The longest of the Finger Lakes, Cayuga Lake, NY offers residents and visitors picturesque trail hikes, plenty of boating and water sports, wineries with lake views, and much more. Read on to learn why no Ithaca trip would be complete without a visit to Cayuga Lake.
Exploring the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway
Jaw-dropping natural beauty is in no short supply when you drive along the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway. This 87-mile loop provides exquisite views of the lake itself, the surrounding woods and marshes, the charming villages and hamlets along the shores, and even the impressive waterfalls that have become icons of the Finger Lakes region.
Fans of aquatic adventures will love the active water sports scene on Cayuga Lake. Beaches at Taughannock Falls State Park and Myers Park gladly accommodate swimmers throughout the summer season, canoes and kayaks can be rented at Taughannock Falls State Park, Myers Park, and Stewart Park, and fishing charters and family-friendly cruises can be booked through Discover Cayuga Lake and School’s Out Charters.
The Finger Lakes count among the most exciting wine regions in the United States, and several of these top-notch wineries can be found right near Cayuga Lake. From the sustainable and low-intervention Rieslings at Hosmer Winery to the French-style Cabernet Sauvignons at Buttonwood Grove Winery to the robust and mineral-forward Chardonnays at Bright Leaf Vineyards, Cayuga Lake wineries are sure to captivate wine enthusiasts of all stripes.
An easy way to discover Cayuga Lake wineries and plan your own wine journey? Follow the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, the longest-running wine trail in America that features 10 beautiful Cayuga Lake wineries serving up flavorful sips.
Parks & Recreation
Camping, hiking, biking, and fishing can all be done at the beautiful and beloved state parks near Cayuga Lake. Taughannock Falls State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park feature easy and moderate hiking trails with clear views of waterfalls and the famous gorge, Robert Treman State Park offers more challenging trails with remarkable gorge views as the reward for that hard hiking work, and Cayuga Lake State Park is popular for its flat and tent-friendly campsites and its impressive fishing landscape.
Where to Stay
The Finger Lakes region is home to a wide range of cozy B&Bs and quaint boutique hotels, so visitors to Ithaca and Cayuga Lake can easily find comfortable lodgings in the area. Art lovers will adore the Argos Inn in Ithaca, which features original pieces by local artists and by masters like Salvador Dali and Joan Miro, pet owners will appreciate the animal-friendly policies and lovely, historic surroundings of Enfield Manor in Newfield, and eco-conscious travelers drawn to rustic vibes and organic breakfasts will feel very welcome at Frog’s Way B&B in Ithaca. Whether you’re vacationing with the family, traveling with friends, or going on a much-needed romantic getaway, you can find the right accommodations in Ithaca and the Cayuga Lake area!
