Finger Lakes Region
 

I am planning a fall foliage trip to Finger Lakes area and would appreciate advice on when to go (1st, 2nd or 3rd week in Oct?) and where to go for scenery photography, such as nice shots of the lake, colorful trees, waterfalls, sunsets, vistas. Also, any suggestions on where to stay? It will be just my husband and I. Thanks!

The Finger Lakes region is large. There are several different lakes to choose from. Where you go, and where you stay, will depend on your interests. I think from a fall foliage standpoint Seneca, Keuka, and paricularly Canadaigua lakes are beautiful because the hills along the shoreline are higher. Waterfalls are most abundant in the southern part of Cayuga Lake. However, we were just at Taughanock Falls this past weekend, and because of the relatively dry summer, the falls were a trickle. I expect that the foliage will also be muted this year because of the dry summer.
Most people on this board recommend two vey nice inns, one on Keuka (Esperanza), and one on Seneca (Geneva on the Lake). They are both lovely, but expensive. One of our favorite spots is on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake (the Aurora Inn.) We've had dinner there three times (including this past Sunday) and never been disappointed. Although we haven't stayed in the rooms, we did get to see them. They are beautiful, and a lot cheaper than the other two places I mentioned.
Another possibility is Skaneatles Lake, which, while small, is very picturesque. The Mirbeau spa is expensive but, according to my wife who has gone for day treatments, worth every penny.

We stayed at the Merritt Hill B&B in Penn Yan a few years ago. Elegant, comfortable rooms with attached baths; great breakfast. Large manor house on hill high above the western edge of Lake Keuka. We went during the summer months so can't help you with October, but it is just a lovely region..lots of good wineries, restaurants etc. And a big bonus is the MacKenzie Childs factory in Aurora!

Try to add a stop at the Watkins Glen Park... you can park at the bottom of the trail and shuttle up to the trail head for a beautiful walk back down to your car... this walk takes you through amazing color, beautiful waterfalls and a great nature experience...

Great tips! Thanks to all of you for helping me plan my vacation. What in the world did we do before the internet?

I think the foliage is going to outstanding this year. We've had a gorgeous summer. Plan your trip for the earlier part of Oct and it should be perfect. It is usually peaking around Columbus Day. Watkins Glen State Park is highly scenic and the views from many of the wineries are breathtaking. And the wines are wonderful. Have a great time.