There’s nothing quite like the snowy magic of the holidays in the Finger Lakes. Known for inspiring the classic holiday movie, It’s a Wonderful Life, the town of Seneca Falls and the surrounding beauty of the area make it easy to see why film executives chose this area to create a memorable, festive feel for their timeless film.
Beyond being simply beautiful and chock full of holiday charm, the Finger Lakes also offer a variety of things to do in the winter, from cross country skiing and winter-themed wine trails to artisan shopping and gourmet dining.
Whether your idea of the holidays in the Finger Lakes is cozied up near a fire with a velvety cup of hot chocolate and good book, an exhilarating day on the slopes followed by a luxurious soak in a jetted hot tub, complete with a view of the lake, or somewhere in between, you’ll find an easy way to make it a reality this season.
Finger Lakes Holiday Events and Festivals
Seneca Lake Wine Trail’s Deck the Halls combines two perennial holiday favorites – wine and Christmas ornaments! This annual weekend of fun invites you to explore nearly 30 different wineries, each with something unique to offer, while collecting festive souvenirs along the way.
There’s no better place to get in the holiday spirit, since the small town Christmas charm comes out in full force in the Finger Lakes. From dazzling holiday light displays and towering, twinkling trees, to breakfasts with Santa and Dickens Christmas experiences, Holiday markets, carolers, and so much more, if it says holidays to you, it’s happening in the Finger Lakes.
Book a Bed and Breakfast for you and yours for the Holidays to experience all the Finger Lakes holiday fun! Whole house and whole property bed and breakfast bookings are a great way to explore one of our decked out small towns during the season.
There is still time to call a B& B in the Finger Lakes to book the whole house, and make sure to ask if there is a whole house discount. Some B&B’s will also take well behaved children during a whole house booking with a damage charge deposit. There are still a few whole house opportunities left, if you book soon. Check out a few of the choices below that offer whole-house bookings:
Bed and Breakfast at Oliver Phelps
Not sure where to stay? Choose a gift card — good at all Finger Lakes Bed and Breakfasts, you can gift a curated experience for your friends, family, and yourself!
Outdoor Recreation
Finger Lakes isn’t just for the indoorsy — with winter activities to match an abundance of styles, there’s a snowy pursuit for everyone. Check out snowshoeing, cross country skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding at Bristol Mountain, a choice selection of scenic, snowy hikes, sledding, or holiday favorite ice skating.
Anglers can even try their hand at ice fishing for perch, walleye, and trout depending on the lake and time of year.
Stay at the 1795 Acorn Inn to live out your Finger Lakes holiday fantasy. Its serene country setting in the scenic Bristol Valley helps you feel away from it all while still making it easy to access the region’s most appealing activities and delicious wining and dining choices.
Shopping and More
From boutiques and cafes to the antiques malls and shopping districts in the area’s charming downtowns, there’s nothing quite like holiday shopping in the Finger Lakes. With local artists and artisans plying their wares everywhere from our small towns and communities like Naples and Canandaigua, to larger shopping malls and seasonal favorites like the Christkindl Market, you’re sure to find something unique and memorable for all the folks on your shopping list. And don’t forget to take home something special for yourself, as well!
Celebrate your stay at the Canandaigua Cobblestone Cottage Bed and Breakfast. Close to unique shopping, wining and dining adventures like The New York Kitchen, and seasonal events, the festive atmosphere and attentive service will make your stay one to remember.
Tag us at @flbba on Instagram if you visit any of our favorite holiday Finger Lakes destinations! Let the Finger Lakes Bed & Breakfast Association guide you to the perfect winter stay. While we have highlighted a few excellent options above, FLBBA boasts a comprehensive list of independent inns across the Finger Lakes. The members of FLBBA abide by a list of high standards set by the organization, so you can confidently plan the perfect getaway today.
