Cozy Getaways to Spacious Group Retreats

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Single Island Shores features cozy lakefront cabins on Seneca Lake, offering the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. With a private group dock, guests can swim, fish, or simply sit back and enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the water. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a group retreat, the property provides a variety of cottage sizes to suit every type of traveler—all with easy access to the Seneca Lake Wine Trail and local hiking.

  • Cabins and cottages in many sizes, from single (sleeps 4) and double (sleeps 6) to 4-bedroom (sleeps 10–14) options

  • Lakefront Grand Chalet: 2,200 sq. ft., sleeps up to 14, right on the water

  • Handicap-accessible single bedroom cottage available

  • Pet-friendly (dogs under 30 lbs only)

  • Free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, terrace, fire-pit, and playground

Christine’s Cabin

Cozy 1-Bedroom Cabin Perfect for Couples in Wine Country

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Tucked away in the heart of Hector’s vineyard country, Christine’s Cabin is a charming, cozy retreat crafted for two. Picture yourself savoring a glass of Finger Lakes wine by the warm glow of a crackling fireplace, then drifting into peaceful slumber under a canopy of stars. With elegant simplicity, this intimate cabin offers a quiet escape—already beloved by guests and rated “Exceptional.” It’s the perfect romantic nest after a day exploring nearby wineries or hiking through Watkins Glen State Park.

Highlights:

  • Cozy cabin built for couples—intimate and inviting

  • Features include air conditioning, a fireplace, kitchen, and barbecue grill

  • Private outdoor space ideal for wine sipping or unwinding after the trail

  • Convenient parking and easy access to the Seneca Lake Wine Trail

  • Exceptional guest reviews—one of the highest-rated homes on VRBO in the area

Vineyard Hideaway

Charming 2-Bedroom Cottage Within a Vineyard in the Heart of Seneca Lake Wine Country

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Nestled right where the vineyard row meets the horizon, Heart of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail offers an immersive wine-country stay—serving as a cozy, year-round retreat among the vines of Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards. With 2 bedrooms that comfortably sleep up to 4 guests, this bright and inviting cottage is ideal for couples or small groups looking to experience the Finger Lakes in every season. Whether you’re sipping vintages on a crisp autumn afternoon, unwinding by the gas-powered fire pit, or meandering through the vines in the summer, this sweet hideaway makes the perfect base on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.

Highlights:

  • Located inside Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards—true wine country experience

  • 2 bedrooms, sleeps 4 guests – great for couples or small groups

  • Available year-round, perfect for cozy winter getaways or summer stays

  • Bright, airy living room, full kitchen, laundry, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning

  • Gas-powered fire pit for evening relaxation among the vines

  • Guestbook with local tips + complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival

Final Thoughts

No matter which wine trail you choose, the Finger Lakes towns of Geneva, Watkins Glen, Hector, Hammondsport, and Ithaca each offer something special. From lakeside hotels with stunning views to cozy vineyard cottages and historic inns, you’ll find plenty of options for where to stay in the Finger Lakes. Each town provides convenient access to award-winning vineyards, restaurants, and scenic lakefronts, helping you create the perfect base for your wine-tasting adventures.

When planning your getaway, think about what matters most—lakefront relaxation, walkability to dining, or proximity to specific trails like Seneca, Cayuga, or Keuka. With so many unique choices, it’s easy to find the best place to stay near Finger Lakes wineries while enjoying the charm of Wine Country. Whether you’re sipping Riesling at sunset, exploring waterfalls, or strolling through vibrant small towns, your Finger Lakes stay will be as memorable as the wines themselves.

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Where is your favorite place to stay in the Finger Lakes? Let us know in the comments.

Julie Beach
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