The Finger Lakes are one of the best places to hole up in Upstate New York for a calming, nature-forward getaway.
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The region is larger than many think, spanning 9,000 square miles around nine narrow, glacial lakes. Obviously, that bodes well for outdoorsy types who love to get out on the water. But there’s plenty more to do thanks to the Finger Lakes’ diverse list of attractions.
Do you like wine? There are over 200 wineries in the area.
What about hikes to waterfalls and dramatic gorges? You can choose from thousands of hiking trails.
But what if you prefer culture and history? Don’t worry—the Finger Lakes are home to historic small towns with museums, galleries, and delicious homegrown restaurants.
If so, the best time to visit is during autumn, when the area’s healthy forests transform into a fiery display of fall foliage.
You just need to figure out where to stay to enjoy your trip. With so many lakes, towns, and hideaways to choose from, you might want a few recommendations. Start with these picture-perfect Airbnbs in the Finger Lakes for a peaceful autumn getaway.
[This article is part of TravelAwaits’ new Airbnb and Vrbo recommendation series. We dig into listings to identify the crème de la crème of Guest Favorites, Superhost listings, and hidden gems, making it easy to find the perfect rental for your next trip.]
Best Airbnbs in the Finger Lakes this autumn:
- Hilltop Chalet (Canandaigua) – Best amenities
- The Canandaigua Farmhouse (Canandaigua) – For large groups
- Off-Grid Cabin (Naples) – Most rustic
- Keuka House (Hammondsport) – Best waterfront cabin
- Little Lakefront Log Cabin (Hector) – Best for couples
- Waterfront Escape (Penn Yan) – Best views
- Cayuga Lakefront Retreat (King Ferry) – Classic lakehouse vibes
- Skaneateles Lake Retreat (Skaneateles) – Off the beaten path
Picture-perfect autumn Airbnbs in the Finger Lakes
Hilltop Chalet (Canandaigua)
Welcome to an Airbnb with a great location, fantastic amenities, and modern features. The two-bedroom log cabin chalet is located on nine acres of private woodlands, giving you a truly tranquil stay. There are other hotel-caliber amenities to enjoy, too, like the outdoor hot tub, a wood-burning fireplace inside, a large fireplace outside, a hammock, a game room, and more.
The Canandaigua Farmhouse (Canandaigua)
You can bring the whole family to this three-bedroom farmhouse, which sleeps eight guests. The home dates back to the early 1900s, letting you enjoy historic features in a fully modernized setup. You also have two acres of private land to enjoy, including views of Canandaigua Lake from a scenic fire pit that leaf-peepers will enjoy. The front porch is another great spot to enjoy the autumn breeze.
Off-Grid Cabin (Naples)
Not all travelers are open to an off-grid stay, but if you’re looking for Airbnbs in the Finger Lakes that deliver on rest, rejuvenation, and tranquility, you’ll find it here. This off-grid cabin offers 25 acres of wooded land, and even has an outdoor kitchen where you can prepare meals. It’s also next to the Hickory Ridge Preserve, giving you almost direct access to the trails. Just know that this is very similar to a camping setup. While you have water for washing and drinking water, I don’t see any information about the bathroom.
Keuka House (Hammondsport)
If you want to maximize your time on the water, this large five-bedroom puts you right on Lake Keuka. (It can sleep up to thirteen—so keep an eye on this Airbnb if you need space for a big group.) The home’s interior is very basic, but the outdoor amenities are hard to beat. There’s direct water access, a dock, and kayaks for you to use, along with a fire pit, grill, dining area, hot tub, and a covered porch for lounging. The sunroom located out back isn’t too shabby, either.
Little Lakefront Log Cabin (Hector)
Small, rustic, and located right on Seneca Lake, this one-bedroom log cabin gives you the chance to disappear for a few years. (Or a month—your choice.) The wooded plot comes alive each autumn with colorful foliage, creating a drool-worthy backdrop as you soak up the lake views. Couples will enjoy two more amazing perks: You’re right on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and you’ve got kayaks waiting for you on a private dock.
Waterfront Escape (Penn Yan)
Located in Penn Yan on Seneca Lake’s north shore, this waterfront escape has all the features you could want to maximize your time on the water. There’s a private dock and fire pit out back, along with a second patio with even better views. According to guests, the listing pictures don’t convey just how gorgeous those views are.
Cayuga Lakefront Retreat (King Ferry)
Get a front-row seat to Lake Cayuga’s gorgeous sunsets at this west-facing home. You’ve got a lakefront patio that spans around 800 square feet and comes with loungers and a fire pit. On the dock, you can swim, paddleboard, kayak, and more. Similar to the Little Lakefront Log Cabin, this home is also great for any winos—you’ve got some of the best Finger Lakes Wine Country vineyards just a short drive away. Just know that the interior is a little old-school—it gives me cozy Grandma’s house vibes in the best way possible.
Skaneateles Lake Retreat (Skaneateles)
The Finger Lakes are fantastic for a more rural, off-the-beaten-path escape—but if you really want to maximize your private time, this lake retreat is a fantastic pick, especially for couples. The small one-bedroom is located on the shore of Skaneateles Lake with a private dock. There’s also a grill area outside where you can cook with some of Upstate New York’s best views. (Watch out for the stairs; there are quite a few.) Inside, you’ll find a newly restored, minimalist setup that’s perfect for a retreat.
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