This New York Finger Lake Town With Storybook Charm Offers A Romantic Waterfront Getaway

Located just outside of Syracuse, which holds the title of "the Snowiest City in America," New York's Finger Lakes region offers up some of the most beautiful and cultured countryside on the East Coast. The best wine making region in the state, the Finger Lakes boasts numerous vineyards that fill the rolling hills with scenic grape vines and excellent farm scenery. However, it is the towns of the Finger Lakes that really draw the crowds. And there might be no town in the area that offers more storybook charm and waterfront romance than Skaneateles.

Officially incorporated as a village in 1833, the name Skaneateles is derived from the native Iroquois word meaning "long lake." The village sits on the northern shore of Skaneateles Lake, which is the sixth largest of the Finger Lakes at 16 miles long and an average of 1.5 miles wide. The crystal clear, strikingly blue waters have been bringing tourists and honeymooners to Skaneateles for decades.

While this is a family-friendly destination offering numerous activities, our goal here is to show you why Skaneateles is the perfect option for a romantic getaway in the Finger Lakes. Only half an hour's drive from Syracuse and a little over 4 hours from New York City, Skaneateles is an easy place to get to for a weekend or week's worth of Finger Lakes romance.

Come into Skaneateles Village and you will immediately notice two things. First, the beautiful water of Skaneateles Lake. Second, the absolutely charming storybook atmosphere of the village. Loaded with quaint shops, plenty of restaurants, and numerous bed and breakfasts, Skaneateles Village is the perfect spot to set up shop for a romantic getaway. If you're looking for a stay with plenty of historic charm, book a room at the elegant Sherwood Inn, established in 1807. Want a bit more pampering? The Mirbeau Inn & Spa offers world class accommodations, including spa services and plenty of cozy rooms.

Head down onto the main thoroughfare of Genesee Street and get a feel for the village's many shops and restaurants. Drooz and Company bills itself as a modern day general store and is fit to bursting with local goods, vintage candy, books, stationery, and apparel. Another spot to check out for all things Skaneateles is The Savage Homestead, a shop that specializes in sustainable home decor and modern apothecary items.

For food, you won't be short on options. A quick, delightfully tasty baked breakfast and a good cup of coffee can be found at Skaneateles Bakery. For lunch, Doug's Fish Fry serves up classic fried fish sandwiches and mouthwatering fries. However, the most romantic dining spot in town has to be Rosalie's Cucina. This upscale Italian bistro combines an elegant ambience with a tremendous menu and wine selection. Certainly not to be missed on a visit to Skaneateles Village.

You could hardly expect to get the most out of a romantic getaway in Skaneateles without spending some time on Skaneateles Lake. You can do this easily by booking a sightseeing cruise with Mid-Lakes Navigation. From the water you will really be able to appreciate Skaneateles Village's storybook atmosphere. The historic homes and pastel-colored shops really stand out against the blue water. A 50-minute sightseeing cruise costs just $25, with brunch and dinner cruises also available.

Now, no trip to the Finger Lakes would be complete without a visit to a winery. Perched on a scenic hillside just 9 minutes from the village, Anyela's Vineyard is a picture-perfect Finger Lakes vineyard with some award-winning wines. Reserve a private, on-site wine tasting or stop by for one of their evening summer concerts on the weekend. With great views of the lake and fantastic wine to boot, you could hardly ask for a more romantic experience.

One final recommendation for a side trip would be to take the 18-minute drive down to Bahar Nature Preserve to see Carpenter Falls. These are one of the most scenic and stunning waterfalls in all of the Finger Lakes. If you're a couple who loves to find romance in nature, you can't miss this beautiful display on the outskirts of one of the most romantic towns in New York.