Finger Lakes
 

I want to travel to the Finger Lakes, I never been there. What should I expect? I am a writer and need a place to unwind and be inspired by nature, is Finger Lakes the right place for this?

If so, where is the best place to stay and how should I plan this trip?

I need help! hope someone can help me.

Thanks

The entire region is quite lovely. I haven't been there very recently, so I will let others give you the up to date scoop. But similar to that area, and a lake that looks like a finger, as well - is Chautauqua. I can hardly think of a better place to write than the Chautauqua Institution in Autumn or winter.

Where are you coming from and what month(s) do you want to be there?
I would start by looking at either Rochester or Ithaca if you are looking for college towns.

A back road trip from Rochester to Ithaca would be great. I actually did this trip on September 12, 2001, and it was. Haven of peace on a horrible and frantic day.

The Finger Lakes area is scenically lovely and quite empty off season, making it a perfect place for any artist trying to recharge her/his batteries.

The area, speaking broadly, reminds me a lot of the America of my youth -- lots of country cafes and mom-and- pop motels. There is history in Seneca Falls, some luxury in Skaneateles. US 20 is the spine of the route, but the joy is in weaving your way up and down the lakes.

I live in the Finger Lakes area, and it is very lovely. I am not really sure of your interests, so here are some thoughts:

Mount Saviour Monastery near Elmira (very very peaceful and much nicer than the website) - http://www.msaviour.org/

If you like the movie "It's a Wonderful Life" or the history of women's rights, I suggest Seneca Falls.

Ithaca (Cornell), Geneva, Skaneateles (very nice), Watkins Glen, Hammondsport, Trumansburg, and Corning are other towns that might interest you.

Oh, and how could I have forgotten to mention the incredible wine and wineries!